I’m on a break from the north and I’m in close proximity to the most beautiful lake ever.  I decided to pack very light (I have no idea why) and left my wetsuit at home so I haven’t been able to swim as the lake is a bit chilly.

I have been intrigued by stand-up paddleboards (SUP) for a while and splurged and bought a kayak/SUP.

I have a new boyfriend now.  His name is Nalu, meaning wave in Hawaiian.  Correction, I was just told that any water vessel must be a female, so I mean I have a new girlfriend now, her name is Nalu.

I am officially in love with “her”.  I didn’t bother watching any “how to” videos first as often the best lessons (and stories) are those that we just jump into.  I didn’t fall off – yet.  That would’ve been cold but would’ve made for a good story.  I did the stand up version and then the sit-down kayak version.  I love both, I think I need to learn some paddling technique though as I’ve never really paddled before.

I haven’t run in a few days as I managed to injure myself on the plane ride down here.  Yup, only I could injure myself sitting on a plane.  I actually don’t know if it was the plane, the new yoga move (astavakrasana) I attempted a few days ago (that’s a story all by itself), or the fast tempo run (running in fear of Hugo the bear).  Maybe it was a combination of all three.  For whatever reason, as soon as I got off the plane I felt the worst pain in my hip.  I have to admit, injuries that prevent me from running are my worst fear.

I am keen to spend more time with Nalu (as we’re in the early stages of our new relationship), but I will also run tomorrow as my hip feels pretty good.  I hear there is a bear hanging around and there are even cougars (the feline kind) in these parts so I will likely and unfortunately avoid the trails.  I’m off to watch some YouTube videos on paddling now…