Among the many amenities that Sleeps provides, are paddle boards. They can be sheer frustration or utter victory. Not much in between. Built almost the size of a twin bed, one would think that a paddle board would be snap to ride. I suppose that they forget to factor in the condition of the lake that day. A smooth surface is ideal, however do allow for some choppy water and the occasional wake from a boat. When I tried a wake board for the first time, I was wishing that there was a hotline that I could call to cancel all boating until I was done. It’s only fair.
The boards come equipped with a paddle. If used properly, it functions as a brace. However, I can’t tell you how many times I was nearly impaled by that apparatus! Just staying on top of the board for a minute or so was a major accomplishment! I experienced anything from a belly flop to mastering the most painful wedgie. Balance is key. Did I mention getting back on the board requires every muscle in your entire body? Not one to give up, I would say that I remounted that thing at least forty times in twenty minutes. No beginner’s luck here. Definitely not! I was really good at laying down and using my arms as paddles. I swear the paddle was laughing at me! Not to mention the stares from other lake people.
In the morning my body hurt so bad I was certain that a Mack truck had added a digit to its dashboard fatality tally. Even my toes hurt and I hadn’t even tried to Hang Ten! Please don’t let this discourage you. Some people are naturals…I don’t like them! Enough of that, I am, for sure, better at s’mores!
– Mary
