Fluid check: I’ve put 10 litres of gas through the chainsaw now, 2 liters of chain oil and a liter of whisky through myself (I had some help). Got out on the water yesterday, for an evening paddle. Brought up a paddleboard (11’6”) and got a wetsuit (5/4/3mm toploader). A good way to make sure that I get my body immersed in water every couple of days. By the time I’ve eaten dinner and make it out, there’s that great evening light that coats the water’s surface in a surreal silver, tinted with oranges, pinks, purples. Even if I’m blown out tired from building, I get another shot of energy from being in this unbelievably vibrant setting, and I swear to myself that I’ll be out every night (of course I’m not). If after twenty minutes of leaning into the paddling, I’m still tired, I lay down on top of the board and close my eyes. I let the wind and the waves carry me wherever. That’ll usually recharge me for another go, and maybe I’ll try catching the knee-high beach break. If I get any ride at all, I whoop and laugh like a yahoo hick. After a couple hours, in the fading light, I strip down on my front porch, dunk my wetsuit in a rain barrel to rinse it and go to bed with salt crusting in my hair.
