I am partnering with NRDC to paddle my outrigger canoe 1200 miles around Florida and west to New Orleans. My goal is to build support for a Healthy Oceans Act and steps to protect our oceans from global warming and ocean acidifictaion. For those who do not know, I paddle to inform and for those who don’t care, I paddle to inspire. I am documenting my journey on this blog during the month-long paddle. You can read more about the paddle, see photos, and take action here.

Strong winds pushed me down the ICW (Intracoastal Waterway) from Riviera Beach, leaving me a full hour and a half ahead of schedule with time to cool my heels. During that wait a man came out of a house to chat with me about my boat. Perhaps Eric McNett of Eastern Outrigger will have another customer, I don't know, but it certainly would be the very least I can do for Eric, who's donation of the boat has really made these "paddles for the Ocean" possible. Another wonderful donation that keeps on giving is Michael Samuel's "Message in a Bottle" logo. It is amazing the number of people who have been so supportive of this paddle and its message. Of course, this would not be possible at all if it were not for NRDC taking such a keen interest in fighting for our ocean. It really only makes sense on a variety of levels, why it is so crucial that we continue to press not just for the neccesary changes we all, as individuals need to make, but also for serious ocean protection legislation on the local and federal levels.

Today's paddle will be under beautiful skies, a stiff wind (hopefully at my back, haven't checked NOAA yet, and it seems that there is a NE wind blowing. Two years ago this wind was in my face, so I really, really appreciate it behind my back right now! Robin, my super-chase car woman, and I are heading out to Pompano, where a wonderful couple donated their dock-space in their back-yard to the mission. Just another example of human goodness on an individual level--a very humbling thing to meet people so gracious and kind to a complete (and stinky) stranger. Maybe today I'll wash my paddling clothes! Am looking forward to an event at Ann Kolbe Nature Center here in Hollywood (or Dania, depending on where you live!).

Tonight's goal is to get at least 8 hours of sleep. Woohoo!