Hey Bethany
Just elope!
Chris S

Chris Schardl

Thanks for the suggestions Lydia.
Kris has offered to let me borrow her pogies. I've never paddled with them, so I may just pick some gloves up this week. Also, I have a farmer john wet suit and a long sleeve splash top. I just didn't know if that was going to be too much. A short sleeve dry top sounds like it would be better, but I'll just have to add that to my wish list. I have a hydrosilk shirt, but again sounds like I need to get some hydroskin shirts (especially with the cold season approaching).

Don't get me wrong, I'm not commenting on what Ben may or may not be ready for. I don't have the information to make that call, and as I said, Ben seems pretty good at calling his own shots. Keep in mind that I said "Maybe".

To me, the cold water is a big issue, but the swift shallow nature of that river is more of an issue. A swim there for someone with no control of their legs could be brutal. Ironically, Nantahala Falls is probably less consequential in this manner than many of the shoaly shallow rapids above it.

I don't want to try to talk you out of anything, but I do want to point out the hazards. You know, before the season's up, we should try getting Ben on the Upper New.

Hanley

OK Chris, sorry you can't join us. Fortunately we picked up a paddler (Joe Wheatley) through Allen so we still have 4 experienced boaters. I say that loosely since I would not consider myself a strong enough paddler to be of any great assistance to Ben other than to gather gear...

That's good news, Britt! Joe Wheatley rocks! I've been on a lot of paddling trips with him, and he has taught me a lot!!
Chris S

Chris Schardl

Hanley, as far as the offer for the Upper New...Britt and I would also be interested in that. We haven't been on anything in WV. You plan it and we'll come....

Britt and I will be out of cell phone coverage as of Sunday evening so here is the plan for the paddle:
Britt and I will be staying at Lost Mine Campground (in our new camper!)
SATURDAY: Meet @9am at the Rivers Edge for breakfast and arrangements for the shuttle
Sunday: plans pending.....
If you need can come or previously committed and have to cancel please call Ben and let him know so that we can plan accordingly...thanks to all.
Also, for those who wanted to come....Have fun at the wedding!
Here is Ben's number 859-771-6079