<<<<As far as he could see from his vantage point on the little sand dune, there were walls of white foam from the waves. Fear once more crept into Ben's thoughts. Mist from the morning's drizzling rain filled the air with an unusual chill, and added to his sense of doom. Ben's new found instincts warned of danger. His senses told him to wait, and he found one ray of good hope. The wind was blowing from the north, and Ben thought that if he could just force the kayak out past the dangerous surf, the wind would be at his back. If he made it out there, he might be able to make substantial progress.
Progress was not his only thought that morning, as he dragged the heavy kayak to the ocean's edge. He thought of the alternative of sitting on the shore all day, just watching the clouds pass overhead, and counting the number of crabs who tried to steal his food. This thought was rejected with a loud laugh. Despite the treacherous waters of the Sea of Cortez, Ben knew he couldn't sit idly by for another day. No matter what the conditions, he was prepared to face them.
Regardless of her fury, he thought.
Foolish man.
Ben took a few deep breaths, and set the paddle firmly in place beside his seat. He lowered the new rudder into the sand and pushed off. He leapt into the cockpit and braced himself, as the first wave smacked against the side of the boat.
He turned to meet the next wave, and shuddered.
It was huge.
Closing his eyes and taking a quick gulp of air, he braced for the impact.
The wave was over ten feet tall, and all too quickly engulfed him.
His neck jerked violently back as the rush of water hit with full force.
The kayak stayed upright, but the rush of blue water nearly pulled Ben from the tiny cockpit.
His lungs burned for air that was out of reach. Only reflex and training could save him.
He dug deep with the paddle, using it as a lever to keep the kayak upright until his head broke the foaming surface.
Air, sweet air. But for how long? >>>>>>>
BUT BELOW ARE THE *REAL* JOURNALS OF COACH! If everyone pitches in, I am sure we can get them all transcribed for everyones reading pleasure!










