Jerry Michalec and Ann Novosel inflate with a Carlson.

Editor's Note:

Jerry has just learned that generators and electric pumps can now perform this river task.

However,  this technical tip has come a little too late to be of any value to him.

You see, Jerry just got an invitation to join AARP. At first, he dismissed this solicitation as some wacky Y2K error. Soon he realized the truth: maybe, he's just about had it. For all he knows, the next unwelcome solicitor could well be the grim reaper.

Jerry plans to be busting the grease out of a Carlson if he shows.

Left to right: Katherine Jolls, Kamuron Gurol, Frank Novosel, Alison Novosel, and Ann Novosel.

Rounding out the hardy crew that paddled on that rainy day were Karen's dad Ed Kennedy, John and Geoff Harmon, and Craig and Sheryl Nicholls.

Craig and Sheryl have just moved to Issaquah from Sydney, Australia. They assured Jerry and Lori that the Summer Olympics in Sydney will not suffer from being held during the winter.

Jim and Doreen live in San Diego and had no warm winter clothes. Christmas gave Eileen an opportunity to outfit her parents just for our trip. She achieved near perfection.

Of special interest to would-be Skagit paddlers should be Jim's boots. Felt pack boots remain the best footwear for a winter Skagit trip.