She Strengthens

Discovering the Joy of Kayaking

I never expected to fall in love with kayaking when I moved to northeast Ohio in 2013. But, surrounded by lakes and rivers, including the Cuyahoga River and Cuyahoga Valley National Park, it wasn’t long before my friends started buying kayaks and I was itching to join them.

Overcoming Initial Hesitations

At first, I was hesitant to invest in a kayak. I thought it would be impractical and expensive, and I wasn’t sure how I’d store a 10-foot boat in my tiny apartment. But, after borrowing a friend’s kayak on Memorial Day in 2016, I was hooked. I spent the afternoon paddling around Portage Lakes with friends, feeling carefree and happy. I knew I had to have my own kayak.

A Worthwhile Investment

My kayak has been one of my best investments. While it wasn’t free, I’ve had it for over three years, and I’m well below $10 per use. Plus, using my kayak is essentially free, as there are no entrance or access fees for the lakes and rivers near me. And, let’s not forget the added bonus of being able to enjoy a cold beer or two with friends while paddling – it’s still cheaper than buying multiple drinks at a bar.

The Freedom to Explore

Kayaking has given me the freedom to explore and experience nature in a way that feels truly special. It’s not just about the exercise or the thrill of navigating through rapids; it’s about the sense of escape and relaxation that comes with being on the water. Time stands still during a Sunday afternoon paddle, and I’m able to leave my worries behind.

Breaking Down the Costs

So, how much did this investment set me back? Here’s the breakdown:

• Kayak: $162 (I got a great deal on a 10-foot Pelican Trailblazer 100 during a Memorial Day sale)
• Paddle: $30 (also on sale)
• Car-top rack: $20 (a simple kit that works perfectly for my Honda Civic)
• Life jacket: Free (thanks, Dad!)
• Dry storage: $15 (a waterproof box for stashing essentials)
• Registration: $25 (required in Ohio for three years)

Total: $262

Living My Best Life

Kayaking aligns with many of my priorities: getting outside, spending time with friends, and moving my body. With my kayak, I have the freedom to do all these things whenever I want, and it brings me immense happiness. The money I spent on my kayak was a true investment in deep and lasting happiness.