Today we planned just a half day paddle to allow time for snorkeling in Coupon Bay or off Big Munson, but the water was not clear and the sunlight blocked by clouds so we kept paddling. We aimed for a potential campsite on a small key in Newfound Bay. During the day it was quite a friendly but busy scene, with dozens of recreation boats and people standing in circles in the shallow water chatting. We ate lunch, chatted, and found a fine campsite for the night.
At 2:00 PM Fran said "Let's paddle; I'm ready to be done". We can feel the tug of Key West. We flew eight more miles in two hours to Tarpon Creek just below Pirates Cove, feeling great to be paddling. While the slow pace of the past few weeks has allowed more time for viewing nature, we missed the joy of long paddling days.
We were able to ride some waves, which is always fun. At the beginning of the trip I had limited wave riding skill, but now I can catch a ride fairly well if we find swells rather than just chop. All of our paddling skills have improved tremendously on this trip.
Tonight's destination was pretty horrible due to no-seeums. As soon as we stopped they swarmed all over us. We threw up the tent as fast as we could, but felt the burning acid sting of their bites all over our bodies. After sitting in the tent just a few minutes we quickly realized that that would not work either - we were roasting and sweating like pigs in the heat and humidity. I hopped out and took a quick sponge bath to clear some of the stench. We doused ourselves with DEET and took off on a brisk walk to get away, and we were able to out-pace the no-seeums. As long as we kept walking we did not get bit. The sun set and we dashed back into the tent, but it was still too hot inside. Back out for another walk. I alternated back and forth, trying to find relief from the stinging bugs and the sweltering heat. I finally got to sleep at midnight, five hours later.
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