I'm sure I would never have found this marvelous site but for a chance encounter with DougD on the Rapid River last fall in Maine. I've been lurking and learning ever since. My wife Karen and I started canoe tripping 4 years ago, in an inherited Royalex, 16 foot, Mad River Explorer with basically the same equipment we used car camping with our 3 kids for many summers. The kiddos are all "launched" now, and plane rides away. We're both still working, but have been able to canoe/camp 4-5 times a year. We've done Allagash Wilderness Waterway trips the past 3 years and long weekend ventures in VT and NH. We are newbie paddlers, learning a lot, having a blast, and appreciating the unique opportunities to enjoy nature canoe tripping provides. I learn something new on this site every time I visit, and look forward to being a positive contributor. Thanks to everyone who makes this site so special.