Each fall I like to take a trip to the boundary waters, usually the first week in October. I like to go by myself and experience solitude. However, last year I took my nephew who was on leave from the military and much in need of R&R. We paddled my NC Pal tandem loaded down pretty good, and it felt like a pig, but we got by and had a great trip. I normally paddle my Pal solo from the bow seat when tripping by my self. Paddling tandem was a means to an end, but it just wasn't as enjoyable or relaxing. I'm pretty fussy and having some one else in my canoe was very taxing at times. I love my nephew so I bit my lip as much as I could bare it. This year my son wanted to join me. I said fine but we will both paddle solo. He has a NC Bob Special. That improved the paddling situation for the most part. Even though he is 26 and did just fine, I still found my self feeling responsible for someone else all the time. We had a good trip and I'm glad we did it. Since he went to college and afterward got married, we haven't had much guy time together. But it wasn't the same as a solo trip. I need solitude from time to time. I need peace and quiet. I need it to free up my mind. I need to feel free. I need to overcome loneliness so I can be at peace within my self, not burdening others to make me feel whole. I need to be stretched from time to time and overcome, so I don't give in to the calender and retire to the rocker. Next year I will take a solo trip. If my son wants to go tripping with me that will have to be an additional trip. I used to feel guilty going on a solo trip, but not anymore. I got to be me for a little while longer while I still can. Dave