As in past calendars, all the photos were taken during the previous year (2012). Despite having been retired for a year now, I have not been able to explore wide new horizons as I had once dreamed. Increasing disability has somewhat restricted the areas in which I have managed to paddle. This year all the photos are from my local waters of the Firth of Clyde and The Solway Firth. Far from feeling sorry about this, I have felt blessed to have the freedom to enjoy exploring my own doorstep. I am so grateful for the assistance of my friends in getting me to and from the water. My daughter Jennifer chose the photos for each month of the calendar.
2013 cover shot. This is paddle sailing at its best: sun, wind, tide and big skies, on a trip round the Little Cumbrae in the Firth of Clyde.
January. A cold east wind sped us from Maidens to Seafield with the snowy mountains of Arran on the far side of the Firth of Clyde.
February. Some gentle swell made for interesting exploration of the rock channels of Bennane Head on Ayrshire's Atlantic Coas, Firth of Clyde.
March. Looking back to Glen Sannox after a misty crossing of the Sound of Bute, Firth of Clyde.
April. Sunset in the Kilbrannan Sound, Firth of Clyde. It was dark when we reached our camp site but the experience of night slowly gathering round you on a calm night is unmissable.
May. Clear waters in Catacol Bay, Firth of Clyde make a great place to stop for a second breakfast.
June. Rounding Bennan Head on Arran, one of the impressive headlands in the Firth of Clyde.
July. Safe haven on a granite boulder reef at Ailsa Craig, Firth of Clyde.
August. Summer rain, Fleet Bay, Solway Firth.
September. Waiting for the tide, Isles of Fleet, Solway Firth.
October. Enjoying the freedom of the seas in Wigtown Bay, Solway Firth.
November. Taking a break in Bracken Bay, Firth of Clyde.
December. Seakayak sailing to Dunure with Ailsa Craig on the horizon, Firth of Clyde.
I hope you find something to inspire you to paddle in your local waters. Finally....
