I am continually fascinated at human behavior. In particular, it is amazing that my brother and I come from the same sperm and egg donors, yet differ so dramatically.
He likes to say we are exactly the same, but totally different. It is true.We share the same general looks and senses of humor but that is where the similarities end.
I starch all of my clothes, and he prefers camouflage.
I prefer a 5-course meal, and he prefers meat and potatoes.
He watches the Outdoor Channel, and I prefer Bravo.
He gets up at 4 a.m. to go hunting. I get up at 4 a.m. for the post-Thanksgiving sales.
We do have one more similarity: attention to detail. I am a list person. Before I do anything, there is a list involved. Then an abbreviated list. Then a last minute checklist to reinforce the two previous lists. You get my point.
He is the same. When he goes hunting, he has to have the right boots. The right socks. The best arrows. His laundry list is endless. But it works for him.
“Be prepared.” A cliché, I realize, but more importantly, it’s effective.
I thought about how this might apply to ACE. Eureka!
On our website under the “Waiver & Downloads” link is a great tool for preparedness. Click on the info link and there is a confirmation booklet that you can print that tells you what to wear and bring for our various activities.
When I rafted the Gauley, I treated that list like the Holy Grail. I did not want to freeze. And it worked. I rented the full-tilt wetsuit combination platter: sleeveless wetsuit, neoprene boots, and neoprene jacket. The pear shaped penguin was not a good look for me. But I took a utilitarian approach. It served its purpose and was worth every penny. Sacrifice vanity for warmth. I can’t believe I said that.
And what you wear during Gauley Season is different than in the summer rafting on the New River. And there is a list to help you pack for one of our Overnight Camp trips. Our Adventure Consultants — like me — are available every day to answer questions like this. It is a great tool that really will help.
Do you have any tips to offer fellow rafters to make their trip more enjoyable? What did you learn from your trip? Share the wealth. We appreciate it.
