This overnight training trip is dedicated to Staff Sgt. Tracy A. Tidwell of the 160th Night Stalkers, 2nd Battalion who lost his life in a training mission in 1996. He left behind a family and two girls. A donation to the Special Operations Warrior Foundation will help provide a college education to his  kids.  http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/billwhale/ufc2012

Leaving for a 38 miles overnight paddle on the Santa Fe River. Wind is blowing due to a cold front that is passing through. Weather forecast is for temperatures in the low 30 degrees. The original goals of the trip was to continue building my endurance base and to test out some new gear. Now in addition to those two goals, whether I like it or not, I will be testing out my cold weather procedures. Should be fun.