Field Journal
Paddling, practical skills, expedition stories, and lessons brought home from the water.
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Beard Care – shopping
Give the gift of riverside tradition with eco-friendly grooming essentials. Dr. Squatch’s Cold Brew Cleanse and Pine Tar Shampoo pair with Texas Beard Company’s Pecan Coffee Beard Balm.…
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Gear Review: ENO JungleNest Hammock & HouseFly Tarp – Bug-Free, Scout-Proof Florida Comfort
The ENO JungleNest Hammock has become a favorite for both the author and his son, ideal for Florida’s humid climate. With an integrated bug net and simple setup,…
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The First Paddle Stroke of a Republic
The essence of America’s unity lies in shared motion, not perfect harmony. As the Founders communicated through disagreement and trust, so must modern America navigate its divides. A…
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Many Canoes, One Crossing
The content highlights how Native nations historically used canoes for diplomacy and trade, emphasizing the importance of harmony in diversity. It advocates for learning from this tradition to…
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The Seal and the Stream
The piece reflects on America’s unity amid division, using river metaphors. It emphasizes the importance of collaboration, listening, and trust in navigating challenges. Just as rivers connect disparate…
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🎃Campfire Tales for Dark Nights: Folklore from the Water
As the October winds blow through Florida, fires ignite tales of folklore steeped in caution and respect for the wild. Stories like El Pasoclaro remind paddlers to heed…
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🎃The Sliding Ones
During a Florida Keys expedition, three paddlers discover a deserted island. While camping, they hear strange noises and encounter numerous rats that seem to engage in playful antics…
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🎃🍵Florida Wild Edibles of October: Foraging with Respect
In October, Florida experiences a blend of warmth and hinting coolness while offering a unique foraging experience. Harvesting yaupon leaves and cabbage palm hearts demands respect for nature…
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🎃🔥🌀Cooking When the Lights Go Out: Hurricane-Ready Meals That Work on the Water Too
Preparedness and safety review: October 25, 2026. This is household planning guidance. Follow current local emergency instructions, product labels, and individual medical advice. A good meal in a…
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The Gear That Endures: Inspect, Maintain, Repair, or Retire
A practical routine for inspecting expedition equipment, following maintenance instructions, recording faults, and handing gear to its next user.
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🎃Trail Spirits Pairing: Toasting Halloween Florida style
The author reflects on a Halloween tradition of toasting in nature with friends, specifically on a Florida island. Sharing stories and drinks like dark rum and Applejack enhances…
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🎃🍏🔥Haunted Apples in the Piney Woods: A Halloween Mess Tin Feast
Florida does not give us crisp air and falling leaves in October. Instead, we get humidity that lingers like a ghost, palmetto shadows that stretch too far, and…
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⛵“Not Just Sailors—But Citizens of the Sea”: Why Your Child Belongs in Sea Scouts
The Sea Scouts, part of the Boy Scouts of America, teach youth essential life skills, leadership, and civic responsibility through maritime activities. Participants engage in sailing, SCUBA diving,…
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🩺 The Florida Hurricane-Ready First Aid Kit
Learn how Wilderness First Aid and Scouting America prepare Florida families for hurricane emergencies with skills that save lives when medical help is delayed.
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🌊⚓ Sea Scouts and Native American Day ⚓🌊
As Skippers, we can connect youth with Scouting’s water traditions and Native American culture. Recent Sea Scout visits revealed rich canoe heritage and storytelling. For Native American Day,…
