and after the winter floods (which drowned my local marina) it all seems to
be back in order.

Talked with a few who were able to put their boats in the water today and
they say the debris from all the runoff is minimal. It was very heavy as of
last week.

Within 60 seconds of watching the boating from a scenic vantage point, I
watched a pair of full speed PWC'ers come within a few feet of a boat
preparing to tow a tuber.

Within 5 minutes of watching the launch ramp I watched a boater drop his
boat off, pull his rig back into the prep area (no parking), park his rig,
climb back into his boat, and headed out with his son. I thought he was
just moving his boat to the non-loading/unloading side of the dock, but I
guess he really just planned on leaving his rig in the prep area. Well,
that still left one lane for others.

Watching the PWC'ers and boaters doing the weekend warrior thing convinced
me of three things this the beginning of my second season as a powerboater.

Too many boaters and PWC'ers have got to be the stupidest and most
inconsiderate people I've ever had the pleasure of shared membership with.
And, paradoxically, this same group is one of the most helpful in time of
need of all subpopulations out there.

So, on weekends we're taking the longer drive to a safer lake and will save
the local lake for weekdays. This should prove a win win for all concerned.
One less boat on the busy weekends and a friendlier safer more relaxed
experience for my family. I'm fortunate in that I have a couple of choices
for boating for the mere price of gasoline and time.

I think opening days are for real finally; not just symbolic. Safe,
friendly, considerate boating everyone! The sun is shining and the waters
are warming.