Hard to believe it's that time of year again. (Of course, if you're in the Pacific Northwest, and you've taken a look at the thermometer lately, I guess it's not that hard to believe after all.)  All of us here at Azimuth Expeditions would like to take this opportunity to wish each of you a happy and healthy holiday season, and offer our best wishes for a wonderful new year. Enjoy the time with your family and friends, go easy on the pumpkin pie, and if you need to burn off some of those holiday calories, be sure to give us a call and sign up for a sea kayaking class or tour soon.

Not only is the new web site up and running, but there are a few new field reports that have been posted recently. Hood Canal, La Push and Sucia Island are some of the latest entries; stop by and check out the stories and photos when you get the chance. Also, we would love to hear from you… If you've done a trip lately and are willing to share the experience in word and pictures, send your story in and we'll get it posted so others can get inspired as well.

… and so do Waterwalker's Ball tickets. If you've got a tour or class in mind for someone this Christmas, why not give them a gift certificate in their Christmas stocking? Likewise, if you know someone who would be  interested in attending the Ball this May, tickets are available now, but they won't be for long. (See the web site for more info on the Waterwalker's Ball). Give us a call or email… and we'll help get those Christmas stockings filled.

We got a fair number of correct answers to last month's teaser (April – June = 4, for those of you playing along at home). Our winner was Becky Hardy; Becky, your pogies are in the mail! We're taking this month off to do some cold weather paddling and spend time with our families. Look for a new puzzle in next month's newsletter.

Rangifer tarandus

The reindeer is a common sight for coastal paddlers… the coast of Scandinavia! Domesticated over 2000 years ago by the arctic peoples of northern Eurasia, reindeer share many characteristics with their North American counterpart, the caribou. They are strong swimmers, their diet of lichen and other small arctic plants makes them well suited for their harsh environment and newborn calves develop quickly in order to keep up with the herd and to keep out of the way of predators. (Reindeer and caribou are able to walk at birth and can outrun a wolf within 24 hours). Though you may not see many reindeer as you paddle this winter, there have been widespread sightings around the 24th and 25th of the month, so keep your eyes peeled.

December is an "off" month for us here at Azimuth, but the down time never lasts too long. January soon come… claim your spot!
          January 25       Roll Clinic
          January 27       Kayak'n'Klean (Carr Inlet)