: My inner hand was at the tip, and the paddle was
: extended fully.

Hi Don,
If you mean your hand was cupping the end of the blade (tip of paddle in the palm of your hand) then you might try holding your paddle extended with your hand spanning the blade near the end and held against your shoulder or under your chin. I have found this gives me better control and does not require letting go of the paddle with one hand.

:I have trouble visualising exactly how the blade should be held, and what position the body should be in. I
: can get up for a breath of air, but I cannot stay up far enough to
: breathe.

As your falling over, say to your right side, as soon as you hit the water you must push the boat away from you by lifting your right leg or knee. It also helps to arch your back as much as possible.

Dave Braun
Traverse City, MI