I don't think you can describe the IDW/ICE process without including the words tired or intense in the description. If you see an IDW/ICE report without those words, the individual maybe wasn't there.

The ICE definitely isn't a rubber stamp. I have to admit I sort of was expecting it to be. Like Jed's comments about his BCU 5 Star training, "good enough" wasn't good enough. I have a few weaknesses, and I credit my instructors for fully exploiting them, and I'm a lot better and stronger paddler than I was before. Even though my skills were adequate to pass the course, they took the time to challenge me to improve on them (not that there wasn't some room for improvement).

I'm a strong paddler and a good public speaker, but teaching and learning theory were completely foreign to me. I learned that lecturing is easy and you can get a lot of information said in a short period of time, but student retention is poor. Needless to say, I learned some valuable instructional methods besides lecturing that I'm excited to put into action.

Sea kayak "ultimate frisbee" is a great way to work on balance, stroking, maneuvering, and all in the guise of having a good time. The IT's used it to evaluate us and gauge our relative strengths and weaknesses. A PFD makes a good chest protector from the sharp bow of a sea kayak. (don't ask me how I know this)

Running decklines and "clean" decks are inadequate for kayaking instructors. (see previous post).

Liability sucks. I'm not sure I'm excited about being held to a higher "standard of care" since it's been proven that I'm no longer an ignorant paddler. Just like an EMT who isn't riding in an ambulance, but is expected to offer care at the scene of an accident; a certified instructor is expected to carry more safety provisions, gear, and use a greater level of awareness and caution, even on a "fun" trip with friends. Ya can't act like a dummy no more. Now I'm shopping for a rescue vest, VHF radio, and a larger flare selection. No longer are my own common sense and skills enough to keep my own butt safe, now I have to worry about the other guy, and blow off $40 flares to keep his butt alive.

Let's see. ACA liability insurance looks like a good deal. I'm going to ask that all of my weekly club students join the ACA so they're covered, and I won't have to ask them to pay $5 every time to make sure they don't sue me directly.

Using "correct ACA form" on sweep strokes feels goofy at first, but by golly, it really works. "Correct ACA form" with low braces and goofy high elbows....the jury is still out. I'm a high bracer.

ACA "jingles" seem goofy, but we're taught to teach beginners, and they're actually great mnemonic devices.

No matter how good your J-lean, forward stroke, and torso rotation, you can always do a little more...it's never good enough.

The tide rip at Pt. Wilson is a fun place to practice rescues...get ready R2K2 participants--it's going to be a thrill! (Make sure you already know how to do wet exits and rescues--this is not the place to learn, but it's a great place to hone your skills in the rough stuff). Don, we're on!

Deception Pass is boring if it isn't windy. 'Nuff said. Still beautiful, but boring.

I met Steve Scherrer of Alder Creek Canoe & Kayak. He was teaching his own IDW this weekend. It's always good to meet people in person. He said I was taller than I "appeared on the Internet"!

Thai food and pesto pizza in Port Townsend are amazing!

I think that almost covers it.

Shawn