Winter Kayaking Motivation

The biggest challenge to winter paddling is finding the motivation to go. There are many day’s where I’m looking outside my window, the wind is blowing rain and snow sideways, and I’m thinking to myself “ why in the *&^% would I want to go play in the river in this weather”. Some of my friends would suggest to shut her down and do a winter sport.
I would if I could, but I need the river to keep me sane. Maybe I’m a human equivalent to the Labrador. I constantly need interaction with the river to keep this machine well-greased. Sure, I would rather be in South America all winter but my life’s not that simple anymore. I decided years ago that I enjoy having a home and didn’t want to be a dirt bag forever, so I decided to make life a little more complicated. I guess most people call those responsibilities. (For all you young folks out there disregard that responsibility thing!!)
Some of those responsibilities for me include owning a business, homes, dogs, and trying to convince my girlfriend that I’m worth keeping around. It doesn’t mean that you have responsibilities that you still can’t shred all the time. That’s what’s great about Missoula. You don’t have to go very far.
Missoula is a great town to combine multiple sports packed into one day. I call it double dipping. Throw in work and you have yourself a triple combo. Missoula is a great place to work and play because most employers take work and play pretty serious in this town. It’s good for your health if you ask me. Many companies have a 4” or 6” rule where you close the doors and head to the slopes.
The ultimate winter day is going to Snowbowl in the morning and surfing Brennan’s Wave in the afternoon. How many places can you do that? Anyhow, if you can find the motivation to jump in the water when it’s freezing outside, I guarantee you won’t regret it. Life is too short so start living now. Don’t let a little cold water scare you!
What’s your ultimate Missoula sports combo? Give me some new ideas!