About The Trip
How is the trip funded?
The trip is financed through a variety of fundraising activities. These have included: offering "Ripples of Wisdom" products for sale, hosting garage sales, hosting silent auctions, and sponsoring a bike race. We also offer individuals/groups an opportunity to sponsor a "day-of-paddling". All worthy fundraising opportunities are explored, and no donation is too small! Nancy donates her own funds to cover of any shortfalls in the trip's funding.
When will Nancy arrive at new Orleans, Louisiana and paddle into the Gulf of Mexico?
Nancy anticipates paddling into the Gulf of Mexico in October 2014, the year she turns 60. Remaining trips are planned as follows: St. Louis, MO to Memphis, TN in 2011; Memphis to Natchez, MS in 2012; and Natchez into the Gulf of Mexico in 2014.
Will Nancy write a book about each leg of the trip down the river?
Yes. A book will be written for each section of the river we travel. Each book reflects the changing environment of the river, the wisdom of the women who live near her shores, and Nancy's own growth and learning as a result of these experiences.
What is the role of men in this project?
Men have and will continue to play a vital support role in this project. They have provided financial assistance, sponsored fundraising events and have been cheerleaders quietly working in the background. However, they are not invited to join us at a Gathering, camping or paddling. This experience is designed as a special time for women to come together, feel safe and express their truth.
About the Gatherings
Do you have an age limit?
NO! Women of all ages are encouraged to attend the Gatherings. However, only women 50 years of age and over will be invited to speak, in keeping with the tradition of honoring the wisdom of our elders. Younger women are encouraged to listen, and reflect on what they hear. Younger women are welcome to visit with Nancy after the Gathering if they have questions about what they heard or share what they thought during the discussion.
Can I come by myself?
Women often come by themselves and meet others from their area with similar interests and experiences.
Can I bring younger women?
We highly encourage you to bring younger women with you. The mission of this project is to offer wisdom spoken in the circles to younger women. The wisdom shared around the peace fire has a greater impression when it is heard in person.
What if I can't come but I have something to share?
If you live in the area we are traveling through and wish to share, but cannot attend a Gathering, you can use the Contact Us page on the website to submit your story and wisdom. If you do not live in the area we are paddling through, please send your wisdom or story to Nancy anyway. She is always gathering women's stories for future publications.
Is there a fee to come to a gathering?
No, but we appreciate any donation you would care to make.
About Paddling
How much experience do I need?
We expect that women joining us will be experienced paddlers. All paddlers will be required to provide us with a kayak training certificate that indicates you have experienced a wet exit and re-entry, or be able to demonstrate that ability before paddling if you do not have a certificate. The river has many conditions - currents, barges, personal watercraft - that present dangers to all paddlers, especially as we move south into bigger water and more congested river traffic. Safety is a priority.
What if I want to actively participate in the trip, but do not have enough experience on the water to paddle?
If you do not have previous experience on the water, or an opportunity to gain that experience in time for the trip in your area, you might consider volunteering as part of the support team. The support crew is an important part of the team and contributes to the success of the trip in many ways.
Is it safe on the river?
We have not had any serious issues to date. However, we have had some challenging experiences. Paddlers that are experienced, have the correct gear, and follow our guidelines keep us all safe. Each participant is responsible for their own safety. All paddlers must have the necessary safety gear and wear a lifejacket at all times when on the water. (Required gear - lifejacket, paddle float, whistle, spray skirt) All participants are required to paddle close together for increased visibility and communication. We always carry a First Aid kit and cell phones.
What is the minimum or maximum number of days I can paddle?
We do not have a minimum number of days for paddling with us. However, due to limited river access in some areas, be prepared to stay with us for an entire day, as we may not be able to find a place for you to pull off and stop. The maximum number of days anyone can paddle with us is five.
Do you charge a fee to paddle with you?
We request a donation of $30 for the first day and $15 for each additional day. You will receive a Ripples Of Wisdom cotton tee after we receive your completed registration. This fee helps offset expenses ferrying paddlers back to their vehicles and other related operational costs.
Can I paddle with you any day during the trip?
Nancy and Gwyn, the primary paddlers for the 2011 trip, will paddle the first three days alone. Any other restricted days will be noted in the itinerary section on this website.
Do you have an age limit?
Physical abilities are more important than age. We do not have a maximum age limit; however, the minimum age limit is 18. Exceptions to the minimum age may be made on a case-by-case basis. Kayaking experience, safety and being accompanied by a skilled adult paddler are some of the determining factors for these exceptions.
What if I am by myself?
You are very welcome to come alone and join us on the water.
Do I need to bring my own food and water?
You are responsible for supplying all of your own food for the duration of the time you spend with us. When we stay overnight in a town, we generally treat ourselves to a dinner out. You can expect to have access to our water supply (not all campsites have water).
Do I need to carry all my gear in my kayak?
Yes - expect to carry your gear in your kayak. Our van support must have enough space available to transport a minimum of four people at any given time. The gear we carry for both camping and the Gatherings generally fill the van to capacity. If we have room, we will carry your extra gear in the support van.
Does the Ripples Of Wisdom project offer gear outfitting?
We do not provide any outfitting and we do not make recommendations on gear. We recommend you contact your local sports center for the information and gear you need. We paddle in Current Design Squalls - 16-foot sea kayaks with rudders.
How should I exercise to prepare for paddling?
Time spent in any activity that uses your upper body will help you enjoy your adventure with us. Expect a moderate to heavy workout kayaking each day. Your upper body strength must allow you, in the unlikely event of a capsize, to re-enter your kayak from the water.
How many hours do you typically paddle each day?
Paddling at a moderate pace, we are on the water an average of six hours each day. The duration of time is impacted by weather conditions and current. It is not unusual to paddle a full eight hours on a given day.
Do you take breaks?
We take periodic breaks for snacks, lunch, and, at times, just to enjoy the scenery. Our goal is to enjoy the river and experience the beauty she offers.
Will we paddle in the rain?
We paddle in all kinds of weather. High wind or other extreme weather conditions, such as a tornado or lightening, will keep us off the water. We do paddle in the rain, so good raingear and a spray-skirt for your kayak are essential.
Where will you be staying for the evening?
Our sites are chosen with car access as their first priority. When camping, most sites are rustic; some have showers. When staying in a town, we generally stay in a motel. You will be responsible for making reservations for lodging during your time with us. The itinerary you receive after you register to paddle will provide all details. You are also responsible for your own lodging/camping, restaurant, and transportation expenses.
How will I get back to my vehicle?
If needed, our van support will provide shuttle service back to your vehicle for $0.50 per mile (round trip). We are not responsible for any damage to equipment incurred during transport. We can transport two kayaks on our support van.
What is the role of the van support?
We will have two women at a time volunteering as van support. Their role includes: acquiring food and water, locating our lodging, transporting paddlers and gear, and assisting with the Gatherings. Duties such as cooking and setting up camp for the primary paddling team are shared; however, the van support has done the bulk of those duties in the past. The women acting as van support will change as we move down the river.
How does Nancy select her paddling partner?
Nancy's primary paddling partner is a key component to the success of this trip, not only paddling, but heavily involved during the planning stages. To date, her partner has been a good friend for whom the mission of the project is dear to their heart. They have been experienced campers and paddlers. Only one primary paddling partner accompanies Nancy on each leg of the journey.
Can I paddle a canoe if I do not have access to a kayak?
We have had canoes paddling with us in the past. Canoes can be more challenging to reenter if you should capsize and may be more difficult to control on windy days, especially in wider river stretches, because they sit higher on the water. However, experienced paddlers are welcome to join us in a canoe, with the same requirement of demonstrating an ability to perform a wet exit and re-entry. Single person or two-person canoes may be used. Please note that extra space in a canoe does not mean it should be filled with gear and supplies. Your canoe must be a two person - no solo canoes.