Dead_Dog_Paddler wrote on Dec 11^th, 2009 at 2:53pm:

once your out there you will see that this question is meaningless. The journey is the destination. The sooner you abandon a watch the better time you will have on the trip. If it is any comfort, in the summer you can paddle to 9:30 pm or so. Kick back and enjoy!

Welcome aboard D_D_P

Once you YOU get acclimated, you'll see that in MP's mind and others with similar personalities, planning and "pondering" are the way they operate.
MP goes were few do, and to accomplish what he has, planning is an important facet.
I fall somewhere in the middle. I understand the not watching the clock comment, but I keep one handy for reference on travel days.
As for enjoyment, MP at his ripe "old" age, probably enjoys his trips more than most of us ;)
As always, different strokes for different folks.