I always thought I was a pretty good bow paddler and did my share up there.  I try.  But we just returned from a trip with Ho Ho and David and I learned that I am a weak paddler, and that Spartan1 is quite at a disadvantage with me in the bow, since it means that we travel quite slowly, at least compared to younger, stronger folks.

However, (and this is very important) Ho Ho and David didn't care at all.  They made it very clear that there was no hurry and that they were happy to do the trip at our speed.  We had a great time for seven days together (two of them very, very short, easy days) and we only tripped from Sawbill to Cherokee, then up to Frost and back again, but it was a great trip!  They had their 8-month-old puppy along and that added a real element of fun to the adventure, too.

Since Spartan1 has only had one trip partner in the last 41 years, I suspect I am his worst ever.  I would also hope that I am his best, and since he isn't going to come on here (probably) and say either, you'll have to just judge for yourselves.