May 7, 2006

On Sunday, May 7th, the weather was a 10. Perfect paddling weather. Not too hot, not too cold. No wind and no bugs!

A bunch of people showed up for this fabulous day. And when we were all situated in the water, we headed upstream where we quickly arrived at our first portage where we soon learned of the tricky Swamp Mud. You either got sucked in or slipped in! We traveled a short distance to our next portage that the beavers put there for us. After this, it was smooth sailing for a while. But, alas, this trip was meant to test our portage skills. Yup, another hugemongous tree had draped itself across our path. Out and around we go, only to come around the bend to “What? Another obstacle?!” You got it! Now don’t get me wrong, on the way back some folks were actually able to levitate themselves over these things. That’s how GOOD they got at portaging!!

Although this may not sound like it was fun. It actually was a great time. We all learned teamwork real quick, and cheering each other on over some of the obstacles. Mostly to avoid having to go in the mud and funk up our boats, and ourselves. It was a tough day to be glamorous. ;-) Of course, a huge Thank you to Phil and Lee for pulling up the rear and literally dragging some of us over the debris.

We also had Bob Rancan along who picked out some birds along the way. I have to admit to not seeing them. I really don’t know what kind of eyesight this man has, but God bless him. The only unusual birds I saw that day were recuperating at the Raptor Trust that we hit after our river workout.

And, no, I do not speak French. I just thought it was a good title for this trip.

Lori