lessons from the river

as a person who simply must be on, in, or around water, i have come to love kayaking more than i think any other sport or recreation.  the boat feels like an extension of your body and, without a motor, is quiet and joins rather than competes with nature.

where else can you see over ten bald eagles, dozens of herons, countless osprey, and couplets of deer?  river time is not like land time.  a day on the water can feel like three elsewhere.  it is amazing to me to have this resource in our backyard and to be able to perceive our cities and roads from the perspective of the waterway that was here first.

navigating takes skill.  you have to look ahead for shallow areas, rocks, currents and snags.  anticipating speed, space and angles is essential to maintaining your course and safety.  the river has a language of its own that is both beautiful and to be respected.  signs on the surface are clues as to the underwater topography.

there is a time to grip the paddle tightly with concentration and a time to relax and enjoy the current.  getting each of these at the proper time makes for an amazing float!

to further explore the beauty of the willamette, i would recommend www.willamettewatertrail.org