Day two on the St Marys
We are now away from all evidence of civilization. No people at all. We met absolutely no one in four days of paddling.
I am usually up about six but on this trip due to the weather and time of year I slept in until about 6:45. Usually we restarted the fire first. There were always embers still in the fire pit and so it was a fairly easy task. Hot coffee is the first priority. It sure is good on the river. We had oatmeal most mornings. As my mother used to say it sticks to your ribs. After packing up we were on the river about ten o'clock.
The river was quite wide and clear in this spot but after a mile or so it narrowed and had several blow downs. Personally I don't mind the challenge of going through. Over the years on this river we probably have went through hundreds. It always amazes me that (in most cases) you can pick your way through the brush.
However, on this day on this morning Harry Jr. and Gary were approaching an especially dangerous area. Fast current on the edge of the river and through was appeared to be sapling sized trees. At one spot you had to make a horse shoe turn in current in about six feet. You guessed it. Over they went into the ice cold water and unable to touch bottom could not get the canoe righted. finally the canoe went downstream and our swimmers made for the shore.
This is where the "Bear" saved the day. Stripping down to a bathing suit and wading into the water he attached a line to the canoe. Five of us were then able to pull the canoe to the bank and empty it of water. I must add this: on the way into the water all went well with Bear until the ice cold water reached some unmentionables. Was the first I had heard a big man talk in a high pitched voice. It was at this time we decided to remain here for the rest of the day. Up with the tents, set up the Commodores chair and start the fire. Cheese, pepperoni, drinks and food. Around the fire until ten and off to bed.
What would happen tomorrow?
Day three and four to follow.
We are now away from all evidence of civilization. No people at all. We met absolutely no one in four days of paddling.
I am usually up about six but on this trip due to the weather and time of year I slept in until about 6:45. Usually we restarted the fire first. There were always embers still in the fire pit and so it was a fairly easy task. Hot coffee is the first priority. It sure is good on the river. We had oatmeal most mornings. As my mother used to say it sticks to your ribs. After packing up we were on the river about ten o'clock.
The river was quite wide and clear in this spot but after a mile or so it narrowed and had several blow downs. Personally I don't mind the challenge of going through. Over the years on this river we probably have went through hundreds. It always amazes me that (in most cases) you can pick your way through the brush.
However, on this day on this morning Harry Jr. and Gary were approaching an especially dangerous area. Fast current on the edge of the river and through was appeared to be sapling sized trees. At one spot you had to make a horse shoe turn in current in about six feet. You guessed it. Over they went into the ice cold water and unable to touch bottom could not get the canoe righted. finally the canoe went downstream and our swimmers made for the shore.
This is where the "Bear" saved the day. Stripping down to a bathing suit and wading into the water he attached a line to the canoe. Five of us were then able to pull the canoe to the bank and empty it of water. I must add this: on the way into the water all went well with Bear until the ice cold water reached some unmentionables. Was the first I had heard a big man talk in a high pitched voice. It was at this time we decided to remain here for the rest of the day. Up with the tents, set up the Commodores chair and start the fire. Cheese, pepperoni, drinks and food. Around the fire until ten and off to bed.
What would happen tomorrow?
Day three and four to follow.