Kayaking

I went kayaking on the Santa Fe River today. It was a great idea. Thanks for taking me along, Angel. It wasn't kayaking like anything in Oregon. Most of my friends back home, when asked about kayaking, would think of class four rapids and wetsuits. This was a decidedly more relaxing experience. Most of the time was spent just floating and only using the paddles for steering rather than propulsion. As soon as we put in, I found myself immediately at peace. I was mesmerized watching the water gently part as it relented to the bow of my kayak. And not just watching it, but I could hear, smell and feel all of the interactions between the water, my kayak, and - through it - myself. It was an amazing connection with nature that I have not felt for some time. I also found entertainment in scaring the turtles off the logs where they were sun bathing. That's probably because, despite my appearance, I am still really just a ten-year-old boy that likes to harass wildlife.

I don't know if I will be able to find kayaking like that in Oregon, but I would love to try. Sure, there is plenty of kayaking in Oregon, but it is a more challenging and exciting brand and I am looking for that relaxation on a warm summer day. I am looking to enjoy nature and to be a part of it, not to challenge it. Sure, maybe I will be open to the idea of taking on some easy rapids, but first things first. I want a kayak now. Oh, and of course, time to use it.