March 16, 2002

Kayaking

Although I love the serenity of lakes, the reflections of ponds and the vast strength of oceans, most of my water experience has been limited to swimming. To add to the matter, my own university has a nationally recognized aquatic center not more than 20 minutes away, and I had never even seen the facilities. This came up one day in a conversation, so a few weeks later a friend called to see if I wanted to go kayaking on Lake Natoma, where the aquatic center is located. I was a bit hesitant because it was something completely new to me, but I knew I would regret it if I didn't go. So I went..

We arrived at the lake on a cool, sunny Saturday afternoon and managed to get the kayak in the water and ourselves in the kayak without tipping it over, so I knew that was a good sign. Fortunately, I was with someone who has been kayaking many times before, so I just followed along and didn't seem to do too badly.

The weather was perfect, the lake was calm, and the view was amazing. The blue sky reflected back into the water, which was bordered by low hills that were beginning to turn green with the coming of spring. Clouds of all different shapes and textures complemented the sky, and the only noticeable sounds were of oars splashing gently in the water and the voice of a crew instructor as a team passed by us. We came close to a group of ducks and laughed as they moved hastily away at the last minute, just before we reached them.

Eventually we headed back, stopping to watch the rowing team move in perfect formation. They seemed to move as one body, with their oars in perfect rhythm as they glided smoothly across the water. We reached the dock, got out of the kayak without mishap, and went to put it away and take off our lifejackets. Altogether, it was very fun, and my only regret was that I didn't have a pen and paper with me so that I could simply stop in the middle of the lake and write. Being in such an environment can be so inspiring.


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