tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55533394721230006472024-02-20T07:14:13.338-08:00Kayakers' ChroniclesNancy Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17785303835521700957noreply@blogger.comBlogger14125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5553339472123000647.post-18243906530504497142013-08-09T04:59:00.004-07:002013-08-09T11:55:43.065-07:00It's All Fun & Games Until...Somebody Loses an iPhone!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Nancy's & Dave's</td></tr>
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<b>Another paddle - another story! </b> This one with a happy (but expensive ending!).<br />
This past weekend found my sister and brother-in-law visiting. One of the things I love about being with Nancy & Dave (no lie - there are TWO sets of Nancy & Dave's in our family) is that they enjoy kayaking as much as I do!<br />
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<b>After a delicious and hearty breakfast we grabbed our gear and headed to one of my favorite spots on the Charles River</b> - West Street in Medfield, which brings us to the Great Marsh Area. My sister joined in the fun too so there were 5 of us altogether.<br />
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<b>Sunday was bright and sunny with a slight breeze.</b> The morning progressed with little or no incidences. We were treated to sightings of several Great Blue Herons and even some younger herons. Turtles were in abundance - even the snapping kind. At one point on the return trip we joked about counting the painted turtles - we got to 100 and stopped counting! Amazing!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Testing the damage in the pool</td></tr>
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<b>Midway through our return trip my boat started filling with water.</b> There was over 3 inches of water inside the kayak. Clearly something was not right! Using an empty water bottle to bail had little or no effect - even after emptying the bottle 8 times! Clearly something was WRONG. Fortunately, we made it to the end of the trip safely. However, when side exiting the kayak, my iPhone fell in the Charles River. (Not sure if I was distracted by the problem with the boat or just not paying attention.) It was retrieved but could not be revived. This is the second item the river has claimed for itself! (The first item was my Nikon camera). <br />
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<b>After the other Nancy & Dave headed home, </b>I drove right to the AT & T store where I was able to purchase a new phone. (<b>Expense #1</b>)<br />
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<b>The next day, I hoisted the kayak on some saw horses and filled it with water in effort to pinpoint the leak. </b> From the bottom of the boat there was a "slice" (for lack of a better word). Water was s l o w l y dripping that I couldn't believe it could be the culprit. So, when my sister came over we discussed the situation. We decided to try it in the pool to see if it would leak faster with weight in it. Well, to my sadness we discovered that the leak was actually caused by a crack where the seat meets the hull. It was going to be a tough repair at best.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9VtgyoOpqYx_7d2EffbxzaOXEFnH_BeD1h_bBvUwdTzcOHmMYQw2legamaxhgLSM4T3pa9pwtl-tvg4axM9XZmaU1YW8Wf3l8AT4t4XjUj0AcbFSqpk_YI_vd9Mv2IMTk6V8WCzfXI90/s1600/101115_mansfield_exterior.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9VtgyoOpqYx_7d2EffbxzaOXEFnH_BeD1h_bBvUwdTzcOHmMYQw2legamaxhgLSM4T3pa9pwtl-tvg4axM9XZmaU1YW8Wf3l8AT4t4XjUj0AcbFSqpk_YI_vd9Mv2IMTk6V8WCzfXI90/s320/101115_mansfield_exterior.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">L.L. Bean, Mansfield, MA</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<b>Just when despair was at its peak, my sister remembered that the kayak was purchased at L.L. Bean. </b> <u>Do you know they have a "lifetime guarantee"?</u> Even on kayaks? So we drove down to our local L.L.Bean store and went to exchange the kayak. Of course the particular model I own is no longer available so they gave me a credit for the purchase price. With that and a little extra money (<b>Expense #2)</b> I was able to get myself a NEW kayak.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from my NEW kayak</td></tr>
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<b>While I'm not the biggest L.L.Bean fan, I am fast becoming one!</b> Here I was looking at the thought of trying to repair my boat or purchase a new one. Never in my wildest dream would I think that a company would take back an item after 3 years! <b>So, my question: Why would anyone buy a kayak from anywhere but L.L.Bean?</b> With a policy like that I'd be hard-pressed to go elsewhere! <br />
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Check out their Guarantee <a href="http://www.llbean.com/customerService/aboutLLBean/guaranteed_popup.html">HERE</a>!<br />
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<b> So, thank you L.L.Bean for my new Manatee 100 in Sunrise. </b> (For all intents and purposes - it's the same boat as mine - same color, length & it even has the same logo - the name has been changed). I don't care what they call it because I now call it mine! <b>(Now if AT&T had a similar policy........)</b><br />
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<br />Nancy Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17785303835521700957noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5553339472123000647.post-42176279793797329522013-07-19T20:25:00.000-07:002013-07-19T20:41:18.556-07:00Forest Street Follies!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT6SColWabvjlsDwna5LnB2_WbiiIP-2EPBgF4XbqiUDxfOCaNx47ggTUgK1kJk8Pi3EyVh8dy96xyADkdBxjSS_6U_qaJb991akYzWQ5QxwsRzOhyphenhyphenLLrUUtnqoTKetuWybZT4HB8YWgg/s1600/Forest+St+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT6SColWabvjlsDwna5LnB2_WbiiIP-2EPBgF4XbqiUDxfOCaNx47ggTUgK1kJk8Pi3EyVh8dy96xyADkdBxjSS_6U_qaJb991akYzWQ5QxwsRzOhyphenhyphenLLrUUtnqoTKetuWybZT4HB8YWgg/s1600/Forest+St+1.jpg" /></a><b>Another Thursday evening paddle means...a meeting with the Pirates! </b> This time due to extreme heat (95 degrees at 6:00 p.m.) we decided to stray from our original plan and head to the Forest Street Launch in Millis, MA. This launch is a fairly easy in and out depending on the water level. We did battle a few small rocks, but it really was fine. Known for being the shady part of the river, we figured this was perfect for a hot, summer evening. As it turned out, the sun went behind the clouds though the heat & humidity never left. <br />
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<b>Our plan was to head upstream towards the Route 115 bridge.</b> This part of the river winds its way along the banks of <a href="http://www.thetrustees.org/places-to-visit/greater-boston/cedariver.html">Cedariver</a>, a Trustee of the Reservation property. Noticing the water level was very low prompted silent concerns. These concerns became a reality shortly after departure. Partly submerged across the river was a fallen oak tree. The combination of low water level and downed tree made passage nearly impossible.<br />
<b><i> Folly #1</i></b>: A few brave souls tried to cross and got hung up on the tree (yours truly included).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggwJo80PwpaGkJqhnPgcapaTKNrVzuFsuWHNazlMWYxrxMA1ArkqkJqDgIaLuJB9U2G40GCAix22w89jYGfGiGBrGVooU6RVZRsgdX88X46yq-7UoUjsMIAiKcOIgiEd32zVF3x9kSd60/s1600/Forest+St+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggwJo80PwpaGkJqhnPgcapaTKNrVzuFsuWHNazlMWYxrxMA1ArkqkJqDgIaLuJB9U2G40GCAix22w89jYGfGiGBrGVooU6RVZRsgdX88X46yq-7UoUjsMIAiKcOIgiEd32zVF3x9kSd60/s1600/Forest+St+3.jpg" /></a><b>Quickly, we changed the plan, wiggled off the tree and headed down stream.</b> Our efforts were rewarded with the sighting of a beaver (maybe the culprit of our Folly #1) scurrying through the water. Even downstream there the river was laden with downed vegetation. <br />
<i><b>Folly #2:</b></i> We struggled to find passage through those trees. Heading to the far left or right of the obstacle allowed us to progress slowly forward.<br />
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<b>Coming around a bend in the river, our point man (actually woman - Karen) spied a lone deer on the river bank.</b> The deer stood silent and watched as each of us passed by. As Earl stated "no matter how many times I see a deer, I think it's just true beauty". Enough said! <br />
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<b>Chatting and paddling we came to a little 'fast' water (and rocks!)</b>. We stopped a moment to think about the paddle BACK - would we be able to power through it? We felt confident we'd be able to make our way back through and decided to 'go for it'. <br />
<i><b>Folly #3:</b></i> Time was passing quickly and shortly after crossing the 'fast' water, we needed to turn around to make it back before dark. Heading upstream through the fast water was not as easy as we thought it was going to be. Some of us had to attempt it several times to get through (yours truly included). Check out the cheering section that Thia had while clearing the obstacle (she is in the kayak behind the yellow one)!<br />
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<b>Our return trip to the launch was uneventful, but sweet with conversation and camaraderie.</b> To round out the evening we grabbed some pizzas and salad and enjoyed a late night swim at the home of one of our pirates (yours truly)! Half the fun of paddling with the "Pirates" is reliving and laughing about the events of the evening!!<br />
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<br />Nancy Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17785303835521700957noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5553339472123000647.post-265603362941710872013-07-14T07:52:00.000-07:002013-07-14T18:45:58.539-07:00Norton Reservoir Retreat<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv57vSwsruWkA9CmOrTtNl2iMffX7_V6-B9QzjLOfhyphenhyphenCQ0DQxF0PpDAtw4-TVyikyhp8inNEP_1FtqFMrqM8tod7UXTfbmjYwqQQxNWar9Jpijw9FCjqwJOTso8jxvXD26TY2X9L3iuQ4/s1600/Norton+Res+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv57vSwsruWkA9CmOrTtNl2iMffX7_V6-B9QzjLOfhyphenhyphenCQ0DQxF0PpDAtw4-TVyikyhp8inNEP_1FtqFMrqM8tod7UXTfbmjYwqQQxNWar9Jpijw9FCjqwJOTso8jxvXD26TY2X9L3iuQ4/s320/Norton+Res+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Pirates Paddling by Lisa Rubini</b></td></tr>
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<b>Our "paddling club" has now been renamed "The Pirates of the Charles River" thanks to our matey, Earl!</b> We are still meeting on Thursday evenings when the weather cooperates (which hasn't been often this summer season). Because we have been stormed out the past several Thursday evenings, we decided to spend a Saturday morning and depart from our beloved Charles and head over to the <b><a href="http://www.lakefrontliving.com/lakeinfo.asp?id=15">Norton Reservoir.</a> </b><br />
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<b>The dreary start to the day did not ward us off. </b>Five 'pirates' decided to take a chance with the clouds and <b><a href="http://www.paddling.net/places/showReport.html?2080">launch</a></b> at a spot near Tsang's Restaurant off Route 140. Launching was easy off the sandy area and we paddled our way through the lily pads which were donned with white and pink blossoms. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lilly Pads by Lisa Rubini </td></tr>
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<b>The Reservoir, which is actually in Norton and Mansfield, is a quiet place for fishing, boating and kayaking</b>. This 530 acre area is home to all kinds of wildlife. We spotted swans swimming in large groups as well as Canada Geese with their goslings. Nearby many Mallards milled about. A great blue heron was seen among the weeds doing his own fishing while seagulls flew above. Even Fish and turtles could be seen poking their heads out of the clear water as if to say 'hello' as we passed by.<br />
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<b>We cut through a couple of the islands and headed to the far edge of the reservoir and made our way around the perimeter and through some coves.</b> Beautiful homes and forest gave us the feel we were in some New Hampshire resort area. We spent 2 hours paddling and gabbing. Although the day never cleared, we weren't rained on which was an extra bonus.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZsSPo6oT7T7YcfGYOSCRp7t8Ya7m7p5EBSvzO8P6FyyGqaMSb6W_XB8BscoKawdQu1rnZqxQxQNpfBNYbthpPrlB_V4Pqf9Nl8EF_s2NlvQBRxVRilD3GgmpVr_6s-mM3hFUeqCEjlE/s1600/Norton+Res+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZsSPo6oT7T7YcfGYOSCRp7t8Ya7m7p5EBSvzO8P6FyyGqaMSb6W_XB8BscoKawdQu1rnZqxQxQNpfBNYbthpPrlB_V4Pqf9Nl8EF_s2NlvQBRxVRilD3GgmpVr_6s-mM3hFUeqCEjlE/s320/Norton+Res+1.jpg" width="320" /></a>While exploring the eastern edge of the reservoir we found a spot where there is a dam. The unmistakable sound of rushing water told us to be wary. We paddled closer and thought our eyes deceived us as it looked as if we could pass right through. Upon closer inspection we realized that indeed this was a dam. Not wanting to get too close, we continued past this area and continued on our way.<br />
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The water itself was shallow and clean and all kinds of growth was visible. Much of the reservoir seems enshrouded with aquatic vegetation. Some even ending up on the paddle!<br />
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We rounded out our outing with a visit to Tsang's for a quick bite and a chance to talk about our paddle.<br />
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If you're interested in trying out the Norton Reservoir but don't own your own kayak, why not check out the <a href="http://www.nortonkayakco.com/default.html">Norton Kayak Company</a> run by a fellow Walpolian, Dave Lennon. <br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" height="350" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://maps.google.com/maps?oe=utf-8&client=firefox-a&q=norton+reservoir+map&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Norton+Reservoir&gl=us&t=h&z=14&ll=41.986539,-71.199806&output=embed" width="425"></iframe><br />
<small><a href="https://maps.google.com/maps?oe=utf-8&client=firefox-a&q=norton+reservoir+map&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Norton+Reservoir&gl=us&t=h&z=14&ll=41.986539,-71.199806&source=embed" style="color: blue; text-align: left;">View Larger Map</a></small>Nancy Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17785303835521700957noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5553339472123000647.post-31347750371735920892012-08-19T09:19:00.001-07:002012-08-19T09:20:28.511-07:00Paddle 'n Party Kayak Club<b>Paddle 'n Party - it's not the best name although, it does roll off your tongue. </b>Say it three times real fast! We brainstormed several other names like "Kay-Yakkers", "Sunset Paddlers" and "Boat Buddies" but in the end this is the one we chose. (For all that, one of the members, Cindy, calls it "Carol's Club" because Carol Ann started it, and I think that is the one that is sticking!)<br />
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<b>It truly was Carol Ann's brainchild really.</b> She wanted to spread the word about how much fun folks would have if they just got out on the river for a paddle. So it was decided that on Thursday evenings from 5:15 - 7:30 we would meet at the Charles Cafe in Millis and head out for a 2 hour ride on the river. Afterward, we would go inside the cafe and have dinner or drinks.<br />
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<b>It has been a success so far!</b> Two weeks ago - our first group launch - found 11 paddlers shoving off the shore. We headed upstream on a hazy, hot and humid late afternoon. We had several newbie paddlers, some intermediate and a couple experienced ones as well. One of the members, Eddy, (did I mention membership is FREE), brought along his fishing gear. He got a couple of nibbles on his line, but nothing big. Then on the return trip he was rewarded with the catch of a good-sized large-mouth bass. The evening ended with more fun, stories and laughter while dining.<br />
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<b>This past week the clear blue sky signaled an inviting evening for paddlers of all abilities. </b> We were treated to the sighting of the majestic great blue heron who was squawking his welcome along the river. After coming ashore we spent another evening chattering about our experiences with one another over a quick meal and drink. <br />
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<b>Hope you'll consider joining us this week!</b> Don't forget it's free if you have your own boat and rentals are only $25.00. Reserve early as it is becoming a popular outing!<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5553339472123000647.post-8791815621578893792012-07-20T17:55:00.002-07:002012-07-20T18:56:35.957-07:00Cleaning the Boats!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg84XfoUOm13nK1N0R8wlROgHLHQvYH8-Q9HH3BT5pz3tRzxDMppETWMum-DA5EJH8WEeP66prZhBCb17nPB_gJPv2OEfPoPEZI1cOpfnaJDRzzx_NJgLzMHLM2BDkXPdBtDW-stqDdvHg/s1600/medium_5927487067.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg84XfoUOm13nK1N0R8wlROgHLHQvYH8-Q9HH3BT5pz3tRzxDMppETWMum-DA5EJH8WEeP66prZhBCb17nPB_gJPv2OEfPoPEZI1cOpfnaJDRzzx_NJgLzMHLM2BDkXPdBtDW-stqDdvHg/s320/medium_5927487067.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>Although these are not our boats this is similar to what my yard looked like today.</b> Only add to the picture 2 saw horses and an extra boat. Lucky for me my sister's fiance has most ALWAYS <a href="http://www.smart-start-kayaking.com/Kayak-Care.html">cleaned the boats</a> for us. Well, let me tell you (and Al) I had no idea! It wasn't as easy as I thought it would be. <i>So for the record: Thank you, Al. I appreciate your hard work and effort in the past. </i><br />
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<b>On a side note - I did offer the job of washing the kayaks to my daughter in exchange for a little cash.</b> She declined which makes me think she had more insight than I gave her credit for! <br />
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<b>I hadn't planned on writing about it so there are no pictures...just the one I'll create in your mind.</b> I began the ordeal by cleaning out the hatches, removing all life vests, first aid kits, bug spray & anything else that needn't get wet. Then I got my mild detergent (Palmolive of course - Oh Madge would be proud!) and poured some in a clean 5 gallon bucket which I was then filled with cold water from the hose. <br />
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<b>Pretty much washing the boats was like washing a car (although it has been awhile since I've done that!). </b> Cleaning them while they were sitting on the grass seemed counter-productive, and I quickly realized that in order to do a proper job the boats needed to be up suspended on top of something.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF-t6GXREmJKQYQVe4phs6pYJ7FPWbyhF-dt3qiMZubreaQLTdXITwLUyRG5dqGlBsI71LaErGFi2PKUbNtrP5cDaNG2RP8tvYKmjWZttJoyUElehPhMVq_QV_J4bGeIRotZjOHngcIJM/s1600/kayakoncart.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF-t6GXREmJKQYQVe4phs6pYJ7FPWbyhF-dt3qiMZubreaQLTdXITwLUyRG5dqGlBsI71LaErGFi2PKUbNtrP5cDaNG2RP8tvYKmjWZttJoyUElehPhMVq_QV_J4bGeIRotZjOHngcIJM/s320/kayakoncart.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kayaks resting on Garden Cart</td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>Looking around diligently, I spied the saw horses and figured they would be the perfect aid in this process. </b>I carried them to the middle of the yard figuring the lawn could use some watering too. (I later moved the saw horses to a new spot in the yard for each remaining boat!) Hoisting my 42 pound boat I was able to sit it atop of the saw horses with only a little bit of difficulty.<br />
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<b>Finally I felt all set to begin the scrubbing.</b> The grime and algae of the Charles River did come off with a little extra elbow grease. Next, I flipped the kayak over and sprayed the inside of the kayak. It was full of sand, bugs and other debris. This is where it got tricky as I had to duck under the boat and poke my head inside. Reaching deep inside I was able to wipe it down and clean it out.<br />
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<b>I was pretty proud of my work until I flipped the boat over and there was still a ton of water inside! </b> Opening the drain plug first, I then lifted the boat off the saw horse so water would exit....it took f o r e v e r..or so it seemed. I did have to lift and move the water around several times. Any water left over was soaked up with my favorite <a href="https://www.shamwow.com/">ShamWow</a>! I gave it one final hose down and then dried it off.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr_W9uzPp1bqJnQgZ9nhnzoYC2AkDQCt480UYGC7avliiKYmGgTc5fT2qeLQee3hueKbEnaZQff61rYiQW-uB-4ke6KVB7gDQcyW3_O0SV-H-zbdDpzDJYhRq_pfsfFs7HtLvB_MN1Dpw/s1600/3+clean+kayaks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr_W9uzPp1bqJnQgZ9nhnzoYC2AkDQCt480UYGC7avliiKYmGgTc5fT2qeLQee3hueKbEnaZQff61rYiQW-uB-4ke6KVB7gDQcyW3_O0SV-H-zbdDpzDJYhRq_pfsfFs7HtLvB_MN1Dpw/s320/3+clean+kayaks.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Three Clean Kayaks</td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>The next obstacle was figuring out where to store it since I don't have a garage.</b> As you may know you should <a href="http://www.kayaking.com/profiles/blogs/how-to-store-a-kayak-properly-rotomould-plastic-models">store kayaks on their side</a>, usually with foam on the underside. Again, I surveyed the yard and saw an old garden cart. Upending it would allow two of the boats to sit nicely. Grabbing the kayaks and placing the <a href="http://paddling.about.com/od/paddling101/f/Boat_Carry.htm">cockpit over my shoulder</a> which is not very comfortable to say the least and awkward at the most! When all was said and done - this operation took about 30 minutes....and that was just for one. I was looking at two more!<br />
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<b>Well, I won't bore you with the rest of the details because they are much the same.</b> Let's just say our kayaks are now clean and ready for the next outing! Oh, and if you're wondering, I think I absorbed more water than the boats! Good thing it was 85 and humid! <i>Looking forward and hoping Al will take over the duties next time! </i><br />
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top photo credit: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/johncarlinphotography/5927487067/">JohnCarlinPhotography</a> via <a href="http://photopin.com/">photo pin</a> <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/">cc</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5553339472123000647.post-27143962492770346212012-06-30T19:09:00.000-07:002012-06-30T19:09:16.610-07:00Whitehall State Park Paddle!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyoqgNduL0yE6MwMHvt6TmCLBu9eyeMOMFsW38QPB26jX8RxJeURrgse5-gZYoffOFyBDgqhJOcs4drDF98ZJS_9e99AenX0p9ZM11Xy8Yzd4SKX4wJyGawpX56BpyjkyCcihzLc8xdSs/s1600/photo-82.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyoqgNduL0yE6MwMHvt6TmCLBu9eyeMOMFsW38QPB26jX8RxJeURrgse5-gZYoffOFyBDgqhJOcs4drDF98ZJS_9e99AenX0p9ZM11Xy8Yzd4SKX4wJyGawpX56BpyjkyCcihzLc8xdSs/s320/photo-82.JPG" width="240" /></a><b>As the morning sun started to rise above the lake all I could hear was my dad reciting Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's "<a href="http://www.gitchegumeepark.com/song.html">Song of Hiawatha</a>": </b><br />
<span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><i>By the shores of Gitche Gumee,<br />
By the shining Big-Sea-Water,<br />
Stood the wigwam of Nokomis,<br />
Daughter of the Moon, Nokomis</i></span>...<br />
I'm not sure what it was about this lake that reminded me of that poem. <br />
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<b>It was a beautiful day and my sister and I decided to try a different kayaking venue. </b> I'll admit that whenever we are kayaking I can't help but think of the Native Americans who might have once traveled by a dugout canoe along the same waterway. Today, of course, was no different. <span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><i> </i></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><i>Dark behind it rose the forest,<br />
Rose the black and gloomy pine-trees,<br />
Rose the firs with cones upon them;<br />
Bright before it beat the water,<br />
Beat the clear and sunny water,<br />
Beat the shining Big-Sea-Water.</i></span></div><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWleADRYiESGWMKrw2WxGqtj65tt_9GqTl0aIhYz0vpqj2CenU3C8LlYl-l3SDhyphenhyphenvpd_SH8R3XSE7UmBuHNjkxUFT3gkU_V9GThxF-BBypwHU4JKTrM09emxvdnAEjVnF65JF0-aO8Pco/s1600/Whitehall+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWleADRYiESGWMKrw2WxGqtj65tt_9GqTl0aIhYz0vpqj2CenU3C8LlYl-l3SDhyphenhyphenvpd_SH8R3XSE7UmBuHNjkxUFT3gkU_V9GThxF-BBypwHU4JKTrM09emxvdnAEjVnF65JF0-aO8Pco/s320/Whitehall+1.jpg" width="320" /></a><b>We started around 7:30 a.m. and when we arrived at the <a href="http://www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/northeast/whit.htm">Whitehall State Park </a>entrance, we could see that we already had lots of company as the parking lot was somewhat filled.</b> To our surprise and delight, we were soon to find out what a gem we had stumbled upon. The parking lot was deceiving as the Whitehall Reservoir was large enough to allow for all kinds of boaters. <br />
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<b>Following the perimeter provided us with the opportunity to take in the expanse of the lake.</b> This was a totally different experience for us as our usual kayaking route is the Charles River. All along the edge of the lake were trees of all shapes and sizes.<br />
<i><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">There the wrinkled old Nokomis<br />
Nursed the little Hiawatha,<br />
Rocked him in his linden cradle,<br />
Bedded soft in moss and rushes.<br />
Safely bound with reindeer sinews;<br />
Stilled his fretful wail by saying,<br />
"Hush! the Naked Bear will hear thee!"</span><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"> </span></i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkbWcJHrPEX4OXxfEXpfVoEVYt4ExcdkeaJifkisOGHu1F2b82MtLaofYIee8_UketjbngpzMTKfwfDdmG_vmOr495mGRVzMRoVfJQU52qqU9etTx4iRp1Mzk7RQ-gmIP09IDfOqi1wuE/s1600/Whitehall+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkbWcJHrPEX4OXxfEXpfVoEVYt4ExcdkeaJifkisOGHu1F2b82MtLaofYIee8_UketjbngpzMTKfwfDdmG_vmOr495mGRVzMRoVfJQU52qqU9etTx4iRp1Mzk7RQ-gmIP09IDfOqi1wuE/s320/Whitehall+.jpg" width="240" /></a><b>The morning was beautiful and started rather smoothly as we were hugging the shoreline. </b> The coves were loaded with water lilies in full bloom. Soon there were so many lilies we decided to venture towards the open water.<br />
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<b>As we got towards the more open parts of the lake the paddle proved to be a little more challenging.</b> The water was calm in some areas while in others it was rather wavy. As we headed back from the far end of the reservoir the wind decided to play a little tug of war with our boats. Nothing serious, but it made us work just a little bit harder. <br />
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<b>Reaching the boat launch, we easily exited the kayaks</b> (something that proves to be rather tricky along the banks of the Charles River.) The clean water and sure footing underneath gave us a new appreciation for this kind of outing. <br />
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<b>As we were stowing the kayaks away in the car a pleasant gentleman with his two pups stopped to talk to us. </b> He told us about a <b><a href="http://www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/trails/WhitehallMap.gif">trail</a> </b>that goes all the way around the lake (about 6 miles or so!). He mentioned how the path was clearly marked, and how much he and his dogs just love being out in the area. He wished us a good day, and we were on our way home with the resolve that we would try other new places to kayak and for sure return to this jewel in Hopkinton, Mass. <br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><i style="color: black;">Lulled him into slumber, singing,<br />
"Ewa-yea! my little owlet!<br />
Who is this, that lights the wigwam?<br />
With his great eyes lights the wigwam?<br />
Ewa-yea! my little owlet!" </i></span><br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" height="350" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Whitehall+State+Park,+Route+135,+Hopkinton,+MA&aq=0&oq=whit&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=21.259517,38.671875&t=h&ie=UTF8&hq=Whitehall+State+Park,+Route+135,+Hopkinton,+MA&ll=42.227476,-71.575363&spn=0.016525,0.032015&output=embed" width="425"></iframe><br />
<small><a href="https://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=embed&hl=en&geocode=&q=Whitehall+State+Park,+Route+135,+Hopkinton,+MA&aq=0&oq=whit&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=21.259517,38.671875&t=h&ie=UTF8&hq=Whitehall+State+Park,+Route+135,+Hopkinton,+MA&ll=42.227476,-71.575363&spn=0.016525,0.032015" style="color: blue; text-align: left;">View Larger Map</a></small><br />
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<small><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>RESOURCES: </b></i></span></small><br />
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<small><span style="font-size: small;"><b><a href="http://www.bio.brandeis.edu/fieldbio/Aquatic_Plants_Fishman_Kelly_Hankin/Pages/Homepage.html">Freshwater Aquatic Plants in Massachusetts</a> - Use this guide to find many water plants seen in this area. </b></span></small><br />
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<small><span style="font-size: small;"><b><a href="http://www.mass.gov/dcr/recreate/boat-non.htm">Massachusetts State Parks:</a> </b>A site by the Dept. of Conservation and Recreation showing areas for Non-Motorized boating</span></small><br />
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</b><br />
<small><span style="font-size: small;"><b><a href="http://www.poetryfoundation.org/bio/henry-wadsworth-longfellow">Henry Wadsworth Longfellow Biography</a></b><i><b> </b></i></span></small>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5553339472123000647.post-61291780290873030992012-04-21T19:38:00.000-07:002012-04-21T19:38:29.360-07:00Turtle Time!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd1lFe834Y9oj6E5ZAjdqgVhZuTkqwR07dxERxYqRo2iJhb7b1FwP6AQDpDNVKxA3RiDv3InHpyYElkAUROWeWHcY9wKyQtEBKjbT0WNhTPyCvHSUtItxB5_NnrFPgjscTTj05_mSl-2k/s1600/Turtle+time.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd1lFe834Y9oj6E5ZAjdqgVhZuTkqwR07dxERxYqRo2iJhb7b1FwP6AQDpDNVKxA3RiDv3InHpyYElkAUROWeWHcY9wKyQtEBKjbT0WNhTPyCvHSUtItxB5_NnrFPgjscTTj05_mSl-2k/s320/Turtle+time.jpg" width="320" /></a><b>Today on the river was Turtle Time! Well, at least that's what I called it.</b> Soaking up the warmth from the sun's rays, turtles lined the left and right banks of the Charles River. They were perched on top of logs and settled upon rocks. They were convened in large groups (like 10) or small groups of two or three. There were adult turtles and baby turtles. Turtles not on the banks, logs or rocks were swimming in their playground showing off their freestyle prowess. <br />
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We slowly paddled past trying not to disturb their solitude, however it was often to no avail as we would hear...plop! plop! plop! Unwanted visitors sent the turtles scurrying back into the water's safety zone. <br />
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<b>Eastern Painted Turtle Facts:</b><br />
<ul><li>known for it's yellow and red markings on its head, neck and limbs</li>
<li>considered cold-blooded (that's why they like to bask in the sun)</li>
<li>omnivorous feeder (eating plants and animals such as earthworms, insects, tadpoles & more)</li>
<li>life span 5-10 years in the wild</li>
<li>the sex of the turtle determined by the temperature in the nest (cooler temps </li>
</ul> <b> Interesting Vocabulary:</b><br />
<ul><li>Carapace: hard top shell of a turtle</li>
<li>Scute: the small plates that make up the shell </li>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeSXBqLXm-R78znqjZvLtMRr1vCEkYqj3xw2eyRzfDa3z_D1Ww_Zx2SWCKGQIZY5UNEuVU0-kFnirJ4BVKbstYaCoudgnzct88OVVpaX_wrqUVw29yeOcEHOQOeYWJ_o0zBq-3wBD52BI/s1600/turtle+coloring.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeSXBqLXm-R78znqjZvLtMRr1vCEkYqj3xw2eyRzfDa3z_D1Ww_Zx2SWCKGQIZY5UNEuVU0-kFnirJ4BVKbstYaCoudgnzct88OVVpaX_wrqUVw29yeOcEHOQOeYWJ_o0zBq-3wBD52BI/s320/turtle+coloring.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Colored using www.thecolor.com </td></tr>
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The beautiful weather paired with the sitings of so many wonderful creatures made our kayaking day extra special. One might think you would tire seeing so many turtles, but it was quite the contrary. To see them all just 'being' brought smiles to our faces and made me want to write the following: <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"> <style>
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</style> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <b>Painted Turtle on the Riverbed</b></div><div> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">The painted turtle with yellow and red</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">Did bask upon the river bed.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">Soaking up all the sun’s warming rays</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">What better way to spend their days?</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">Spread evenly upon a downed tree</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">Lined up near one another, one, two, three!</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">Their peacefulness broken as we paddle by</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">Jumping into the river as if in reply.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">Soon they’re back upon the logs, warm and dry</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">Poking their heads up at the deep blue sky.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">Outstretched are their tiny legs and claws<span>. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">Their simple beauty gives one pause.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">The sun winds down and day comes to a close</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">The turtles return home as the evening shows</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">Hoping to reclaim their spots once again</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">To soak up God’s goodness whenever they can.</div><br />
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<i><b>RESOURCES:</b></i><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.fcps.edu/islandcreekes/ecology/eastern_painted_turtle.htm">Eastern Painted Turtle </a></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.buzzle.com/articles/painted-turtle-life-span.html">Painted Turtle Life Span</a></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.animalspot.net/painted-turtle.html">Painted Turtle Facts</a></b>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5553339472123000647.post-90030621785030259812012-01-07T17:15:00.000-08:002012-01-07T17:23:09.380-08:00Watercraft in Winter!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz6bCxIYpFjC-tQ25qqHqrQTzAibJP6BDDiggyGeNBnOTiACv-ahTKawYGzLTHJCJZHLyEjVA_PZdM4qnjhnYwcUuT4y3YLfYyF5MoP26m2i6LanJ6lMB1OLCItKQNAUv_0-u758USq0M/s1600/photo-42.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz6bCxIYpFjC-tQ25qqHqrQTzAibJP6BDDiggyGeNBnOTiACv-ahTKawYGzLTHJCJZHLyEjVA_PZdM4qnjhnYwcUuT4y3YLfYyF5MoP26m2i6LanJ6lMB1OLCItKQNAUv_0-u758USq0M/s320/photo-42.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stopping for a little laughter!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>It was just about a year ago today that a winter storm advisory was in effect for our area. </b> At that time our kayaks were secured and stored away without a thought of being used as snow amounts made it the 3rd snowiest January on record.<br />
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<b>Fast forward to today where the temperatures reached over 60 degrees. </b> Perfect for a day with the sisters to be on the Charles River - our favorite kayaking spot! After checking out one or two landings we decided to shove off at Peter's Point because of its easy on/off access.<br />
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<b>The strong current provided a solid workout. </b> The wind whispering through the trees blew in our faces as we made our way upstream. Gnarled trees looked as though they were waving to us from the sidelines and on the edge of the river shiny glints of ice sat smiling as if to say "yes, it IS January after all!" <br />
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<b>It was a quiet day on the river with the exception of the <a href="http://birding.about.com/od/birdprofiles/ig/Pictures-of-Mallards/Raft-of-Mallards.htm"> 'raft of mallards'</a> in the water ahead.</b> They acted like guides as they seemed to be leading the way. Of course we did paddle by the <b><a href="http://www.millismodelaircraftclub.com/site.html">Bill Martin Field</a></b> where we heard and spied some radio controlled air craft flying high over head. <br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh0rWd72qwDQPe6Kak-OfKHWBH32Q32YjqvXdFgu64spL_bL3QaN7uRGrhUNobawx6fQImb4lxdfZv2T63gd9iWCWipA5aCjMhNzv09o6z6EU1s3BHof3gfyD2SULR1qdbRVIuuDqBflI/s1600/photo-41.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh0rWd72qwDQPe6Kak-OfKHWBH32Q32YjqvXdFgu64spL_bL3QaN7uRGrhUNobawx6fQImb4lxdfZv2T63gd9iWCWipA5aCjMhNzv09o6z6EU1s3BHof3gfyD2SULR1qdbRVIuuDqBflI/s320/photo-41.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quitting time!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>Along the shoreline we could see many hikers and bikers also taking advantage of the weather as they made their way through the<a href="http://www.thetrustees.org/places-to-visit/greater-boston/rocky-narrows.html"> Rocky Narrows Reservation</a> area. </b> We did exchange some 'hellos' and 'how you doings' with a few young hikers who were atop <b><a href="http://www.trails.com/tcatalog_trail.aspx?trailid=XAC021-025">King Philip's Overlook</a>.</b><br />
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<b>The day that started out warm now had a nip in the air. </b> (Fortunately I had a sham-wow with me that I placed across my legs like a blanket for warmth.) The sun was quickly sinking behind the trees so it was time to head back and call it a day.<br />
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<b>This was one of those BONUS days...</b>Who would have imagined that we would be kayaking in New England in January. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5553339472123000647.post-66812873793868998472011-08-23T20:55:00.000-07:002011-08-26T18:46:48.179-07:00Sunset Cruise Trouble<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDl-Rl6-X3jCH2UYsprmLyvfO0stRJVIrAi-yduwO-hTwnOtZYGIrqBw6RhcfHC6jVQGUhdpf3uBC5LKSs0XkFReKmQX8hRIfZAC_yQ5yCuFp18InmcysNQXR03F_ax95T2ijtW9r-0MI/s1600/photo-11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDl-Rl6-X3jCH2UYsprmLyvfO0stRJVIrAi-yduwO-hTwnOtZYGIrqBw6RhcfHC6jVQGUhdpf3uBC5LKSs0XkFReKmQX8hRIfZAC_yQ5yCuFp18InmcysNQXR03F_ax95T2ijtW9r-0MI/s400/photo-11.JPG" width="400" /></a><b>The last days of summer are passing quickly</b> and so is the opportunity to just hop in the kayak during the daytime. Today was just so lovely, but we weren't able to break away midday to play on the river.<br />
<br />
<b>My brother, who recently received a kayak for his birthday from his wife, called me at 6:00 p.m</b>. and said he could go out for a paddle. A sunset paddle would be a first for both of us! Yes!<br />
<br />
<b>By the time we met up and put our boats in at the West St. area it was around 7:00 p.m.</b> There was a gentleman fishing who asked us if we had our life vests (which we did have but tucked inside our kayak). It seemed odd that he would mention it, but we went on our merry way without too much thought.<br />
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<b>The view was spectacular. </b>There were some stratus clouds hovering around the sun which seemed to magnify the beauty. We came upon a great blue heron who was not really happy we were in his territory. He was sure to let us know with his loud and menacing squawk. Many fish were jumping at the water bugs that were scurrying atop the water.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEQdoB4BO9nItGJ3Wi1_jtRhtVSEymu5W9ZKQGTJMGQ1mf2sni1Q8qtaDZOyh6IfwuH6wFe-ulr3CRkVq1QIs1unEisC6F_wCstSZynefuckvtaIH53QnKsBCFo7Ar5OxtwGozd7pUazc/s1600/photo-9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEQdoB4BO9nItGJ3Wi1_jtRhtVSEymu5W9ZKQGTJMGQ1mf2sni1Q8qtaDZOyh6IfwuH6wFe-ulr3CRkVq1QIs1unEisC6F_wCstSZynefuckvtaIH53QnKsBCFo7Ar5OxtwGozd7pUazc/s400/photo-9.JPG" width="300" /></a><b>We came upon a couple of fishermen in a motor boat who were enjoying the peacefulness too. </b> At one point we heard a paddler coming up behind us who was heading downstream with great speed. It seemed others were enjoying their sunset cruises as well.<br />
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<b>Well, we got caught up in the beauty of the marshy area of the Charles River. </b> The evening got away from us when we realized it was starting to get dark. (It seemed like we had paddled for only 15 minutes when it was actually around 45 minutes.)<br />
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<b>It was getting dark and I left my flashlight in the car. </b> (I'm the experienced kayaker and I should have known better!) We assured ourselves that there would still be some light till 8:45ish. How wrong we were! It seemed like a dimmer switch had been instantly lowered and the sun along with it!<br />
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<b>Our restful paddling turned into a more steady, more urgent, more powerful paddle. </b> All of a sudden our senses were more in tune to our surroundings as we could no longer depend on our sight. Woosh, woosh, woosh.....coming from behind we could hear a fellow paddler moving rapidly - no doubt trying to return to the same area as us. As it turns out, it was the kayaker who had been headed downstream.<br />
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<b>Affixed to the top of his boat was a huge spot light (not yet turned on).</b> "Do you have a light? No? Is this your first time out here???" We must have seemed like country bumpkins to him. He offered to show us the way with his light. "We're fine, we're fine - we are almost back," I said (almost to reassure myself). "Okay-You should be okay but watch the rocks near the end," he shouted as he rounded the bend. The rocks-hadn't given them a thought. Sure would be scary to bump into one of those in the dark!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeNl0MT7LSQBpbvs46vFt001NRXZIA2eVXZA_L_c31JbKWQhzTeol7HOolaKv5pA4115C1ppOMmcnOAFdbKar1mn319kCrSbgieDMGk8ZyNiRl9O1kSrnR68fi35_sIpPIOIpNj_DAIWU/s1600/photo-10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeNl0MT7LSQBpbvs46vFt001NRXZIA2eVXZA_L_c31JbKWQhzTeol7HOolaKv5pA4115C1ppOMmcnOAFdbKar1mn319kCrSbgieDMGk8ZyNiRl9O1kSrnR68fi35_sIpPIOIpNj_DAIWU/s400/photo-10.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<b>After that, the two of us got rather quiet and focused on our paddling.</b> We were only about 15 minutes away from our destination. Secretly, I was admonishing myself because I truly knew better than to be out that late on the river without proper equipment. I'll admit I was a bit nervous (Dad, it reminded me of our hike in the White Mountains).<br />
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<b>Around 8:30 we pulled into the landing. "Are you alright?</b> Do you want me to shine my headlights on you?" we heard the now familiar voice in the parking lot say. It was our friend. We politely declined his offer (mostly because we felt silly about the whole thing). With a little effort, we exited our boats and loaded them onto the car.<br />
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<b>Next time we will carry flashlights, life vests strapped to the top of the canoe (not stowed away), a whistle and a charged phone. </b> Being on the river in the dark is not something I would like to repeat as there are too many potential pitfalls. Planning ahead and making sure we have the right equipment will ensure a safe, fun trip. <br />
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<b>Our adventure will be remembered for it's beauty and lesson learned!</b><br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" height="350" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&ie=UTF8&ll=42.188815,-71.333392&spn=0,0&t=h&vpsrc=6&msid=201663114280915983930.0004ab3f0bab4ef71083a&output=embed" width="425"></iframe><br />
<small>View <a href="http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&ie=UTF8&ll=42.188815,-71.333392&spn=0,0&t=h&vpsrc=6&msid=201663114280915983930.0004ab3f0bab4ef71083a&source=embed" style="color: blue; text-align: left;">West Street, Medfield, MA</a> in a larger map</small><br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5553339472123000647.post-68386059336311475922011-08-03T07:03:00.000-07:002011-08-03T07:15:53.668-07:00River Rescue<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuFrB46AvKwJ6r1nBx18NiNxG01ZM7CUtbe3t_0tdXfPP1SvI99DWzK0asqLd6HdO4lqVkHf6nsgfArySKWz_-Qm4Y0DwjSMPX3sl3GqngPrtFjoZxghSABwmEXmzzJhHS_ieoDw3dZms/s1600/photo-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuFrB46AvKwJ6r1nBx18NiNxG01ZM7CUtbe3t_0tdXfPP1SvI99DWzK0asqLd6HdO4lqVkHf6nsgfArySKWz_-Qm4Y0DwjSMPX3sl3GqngPrtFjoZxghSABwmEXmzzJhHS_ieoDw3dZms/s320/photo-2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><b>Well, it wasn't quite the '</b><b>river rescue' you might picture in your mind...</b>it was more of a 'rescue to allow us to GET on the river'. Here's what happened.<br />
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<b>It was a sweltering Sunday (July 31st) and three of us decided to head out to one of our favorite areas on the Charles River, called Peter's Point (see map below).</b> We arrived with our boats in the back of our trusty red truck. As we were getting ready to take the boats out of the truck, one of us, I'll not name her (okay it was me), closed the truck door with keys, credit cards, wallets and gloves on the front seat. Although we trust our fellow kayakers, we were uncomfortable at the thought of leaving for a 2 hour paddle with that in plain sight. A call was made to bring the spare key so we could collect our things and begin.<br />
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<b>Not to worry, Dave M. was on his way (after he finished his grocery shopping!). </b> Luckily, we had packed some cold beverages in the back of the truck. We unloaded the boats - set them up at the edge of the river, then sat in the shade with a cool drink.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmMHyStMrqYi7o2pRTSHLQ2RL0AWWZ06591CGzuiZ-Bf2C8cgMTyuvc075E-UIjFxZZTRszLYN2iLxsNbPqr8bSUpvqJuiYpq69KVNqf1SpX2I7Z_fPFUDsCoHQWs8U6sEbTPkGAEr2u8/s1600/photo-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmMHyStMrqYi7o2pRTSHLQ2RL0AWWZ06591CGzuiZ-Bf2C8cgMTyuvc075E-UIjFxZZTRszLYN2iLxsNbPqr8bSUpvqJuiYpq69KVNqf1SpX2I7Z_fPFUDsCoHQWs8U6sEbTPkGAEr2u8/s320/photo-3.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><b>What happened next, made the inconvenience of locking ourselves out pass quickly.</b> Pulling up along the river bank was an orange-topped, 17 foot long, sleek-looking kayak. It approached the shore with ease and it's owner hopped out. What a different kayak from ours! The owner, a young man from the Netherlands, was more than happy to give us a tour of his kayak. The water-tight hatches can fit a week's worth of camping gear. The rudder, which folded up for transporting, is operated by foot-peddles inside the cockpit. He surprised us all by asking us if we wanted to try it out. Dee, the outgoing, kayaker of the bunch, jumped right in a started paddling around the area. What a treat!<br />
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<b>Not too much later, David came to the 'rescue'.</b> We opened the doors, got our gear and off we went for a lovely paddle. Never a dull moment on the Charles! <br />
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<b>Next time you're looking for a great place to paddle, try Peter's Point out of Dover, MA</b><br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" height="350" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&msid=201663114280915983930.0004a99a135e38c199929&ie=UTF8&ll=42.232545,-71.32983&spn=0,0&t=h&output=embed" width="425"></iframe><br />
<small>View <a href="http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&msid=201663114280915983930.0004a99a135e38c199929&ie=UTF8&ll=42.232545,-71.32983&spn=0,0&t=h&source=embed" style="color: blue; text-align: left;">Peter's Point, Dover, MA</a> in a larger map</small>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5553339472123000647.post-81818246525263996842011-07-14T18:37:00.000-07:002011-07-15T06:09:24.770-07:00Perfect Day to Paddle!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA83OHGujyrsqkk7wCHYikW9hRasiwx5NaSzcZunyNVyELzxQk4kM-9HztRo2GLu34guyPk8cAEQAoZLUMfk_hFLi2_YlJcNYsuCzaYZTIsxk-jqSMLaAr-eukeQ0iaPN364ozcvtFpOE/s1600/GreatMarshArea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA83OHGujyrsqkk7wCHYikW9hRasiwx5NaSzcZunyNVyELzxQk4kM-9HztRo2GLu34guyPk8cAEQAoZLUMfk_hFLi2_YlJcNYsuCzaYZTIsxk-jqSMLaAr-eukeQ0iaPN364ozcvtFpOE/s320/GreatMarshArea.jpg" width="251" /></a>For days the air conditioning has been running non-stop because it has been so hot outside. Then last night a quick storm passed by bringing with it a change in temperature.<br />
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The result today: A perfect day to paddle along one of the sweetest spots on the Charles River. The air was crisp but warm, and the sky was a deep blue with billowy, white clouds which reflected beautifully upon the water. <br />
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We arrived mid-morning at our destination. After transporting the kayaks down a somewhat short, but narrow passage, Lisa, Carol Ann and I quickly pushed off the shore heading upstream at the Route 27 bridge for an afternoon of respite away from work and daily chores.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxeZTDfxrxOgQAKXWV3paytr1Q6qlLKs_671Fqd3yX3D9Zccz2covMvGI-p5ZAgcprG2fgpWSJFi-b0OnG3rZgkfpqFrs0CsqBhkwhUWPa0J504WqC6HIlkM7TYYrEczMmhMCd9BLN7hM/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-07-14+at+9.04.17+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxeZTDfxrxOgQAKXWV3paytr1Q6qlLKs_671Fqd3yX3D9Zccz2covMvGI-p5ZAgcprG2fgpWSJFi-b0OnG3rZgkfpqFrs0CsqBhkwhUWPa0J504WqC6HIlkM7TYYrEczMmhMCd9BLN7hM/s320/Screen+shot+2011-07-14+at+9.04.17+PM.png" width="283" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What kind of plant is this?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Although it was only Thursday, we were soon to realize that we were not the sole visitors of the Charles this day. We no sooner rounded the first bend, and we passed by 3 other women kayakers (playing hooky from work!). Surprisingly, we passed by a total of 11 kayakers and a gentleman fishing from atop an old railroad bridge. Even still, we traveled the waterway with the feeling that we were the only people on the river! It was just lovely!<br />
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There were many turtles on logs and rocks taking the opportunity to catch a little sun. We saw a couple of great blue herons, who seemed bothered that we invaded their space. (They flew away just a short distance upstream, only to have to fly away again when we passed by.) Carol Ann seemed to think that one Blue Heron was playing a game with us!<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2uE9z3URcPoKQoR_jX576zNIA0SQ1rrEFJdNf7eUxftZbdO8rPduW1cmRoBfb0gTtYUf8THMdYFuHQx5Eyrxizu07kqFT3pVVeDNq1kWD8Hd8MBDFJ_AeEzjacs4hrWNZqlWJHtNi6iY/s1600/photo-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2uE9z3URcPoKQoR_jX576zNIA0SQ1rrEFJdNf7eUxftZbdO8rPduW1cmRoBfb0gTtYUf8THMdYFuHQx5Eyrxizu07kqFT3pVVeDNq1kWD8Hd8MBDFJ_AeEzjacs4hrWNZqlWJHtNi6iY/s320/photo-3.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Which way to the Charles Cafe?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>One of the recurring discussions along the paddle was trying to identify a certain plant. I of course insisted it was purple loosestrife while Carol Ann insisted it was NOT...after further researching, I am publicly saying <i>I was wrong and Carol Ann was correct - that plant is NOT the loosestrife!</i> Which makes me wonder what this plant is....if you know, please leave let me know in the comment section!<br />
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Other highlights of our trip included coming upon a couple of men fishing in kayaks. We witnessed one of them catch a 16 inch bass - nice! Another highlight was when we pulled up on the shore at the <a href="http://www.visitingnewengland.com/charles-cafe-millis-ma.html">Charles Cafe</a>, in Millis for lunch. We stayed there just long enough to eat some delicious sandwiches and have a glass of ice tea on the outdoor deck which overlooks the river and chat about our day. We then returned downstream to finish off the 5 mile round-trip paddle. <br />
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The Charles River continues to provide a peaceful interlude and mini-vacation from our daily activities. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1hj5p0y8dLWzrdFZ3b6_3Z4pTHHHq01p-IjWM8MFVgjcdoff71yrhOWU2WQ76_gTtNlaf1tgK9AcSi0WX0AmXB6ljnaSUIJSNq3ibVJp5zA2gHgjiLIqC2PithyOM1qnBCpAla2CSC7E/s1600/photo-5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1hj5p0y8dLWzrdFZ3b6_3Z4pTHHHq01p-IjWM8MFVgjcdoff71yrhOWU2WQ76_gTtNlaf1tgK9AcSi0WX0AmXB6ljnaSUIJSNq3ibVJp5zA2gHgjiLIqC2PithyOM1qnBCpAla2CSC7E/s320/photo-5.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5553339472123000647.post-55030807246132662382011-05-22T06:25:00.000-07:002011-05-22T06:30:44.455-07:00Butterflies, Beavers 'n Bats on the Charles River<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicRV7PyJeHXwInHz-oOmaslQgF8aEK9tuStpajKBsN6AEz7VvqluHUeO96QawoBV6GnkwfYFUDYbIHEnkI5gXiQqP2mqV2qNRWBca29DLKlC9LzUrZmpxSKbUan7nFLaTAWMPeFdWh95o/s1600/photo-17.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicRV7PyJeHXwInHz-oOmaslQgF8aEK9tuStpajKBsN6AEz7VvqluHUeO96QawoBV6GnkwfYFUDYbIHEnkI5gXiQqP2mqV2qNRWBca29DLKlC9LzUrZmpxSKbUan7nFLaTAWMPeFdWh95o/s320/photo-17.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">After six days of grayness and rain we were surprised by the most beautiful day ever. The sun was shining brightly and the temperature was mild - perfect for a kayak adventure.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">We decided to stay fairly close to home and push off from Forest Street. The plan: to head downstream to the <a href="http://www.thetrustees.org/places-to-visit/greater-boston/shattuck-reservation.html"><b>Shattuck Reservation,</b></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">then head upstream toward the Rt. 115 Bridge and some fast water!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As we neared the water's edge we were greeted by an <b><a href="http://www.fcps.edu/islandcreekes/ecology/eastern_tiger_swallowtail.htm">Eastern Tiger Swallowtail Butterfly.</a> </b> She flitted around us gaily as if she was singing "Quick, get on the river! Quick!"</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihxkauxcqnchgKViC4DiA99U2V7FpcDTcxJn9UQwl0jTxoar8c8ALSKhstyBr37wVLYC_wI7plHbb2x44U_pZBCUiIHaBneTFFnTwNMCuI3IU7J9440D6eBf-Mt3MnIt-Rot_oQuxTON8/s1600/photo-14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihxkauxcqnchgKViC4DiA99U2V7FpcDTcxJn9UQwl0jTxoar8c8ALSKhstyBr37wVLYC_wI7plHbb2x44U_pZBCUiIHaBneTFFnTwNMCuI3IU7J9440D6eBf-Mt3MnIt-Rot_oQuxTON8/s320/photo-14.JPG" width="240" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Downstream:</b> This part of the Charles River is rather shady and not too wide. There were some downed trees that required a little easy maneuvering. It was near one of these trees that we spotted the first of two <b><a href="http://www.wonderclub.com/Wildlife/mammals/beaver.html">beavers </a></b>who was swimming quietly along the edge of the river. He scooched away quickly. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><b><span style="font-size: large;">Upstream:</span></b><span style="font-size: large;"> As we paddled along the river, we were parallel to the <a href="http://www.thetrustees.org/places-to-visit/greater-boston/cedariver.html">Cedariver </a> trail which is in Millis (which I had hiked a few weeks ago). It was rather quiet except for the birds singing happily on this beautiful day. We saw redwing black-birds, grackels and a majestic blue heron. Another beaver graced us with his presence but swiftly made his way into the thicket. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ3LMR3KMYY30Bgs1rVkONaC-hPBkCjY0MDRIqB7cpDCWFLRz9N-PscFL06mOhPsrwACahJbUroxmzzklknbS-jFRZ3iXzD7a5tlDUlMnmjADIyGCiXH-RGfMQ754x1oriK1k-XVfpDbY/s1600/photo-20.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ3LMR3KMYY30Bgs1rVkONaC-hPBkCjY0MDRIqB7cpDCWFLRz9N-PscFL06mOhPsrwACahJbUroxmzzklknbS-jFRZ3iXzD7a5tlDUlMnmjADIyGCiXH-RGfMQ754x1oriK1k-XVfpDbY/s320/photo-20.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">We went under the Forest Street Bridge and thought for sure we would hit our heads on the top as it sloped downward. Luckily, we were able to make it by ducking just a bit. We caught a glimpse of someone's handiwork - there on the inside of the bridge wall was scrawled the image of a shark! </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSlzHjyZaqOevPS_PxUW0cHV1cv6wAuJKTfnemvfTimr3IIkbpiKjqNIZwOd7AN_p9dNBmDVJ6nUbSeK8tR_hurl2nX2mRPfuMRHAuLId1KSAbolsGjZSHMTu2wOt-sqBraN6Vu_va9QA/s1600/photo-12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSlzHjyZaqOevPS_PxUW0cHV1cv6wAuJKTfnemvfTimr3IIkbpiKjqNIZwOd7AN_p9dNBmDVJ6nUbSeK8tR_hurl2nX2mRPfuMRHAuLId1KSAbolsGjZSHMTu2wOt-sqBraN6Vu_va9QA/s320/photo-12.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">At the 115 bridge the fast water looked very enticing. The push was on to paddle up through 25 yards of rushing water to the bridge. We paddled and paddled - it was as if we were standing still in the water. After exhausting ourselves we gave in and let the water take us back down stream. A fun ride for sure. (However, it was a good reminder that when in fast water one needs to be careful.)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">On the return trip we spotted a bat...very unusual indeed (check out the heading: <a href="http://www.batmanagement.com/Batcentral/batboxes/consider.html">Health Information</a> ). We did paddle a little faster after seeing that little creature. Soon we were landing back at Forest Street. The day was a beauty, and we decided it was a PERFECT day to be on the river.</span><br />
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</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5553339472123000647.post-9820071330593033682011-04-18T19:07:00.000-07:002011-04-18T19:45:16.781-07:00Marathon Monday - South Natick Dam<b>Normally we would be standing on Route 16 cheering on the Boston Marathoners, but today the river was calling us.</b><br />
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<b>Arriving at the South Natick Dam area of the Charles River, we quickly unloaded our boats into a pine grove then set out for a paddle on the river. </b> The day was bright, sunny but a bit chilly at around 51 degrees. The strong southwest wind made the temperature feel even cooler.<br />
<div style="text-align: right;"> <b> </b></div><b> Paddling upstream was rather difficult as the current was fairly strong.</b> Our newest kayaker looked as though she were standing still while paddling under the footbridge. It was like being on a water treadmill!<br />
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<b>Wildlife: </b> Almost instantly we spied a pair of <a href="http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Mute_Swan/id"><b>mute swans</b></a> lingering near the shore. As these are aggressive birds we made sure to give them a wide berth.<br />
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Nearby a female Canada goose was sitting on her nest while her male counterpart was distracting anyone/thing that came close.<br />
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Basking on logs and in the matted swamp area were many turtles. Paddling to get a closer look only made them plop into the river.<br />
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Overhead we heard the unmistakable call of a <b><a href="http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Red-tailed_Hawk/id">red-tail hawk</a>.</b> Swooping easily through the trees he made his way in search of lunch.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIu9sFpP7NJ2103cOA-CKlGCUHK8xO6eT8ArGA_myQq3eDQJFppOxsyHT2DV9LFlNA4ncWJ_havm5AoPg3brPgzxNDbSp1MinwTGRVu5WgmrndwpGyyzJilUxh6qqgUfMAXXy9S_x1OnU/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-04-18+at+6.16.30+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIu9sFpP7NJ2103cOA-CKlGCUHK8xO6eT8ArGA_myQq3eDQJFppOxsyHT2DV9LFlNA4ncWJ_havm5AoPg3brPgzxNDbSp1MinwTGRVu5WgmrndwpGyyzJilUxh6qqgUfMAXXy9S_x1OnU/s320/Screen+shot+2011-04-18+at+6.16.30+PM.png" width="272" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Lady of the River</td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>Landmark:</b> As always one of the highlights was viewing 'the praying woman statue' otherwise known as, "<b><a href="http://www.wickedlocal.com/natick/local_news/x2110141391#axzz1JvKmpB57">Our Lady</a></b>".<br />
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<b>There are many stories surrounding this mysterious statue</b>, but she was erected on a boulder on the side of the river before the Depression by a writer named Daniel Sargent. <br />
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<b>Our trek back to the landing area was rather quick as the swift current carried us without much effort </b>(as if in repayment of our hard work and effort going upstream.) We spent 2 hours paddling upstream and it took only about 40 minutes to get back to the South Natick Dam.<br />
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<b>We just love</b> how each adventure on the <b><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_River">Charles River</a></b> is different from the previous one! You know it was a good day on the river when you can feel your muscles ache and you're ready for a good night's sleep!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5553339472123000647.post-64721819215068675732011-04-10T08:23:00.000-07:002011-04-18T19:11:41.686-07:00Maiden Voyage 4-9-11<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXckn7VxzCBy529kX5YCUP3TE59bjpxm0HPAaWsnfjhm7x6H6Gx_-co3bV0Enoyx4FET3n5kyTA9XShrzpMR_v548WQSY4VzICRuBBndxZdYGf5iLzb0jzkNBI7CPRKOIdd38ISbPodvk/s1600/photo-15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXckn7VxzCBy529kX5YCUP3TE59bjpxm0HPAaWsnfjhm7x6H6Gx_-co3bV0Enoyx4FET3n5kyTA9XShrzpMR_v548WQSY4VzICRuBBndxZdYGf5iLzb0jzkNBI7CPRKOIdd38ISbPodvk/s320/photo-15.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><b>Splish! Splash! Splish! Kayaks teetered as we carefully placed our left foot, then right, into the boat. </b>With just a little effort we pushed ourselves into the waiting river! Our paddles plopped in too and we were off for our 'maiden voyage' along the <b><a href="http://www.onthecharles.com/index.html">Charles River</a></b> on this beautiful spring day! The temperature at 62 degrees was perfect for our first outing of the season! Heading upstream the wind was blowing briskly in our faces at a strong 7 miles per hour.<br />
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<b>The river looked very different from our last paddle in the fall.</b> The trees that once held brightly colored leaves were mostly bare. Upon closer inspection some of them were beginning to bud - a sure sign that soon it will be full of color once again. Homes, paths and other landmarks not visible in the summer and fall could now be seen. The sparseness provided us with a contrastive view of our familiar playground. <br />
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<b>Life on the river was rather quiet as well</b>. Although the <a href="http://www.thetrustees.org/places-to-visit/greater-boston/peters-reservation.html"><b>Peter's Point</b></a> parking area was crowded, there was only one other fellow kayaker (he had a sleek fiberglass kayak equipped with racing paddles). However, one or two <b><a href="http://www.fcps.edu/islandcreekes/ecology/eastern_painted_turtle.htm">painted turtles</a>,</b> five <b><a href="http://vulturesociety.homestead.com/TVFacts.html">turkey buzzards</a>,</b> a pair of busy <b><a href="http://animals.nationalgeographic.com/animals/birds/mallard-duck/">mallards</a></b> moseying about, a pair of boisterous <a href="http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Canada_Goose/id"><b>Canada geese</b></a> protecting their nesting area, and a favorite, the majestic <a href="http://www.fcps.edu/islandcreekes/ecology/great_blue_heron.htm"><b>great blue heron</b></a> were spotted during the trip.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading Down Stream</td></tr>
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Hikers and walkers were seen on high atop King Philip's Overlook, the rocks near the <a href="http://www.thetrustees.org/places-to-visit/greater-boston/rocky-narrows.html"><b>Rocky Narrows</b></a> section of the river. Paddling through this narrow stretch of the river surrounded by the high rock formations, always makes me think about the Native Americans who might have paddled the same section of the river hundreds of years earlier.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pulling into Peter's Point after a Great Day of Paddling!</td></tr>
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After the mile or so paddle to the Route 27 bridge, we headed home with the wind at our backs and the sun peaking in and out of the clouds. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day out on the Charles River.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3