Paddle Me (gently)

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It's pretty easy to find water around this place. Aside from the bottled type sold in almost every store, there is an ocean, rivers, streams, creeks, and lakes all over. Some say there are 21 lakes within 20 miles of my house, and the best way to experience them is by kayak. Notice I said "experience?" It is much more than just "seeing."

I love a paddling. No, not the discipline type that I would give my kids to keep them in focus with my focus. Nor is it the thing that my old school teacher kept at his desk to keep me in his focus. But the the term that experienced ones call kayaking. It took me a while to understand, "Want to Paddle?"

Anyway, I love it. To paddle slow and low. Along the banks and beneath the overhanging branches of a giant spruce tree. To see that trails end, full of animal tracks left by those wanting a cool drink or a dip in search of food. Or into the tall grasses over the shallow water providing a concealed place for eggs to hatch, or tiny fish to feed. So quiet. So tranquil.

I paddle often now. Sometimes alone, but at other times with friends. I'm learning the names of the critters and the plants. I'm seeing the difference between an Elk and a Moose, or an Osprey and Seagull, and a Hawk and an Eagle, or a Cedar and a Fir, or a Huckleberry and Blackberry, or a Lilac and a Lilly.

These things seem to have a greater importance to me now that I've been away from the big city jungle. Perhaps because I'm in a place like this where I have time to share. Sharing with friends. Sharing with family. Smelling the roses and enjoying the greatness of life when ever I can.

Come paddle with me. We'll put in (that means launch) at the Thought Dock. Or, I'll pack mine to a place you know. You follow me, or I'll follow you. Either way we can enjoy God's world.

And all, without calling Ralph!.
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