We were just about to take our shoes off and go for a run (I know that may sound weird) and the overcast began to lift. Ahh...this was turning into a day when the stars, the sun, the planets, the wind, and the tide were lining up...for one sweet day of paddling! A brisk wind from the north-west cleared the skies, kicked up some waves and beckoned us to launch the sea kayaks from Descanso Bay Regional Park on Gabriola Island. It didn't take long to get into the waves and they rocked and rolled! One minute you were riding high and the next, you were settling down in between the waves.
And, yikes, every so often, we'd almost lose sight of each other!
There's something so incredibly satisfying about being tossed about on the water's surface while maintaining control of these narrow boats. The sea is unforgiving and is to be mightily respected, but with due care and utmost attention, it can be a willing partner in the pursuit of an exhilerating connection with the natural world.
You are never alone. Seals and sea lions poke their heads up, warm golden retriever eyes curiously giving the paddler a careful and studied inspection before quietly slipping back into the quiet depths in search of breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Eagles, gulls, and countless sea birds rest along the shore or soar in the sky high above. There is infinitely more life above, around and beneath you, but for the most part unseen, and presumably going about the business of...breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
How fortunate to have a day's adventure such as this. I try never to forget that.
Duncan.
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