Report by two CHS recent graduates: Erin O'Donnell (heading to Northern Michigan U in the fall) and Regan O'Connor (to the U of M)
This was the first kayaking trip that Regan and I have been on, and luckily the weather was perfect! It was mid-70’s and slightly cloudy all day. We launched into the Manistee River around 11 AM, after John and Lois taught us the basics. They were both incredibly patient with us as we learned how to navigate the river. After launching, I got spun around by one swirling current near an eddy, but maneuvered myself back on course by paddling in a full circle. After that, I didn’t have too much trouble navigating.
Regan and I traveled at different paces for most of the trip, so we didn’t have much chatting time on the river, but I had lots of fun conversing with our fellow paddlers while we were on the river. The four of us were joined by Wayne, Steve, Kathleen, Katharine, and Marlene, all of whom traveled in solo kayaks or canoes. Marv did the shuttle for us.
About halfway down the stretch of river, we stopped in a very scenic field for lunch, where we ate while discussing college, the upcoming Olympics, and Britney Spears, among other things. On the second half of our trip, we saw lots of cool wildlife, including geese, ducks, and turtles.
By the end of our trip, Regan and I were a little worn out but very happy. We both had so much fun meeting new people, taking in the scenery, and learning to kayak. I look forward to kayaking again! We are so thankful to John and Lois for inviting us!
Photos by John
Kathleen
Wayne
Erin
Regan
Steve
Heading down river
Kat
Kathleen coaches Regan
Wayne
Kat
Regan
Lois
Some wildlife
