Ooops! Forgot to post this paddle!
Six mice met at Bennett's Creek Park in Suffolk for an evening paddle up the creek towards the Nansemond River. Evening paddles are generally very relaxed and peaceful. The wind has calmed down, the late-day light is mellower, and it is just great to get out on the water after a day at work.
Monday, August 29, 2011
Bennett's Creek Evening Paddle, 6/28/2011
Refreshment Stop
A tradition on our Bennett's Creek paddle is a stop at the Harborside restaurant for a quick beverage. We use the boat ramp next to the restaurant, stow our boats out of the way, and head to the bar!
Evening Put-in
After the refreshment stop, we put in for the final 20 minutes back to take-out. It wasn't as dark as it looks in this picture of Sue, but it was getting there!
Halfway back, it started pouring rain, and we pulled in to the boat ramp soaking wet and laughing.
Loading in the Dark
The gang takes a very short break after loading up in the dark at take-out. The rain stopped soon after we pulled in.
END BENNETT'S CREEK
Saturday, August 27, 2011
I'd Paddle Down the Street, but It's Too Windy
Close to the peak of Irene, and the tidal surge is moving up Mowbray Arch in Ghent. I'd love to paddle it, but with 40-50 mph winds, I'd wind up in North Carolina!
Hope that everyone comes through Irene OK.
Monday, August 22, 2011
Lake Meade Paddle- 7/9/2011
SEVENTEEN mice met at Sue's place out in Suffolk, and headed over to Lake Meade for a paddle, to be followed by a cookout. It was a long line of cars that made the two-mile trip.
Thanks to Sue for suggesting the put-in, and for hosting a great cookout afterwards. Lots of great food and fun with friends!
In a Line
The thought of some good food was motivation enough for these Mice to hightail it back for takeout. This group hit their rhythm, and held this line together for about five minutes.
A Beautiful Day on the Water
Fresh water that is. It is nice to get out on some fresh water every once in a while. Lake Meade is a reservoir for the Portsmouth water supply.
Paddle the Bob Way
Bob knows how to kick back and enjoy a paddle, doesn't he? And yet, he often charged ahead of the group and had to stop and wait. What's your secret, Bob?
Group Shot
It was a legendary feat of organization- or just an accident. Whatever the explanation, sixteen Moguls got together, and were all in a line, AND pointed in the same direction. A reason to celebrate, don't you think?
Morning on the Lafayette River
Nine early rising Moguls met at John's house Sunday morning, July 31st. Meet time was 8:30, as recommended by John. We were rewarded with a quiet river- few powerboats, no lawnmowers, and some good nature sightings.
Jim and his Long Boat
You never know what boat Jim will bring, but this seventeen footer is one of his favorites. It is a touring boat- longer and narrower than most of our boats, with no rudder. It goes straight better, but is a little more challenging to turn. Jim makes it look easy, though.
Looking for Eagles
John reported seeing eagles and eaglets a little earlier in the summer, and took us to the viewing spot. Alas, there were no eagles to see, but their nest was still in one of the trees. Here, John points out the nest location to Chris.
Sunday Fun
Bob takes advantage of a lull in the action to smile for the camera.
The morning paddle was a new idea for us, and a good one. We got out on the river before the powerboats, and had a quiet, peaceful paddle.
END LAFAYETTE RIVER PADDLE