Taking Care of Us!
Posted by BarbaraZ on June 3, 2011
This is what we are going to try to do on a regular basis, to re-nourish our inner selves. Since it gets hot in Florida fairly quickly in the summer, if you want to do something outside it has to be early in the day. We want to enjoy the river that is right around the corner from our house, so we bought two inexpensive kayaks. This past week had been a stressful one for me and the two hours we were on the river, washed away all the negative remains of those days.
- Elliot’s silhouette under the bridge
Well, today was our second outing. One kayak fits in the SUV and the other goes on top! The loading and unloading was easier this time and the feeling of being on the river is just getting better and better. The quiet, after we pass under the bridge… with the noise of everyone else going to work at 8 a.m…. is amazing. The morning was nice and we were ready.
Me with my kayak
You might recognize the photo of my avatar as it was taken from this image. Years ago, I took lessons from Nigel Foster and I actually remember the rhythm between legs and arms for a full body workout. I have a lot of reconditioning to do. Kayaking sure beats going to a gym!
I love to see the huge branches of the older trees that are leaning out over the river, covered in Spanish moss and bromeliads. I believe this one was actually no longer a living tree, but its branches were full of living plants and creatures. Their reflection in the water creates an interesting pattern. The other thing we must look for along the water’s edge, is alligators. Yes, they love this river. Usually if you leave them alone, they will leave you alone.
A large branch reflected in the water
Now you will have to take my word for it. There is an osprey in that tree… see the yellow circle? That is where he is eating his morning catch from the river.
Believe me, there is an osprey in the tree!
Elliot and I were going very quietly here as there was a large blue heron resting on a piling (way to the back of the photo!!) as he was doing his morning fishing. We tried to just glide, but the current wanted to take us the wrong way. The heron did not seem to be bothered by our presence.
Blue Heron in distance on piling
Gerry said
Looks peaceful and refreshing. You brave things!
Allie said
That looks like a lot of fun. There was a big storm a few years ago here. After the storm, I saw a kayak stuck in the bushes a long way from any water. Reminded me of Wreck of the Zephyr by Chris Van Allsburg. Also saw notes in the free paper about “Lost kayak” and “Found kayak” so I called the lost kayak person and read the found kayak ad to their answer machine.