Fourteen paddlers put in at Brown Bridge dam at 1:40pm for a leisurely afternoon trip down the Boardman River. There were 4 canoes, one tandem (Sara C and Kim S) and 3 solos (Bob F, Lois G and John H) and 9 kayaks. The kayakers were Tracie L, Ian M, Marlene and Marv P, Barb and Mike R, Judy and Fred S, and Angie W. It was a cool day, temperature in the 50s, with mixed sun and clouds. The fall colors were not much to write home about, but the occasional red-leafed tree got the appropriate ooohs and aaahs.
The trip was for the most part uneventful. We only took one paddle break and it wasn’t for swimming. As for the eventful part, Lois’ watch inadvertently ended up in the river without her knowing, but managed to make it back to her. Here’s the story.
For those that know Lois, you will not find it unusual that she took layers of clothing on and off throughout the entire trip. Well, near the end it was clouding up and the breeze was a bit cool, Lois decided it was time to put her wind breaker back on. As she was putting her arms in the jacket, Tracie, paddling next to her, says, “Hey, Lois, I think something fell out of your pocket.” Lois replies, “My pockets are zipped closed.” And they paddle on. Mike, traveling behind them, sees a splash and goes to check it out. Sure enough there is a glint of something on the river bottom. He exits his kayak reaches down and comes up with a watch that has one end of the band unhooked. Lois was totally surprised and thankful when Mike paddled up to her and presented the wayward time piece. She was so pleased with the return; there was an offer of a future dessert thing as a reward. Shivering and wet, Mike accepted.
Most of the group took out at the Beitner Rd access. A few (Sara and Kim, Ian, Angie, Fred and Mike) decided to go on through the rapids and exit at Lone Pine. The water level was up, so the fast water was fun to negotiate. Fred took the opportunity to put his new boat through its paces.
Overall, I think everyone had a good time.
Mike