I was really disappointed that I had to miss Friday's AuSable trip due to stomach flu, so I was particularly eager to get out on the river today. John & I paddled a tandem canoe, like we have been doing for the past 35 years, as did Pam & Harold. Gerald got lots of practice in his solo canoe (and his spiffy new PFD, complete with rescue belt), and Marv and Marlene were also along with their rec kayaks. We had the river completely to ourselves, with the silence interrupted only by the sounds of spring peepers whenever we passed the marshy areas. The current was running swiftly, and we were glad that nobody in the group had any difficulty with the occasional swirly spots, and the downed trees blocking more than half the width of the river. Lunchtime was peaceful, with no-one else in sight. Spring has FINALLY sprung! A superb trip with good friends. Submitted by Lois Goldstein Photos by John Heiam