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L&J, M&M, F&J and ME all met (eventually) for a relaxing paddle on the Manistee. A reverse shuttle let us hit the river about 10:30am. Weather was hotter than expected and made for a pleasant day. We stopped at Lucas Landing for lunch in the shade. Fred tried out Judy's new boat but the fit wasn't quite right, a little too low in the water. Some wildlife was spotted including turtles sunning on a log, ducks, a mink, geese, & snakes. We heard plenty of frogs singing counterpoint to the birds with a woodpecker providing the drum solo. Beautiful flowers showed off their faces. A turkey vulture was observed sitting on a fence post during the return shuttle. As we loaded boats the clouds gathered, the temperature dropped and it felt good to jump in the car to head home.
Lois on the river.
While we were paddling we saw marsh marigolds along the banks.
Judy in her new kayak.
Fred trying out Judy's new kayak.
Unloading at the end of the trip.
Fred's haul of trash.
While some of the group went to retrieve the cars Marlene and I went looking for wildflowers. Here is what we found near the ramp.
Trilliums.
Wood Anemone
Trout Lilies.
Narrative by trip host Tracie Lord, Photos by John
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