Though a short thunderstorm hit the Traverse City area just as we were preparing to head on over to Arbutus Lake for our JSU paddle, the skies cleared and we had a beautiful evening, Harold in his canoe, Fred & Judy on their racing paddle boards, and the rest of us (Pam, Mike, and Debby) in our kayaks. As we headed away from the boat launch we met a young woman and her dog on a paddle board and had a good laugh when the dog spotted a frog and jumped in the water near the shore, chasing her elusive prey. We first paddled around the north bay (Lake 5) and then clockwise around Arbutus, though we finally sought the shade on the west side of the lake. Two loons ignored us. Except for wake generated by a couple of passing speedboats, the water was calm, clear and lovely. We circled the island and headed back to the put-in. After collecting our gear and settling our watercraft on our vehicles/trailer, we retired to Peegeo's for good food and continuation of good company.
Debby Page
Photos by Fred