An email blast just two days prior was all it took to bring nine kayakers to Lake Dubonnet on Thursday morning to celebrate the last day of Spring. Driving through Interlochen Corners, I looked at the outdoor temperature gauge in my vehicle. 58 degrees. Hmmm. The weather forecast was about 70 and sunny - right? When we arrived at the launch many of us looked at the wind making small waves across the lake and began putting on more layers. A few pulled out spray skirts and that’s when I really became concerned I had underdressed for this paddle. This was one of those days when putting on your PFD was as much about warmth as it was about floatation.
But that was all before we launched. Once we commenced our paddle, a calm came over the water and the serene wilderness surroundings of the Pere Marquette State Forest captivated us. We were promised wildlife, and the day did not disappoint. A Great Blue heron flying overhead; a deer forging through the marshland; a turtle on a log; and best of all - two families of Loons swimming calmly as we kept our respectful distance.
One by one the extra layers of clothing starting coming off as the paddle continued through the lily pad bordered trail. Deena led the way, explaining to us about the floating island as we passed by. The sun tried to peek out a few times and the temperature kept rising the longer we paddled. Our leisurely pace provided ample time to catch up with friends and to hear many entertaining stories including those about kayaks that shrink in warm water and PFD’s that also shrink when they sit in a garage over the winter months!
After our paddle we met for lunch at Bradley’s Pub & Grill at the Interlochen Golf Course. There, more stories followed - and a few more were made! Participants: Deena Barshney, Bob Fitch, Caralee Giuntoli, Lois Goldstein, Kathleen Imre, Tom Lipps, Marlene Puska, Susan Wilgus, Donna Steinebach.
Photos by Donna and Kathleen
At the launch: Lois, Deena, Sue, Bob
Deena right before we saw the swimming deer
Lois & Caralee
A family of loons
Bob, Deena & Sue
Deena
Turtle
Deena, Lois & Donna
Kathleen & Marlene
Tom
Marlene
Bob
an Indian marker tree near the launch
Lunch - food was so-so, service slow, company terrific!
