Fourth Of July Week, 2008

Well after some time away from the computer I have finally found time to update everyone as to what we have been up to. It has been a fun 10 days. Some good, some bad. It all started out rather badly when we headed up to Big Stone Lake on Friday, June 25th for a weekend of peddling and paddling. We drove most of the way up in light rain, but by the time we got there it had stopped. We set up camp and did manage top have enough time for a quick outing in the kayaks. The rest of the weekend was a disaster. Wind and rain were the order of the day. We spend most of the weekend watching movies. Oh well we do live in South Dakota. Then it was back to work for two days before we headed up to Oakwood State Park on Tuesday night . This was a much better trip. We got camp all set up Tuesday night and we were ready to head out early Wednesday morning for a ride to Kay's parents for breakfast. A nice 40 mile ride, unless 20 of it is against the wind. Oh well no pain not gain. When we got back we headed out so we could put on a few more miles to make it an even 50 for the morning. The rest of the day we hung out and visited. On Thursday, July 5th , Kay and I loaded up the kayaks and drove up to the north end of Oakwood Lake where we put the boats in. We headed South /Southwest looking for a channel that would takes us into the small lakes around the rode. Although we never found that entrance we did discover a wonderful island. The island was a breeding ground for Herons and other birds that call the lakes and marshes their home. It was amazing. Birds and nests full of baby birds everywhere. It was something to behold. It was a alive with the sounds of birds chattering and their wings flapping. The babies were all reaching the necks high hoping for some food. It was something I will remember fora long time. It was a nice day to paddle. Light breezes, warm sun and no one else in sight. How much more peaceful can it get. The afternoon was filled with hanging with our kids and grandson. Saturday morning Kay and I decided to head up towards Lake Poinsett. We did not realize how windy it was until we got out of the protection of the park, The winds were probably 25-35 gusting to 40. The ride north was not bad, we were cruising at about 26-27 wind at our backs. When we made the turn however to head back to our camp things changed dramatically. I don't believe I have ever ridden into a wind that at least twice threatened to bring me to a complete stop. I knew we were in trouble when the hawk flying right beside me was not going anywhere either. But with a bit if perseverance we made it. Longest 30 miles I have ever ridden. You know what they say. It's all about the exercise. Well we got plenty on this given morning. When we got back we ate abit and rested before taking the kayaks and heading for water. We wanted to give the lake a shot even in the huge waves and the wind to battle. We went back up to the north end of the lake and put in. Over the course of the stay Rory, Chase, Brett and even Landen tried their hands at paddling. everyone did a great job. Chase and I paddled the north shore just west of the swimming area, Rory and I went to bird island and Brett went out with Kay for his first try. Landen well he pretty much was happy just sitting in the boat. Here are some pics of them on their first trys at paddling. They did a great job.

Chase Landen Rory

All in all it was a great week. We had the boys home, Margo and Landen were here and we most of Kay's family home too. And of course what would the Forth of July be without some fireworks. I ried my ahnd a taking some pics of fireworks and the results were not what I expected, but the did turn out kind of funky. Not sure why or how, but this is asample of what I got. Si I hope you all had a great Forth Of July also. It is one of the best holidays of the year. And this year it was even better. It was not 100 degress with 90% humidity. It was a great time to peddle and paddle around part of South Dakota. I am sure we will do alot more kayaking at Oakwood and the surrounding lakes. There is alot more to explore. I think I could spend a week there just exploring every little outlet, cove and marsh. I would recommend it to anyone.