Living Positive: Paddling Upstream...with a paddle!

June 8, 2021

Today the boys had a guided fishing trip so Karen and I decided to go kayaking. We rented our kayaks from the shop at the campground and we were able to get in right there on the White river. We had to go in the morning because that was when the river level was going to be down and the current would not be so strong.Typically in the afternoon, the dam releases water so the water level increases by quite a bit. The ranger told us to listen for the bullhorn and if we see bubbles, we need to head back because the water is coming. No problem!

Our goal was to row against the current aways so that we could take a picture of the dam. We rowed and rowed for what seemed like an hour but hardly made any headway. If we would stop and rest, the current would take us back down and we’d have to start over again! There were quite a few fishing boats on the water that day but they were all courteous and slowed down when they went by. It was encouraging that the ranger stated earlier that everyone had a right to be on the water- boats and kayaks alike.

We finally made it around the bend, got our picture, and then let the current glide us back down. We found a good spot where the water was calmer and paddled around there for a couple of hours. The weather cooperated and it was partly cloudy which made it more pleasant and not so hot. It was misty on the water when we first started out which was created by the high humidity. This made for a real eerie setting at times but I really enjoyed it.

In the afternoon, Karen drove me around the area. I especially wanted her to drive me to another nearby town called Flippin just because it cracks me up! I could have taken hundreds of sign photos but limited myself to Flippin School District and Flippin High School. Unfortunately, I didn’t get a picture of the park which was called Hickey park which I’m pretty sure is near Flippin High School! I’m so easily entertained!

We were able to find one quilt store open and score an Arkansas Starbucks mug so it was a successful afternoon! It was super nice of Karen to drive. I hate driving Don’s truck. I guess I should say I don’t mind driving the truck but parking it is what I do not enjoy. It’s just too darn big!

The fishermen returned and claimed that it was a good trip. Since they didn’t keep the fish we just had to take their word for it! Not a drop of rain today so we had a nice BBQ and campfire although we didn’t need the fire for warmth but for that camping ambiance.