9/13/13-Friday the 13th

 Friday the 13^th

^{Cassandra Roy}

                  Everyday has a new beginning, a new decision, a new outlook, and endless opportunities. This morning we awoke and planned to set all of these things into motion and embrace the day as it was handed to us. We started off on a driftwood filled beach and discussed the day as well as mentally preparing ourselves for the 20+ mile day that we were about to embark on. This was the most miles in a single day that we have paddled thus far and despite the nerves and fatigue we seem determined to make it to our far away campsite. So off we went, down a fun swift and on to the Grass River; which it seemed was never ending. Everything seemed to be on our side today; beautiful weather, a pumped up group, and winds pushing us along. Soon we hit our rapids, everyone made it down, including Emily and myself (making up for the first time when we tipped the canoe). The day progressed in good spirits. Then came the tricky part. Although the wind on our backs helped during the river, it was our enemy when it came to crossing the lakes. After discussing and weighing the options and risks we decided to go for it. We got slammed wave after wave, it almost seemed as if we were heading into battle. Soon the worst was behind us, and after recuperating we once again entered the Grass River. WE made it to our destination, just past an old Cree burial ground. Alas this was not where we were meant to stay, so we stopped and waited for the waves to stop and the white caps to disappear. They only did so after tents were set up, but in 13 minutes the tents were packed, boats were strapped with gear, and we headed across the lake to our new and better destination. Of course as soon as we hit the water the clouds begain to darken and the thunder came, all of which made us paddle harder. We are now here, and as I write this I watch the waves come crashing in and the trees sway with the power of the wind. Today was a new day, it brought goods and bads, ups and downs, sunshine and clouds; but today like everyday it did something else…it helped to bring our group closer together.

                  “Don’t let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game.”