We got loaded up Friday night so we could get out on the water by sunrise. I was wanting to watch the sunrise on the water. Our put in location was Cove Creek, only about six miles from the house, keeping our car use to as little as possible. Anthony did go the day before to check out paying in advance and making sure they would know our car would be left there overnight. He didn't charge us for launching the kayaks, this isn't uncommon. Most places don't charge for non-motorized craft.
Watching the sun come up was amazing! With the little bit of clouds, the sun was a deeper orange. Paddling was a little hard heading out. The wind was in our face the whole way. It wasn't real bad, but we haven't been paddling much so we are a little weaker than last year. The total miles was six and half miles. We were able to stay close to shore almost the whole way until the last mile and a half. We had to cross the lake to get to Shiloh Park. When we arrived, we were so tired! The constant paddling and fighting the wind took it's toll. It was well worth the effort though.
We grabbed the first campsite on the water. It was right on the point, with a full view of the lake.
Camp is getting easier setting up. We got our routine down. Anthony and I work so good together, we just click.
Only new gear this weekend was the Helinox camp chair. It was a little less than two pounds, folds up small enough to fit in a bicycle pannier, and is so comfortable. The legs feet will sink some if your sitting in soft ground. I sat by the lake in soft sandy ground with no trouble. I was completely satisfied with the chair. No back pain from sitting on the picnic table!
Our neighbors were really nice. Norman was a character, just your typical southern guy. Cassie and .... can't remember but I think Anna. Sorry. We all sat in Norman's camp after sunset and chatted while sipping Seagram's VO. It was a really nice time.
We got up early the next morning. Made a pot of coffee and watched the sun come up. It was nice and cool. We then got the tent and sleeping gear packed. We have found eating after packing let us put off lunch. I actually cooked! We had our typical oatmeal. On the kayaks we were able to bring a cooler, so we had eggs.
The trip back was much easier. The wind was in our favor this time. Took us about two and half hours to get back. An hour faster than the day before. In all, it was a very fun and relaxing trip. Boat traffic was light, weather unseasonably cool for August, and as always Anthony was the best.
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| Loaded and ready to put in the water. |
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| Anthony, with the sun starting to peak. |
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| Photo doesn't do justice. |
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| Taking a break. |
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| Red-headed woodpecker. |
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| Helinox camp chair. |
