The Canoe

The sound of aluminum grinding over sand as our canoe slides into the stream
The clunky sounds of paddles and gear as she settles in by the bow
The cool feel of the stream on my feet as I push off from the shore
The realization that being alone was worth getting up early

The sound of our small talk as we start out on our trip
How nice it is to be out
How pleasant to be alone
How wonderful the passing scenery

The talk eventually subsides
Except for occasional decisions
To the left of the stump
To the right of the rock

We don’t really need to talk
We’ve been journeying together a while
We’ve negotiated rough waters before
Crashing into the trees along the bank we laugh

Lunch on a quiet sand bar along the stream
Nothing fancy
Strawberries and grapes for dessert
I cool off in the water as she snaps a picture

The others, strangers catch up
We wave and smile, exchange greetings
Beautiful day
Have Fun

Back on the water the mid day sun gets hot
Our backsides eventually get numb
A wonderful trip but enough is enough
The simple joy of arriving at our destination

We pull the canoe ashore
Drop off our equipment at the rental
Back in our car
Our journey continues