Henry's Pond

 

Before we moved to Prince Edward Island, our dear son had given us a wonderful book of PEI paddling routes (and another, for hikes, which helped us find lady slippers a few weeks ago!).  Both books been read and reread even before we got here . . . with maps consulted and much discussion and planning!  

These little bright blue plastic kayaks are little more than toys: hardly the thing for wild waves!  We don't want to be out "on the ocean" in our "Lifetime Lotus" boats -- not even in a sheltered harbour.  And PEI is so often really really windy!! But: they are perfect for bird watching in shallow shallow waters: very stable with their broad draft. 

That's why yesterday, for our trial run, we set off for Henry's Pond: a calm little oasis created behind a dam.  It was so lovely: geese, ducks, red wing blackbirds, huge trees and a meandering stream beyond the pond stretching north . . . which we explored until blocked by some trees that looked a bit thorny!  And then drifted downstream again with the very gentle current back to the "put in". 

Truly, more effort was expended getting the kayaks onto the elderly Volvo, fastening them to the roof racks, clicking the paddles together . . . and afterwards, getting them off again and stowed back in the garage!  There's a lot to remember and we didn't do the best job . . . forgetting that the straps go through the "hoops" for optimum security.  One of the kayaks was slipping a bit sideways but by then we were almost home.  Next time we'll do better!

And then, a leisurely late lunch (chilled asparagus soup!! waiting in the fridge . . . ) and it was just about time to get cleaned up to head for the clinic to receive our second COVID vaccinations!  Oh, such a relief to have that done!  Well worth the slightly sore arms we both have today!  And yes, it will be another two weeks until the immunization has fully taken hold, and we'll continue to be cautious with the masking and social distancing and hand hygiene: but there's still much reason for optimism. 

Except, of course, on Henry's part.  " Henry's Pond, Henry's Pond. They call it Henry's Pond!  But, did I get to go?  No, I did not.  The kong with peanut butter was nice, sure it was . . . and I like that cool room in the basement just fine.  But I ask you . . . why's it called Henry's Pond when they don't take me too?" 

Henry, Henry, Henry -- those kayaks are way too small for a great big golden retriever bouncing around and boofing at ducks!!  They're supposed to be unsinkable . . . but we wouldn't want to test 'em out with you in obstreperous mode!  As it was, we were already soaking wet!  And you, remember, don't like swimming -- at least not yet!