Day 1508

Leaving my Goldens at the cottage and enjoying any “no-dog” activity is a challenge! Not only do I feel selfish and sad, but they sit and watch every move made without them! However, there are just some lake events that must be done solo. Kayaking is one of those.

Having hung up my rollerblades (at least for now), this able-bodied, somewhat adventurous senior citizen is always on the hunt for a new athletic exploit! Right now, I am obsessed with kayaking! The freedom of being “one with the lake”, the sensation of utilizing just about every muscle in the human body and the surprises just around every bend in the shore are so fulfilling.

Today, I headed out and ventured through a channel into a connecting lake. The wildlife was spectacular and, with every paddle pulling through the water, I lost my sense of physical effort and found myself simply enjoying the sights, sounds and sensations surrounding me.

When I reluctantly turned my boat back towards the cottage, I forced myself to take a few breaks to just drift and ponder. What became evident was that I never take the time to simply “drift” and contemplate life. Too busy! As in my years of teaching, my mind is always planning the best “next move” while auto-piloting the present. Those refreshing immediate moments, while drifting on the water, were healing and rejuvenating.

Dragging the kayak up the hill to the cottage, I heard five incredibly happy Goldens welcoming me home. Right away, I slipped back into my old ways by planning their lunch, outside time and then back to cleaning out the garage. Suddenly, I stopped in my tracks and decided to go into “kayak drifting mode”. Taking the time to really love my pups and enjoy their happiness at my return was just what was needed in the moment. I believe we were ALL rejuvenated by the reunion and all my plans for what comes next just waited their turn.