Tried Something New

We were able to get a couple days off work last week so we made a four day weekend. Of course we headed down to our camper at the beach. 

Our four hour drive was a wet one. We drove through rain 90 percent of the way. Once we got to our camper, it was cloudy but no rain. 

We unpacked the car and I made the beds and set up the inside of the camper while Nick hooked everything up on the outside. It takes us about 45 minutes to get settled in.

I clicked on the campground app and seen where they now have paddle boats, kayaks and paddle board rentals on Saturday. 

I got all giddy because I have always wanted to try stand up paddle boarding. He was not happy about it. He said, “I do not think it’s a good idea. You can’t swim”. I was not worried because I knew they would make me wear a life jacket. “What if you fall off?” He questioned. “I will just get back on”. I was determined to do it. I like adventure and trying new things. The fear of getting old and not being able to do things bother me.

The lake at the campground will sometimes have an alligator visit. It is also full of fish, turtles, and families of ducks. 

But this was my chance. We walked to the kayak shack as soon as it opened and they helped me to a life vest and a paddle board. 

I told them I have never done it before, so they suggested I start out on my knees and when I feel comfortable, I can stand up. I slipped off my shoes and got onto the board. With a tiny push, I was in the deep waters of the lake. 

(Note: the alligator was in the lake just last week but I did not know that until a friend told me later that she saw him).

It was not a wide paddle board as I expected. I tried several times to stand up but I was afraid I would loose my balance so I headed back to the shore so I could bottom it out and stand up. Another little push and I was back out on the water. 

This time I was standing. My legs were shaking and I was a little wobbly, but I was paddle boarding for the first time and I was so excited. Nick took videos and snap shots of my little adventure. He was so afraid for me. He was relieved when I told him I was finished. I only stayed out for about 20 minutes. It felt like I got a nice little workout. My legs got tired easily and I didn’t want to be dinner for the alligator. 

Afterwards, we ate lunch and headed out to the beach. It was cloudy and raining most of the time with little peeks of sunshine. We enjoyed our stay regardless of the weather. But don’t ask Nick. On our last day, He had to tear down the camper so it could go back into storage. It was pouring rain and he was drenched. Here is a picture of him standing on the picnic table trying not to get wet but he finally gave up. We had to be out by noon. 

Now Back to work.