I usually go paddling at least once a year; This year I had the opportunity to go paddling twice: one under the city skylines of Vancouver, and another in the serene slough at Mapleridge, BC.
It was fun to paddle in the hub of the city and to experience a new perspective of the panoramic view of the city skylines, instead of the usual view by the roadside.
The waterway was busy and bustling — water taxis picking up and dropping off passengers, dragon boats, canoes and kayaks, stand-up paddle boards and yachts — all sharing the same busy waterway.
As much as I was mesmerized by the various architectural buildings, it was kind of nerve wrecking to be in the midst of these water transport; thus one needs to to keep balance and to avoid being tipped over by the waves created by the boating traffic.
Upon the slough in Maple Ridge, I experienced a different kind of scenery — peaceful and picturesque, especially on this Autumn weather with its gentle sunlight and cool wind.
I lingered and immersed myself in the serene surrounding along the smooth-flowing slough; and delighted to spot the white majestic Mount Baker ahead.
Suddenly, before I could collect my thoughts, I was seated waist-deep in the water! What’d happened??
Then the sound of giggles snapped me back to reality, my friend from behind laughed uncontrollably as she witnessed me being unceremoniously dumped into the water while the kayak headed to the water’s edge.
As we later figured out, a log beneath the water had tipped the kayak. Thank goodness it was low tide, hence the slough was shallow.
After several attempts and coaching from my friend, I managed to get back into the boat and glided into the sunset, so care free but watchful.
Despite the mishap, I enjoyed being in the open air upon the water and having my soul refreshed.
