We were surrounded by white caps, traveling on a long stretch of lake between two dense shorelines of pines, in the Canadian wilderness. Branches overhung the shallows. There was nowhere to stop. It was every canoe for itself. In seconds, a strong wind rushed our canoes as if a giant fan had switched on. Was … Continue reading The Boulder, 1981
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Lily Dipping
It was the third week of our summer canoe trip. Eva and I were making our way with eight 13-year-olds and two counselors, aged 16 and 17. We were living among the loons and Canadian lakes with a paper map and tents and red canoes, eating from the cans we carried on our backs during … Continue reading Lily Dipping
Dressing
We were trying to figure out what time it was by the position of the sun. One person had a watch. “3:30!” I called out. We paddled in a group today instead of a long line. Eva and I were miraculously keeping up and the red canoes had formed a pod, talking, laughing. “2 o’clock!” … Continue reading Dressing
Portaging: The Can Sack
“Because the activities involved in canoeing activate hearty appetites, don't skimp on food supplies.” - Temagami Canoe Routes I had it in my head that the can sack was 100 pounds. It could have been 500 pounds, but regardless, when we got to the edge of a lake, somebody’s back had to transport it over … Continue reading Portaging: The Can Sack
Canada Series: The Send Off
"Far in the grim Northwest beyond the lines that turn into rivers eastward to the sea, Set with a thousand islands, crowded with pines, Lies deep water, wild Temagami..." -- Archibald Lampman Canada’s wilderness would become a new playground for us, but right now, Eva and I hopped on a bus and listened to the … Continue reading Canada Series: The Send Off
Circa 77 