#7 Lièvre River, Quebec. 1995

Now don't get me wrong, I've spent my fair share of time swimming after my canoe. After all that's how you learn. But I can say that on all of the wilderness trips Reid and I have done together over the years - where safety really matters - I think we have dumped 3 times. This one on the Lièvre was good. It's too long a story to tell here except to say that the 6 of us all ended up swimming this long rapid together, and when the dust settled we had one canoe, one barrel, and 4 of us scattered on river left, one river right and one out of sight about 1 km downstream. It all ended well, we learned some things, and have a good story to tell. And we've gone back and paddled it again!:-) So, anyone else want to admit to a good swim while paddling?

About "Today's Paddling Pic": These last few days I've find myself looking back on some wonderful memories and images of where canoeing has taken me, and it's made me smile. I feel so fortunate and grateful for these places, people and experiences, and it's kind of nice to reminisce. And in doing so I can't help but to also look forward to a time when we can all paddle safely again! So for the next while Reid and I are posting a picture a day (with a story) that will brighten our day and hopefully yours too. And maybe you'll share your stories too. I invite you to share your stories in the comment section.