As our
expedition team entered day five, we woke refreshed and energized. The morning
was like any other; each team member did their assigned jobs, we enjoyed a bowl
of cheesy grits for breakfast, and we were on our way down the James. Our
destination was Scottsville, a long 15 mile paddle from Sycamore Island. While
paddling our lengthy journey, we came across a few class two rapids. The first
rapid was known for flipping canoes, as it required maneuvering and purposeful paddling.
Our team was strong and kept our spirits high enough to make it through without
a single scratch. Each rapid became easier with determination and experience.
After a
few miles of calm paddling, we joined up with members of the JRA staff. Along
with the extra staff was Julie Coleman, a bird-loving biology teacher of the
team members from Monacan. Shortly after we began a combined paddle, rumbling
from up above broke the joyous atmosphere. A storm was pulling in south of us
and getting to land was our main priority. As the group pulled up to the dock,
we were met with new bright faces. The members of the first ever James River
expedition had decided to tag along for one day of our journey. It was amazing
to experience the excitement of these individuals, and we could easily see
their appreciation for the trip.
So far,
our canoeing had only been with our own team.
Today, we paddled with extra boats and extra people. This section of the
trip was even more enjoyable with the JRA staff and the former expedition members.
We sang Journey all throughout the ride and made a numerous amount of bird
puns. Our expedition team is so openhearted and kind, it was not hard to get to
know everybody and make them feel welcome. Our destination was in sight and we
landed on the muddy, but beautiful shore of the Horseshoe Landing campsite. This campsite was by far one of the prettiest
camp grounds we've been on, agreeable by the whole group. The greatest luxury
of Horseshoe Landing was the showers and indoor plumbing. After setting up camp
as a group and getting comfortable, we prepared for a meeting with
representatives from an initiative called Envision the James. Envision the
James sought our input on the condition of the James, and what actions we would
like to see accomplished.
The
expedition thus far has broadened our minds and opened up our horizons. It has
been a learning experience and has shown us that our individual actions really
do mean something. The trip isn’t over, and we expect to learn more about the
James, mentally and physically.
No comments:
Post a Comment