We had a good turnout in spite of the cloudy, cold weather. I don't really have time or space for a full report; maybe someone else will offer. Briefly put, I didn't expect to have fun picking up trash. It was simply a duty to fulfill.

I was wrong. If you didn't come, you missed some great camping and paddling.

Most of us camped at Tom Goynes' Pecan Park Retreat with our tents near the rapids. Louis Aulbach entertained us with historical tidbits. Mary and Paul provided a great camp fire and breakfast.

Of course I went swimming again but we don't want to dwell on my mishaps, now do we? For the benefit of other inexperienced paddlers, though, I feel compelled to point out the value of instruction and last month's lessons learned. I knew what to do (avoid the strainer and stay on the right side of my boat), I had my gear stashed for easy removal, and I had dry clothes double-bagged and handy.

I didn't choose to take a flying leap but it was a lot easier to recover with good planning and a kind stern mate.. Maybe next month I'll even learn how to stay in the canoe!

See you on the river.