Tuesday, March 25, 2008

Easter Adventures with Evan and Lindsay

This year for Easter I was fortunate to have Lindsay and Evan in town. Despite being pulled on both sides like rag dolls for their constant attention, they managed to squeeze in a little time for spontaneity. I have learned over the years that the only way to make spontaneity possible in life is by adhering to a few basic practices.

As a matter of principle, I always try to suppress any thought that could possibly lead me to consider any preparation details, potential risk ramifications, and/or the possibility that such activity might be illegal in any spontaneous event. Is it really that difficult to understand why? Clearly such thought pattern could only hinder or at least diminish the window of opportunity for a really fun time. For example, if all of the sudden (because that’s how spontaneous events always start out) I felt strong urges to drive to up to the mountains for fun filled day of swimming at Lost Lake (which during my high school years was a frequent impulse), statistically the odds are against that the trip will actually happen. It could be winter which would likely make all the good logging roads inaccessible, it could be getting dark, it could cost a fortune with the high gas prices, and on and on. That’s why as soon as the thought pops in my mind, I’m off on my way to the snowcapped peaks for a nice summer swim. ☺

Last Easter weekend I made no exception to my highly developed lack of thought. On Saturday afternoon, the idea hit me like a lightning bold that we should take the old aluminum boat and trusty 5 horse two stroke Evinrude out to Lake Washington. To give some background on the vessel, this is the same boat and engine that my Grandfather used to take us up the calm Upper Henry’s fork river in. The boat is about 10 feet long and has approximately a 20in bow. Basically this is not the boat you would want to find yourself stuck in if you were stranded in the Straight of Juan De Fuca.

I hope you enjoy the media.







En fin, the day was a smashing hit! We discovered that even at full throttle, four fit rowers can easily overtake the Evinrude. We learned that just because Easter is labeled a “Spring holiday”, does not mean that spring weather is in store, and lastly we learned that even with a wet suit on, the water is still deathly cold in March.

Much Love,

Christian

Confession: I regrettably admit that as I get older, I find myself actually considering that I might not be immortal.)


Thursday, March 20, 2008