Floating

When I went to bed last night, I had the distinct feeling that I was floating. And no, my bed isn't on a boat and I wasn't on my way to heaven. We spent the afternoon on Erik's pontoon boats, floating down the Bitterroot River. It was sort of spur of the moment and we had to borrow life jackets for the girls from our neighbor and ended up getting a "late" start, but it was so worth it.

The sun was out, but there were a few clouds, too, and it was hot so that hopping off the boat into the water every hour or so was welcome and almost necessary. The girls spent their time on and off the boats more than Erik and I as we rowed and maneuvered the few "rapids". 

I almost didn't go. Part of me wanted to stay home and Lindsay didn't want to go either, and I didn't really want to force her. I had never floated the river on his boats before and hadn't actually floated the river in general since high school (aka a long time ago). So I was intimidated, I guess, and I tend to shy away from anything that intimidates me.

But, Erik really wanted to go and so did Kera and I figured it would be good for us to try something fun as a family on one of our last days of summer vacation, so I convinced Lindsay we should go.

Boy am I sure glad we did. There was nothing to be afraid of, not even sunburn, which is a real threat to me since I burn like a marshmallow on the campfire. My solution was to wear one of my longsleeved technical running tees--it covered me but wasn't too thick and I could get it wet to cool me off. It worked perfectly. We all had a wonderful time lazing along the river, seeing fish, ducks, osprey and even a bald eagle. 

After we got done floating, we treated ourselves to dinner out at our favorite Chinese food place, which was a wonderful way to end a full and tiring day--not having to cook or cleanup--woohoo!

It was a wonderful day spent with my family that I'll treasure for the laughs, smiles and great memories it created. And to think, I almost missed it! I'll try to remember this the next time I'm hesitant to try a new activity with friends or family.