This is the time of year when things begin to slow down, but that's a great advantage to most. Now is the time that you go out on the river and have it all to yourself. I went out with my kids last week and we had a blast, and save for two other private rafts and some kayakers, we pretty much had the river to ourselves on the Lewis & Clark launch. My 12-year-old Maddie reminded me of how important the right clothing is. She had a wetsuit on and went for a swim in the guaging straights. After we crushed Big Kahuna and Lunch Counter, a little shivering set in, so we added a layer of fleece and all was well. She's just one of those kids who just gets cold easily, but we were prepared. My 8-year old Millie is the super-cautious type. Taking her down the canyon is the same every time. She starts out a little afraid and with some trepidation. By the time we hit the ramp at the end she always gives me a big smile and says "Daddy, I'm so glad we went rafting!" She's just the kind of kid who needs the proof provided by experience. It doesn't do her any good to know about the dozens of kids younger than her that have enjoyed the canyon in the past weeks. In her own way, she gives the river the respect it deserves, and never takes the experience for granted.
Families dig it. LA Motherhood Examiner Writer gave a great accound of her trip here: Family Raft Trip She never told us she was here; just sent us a link when she got home.
