Voice of the Rivers 2008

May 31. Merek Slagle. We woke before the sun arose which led to an early morning breeze and productive day of paddling, the river being still calm, peaceful and cool. We started off the morning with a delicious breakfast from the bakery, a variety of muffins and pop-tarts; they were delicious. Thank you, James!
This was one of our longest days because we had to travel 26 miles in 93 degree weather, but with our early start we were able to paddle 21 miles before lunch time. This was an amazing feeling of accomplishment. The time sure does go by quickly when you are singing to each other and making each other laugh.
In the afternoon we were fortunate enough to meet a group of teachers, coaches, and other educators on the river. Though Blue Springs landing proved to be private property, the Tattenall County “coaches corner” invited us over with a warm welcoming of burgers, wings, ice cold water and a fun atmosphere. While making conversation with some of the coaches, it was re-instilled in me that this was an opportunity that many do not get to experience. They showed jealousy and appreciation for our expedition and opportunities. I am still amazed by the people we meet through our journey; they have such great stories and are amazed by what we are doing.
We had a floating lesson this afternoon on “Confluence: Pacolet River” by John Lane. Sitting in the rear of our rafted-together kayaks, I can completely relate to what Lane describes. Really, who gets to float down the Savannah River, work on the tan, be inspired by surroundings, and learn at the same time? “There’s no other place I’d rather be.”-- Clyde Carter.
After a hot and fun-filled day, we arrived at our campsite off on a beach. We set up tents, played in the water, wrote in our journals, and conversed with people along the river. Being in the present state of the river, it is hard to imagine all the history that it holds. “It’s better to take life slow in a kayak, than let it pass you by so fast.”-- Kenny Dugger.
Once again, we got to experience the sun set reflecting back over the tiny ripples of the river that we would meet again tomorrow. The Spanish moss in the cypress trees overhangs the river. The fireflies still treat us with their great display of flickering iridescent blinking lights through the mesh of the tents,. The river still flows, and life still goes on-- this is how life works.
Time is not measured, it just exists. “Live for today, be a part of the changes and processes now. For it is experiencing this moment that you will be ready to experience the next.”