Reid's, take 2 1/2

The hike was a great way to start our day. We had to find something as adventurous and fun to do in the afternoon. What could be more adventurous and fun than...canoeing! It was my first time canoeing, that I can remember, so that made for quite an adventure.

We left the boys with the grandparents and set out for the open waters (well, kinda). With the canoes in the water and everyone ready to go, we paddled away. I really enjoyed paddling, which made steering difficult for Patrick. Eventually we figured it out and had a good rhythm going.

The "rapids" were my least favorite/most favorite part. Very scary, very thrilling, very fun. Perhaps the worst/funniest part of our canoe trip was when Patrick and I almost tipped our canoe. We hit a rapid sideways and it tipped us a little, sending us to the bottom of the boat and letting tons of water rush in. We thought for sure we were going to flip, but the Lord saved us and we made it through with just a little scratch and wet clothes. Listening to Aaron and Jeannie tell the story was much more fun because the saw the whole thing!

After that, we just leisurely floated down the river and enjoyed the incredible scenery. It was a little too cold for me, but I had layers on to make it more enjoyable. I really love canoeing and look forward to going again when it's just a bit warmer out! Either way, it was a nice hour and a half trip.

Our canoe carriers... Patrick and Aaron

The first rapid, with Aaron and Jeannie waiting for us...

A bald eagle we saw. In fact, we saw several during our canoe trip and one while hiking!

The sun shining on the water...

My front seat scenery...

Whew! We had a wet ride home, but made it safe and happy.

We decided to drive to Duluth, MN for dinner that night. We had so much fun on Saturday night. We stopped by a chocolate shop (yum!), then ate dinner at a steak house. After dinner, we drove to Barnes and Noble and walked around for a bit. I'm not sure if I've ever laughed so hard in an evening. Funny things were constantly being said or happening, especially from Aaron.

*The Mall of America is man hell.*It's a Latino revolution.*Thanks, Mate.*Yessssssssssss! (after hitting the curb)

It was quite a fun night. I love how much fun we can all have together. It was so much fun talking and sharing and laughing with Aaron and Jeannie. It's always to sad to remember that we have to leave. I liked it much better when we could just drive over to their house.