When first setting out, the fog was getting thicker and we could barely see in front of us. Some might find these conditions less than desirable for a kayak trip however, Denise and I were determined to have fun. The pond, which is more like a lake, was still and quiet. We paddled close to the shore and observed the plant life growing beneath us with hopes of catching a glimpse of a school of fish or turtles. Having some knowledge of the area, Denise shared that a water plant known as Eurasian Watermilfoil was spreading across local watersheds. Once established in a watershed, the plant can quickly reproduce, rapidly depleting the oxygen in the water, altering the ecosystem. It can spread easily from lake to lake as boaters can be carriers of the plant as it often migrates via the propellers. For those of you not interested in water vegetation, TRUST ME, it gets better.
Our kayak trip continued around the perimeter of the lake until we reached a small stream. As we approached we slowed our pace and enjoyed the calmness of the water. The stream was filled with tall grasses and lily pads and was postcard material. Continuing around the edge, we discovered an abandoned beaver lodge. I LOVE BEAVERS! Maybe it's their cute little human like hands or perhaps its the flashback to the film Lady & the Tramp? You know, the scene when Tramp tries to sell the beaver the muzzle that's been placed on her snout? No? Ok, I guess I'm alone! Anyway, after passing by the beaver lodge, we began to grow tired and we were soaked. To quote Denise, "I feel like I'm sitting in a wet diaper." It was indeed time to head back. After drying my clothes, Denise took my back to the ferry to go back home.
Now, the plan was to have Corey pick me up on the other side, RIGHT? This meant that a simple telephone call needed to be made in order to verify the ETA. While living in an area of luscious forsests and scenic mountains can be truly rewarding, it also comes with a few detriments. That's right folks I had no cell service! I decided to take a leap of faith in hopes that when I got on the ferry back I would have full service, and I did. I boarded the ferry, took my seat on the bench, and called Corey. Ring...ring...ring. Nothing. No answer. After several attempts, I had to begin thinking of an alternative plan of action as the ferry is about a fifteen minute drive south of Burlington. Hitchhiking came to mind, but the thought of standing out on the road waiting for a random stranger to pick me seemed like it would make for a better Plan D! Sure, I could walk back, but that would take forever. I thought about just calling for a cab, but in typical Liz fashion, I had only a little cash. Going door to door to all the divers sitting in their cars aboard the ferry and asking if anyone was going to Burlington was also an option. That's when I found my plan A. After many attempts to call Corey and multiple conversations with my self, I overheard a loud woman talking on her cell phone. She mentioned SOUTH BURLINGTON! I politely waited for her conversation to end, "Excuse me, I couldn't help but overhear that you are going to South Burlington. (Insert awkward chuckle) See, my loving fiance was suppose to pick me up at the other end, however, he isn't answering his phone. So....would it be possible to get a ride with you to Burlington?" Sure enough, she said "Yes!"
The story gets better. Terry and and her dog Daisy, were coming up to S. Burlington for her Aunt's 90th birthday party from New Jersey. She had missed her exit and ended up on the wrong side of the lake. Using her GPS, she followed the directions with some concern as the map had her "driving" across the lake. In hopes there would be a bridge, she discovered the ferry, and little 'ole me waiting for a ride. Now, I'm sure you're thinking, Corey must be in the dog house for this! When I finally got home, I peeked in the parking lot to see if his car was there because I had left my keys in his car. I knew that if I went to the door without keys Campbell would create a scene of howling and whining sure to annoy me and our neighbors. After spotting his car, I peeked into our bedroom window where I saw a furry man and a dog snuggled up on the bed. SOMEONE with a bad cold had taken some cold medication and passed out, missing the SEVEN phone calls and multiple text messages!
At the end of the day, the adventure I had been searching for and found wasn't only across the lake and on the water but also in the mere coincidence of two people being in the right place at the right time.
To conclude, I dedicate this blog to beavers everywhere!
