#14 Meech Lake, QC. 2004

I love my job. Teaching canoeing is fun, and challenging, and has so many rewards. But perhaps the most gratifying has been watching my students grow. I have taught all 13 of my nieces and nephews over the years and it has been a joy to see them all become comfortable and confident in a canoe. And none more than Willa Mason who has embraced the Mason family passion for paddling becoming a guide for Black Feather - The Wilderness Adventure Company and an exceptional Paddle Canada instructor! If she hasn't yet, then she will soon surpass paul and me in skills and ability; and that is exactly how it should be. :-) So, who taught you your first canoe strokes?

About Today's Paddling Pic: These last few days and weeks I've found myself looking back on some wonderful memories and images of where canoeing has taken me, and it's made me smile. I feel so fortunate and grateful for these places, people and experiences, and it's kind of nice to reminisce. And in doing so I can't help but to also look forward to a time when we can all paddle safely again! So for the next while Reid and I are posting a picture a day (with a story) that will brighten our day and hopefully yours too. I invite you to share your stories in the comment section.