Blog Post 1

Canoe Adventure

    The class recently underwent a field trip to Benbrook Lake for a sunset canoe trip. We loaded up the vans with all of the necessary gear and packed in, heading out on this seemingly spontaneous adventure. I had completely forgotten about this excursion until I walked into class earlier that day. I had also previously had a pretty long day as I had back to back classes in the morning, with an accompanying test that I had stayed up late studying for. Nevertheless, I was determined to make the most of this experience as I had never been canoeing before. I think people overlook the power of spending time doing an outdoor activity, and the effect it can have on one’s mental health and well being. 

    Upon arrival at the lake, the group’s first observation was the hefty amount of wind, creating a decent water current. We suddenly knew this was not going to be an easy paddle, but despite a little fear, we unloaded the canoes and hauled them down to the water. My second observation was the thick mud that surrounded the water. I surveyed my surroundings and noticed that the natural waterline was, at one point, much higher than where it currently stood. I wondered what could be the reason for this, perhaps the record breaking heat Texas had seen this summer, or maybe this was just a part of the natural ebb and flow of the lake during this season. 

    After wading through the wet concrete like mud, the boats were submerged, as were my shoes. My partner and I were the first ones on the lake and we immediately paddled upstream, attempting to utilize our strength early on and then easily float down current on the return. The waves created by the wind definitely seemed stronger once actually in the water, so we attempted to keep the nose of the canoe head on to it, fearful if we turned to the side we would flip. After our strenuous battle with the current, we finally surrendered, turning around and letting it float us downwind.

    In front of us was now the setting sun, glistening over the water. A surreal feeling of relaxation washed over me, and my partner and I both stopped paddling and just watched in awe. Texas’ natural landscape has never really wowed me, but in that moment I saw its true beauty. Overall, this experience allowed me to step outside my rigid academic schedule and just enjoy doing something I never get the opportunity to. 

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