::Nikoneer

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Right now it's windy, rainy and chilly out my deck door glass, but two days ago was what we call "Indian Summer" here--warm yet crisp, plenty of sun, and with a breeze so low that Sweetbriar Creek, here in south-central North Dakota looked like a mirror. After months of working without a real break we decided to take advantage of Monday's glory and got our kayaks in the water one last time for this year (maybe?). I have always loved the contrasts in color and texture between the golden rushes of the wetland shore along this creek, with the dark, compacted foliage of the more semi-permanent trees. Add in the clear (almost--do you see it?) cerulean skies, the reflection always a little darker since it's not backlit by the sun, and I think it projects a feeling of peace that can often last throughout the harsher winter months, a promise that spring will bring back the opportunity of future serene paddling. As always, I cannot recommend kayaking enough for anyone who desires a peace that will dispel the stress of our modern lives.