Annual Boat Ride

We started a tradition on Memorial Day. Although we don't go North (oh, the traffic!!!!), we still have the inherent need of Northern kids to be at the lake. For the last three years, we've satisfied this need by taking Mike's boat out - even if it's just for a couple hours! We need our kids to be Northern kids at heart ... and to feel the pull of the lake!

This year was no different. After we got ready for the day, I packed  up a picnic lunch, Mike hooked up the boat, everyone slathered on sunscreen, and we were off. It was a bit of a line to get launched, but we did get the last parking spot at the landing. The kids were super excited to get out, but were also interested in watching all the other boats go out or come in.

Mike and I quickly got the boat launched. Then while I was getting the kids out of the car, Mike made a quick circle and the boat was working fine. As soon as the kids and I got in, the motor refused to work. We had the trolling motor, so just used that. However, Mike was disappointed/frustrated that the motor was up to its usual annoying tricks. We anchored out by a small island and the kids dropped their fishing lines in the water. Each of the girls caught a fish - all by themselves! And Declan got to touch the fish [gently] before Mike released them back into the water. 

It was a pretty hot day and the sun was at its peak. So we only stayed out for 90 minutes or so. But we had a great time fishing, eating our lunch, and trolling around the lake. Fiona thoroughly enjoyed lounging in the front of the boat when we drove around, Dec was all over watching Dad drive and tinker with the motor, and Quinn enjoyed watching the other boats. We also had a few lessons on wakes - and enjoying riding out the waves from passing boats. We saw a few tubers and can't wait to test out Grandpa's new tube over the 4th of July.

We all look forward to this annual "kick off the summer" tradition. It's the best way to bring a little of the North to us.