For a while, I've been dreaming of a kayak that can fit into my car and that I can lift by myself. When the mood struck to get out on the water, I yearned to be able to do so with ease and independence. A few weeks ago my family drove up to Old Town and found the perfect kayak to fit my needs. Since then I've kayaked all over the area: the Pemaquid River, Damariscotta Lake, Biscay Pond, Pemaquid Pond, Damariscotta Harbor and the other day, Pemaquid Harbor. My walking buddy, Beth, is also my kayaking buddy and we've had a blast exploring nooks and crannies all over the peninsula early mornings and late afternoons. I'm in Kayak Heaven!
We met up last Sunday morning, grabbed a cinnamon bun to go at The Cupboard Cafe and then launched into Pemaquid Harbor right near The Contented Sole restaurant. Although neither of us has sea kayaks the water was calm so we ventured out into Johns Bay past the rocky shores and around the corner to ride the waves into Pemaquid Beach.
The tide was low so we pulled our kayaks up and climbed onto the rocks for our outrageously delicious snack and some peaceful rest. One doesn't realize how quickly the tide changes until you're trying to prevent a kayak from floating away in the changing current. Our conversations on these trips always includes our fortune at living in such an incredibly beautiful place that has so much to offer.
After a lovely respite, we headed back out into Johns Bay and pointed our kayaks towards the harbor. The ride back with the waves was fun and we went through dock pilings and moored boats. We meandered right along the edge of the rocks and watched sailboats and lobster boats coming and going. Others were enjoying a beautiful morning sitting in Adirondack Chairs on the shore, while some children fished from a dinghy. As I arrived back at the beach and we hauled our kayaks out I ran into one of my clients and her husband with their beach chairs, kayaks, sunday paper and novels...set for a glorious day. I guess this is why they say, "Maine, the way life should be."
Debby Schling
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