So, after a weekend that included a bunch of running training and bookwork and researching and developing a flexibility training class for my advanced runners, I finally got my weekly day off yesterday. Fortunately, a couple of friends were also free for the day and we decided it was time for a Girls’ Day Out!
Now, in a previous life, or for many of my friends, Girls’ Day Out might signify a lot of things – maybe a late lunch at a small friendly restaurant, maybe shopping down the strip of the local shopping center. Maybe a couple of drinks. Perhaps, as a real splurge, an afternoon at the spa… massages, facials, nails.
For the three of us, this is NOT what we meant. WE meant a real day OUT! Out in the woods, out on the river. This day turned out a little differently, too. After several years of paddling, my only experience with an “all girls” trip has been several all-women’s clinics (taught by Anna Levesque – a fabulous kayaking instructor!). I paddle frequently with several women, but before, it seems, we’ve always linked up with larger groups that include men (and/or boys). This time, though we let people know we were going, it turned out to be just the 3 of us women. I finally have the confidence on this river that it didn’t make me overly worried that I was the experienced one on the trip.
After setting shuttle and gearing up (still spring paddling in CHILLY water), we hit the river. The day was sparkling, the river was sparkling. Recent rains guaranteed small waterfalls and streams were feeding the river and the level stayed fine. Three friends, even though two of us had never really met. Talking, laughing, floating, paddling down the river. Harder stuff, easier stuff… didn’t matter.
Friends on the Locust
It’s different than paddling with guys – even the supportive ones are likely to be too protective or impatient with our need to look and “check it out.” With this group, it was easy to “stop and look” or “read and run.” Advice was offered without being orders and we were each free and comfortable to make our own decisions. Conversations that would NEVER happen with men around. A lot of appreciation of the sheer beauty of our environment.
One small mishap late in the run set us on our way to the takeout a little sooner, and with
Jeanne runs Double Trouble
fewer photos :{ than we planned. But even the mishap showed how well we worked together and supported each other, allowing each to work to their own capacity and ask for help when it was needed.
Get out with the girls! Challenge yourself, support each other, do something that’s hard and KNOW that you have the capacity to make it happen for yourself.
Tags: Courage, ignite, Play, self esteem, Whitewater