What a day!

I awoke, snuggled under the soft feel of cotton sheets and peeked out the window at the crack of dawn. It was a calm day. The water was calling me. I jumped into action, and silently got ready. Thank you to both Stan and Marilyn Butt and Molly and Dustin Spence for all your hospitality.

Upon the water, I paddled out of Rocky Harbour and across Bonne Bay, with partial views of the Tablelands ahead of me. Wisps of clouds floated across the rocky heights with shafts of light illuminating spots on the clouds and cliffs. I noticed a thin, white, vertical streak near Western Head. I aimed the kayak for this white mark in the distance, as Bonne Bay remained placid. I landed at the waterfall and also noticed an arch in the nearby rock.

I continued paddling along the southern portion of Gros Morne National Park, awed by the spectacular scenery. Verdant cliffs plunged to jade green water. Rocks were textured with the appearance of leopard skin. I paddled past at least 3 dozen sheep grazing on remarkably steep meadows. I came across sea stacks and grottoes.
I stopped a few more times for photo opportunities, including a towering waterfall plunging only two meters from water's edge onto a pebble beach. I stood beneath the pummeling shower of water that fell from dizzying heights. How refreshing.

I felt like I was paddling through a Heavenly paradise.

I entered Trout River Bay, where I found Leonard and Dorothy White and their grandson, Mitch Brake. I'm camped facing the Gulf between two vegetable gardens on the edge of Trout River on a luscious lawn. I showered and then explored the community. I found the Seaside Restaurant, a place that is listed in the "Where to Eat" guide for Canada for many years now. In brilliant sunshine and a refreshing breeze, I sat above the wooden promenade that sweeps along the perimeter of the sandy bay. With Quidi Vidi beer, onion rings, a chef's salad and a superlative view, I was feeling the joy of the journey. I hadn't pushed for extra kilometers. I'd stopped after only 4 hours of paddling, and was enjoying the beauty of the moment. I felt great and met Verna, the waitress at the restaurant, a very friendy villager from Trout River.

Back at the White's home, I felt sluggish. The sunshine, early morning departure, and no doubt a beer as well, had me feeling fatigued. The water remains calm, sparkling like a glitter gown under Hollywood's spotlights, but, I'm on land, too tired to move southwards. It was a great day! Thanks to Mitch Brake for the use of his computer.