Kayaking on Shem Creek

Yesterday, my mom and I drove to Mount Pleasant for the kayak tour at Shem Creek. Other than maybe at camp a time or two when I was growing up, this was my first time kayaking that I can actually remember. Certainly, my first time kayaking as an adult.

It was a little touch and go when they pushed me backward into the water. First, I couldn’t see where I was going, then I had to figure out how to turn myself around so I could start paddling forward—paddling backward seemed too difficult at first—and as I was trying to accomplish that task I also had to get comfortable with my balance in the kayak. It felt much easier to tip over than I had anticipated.

Eventually, though, I managed to turn myself around. There was a lot of boating activity between the docks, of course, so paddling through the waves was a little nerve-wracking, but once we got out into the open water it was a little easier to handle, and I was able to experiment with my paddle some to figure out which maneuvers accomplished which tasks, like slowing down or coming to a full stop, pivoting the kayak, gaining speed, coasting, etc. Once I got the hang of it, I felt like a natural. I definitely want to go again, but maybe not when it’s so hot! I felt like a boiled shrimp by the end of the tour, and I walked away with some sunburn despite wearing sunscreen.

All in all, it was a fun day. I enjoyed doing something outdoors in nature, which as a homebody is totally out of my comfort zone, so I’m glad I pushed myself out of my bubble. I don’t have a naturally adventurous spirit, but I always love getting to experience that energy. I definitely want more of that in my life going forward.