The Puget Sound area was heavily impacted by a warm
storm-front on the weekend, called the 'Pineapple Express'. It dumped a torrent of rain, but pulled in some great warm weather. In spite of the rain, we packed up our gear and drove to Deep Lake, in Millersylvania State Park, for an afternoon of canoeing. This time of year is quite dreary, and shorelines can look drab and uninviting. I often do not film in winter, partly because of the drab greys and partly because I do not want my camera to get wet. Yet, we pack a lunch and a thermos of cocoa, and the day usually has something of a redeeming value. 
Canoeing in winter is much like 'first appearances' with people. Get beyond the drizzle of rain, cold fingers, and the uncertainties lying under the water or around the next bend, and you will glide peacefully without much incident. In winter, that is the goal, to read the weather and water, and determine that the movement will take you to a good destination. It leaves the crush of adgendas and the fast paced schedules behind. It promotes pauses and gentle conversation. At this time of year, all the reeds are a brittle tan, and spotted with fungus and decay. Eventually the waves and water rot them, and new spring shoots rise up. Branches and trees hang over the water, and a number of lures and lines were hanging from overhead branches. Probably a good fishing spot. We were the only paddlers on this lake. Come summertime, the nearby camping and picnicing areas will be filled, and children will be swimming, bird-watching, mountain biking, and throwing horseshoes around the firepits. Interpretive trails and an environmental learning center are also part of Millersylvania State Park. As George loaded up the canoe, I wandered along the boat-ramp, and this friendly couple greeted me. 
They are also from Tacoma, and had spent the afternoon enjoying the park. The soft music from someones CD player lilted across the lake, and laughter and conversations broke out among the visitors here. If I closed my eyes, I could almost imagine summertime, sunshine, and the aroma of hotdogs on the grill.
They are also from Tacoma, and had spent the afternoon enjoying the park. The soft music from someones CD player lilted across the lake, and laughter and conversations broke out among the visitors here. If I closed my eyes, I could almost imagine summertime, sunshine, and the aroma of hotdogs on the grill.
