Page 125 - "Mississippi in the 1st Person" - Michael James Stone (Demo/Free)

It was nestled at the top of the rise just at the dam and was likely invisible with growth leafed
up and grasses grew tall.

A lot of my mind always came back to what this must look like in the summer and I knew by

pics my view was unique to this time of year and nothing would look the same.

Another reason I started early.

I had brought several tents to demo which was best and for what purpose. I had decided I

wanted to test a toss pop up tent and see how well that held up to camping. I also had my tried
and true dome tent that had seen years of action in many states. I counted on this one for rain if
I needed it.

Setting up camp and having a simple Click butane burner, not the tiny backpackers but a full
round burner, I liked not having lightweight mini gear. I put a pot on it and ate hot food, I think
soup. But eating did me in and since I had pitched old faithful I was out for the night almost as

soon as I zipped the zipper.

I woke to wet. Not real sure how, or completely understanding humidity, dew point and Minne-
sota, but almost everything in the tent was wet and outside. If it was covered in the tent it was

dry. Tent walls were wet inside and out.

More curious than bothered I pulled the sleeping bag out and tossed it over the drying rack
there at camp. Tent I was not sure about so I ignored as first light became sunrise as I walked
around drinking an instant chocolate, hot, and admiring the area.

This is what I came for so I enjoyed it. Others may fly by but really at this stage of the Miss
my attitude was I came to learn kayaking and kayak camp and it just happened to be the Mis-
sissippi. So far I was impressed with the area, the river was ok, but too shallow and way too

much mud.

I loved the Pine trees, I could see bushes that would turn green and willows or aspens occa-
sionally. Sitting so far down on the water really made trees and minor hills seem larger than

they were.

Today though I could tell I was acclimating and pace slowing down to the environment.

I felt….calmer. Assured. Less mapping and targeting camps and more nature watch and seeing

animal life. While I had enjoyed meet and greet with two canoeist, I didn’t want company for
camping or paddling.

I was still in solitude mode and it was a welcome friend whom I enjoyed the companionship.