Our initial canoe outing was a success! We did have one issue to address, seating. Our kiddo wasn’t comfortable during the entire trip and it became evident that her ability to relax, and take a nap would have an impact on everyone’s enjoyment. Before our next outing we found this snazzy little chair called the “everywhere chair” made by CGI Outdoors. This was a life saver! It easily fit in a 16+ foot canoe, the legs are short so it sits close to the ground, it comes with a cup holder and it reclines! We first tried it out on our September 2009 outing on the Niangua River in Missouri. During this day outing our daughter, Sophia found the chair so cozy that she took a nap in the canoe. My wife and I also enjoyed the chair when we took breaks on the gravel bars!
There’s nothing like sharing the thrill of canoeing with your three year old daughter! Just sit back, relax and navigate the current with your beer in one hand and paddle close by in preparation for a little ripple…well, those days are over. There’s a new thrill to be found with a wee one in tow. It’s time to make room for Barbie Dolls, nets, Floatables, and various other toys in the canoe, all of which are strapped down of course to meet LNT standards; at least Barbie is on some sort of a “leash” being dragged down downstream attached to the canoe by her neck and a tow rope. As a parent and outdoor enthusiast (I may be overstating that, the outdoor enthusiast part) I’ve dreamt about the day that me, my wife and our daughter would begin experiencing all that nature can offer together. In 2009 we took the big plunge on the Buffalo River, Arkansas. The itinerary was simple, car camp at Steele Creek and canoe the Buffalo from Pruitt to Hasty, about 8 miles. The water was low and the weather was great. I had to change my thinking from keeping a clean orderly canoe and campsite to being ok with some interesting ins and outs that a 3 year old might need. I also had to relax and find the humor when making frequent stops to investigate our surroundings and splash in the water. Our purpose was to let our daughter have FUN! Planning a low key adventure with few miles was the perfect set up. Who knew sand could be so much fun!
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AuthorI'm your average wanna be adventurist. I spend more time day dreaming about expeditions than actually accomplishing them, but I guess life is the ultimate expedition. |