Advantage Lost

I knew it would happen eventually, but I thought I would have more time.

Whatever small advantage I had kayaking with my son has now been lost.

It’s been over a year since Son #2 and I started our weekly excursions together. It started in response to the long weeks, then months, of Covid19 lockdown.

At first we were just hiking – a desire to escape the city and enjoy some fresh air, exercise, and the peace that comes from quiet time in nature.

Rockwood Conservation Area

In the spring, with a need for a change of pace, we added cycling to our adventures.

Caledon Rail Trail

Thornton-Cooksville Rail Trail – the sign said the trail was closed.
Did we ignore it? Yes, we did. Curiosity required that we find out why.

Finally, when the warm weather returned again, I introduced him to paddling.

Misha is half my age. He has the advantage of youth, combined with male strength. While our hikes and bike rides were major workouts for me, they were more of a ‘meditative’ exercise for him.

Niagara Glen – if he found something to climb, Misha climbed it … just because.

However, when we hit the water, and the advantage changed.

I had experience, combined with a much better boat for speed and maneuvrability. Now it was my turn to wait for him to catch up. It was Misha who was worn and tired at the end of the day.

Beavermead Park, Peterborough – Getting ready to go.
The heavy fog we drove in was slowly starting to burn off in this early morning hour.

… but I had underestimated his determination to master the skill.

Cherry Beach, Toronto

While I was blissfully enjoying my relatively easy time on the water, Misha was diligently working on his paddling technique, and learning how to navigate his little tub of a boat. His persistence and inherent strength finally provided the breakthrough.

On our last paddle together, I simply couldn’t keep up. Repeatedly, he had to stop and wait for me, and by the end of the day, I had nothing left to give. While he drove us back to Toronto, I fought to stay awake in the car.

Belwood Lake Conservation Area

While my advantage has now been lost, I recognize that what I’ve gained is – quite simply – immeasurable.