Aki's Kayaking Adventures
It's been a few month since Aki's last real river trip, but with warm weather finally here it's time to get back on the water. At this age we're just focusing on playing in the water and while weekly swim lessons continue, it's time for playtime in boats. For as Rat taught us in The Wind in the Willows:
"It's the only thing," said the Water Rat solemnly, as he leant forward for his stroke. "Believe me, my young friend, there is nothing–absolutely nothing–half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats."
We took an NRS Tomkat, an Inflatable Kayak, down the Yakima River outside Benton City on Saturday. I have to thank our friends at Seattle Raft and Kayak for suggesting this boat which is great for kids on the river. Aki can reach over the side and play in the water without falling in and he has plenty of space to play around in front while I keep an eye on him.
Aki practicing his bracing.
Let's see, how far can you get out on a low brace?
Working on some sculling strokes.
It's all about having fun with the paddle (which involves occassionally throwing into the river).
Taking a nap in the boat.
On Sunday we came back to Seattle to meet the Jackson Family who were in town with all the new boats from Jackson Kayak. Aki had fun climbing into all the boats to check them out. This is the new slalom race boat called the Ricochet.
Aki eventually settled on a Jackson Fun 1. This is a kids boat and here Aki is adjusting the Happy Feet outfitting.
Aki watches the big kids and tries to mimic the paddle strokes.
We're out on the shore of Lake Washington just playing around in the water.
Practicing a brace (or maybe just stirring up the gravel).