I’ve been working around the house the last day or so getting ready for construction and the big trip. Big trip, you ask? This is the year I start the circumnavigation of Lake Superior. Construction? Getting a new roof and trying to get everything done around the house before summer so that the family doesn’t have to worry. While not unusual for us to get jobs done in the spring so that summer is enjoyed, this year has a little more of a twist. Things can’t be put off. Procrastination is outlawed and what a year to have winter into summer! I was only able to get to some garden-tending yesterday and even then I had to break through some ice while staring at a two foot swath of snow along the garage wall. It’s happened before, I know, but it was the ice this year, and it proves you can’t count on the weather or the Earth to always cooperate in your life journey. The kayak trip will be 
along those lines. I am not going with an itinerary, and not going with any special navigation devices or smart phone malarkey, I will truly be at the mercy of the elements. Kinda like our house was with the old roof. Security in planning and foresight before danger are always good plans, thus the reason for no timeline in a kayak. Who knows where I’ll want to stay or where I’ll be weathered in. If I place a schedule, it takes the moments away and would cause me to worry too much about the next day. Not that I won’t have those thoughts and make advanced plans, I’ll simply be able to do those things as the hours allow. Why waste my time with the perfect schedule for an imperfect environment? A stationary structure like this house abides by those rules, Lake Superior doesn’t – ever! As the roofer’s roof, I will head to the studio and continue pouring over maps, charts, books, and packing lists so that the planning I am able to do coincides with the security of a new roof. Essentials are important.
Construction and the big trip
May 2, 2018
stewert james
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An author with a story. Living in a quiet Northern Michigan community, nestled into a serene Lake Michigan bay, James writes to the rhythms of current events mixed with romanticism and experience that can only be found by living the same adventures. Whether it’s a provocative story line or blog, this website will certainly take you beyond the keyboard.
I’ve heard that it’s good to wear a wet suit for Lake Superior paddling, though not a full body one. Mighty cold water there.