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Gillette Lake,
Columbia River Gorge |
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"I can't wait to go hikin' daddy", a little rocket voice shot out weekend after weekend. I could not resist this weekend as the weather report promised mid-seventies and sunny skies. Johnny helped me pack up for a jaunt around an area Amber and I knew all too well. Gillette Lake was close-by and offered easy terrain to explorer in.
The hike started off in earnest, but ended after 250 feet as Johnny could not contain himself and took a face plant into the gravel road. I loaded him back into carrier and back to the truck we went. Since the Toyota came with a nifty, well-equipped first-aid kit, ten minutes was all it took to patch up my little fire ball and get him back on the trail.
While hiking towards Kidney Lake, I decided we should explore the road that detoured the power line trail. The road offered easy footing and placid elevation gains before intersecting with the PCT just before Gillette Lake. Although this plan required us to pass through a gate warning of no trespassing. I assumed it was intended towards motorized vehicles.
I breathed in the fresh air and truly missed all my time I have spent out-of-doors. Although I have a lot planned this year, the weather forced reminiscing of past hikes, encouraging anxious longing. My youngins' snapped me out of my haze with a cute smile for the camera. It was easy to get them to smile as the butterflies seemed enamored with my hat, landing on my head and staying there for a quarter mile.
While enthralled with Johnny's enthusiasm, I wondered if he would ever be into hiking like his daddy and big sister were. I wondered if he would ever "get it" as most do not. I have learned over time that one cannot force another to think like themselves. One can only wait and see for themselves.
We soon reached the lake as the children went autopilot. They found water features, bugs, salamanders and fish. I stripped off clothing and basked in the hot sun, trying to turn my blindingly white skin into something darker. It was a challenge to round them up for a good lathering of sun screen.
The day heated up quickly as I got up and sauntered my way over to Johnny who was playing with some rocks in the spring water. I asked him if he wanted to build a dam with me and I was quickly chastised for using foul language. I tried my best to explain, but he was already well on his way.
Amber caught a baby brook trout with her hands which inspired her to look for more.
Although beautiful, it was getting hot out as I convinced my little explorers to retreat into the shade for cooler exploring. Amber asked if she could borrow my poles for some fording practice. I did not hesitate. Although she dared me first, this little creek is nothing compared to rivers as I shuffled my way across its' width. She managed to nearly match my speed. Afterwards, with cold feet, we squished our way back to the truck. An hour drive saw us at home where a water balloon fight promptly began.
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