Laboring Day

Even though most people think of Labor Day as the end of summer, I like to hang onto summer as long as I can. And technically, I have at least 17 more days of it!

So today, in honor of Labor Day and a paid holiday, we grabbed the nearest Union member we could find and went kayaking. Well, it's kind of just coincidence that Mike is a Union member but do sincerely thank all union members and hard-working folk who made this day possible!

The fearsome finless foursome took a new route today. We put in at Galecke Park between Rapids and Plover, then labored our way up the Wisconsin River over to Rusty's Backwater Saloon. All totaled, it was a 5.55-mile paddle.

Had a mix of sun and clouds (mostly clouds) but no rain. Yay.

Due to a very high amount of boat traffic, there was not much in the way of wildlife today. Tried to get close to my little winged friend here but he took off.

Saw some lily pads but got my fill of them last time so only slowed down when I saw this busy bee. Of course, he took off before I could snap another photo. Probably good since we don't need bees around my allergic hubby.

We got to paddle into a little inlet for lunch. I thought it was cool that we crossed through what used to be a bridge.

Wasn't really a shoreline at Rusty's so we all ungracefully stepped out of our kayaks onto a dock and pulled the vessels ashore. The bar and grill was packed but we all enjoyed a tasty lunch! Were just as graceful getting back into the water after, but still managed to stay dry!

Cindy and I decided summer ain't over 'til we say it's over. And it ain't over. There is still more 'yaking to do. Just gotta find the time and daylight!

The view of the old bridge as we leave the cove.

Between the boats and the wind, the water was crazy wavy today. So there was some laboring going on! We just hit a pocket of calm near this island so I had to record it. You can see how cloudy it was at this point.

Hubby heading home and back to the work week. Sad face.

On a happy note, we connected with college boy via text tonight. He had a busy and fun weekend and met lots of people. He even picked up his textbooks today. So he just has to set his alarm tonight and tomorrow the adventure begins!