On Tuesday, Oct 17, 2017 eleven Tuesday Group paddlers woke up to the crispest fall temperature this year. Everyone was trying to figure out how to dress for a day on the water. The weather prognosticators predicted sunshine, low winds, and a gradually warming air temp that would rise to the low 60s in the afternoon. The eleven paddlers gathered at the James City County Marina near Jamestown Island to launch. Some launched at the dry launch, some at the boat landing. We were delayed a bit by the infamous traffic at the Hampton Roads bridge tunnel and the I-64 road construction. We started out around 10 a.m. and the air had warmed considerably. The paddle was planned by Phyllis—who couldn’t actually be there due to a scheduling conflict—and what a job she did. High Tide was at 11:15 so when we reached the swamp end of the creek we were able to paddle further than we ever had. Thank you Phyllis. We were able to see bald eagle, woodpeckers, jumping bass, and numerous water fowl. The day was just pleasant—a relaxed paddle of 8 1/2 miles (yes, Bruce J. was with us but he behaved! So did Bill B.) with perfect weather conditions.
Afterward, we loaded our kayaks and debated where to eat. The options were Toby’s Dog House or The Carrot Tree. The Carrot Tree is more upscale, so we chose Toby’s Dog House. Some were confused as to the location since the Carrot Tree had moved and Toby’s Dog House is in the old location for the Carrot Tree. But we made it anyway. The only rascally complainer among the group was Margaret P. She doesn’t like hot dogs or BBQ. Bill B. had the Wurst Dog he has ever had. Everyone else enjoyed the fare as we sat outside under a pergola and enjoyed what was maybe one of the last temperate days of the year. I did take special note that Margaret P ate all of what she ordered. After good conversation among friends, we left to go home. Until next week.
Brian
To view Jim A's pictures click on the Link: https://imagesbyjimarend.smugmug.com/Sports/Kayaking/20171017-Powhatan-Creek
Bill's Pictures: https://flic.kr/s/aHsm4NzykN