I was awake at 0700 (slept in!) and read for the next few hours. Katie and John didn't get up until almost 0900 so, by then, I was packed and ready to go. Katie offered to make some pancakes for me and I ended up visiting with her and John until almost 1100. After that, I said goodbye and got in my car for the drive back to New Hampshire. I got on MA-3 and had some trouble near the I-93 merge. After that, though, the traffic wasn't too bad. On the way, I listened to audio books. The weather was great so I decided to stop for a paddle before I got home. Got off of I-93 at Hooksett (MA-3A) and made my way (via backroads) to the Bow High School. I'd read in my AMC paddling book that there were three lakes nearby but learned that the one near the school was not connected to the others. Instead of kayaking immediately, I drove (via more back roads) north and into Concord. By 1245, I'd located another boat launch. In what will probably be my last paddle of 2023, I stopped at Turkey Pond (in the city limits of Concord but close to the Bow line) on my way back from the South Shore. In the area, there are actually three ponds connected to each other: Little (North) Turkey, (South) Turkey and Turee that offered the possibility for multiple hours of fun. Starting at the south end of (South) Turkey, I headed north (on the west side) so I could access Little Turkey. This took me under I-89 and answered a question I’ve had since moving to the area: “what river is that?” (answer = “it’s not”)… Again, there lots of pretty colors, birds and a “bluebird sky.” I had a fight a bit of wind in places but was mostly able to relax on the water. In the northern pond, I explored several coves and wended my way between several small islands. Backtracking, I explored the southern pond a bit more - I was hoping to be able to access Turee Brook but it was far to shallow and reed choked. Instead, I settled for the rare treat of startling a well camouflaged heron who stood stock-still, hoping I wouldn’t see him. I’ve never been so close! Dragonflies liked my kayak - they practically swarmed me. Finished with four miles (1+40) on “Tequila Sunrise”. What a great year on the waters of New England! After getting done (1450), I drove (via backroads) to I-89 and headed north. I listened to audio books on the way and made good time. Approaching Grantham, I decided to get off the highway to have an early dinner at The Farmer's Table, which I'd heard was really good. When I arrived (1600), however, I learned that it had gone out of business at that location. Instead, I picked up a freshly-made sandwich, some tortellini salad and chips by the friendly staff at the Rum Brook Market. I started my dinner in my car (1615) but then headed towards Lebanon again. Before going home, I stopped at Sacred Heart, where I did some more paint chipping for Father Charles (1630 and 1730). After that, I attended our monthly Knights of Columbus meeting in the Parish Hall (1800 to 1900). Driving home afterwards, I unloaded my car from the weekend trip and stowed my kayak for the season. By 2030, I was finally able to relax again. This was a very nice weekend of relaxing, outdoor activities, visiting and enjoying the last of the "summer" weather!
