Tom and I have wanted to try stand up paddle boarding for some time. Living in Minnesota, the Land of 10,000 Lakes, the summer months are the time to splash in the water. However, I think my in-laws and Tom would say, Burntside Lake, in Ely, MN, my husband's hometown, is the best lake in the state. So, over the holiday weekend, we rented boards for the day, loaded them up in the truck and headed to the lake for some fun in the sun. We rented three boards, although one was missing its fins and didn't really steer straight (at least it floated), and took turns paddling around in a calm bay. Some family friends, with a cabin on the lake, joined us for a paddle, then took us on a long pontoon ride. It was a great day!
Tom went first to show us how it was done. He prepared by watching a video on YouTube.
Our son Brodrick really enjoyed the paddle boarding. I didn't get a good picture of him. Which means we will have to do it again.
Both Tom and my father-in-law insisted I was going to fall. Well not just me, but that we were all going to fall. I didn't fall. In fact none of us did.
It took a little coaxing, but my mother-in-law, Cathy, tried it and did great. My father-in-law, Warren, watched from the shore. He had both knees replaced this past year and thinks he'll be ready to give this a try next summer. I hope so!
Family friend and Warren's long-time hunting buddy, Bob. He is also an avid water-skier and he stood right up on his board.
Bob and Jill's daughter Jen.
Finally, family friend Jill who was a natural out there.
