Day 18 Mississippi River
(9-9-17)
I woke up this morning knowing it would be a slower AM, as I had to catch up on some of my journal entries that I had pushed off for the past few days. While I know that they need to be done, like anything, the process takes time. And when you are looking at a map of 2,300 miles and you've only paddled 300 or so in 18 days, it can be tough not to ditch everything and try to make as many miles as possible. I often have to convince myself to slowdown and enjoy the process. Not only does it seem that folks are enjoying reading these updates, but I know that I too will enjoy reading them several years down the line when reminiscing about that "crazy adventure" I took when I was 25. Even with all that said it can still be tough to convince myself to sit still and take the time to bust out a post after 11 hours padding, breaking down and setting up camp in a new location, cooking and cleaning and all the other daily routines that keep life on the river afloat. Still, I know I need to do them as the benefit will pay off down the line...so I do.
After knocking two updates out and grubbing some oatmeal and coffee I loaded the boat and began working toward Brained, MN. Today the paddling was easy, not because of the wind or the weather or a strong current, but because of football. Specifically, Colorado football. My Buffs were set to play Texas St. in Boulder, and I was able to tune into the radio feed via my phone. With my cell plugged into the solar charger I listened to the entire broadcast - two hours before kickoff, through the post game show with player and coach interviews. It was a well received mental break for my mind, something to take it off the fact that I was spending 10 hours in a 16 foot boat again today.
It's also special to listen to the CU broadcast because of the personal connection I have with many of the people calling the game and working behind the scenes. I got my start in radio at 850 KOA, home of the Buffs (and Broncos and Rockies). I interned and worked at the station for over 3 years (maybe 4?), including working behind the scenes on Buffs. My mentor and friend, Andy Lindahl was sideline reporter for the game while a fellow mentor and friend Mark Johnson does play by play. Reid and Shannon work behind the scenes to make sure the show goes on. All 4 I consider friends, and all 4 taught me a lot about the business and life. Unrelated to my connection, the CU broadcast is about as good as it gets in terms of listening to a game on the radio. As someone who intently listens to play-by-play from around the country in an attempt to hone my own craft, I can confidently say the Buffs Broadcast is one of the best in the business. A top tier operation, no doubt.
After the Buffs were through getting another W (2-0 baby) I worked my way down river with my phone turned off, basking in the natural sound of life on the river. Wind rustling, birds chirping, deer spooking, and an occasional fisherman zipping by in a motor boat.
I found camp around 5:30 and called it a day. Chicken noodle soup for dinner. I crawled into the tent before dusk as the Minnesota mosquitos were already bad, and I knew come dark they would be ready to ravage. I watched the first quarter of the Stanford USC game on my phone in the tent. Life ain't so bad out here!
Looking to make miles tomorrow. NFL opening weekend. I might listen to a game or two. Might not. NFL doesn’t get me nearly as amped as college football. Gotta love it. Saturday's are for football, Saturday's are for the river...Saturday's are for the boys (and Buffs).