Rafting – Day One

What was I thinking.  Am I this rugged outdoors girl with no fears. NOT.  The night before our trip we had a meeting with the head guide to let us know what to expect.  We got lessons on how to pack in our waterproof bags, where to eat in the little town of Cambridge and what to expect on the river.  Oh, and by the way, they warned us of the poisin ivy and RATTLESNAKES.  I think I could have cancelled on the spot but talked with the woman in charge and she let me know how rare it is but just be careful.  So a good night sleep and off we go to the Snake River in Hells Canyon.  Our first day we have several Cat IV rapids and they were totally fun.  The rafting in the paddle boat was really great and Debbi was in the front.  There were six of us and our guide (Jeffrey) in that boat with others in kayaks and on the oar boat.  Our campsite was cool and the meal was great.  But the highlight was playing cards with my Elliot, Stephen and David, the young guys on the trip (10, 17 and 22 years old respectively).  Elliot’s dad also played with us and we had a ball playing poker, “I Doubt It” and other card games.  Oh, but I wanted to tell you about the guide’s little practical joke.  Before dinner when I was sitting in the “dining room” he tried to convince me that a snake was on the ground behind me.  I knew he was just joking so I ignored him until he, frustrated that I wouldn’t look, went a picked up the snake to show me.  Even though it was a rubber snake I freaked out, called him a really bad name and threw a chair at him.  So much for the first day.