A chance to wet a line

We are at Santee State Park along the shore of Lake Marion,SC.   Our site overlooks the peaceful (at least during the week) lake and there are some cool birds to watch: bald eagles, heron, grebes and lots of woodpeckers.  Huge flocks of some sort of migratory birds come in over the far side of the lake in the evenings.  They are too far away for me to identify but the undulating clouds that stretch on for miles are amazing to watch.  I have seen deer close to camp most mornings.  We spent a few hours out in the boat yesterday.  We fished but we didn’t catch anything but naps in the sunshine.  That was just fine.

56…

We celebrated my Birthday with a trip to Santee National Wildlife Refuge.  A couple short walks took us along wetlands and near the lake. Kentspotted a reclusive American Bittern (it is a wading bird sort of like a heron) and we caught a glimpse of the bright colored crowns of two different little Kinglets.  Gators were basking in the sun too.  Out for dinner rounded out a relaxing, fun day.

Homecoming Football Game 40 years later

I joined the Wahama Alumni Band for homecoming 2012.  It was great to play again at the game.  Brought back a lot of memories.  We did; The National Anthem, alma mater, fight song and performed at half-time including playing for the introduction of the queen and court.  Got a couple of compliments on the performance and was proud to represent the school again.  Thanks to the real band for standing aside and allowing us alum another chance.

2nd row left side in picture is Kent

Bobsled

Who knew you could ride a 4-man bobsled in shorts and a tee shirt. Well you can at the Lake Placid Olympic park. What a rush! I was the first run of the day. Time for the half mile just over 44 seconds, top speed 55+ mph. You get bumped around a little and pull some g’s in the corners. Lots of fun. The ride was on the track used for 1932 & 1980 Olympics that has been retired from competition by sled improvements, the 90 mph sleds don’t stay on it.
We walked down the new combined (luge, bob and skeleton) track which is undergoing final prep for icing Oct 1. That really puts the ride into perspective. There were places I had to squat down to avoid the safety overhang and the height of the big turns was amazing. Ten to 12 feet outside and 2 feet inside. They host a world cup competition in early November and they allow “public” luge rides on weekends after the ice is set. Maybe? NOT