A paddle, a waterfall, and a Pie Eyed Monk

Although my favorite place in the world is Camp Wyoka, my favorite area is the Kawarthas. And I've been blessed to have spent the week there with my family.

Frank (Sparky500) and I took the canoe out very early in the morning to paddle Burleigh Falls to The Hidden Channel. I can't say I've ever had a more serene paddle on water like glass, with no sounds on the lake except the dip of our paddles.

With the calm lake and surreal backdrop, Sparky500 and I were able to glide easily to our destination, picking up caches along the way, pausing occasionally to revel in our surroundings.

Passing through the Hidden Channel, we found a geocache and were happy to see the names of 2 of our friends in the logbook - Jatmo and Zorkmid. It's these times where we realize that even though we weren't together for the paddle, we now share a common bond.

Passing quickly to an underwater hide, we were accompanied by a mama loon and her baby, who swam alongside us and kept us company with their calls.  Paddling back, we came close to the falls and shared in a quiet moment with a blue heron who didn't mind us joining him.

The pitter patter of raindrops surrounded us as we made the last few strokes back to the car.

Back at our campsite, the girls and the dogs were just waking up and excited to start the day.  We had decided on a trip to Furnace Falls, which definitely didn't disappoint.

While the kids, the dogs and I splashed in the waves, Sparky500 sunned himself on the shore.

Happy and waterlogged, we made a quick stop on the way back to Emily Park, since it was the opening day for Pie Eyed Monk brewery, and we didn't want to miss out on the action!

Excitement was buzzing in the air, as they were putting on the final touches and serving the masses that came out to support them.  This brewery is going to go far!  With their genuine and welcoming staff, their delicious brews, and their line of craft sodas - the vanilla pear is one of the best things I've tasted and reminds me of a tea that I'd once had with a late friend, John Barbieri at his shop in Montreal.  It's funny how certain flavors can bring you back to a time and place, and make you long for people that have since passed on. For me, this soda will always help to your memory alive, John John!

One last stop for some Kawartha Dairy ice cream, before heading back to Emily.

Back at camp, we were met by some friends who happened to be camping there as well, and we introduced them to the wonderful world of craft beer.  I'm the first to admit that craft beer can be a bit intimidating if you don't know where to start.

Luckily, Pie Eyed Monk has some amazing beginner brews, and I think that Dave and Burnt are on their way to being craft brewsaders!

Cheers and Happy Caching, 

Frank (Sparky500) and Julie (Sparkel)