Thursday, July 16, 2009 - High 58 Low 51. Up early for a toasted bagel breakfast before our many mile portage day. We were packed on the lake by 6:45 - everything was kind of damp as it continued to drizzle on and off. Four portages and short paddles through beautiful little BWCA scenic lakes....Banadad to Sebeka 95 rods; Sebeka to Ross 180 rods, Ross to Cave 195 rods, Cave to Long Island Lake 109 rods - total of 7.5 miles which included 580 rods of portages that were double portaged - nearly 6 miles portaging!. Some elevation changes along the way, but not too bad. Wet spots along the way, mosquitos in the swampy areas. Some muck, etc between Ross to Cave Lake. Met a group of young people coming the other direction - we loved their enthusiasm! On and off drizzle, plenty of wind even for small lakes. Decided to try for the recommended camp site on the East island site on Long Island Lake and it was open!! Great site 280 degree views, lots of space, etc. Got set up and everything dried out as it was windy. The gray weather was beginning to damper our spirits. Got some wood cut and thought the weather would have to improve soon. Spaghetti and Cache Lake garlic bread for dinner - yummmm. Drizzle becoming heavier - to tent for cribbage, reading and another early night. Quote for day - Balance is important in life - stay centered, go slow