Woke up this morning to canoes banging around. Sounds like our neighbors are heading out. What time is it anyway? 8 am. Of all the days I wanted to get going early. I was hoping to be at our entry point by noon. Not looking good. Got out of the tent to see that we had at least an inch of rain over night. We thought about making a fire and cooking breakfast, but because everything was wet, and in the interest of time, decided to eat some leftovers from the food pack. Nut rolls, the breakfast of champions.

After a quick bite, we packed up camp and were on the water. Very overcast day today. Not too much in the way of fishing today, main focus was getting home.

About halfway back to the truck, a few drops began to fall. Pretty soon it was enough to pull out the rain gear, and thank goodness we did. It began to pour cats and dogs! We thought we were getting near the next portage when it started to thunder and lightning. By this time, I was ankle deep in water and everything was soaked. We talked about pulling over to the side, but decided to go with the philosophy that we couldn't get any wetter and we wouldn't be getting any closer to the truck.

Once we hit the portage, we waited for 15 minutes or so, just long enough for it to let up. We continued on our way. Soon even the sprinkles went away and it turned out to be a decent day, minus all the mosquitos. Threw in some final casts before reaching the Lake One entry point. Seemed to be a busy place today. We got loaded up and on the road at about 12:30 and our time in the BWCA was officially over.....for this time.

Made a stop for lunch at the Ely Steakhouse. We then proceeded on to Duluth, where I dropped Brandon off. I continued on my way to Saint Louis Park and was at home at about 6:30, not too bad for time. Part of me is glad to be back at the comforts of home and to be able to see my wife, but part of me also misses what I just left. I definitely could have used another day or two, but you guys know what I am talking about.

All in all, a great trip! I can't wait until the next one, the wife might even let me get a second trip in later this year, we'll see. Until next time....happy paddling!

Z