Sunday, June 06, 2010 TRAVEL DAY As planned, we got up and were on the water early. It was still overcast but it looked like things were starting to break up. In no time we were at the portage to Alpine. We essentially only needed 1 1/2 portages now. So Vickie went back to get some photos of the rapids alongside the trail while I hauled the last of our gear across. I was sitting on a rock at the Alpine end of the portage waiting for Vickie. Alone with my thoughts, reminiscing about what a great trip we had had. Suddenly I heard a familiar voice. "Hey! What do you think you're doing?!? Come on back with me so we can get a picture of us together by the rapids." I have been across this portage several times over the years. I still think it's a very scenic portage. Just took it for granted I guess. That was another great thing about this trip. I got to see many things anew through Vickies' eyes. It gave me great pleasure to see her really enjoying herself here.
It was warming up nicely as we crossed Alpine. We hit the 97 rod portage, where years earlier I had a close encounter with a bull moose. Seen no moose this time. We took a break at the Sea Gull end. I told Vickie it was ALL paddling from here. Some blue sky started to show itself now. The wind picked up a bit, but mostly it was a pleasant paddle. We pulled over at the palisades for a breather. There were a couple of noisy ravens there that reminded us of our time on Cherry. We had a good laugh.
Before we new it we were pulling into the landing. I ran up and grabbed my van to bring it around. As I came out I handed Vickie one of the cans of chocolate mocca coffee she had left there for when we got back. Wish I had a picture of her smile! We quickly loaded up. Changed out of our wet boots and made tracks back to Tuscrora outfitters for a hot shower. Even though it had rained the Cross river along the road to Tuscarora still looked empty. We chatted some with Andy & Sue about our trip. Thanked them again for their help getting us off on the right track. After a nice shower, we headed back to Trail Center for another very good meal. That first meal out. It's always nice to have someone else cook it & clean up afterwards. From there we headed homeward bound.
As I stated. Going in I was admittedly a bit nervous about how this trip would go. Having completed it and had some time to absorb & compare the memories to past trips. I don't think I would've dared dream that things could've went as well as they did. Vickie took the the BWCAW like a duck to water. In a matter of days she was completely competent in most of the everyday duties and we really clicked. Obviously I have done many trips and they have all been special in there own way. But I must say, for me to share this very special place with such a very special person......It had been the most enjoyable, memorable trip I've ever spent up there. Jasper Lake, Alpine Lake, Sea Gull Lake

Lakes Traveled:   Jasper Lake, Alpine Lake, Sea Gull Lake,