It was a chore convincing Kathryn to join us, mostly because of her apprehension about sleeping in a tent. Will, who has watched too many grizzly bear attack shows on Animal Planet, bless his heart, told Kathryn the night before we had a "50-50 chance of being attacked by a bear." After talking through that one, a reassured Will was ready for the show.
Armed with a spinning rod, we started the four-hour float on Class I and II rapids at midday. I pulled in a few fat rainbows, but spent most of the day steering the canoe raft. The Hiwassee, fed by mountain streams before emptying into the Tennessee River, is a marvel of nature. More like a Western mountain tributary, it's teeming with healthy fish, elegant waterfowl and a cornucopia of aquatic life.
I think these photos say it all. We had a blast.
We woke early to explore the river and Gee Creek. Before heading home, we visited the picturesque Delano Farm Market run by the Mennonites. The market overlooks a well-run 50-acre operation. A sign asked customers to respect the market by wearing proper clothing. The two hundred customers who stormed the market at its opening complied, thankfully. I didn't see an exposed navel, tattoo or nose ring.
Like viewing a painting, we absorbed horse-pulled buggies, windmills and Mennonite women harvesting in the valley. A Mennonite gentleman tallied our produce, which included corn, cucumbers, red potatoes, plump tomatoes and banana walnut bread, on a cash register the Waltons may have used.
On the way home, we talked about similarities and differences with modern markets. I had planned the visit to buy good food but probably more to ensure our children view life outside our bubble.
On a scale of 1 to 10, Will ranked the trip a 9.75 while Kathryn gave it a 7.5. Both said the only downer was the ruckus neighboring campers created well past dusk. Will loves nature and wants to camp again soon. I'm game. I had a terrific time.
