A Day on the Kenai

A reflection

Black ice, snow , no wind, 35 degrees, coffee, day old pizza, year old Levi Garret. A recipe for a great day on the Kenai.

I recently heard that its not the experience that changes you its actually in the reflection of that experience where the treasure is found. I find this to be very true.

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4am wake up. Brew the coffee. Hook up the boat trailer. Hit the road.

This is how many mornings have started for my brother and I and this time was no different. It had actually been a couple years since Wade and I have fished together. Time is moving too fast.

We chat, catching up on random things in life. Three hours later we get to the boat launch and are on the water just after day break.

These days I am just as excited to grab some memories with my camera as I am about the actual activity.

Only a few others on the water that day. We start fishing and it doesn’t take long to hook up and get fish to the boat. World renowned Alaska rainbow trout. Never gets old.

As I look back and reflect on this day its not the fish I remember.

It’s the generosity of my brother as he guides me.

It’s the smiles and high fives after landing a big fish.

It’s the conversation.

It’s just doing something fun in nature with my brother.

In the past I was amazed by each fish I caught, the beauty of the colors and character. Although I still greatly appreciate the fish and enjoy the fight I much more enjoy simply the opportunity to be with my brother and share an experience together, to create a story together that we can tell our kids and, Lord willing, our grandkids.

I’m finding that although I love so many outdoor activities its those activities or pursuits that are a medium to connect with people and with God, our Father, who loves spending time with His kids in all He created.

Thank you Father God. Thank you Wade.

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