(Land) Snakes and Dandelion Sunsets

 Smooth Earth Snake -  This little snake was not supposed to be in the middle of the lake.  Jeff LeClere, the herpetologist WHO-TV contacted about the snakes identification, confirmed this was a rather rare Iowa snake that does not live in water.  If you look closely at its tail there is an area of injury; it's speculated that the snake was grabbed by a bird that dropped the snake while in flight over the water.  Guess this snake was glad to get a ride back to shore.

       New Hood/Bow Ornament

                       
                                                                    Dandelion Reflections

Double Rainbows Light Up the Sky

Rain Drops

                 

Vivacity

                                               
                                          The best vitamin to be a Happy Person is :  B1.

Sunshine and Shadow

 
          'Wherever you go, no matter what the weather, always bring your own sunshine.' ~ D'Angelo

Stormy Skies, But Smooth Sailing

Stormy weather didn't discourage paddlers from an opportunity to check out the new boats, stand up paddle boards and new equipment at this year's Canoesport Outfitters DemoFest.  Gary (regional race expert) and I had to try out the new Valley Rapier.....Gary says the Epic 18X is faster; while, I'm not sure, at 20 feet long (17 inches wide) it's too long to race in the sea kayak category of any sanctioned race (18 feet long is the max).  I like the way it fits though - too bad this one is yellow.  
The number of new SUPs on the market is mind-boggling, and they are just as unique in design and purpose as kayaks.  

                                              
                                                                                  

Room With A View

                       
   My dear friends, Steve and Carla, have found a lovely new lake home with a view of Coralville Lake as well as quick access to Lake McBride.  I look forward to spending time paddling while visiting family - and maybe taking 'Subaru' marketing photos....... :)

April Castles

"If you have built castles in the air, your work need not be lost; that is where they should be. Now put foundations under them." - 'Reflections at Walden' by Henry David Thoreau. 

Jen and Ben's Ghana Video

Great job Ben - the music is good too!  :)

A Taste of St Louis

St Louis is known for it's music, art, fine wine and dining.  I'd recommend the 'Bread Pudding' at the Harvest Restaurant, or breakfast at one of the coffee shoppes in the Clayton District.

More Zip-Lining

             
                                    We started out low and slow....and ended up high and fast.  
                                  Interesting - the water in the river below was incredibly clear.

Sunset Glow

                        Two ducks enjoy watching the colorful kayaks pass by under a golden sky.

St Louis Art Museum

Zip - Sliding Away