Daily writing prompt
What was the last thing you did for play or fun?
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That’s a tough question. 

Frequently even if I am working I am having some fun and enjoying myself. After all, attending a concert, especially if it’s someone you like is fun; even if it is a working gig.

BUT, there is one thing I have been doing for the past several summers that is pure fun and enjoyment…being out on the river in a boat!

A friend owns a few boats and each summer we pick a day when he actually has a little time and we take out the boat. In the past 10 years, we have missed only one summer and that was several years ago. The first trip it was just me, his nine month old daughter, and my friend. Although I never said a word, I really wanted to drive the boat; but was happy for the ride and had my camera going like crazy. I have a thing for water and sunsets. 

Tom finally looks over at me and says, you wanna drive? 

YEAH! 

We were in a 16 foot ski boat and he let’s me behind the wheel and says, just aim for the sun, there’s nothing in the way and the birds will move. Needless to say, I had a blast!

Since then I have driven the little ski boat, the 41 foot Fountain, and the 32 foot new ski boat.

And no matter where we go, it requires driving under at least one of the two bridges that links the island to the mainland. I ride over the bridges but drive under them. 🙂

The past few years, the trips have included the family and friends along for the ride which also includes driving the boat to a local restaurant on the river that even has parking for boats. And on the way home his tween son has to do a little “surfing”. Tom is the only one who can drive for that, but I usually record at least some of his skiing.

I cannot drive a car, but I do get to drive the boat with Tom close at hand to help with navigating the river. At one point, instead of using the mid line of the water between shores to mark the border, someone stood on the shore of Grand Island and threw a bottle and that is where the border between the United States and Canada is marked. So, on part of the trip around the island we are in Canadian waters, which always sparks some jokes.

Taking a ride on the Maid of the Mist boat is pretty cool, but it’s nothing like getting to drive one yourself!