Field Trip: Making A Splash!

A few weekends ago, a group of my coworkers and friends drove up to Kernville, where it is hotter than the sun, to go white water rafting.

We camped out Saturday night and grilled enough meat to feed a small army.

After a night of s'mores and Catchphrase by the campfire, we woke bright and early to begin our rafting trip.   Since we were going on Class IV rapids, the first part of the morning consisted of the big Safety Talk by our trip leaders.  I think this talk is designed to scare the crap out of you.   I was a competitive swimmer growing up and am very comfortable in water, but by the end of their lecture I was convinced I was going to fall out, get pummeled by a large rock, and die a watery death.  And although I came this close to bouncing out of the raft, I held on tight and survived to tell this tale.  Here's a little recap...

Group shot before taking off

The calm before the storm

Practicing our paddling skills

We made our way to a rapid called Satan's Slot.  Charming, huh?

Here we go!

And here comes the part where I almost fell out.  I'm the second person on the right side of the raft.  We went over a large bump when the guy behind me started to fall out.  He reached out to grab onto me, almost pulling me out with him.

Hitting the bump

Almost falling out

Thanking my leg and core muscles for saving me!

Catching our breath

We had such a blast on the rafting trip and would definitely love to go again.  

Anyone up for an adventure?