Chandler Upper Neches Paddling Trail

 After six weeks of "normalcy" with schools back in session, etc, things still have not seemed normal.  There have been no living history events and no festivals.  It has become impossible to get RV spots in state parks, although we have managed to spend at least one weekend at Oak Park last month.

This weekend, however, was one filled with "firsts," more or less.

After time spent working around the yard and on Sadie's lamb shelter, we went to town to see a movie.  The local movie theater, Schulmann's, still has not been able to open a full run of films, so they put a large screen on the side of the building creating a "Drive-In."  

Saturday's show?  Hocus Pocus.  Even Fergus got to go!

It was a ton of fun, with various shows scheduled for weekends throughout the month.  While Hollywood is suffering through the COVID madness, it is the small theaters that I feel sorry for. At least ours seems to have a Plan B.

Today, Sunday, was a bit different too.  Sadie and Stephanie's school has a holiday, and Sadie wanted to spend some time with her grandparents.  So, we lit out for East Texas with our kayaks in tow for a little river exploring.

We dropped Sadie off and launched the kayaks at the Chandler Upper Neches Paddling Trail.  It is a headwaters of Lake Palestine.

Here is the link

The weather was perfect today.  High in the middle 70s, with an overcast sky and light wind.  It was just right.

This river is very different than the Limestone Bluffs trail.  It is marshy and labyrinthine, and the fish were active (although we didn't fish).  We paddled beyond the rail trestle and into the greater lake.  The wind picked up on open water so we did not paddle to the end at the RV park.  We had lunch on the water and returned to the ramp.  In the end, we were on the water for about 3 hours.  

I have talked about trying this water for a while, and I am glad we did.  Next time I try the Chandler Upper Neches Paddle Trail it will be with a fishing license, rod, and reel!