The paddle from Port Bay last Sunday was surprisingly beautiful, especially that we unexpectedly got a pleasant rain-free sunny window for the duration of our paddle. 8 paddlers participated: Dave L., Walt, Anne and Roger, Cindy and Rick, and Aneta and Robert.
      Lake Ontario beckoned us with its unusual calmness and gentle rolling waves. We started paddling along its shore towards Chimney Bluffs. The swells were so soothing and relaxing that it seemed perfectly possible to be lulled to sleep. We proceeded in a formation enjoying this rare moment. After a couple of miles three gentlemen branched off to take a rest on the beach, while the five of us kept going. We soon encountered a lone paddler in a bright yellow Valley kayak. He asked if he could join us. We agreed, of course, and the six of us continued to Chimney Bluffs. The Bluffs did not look as good as the previous year. It is obvious that they have eroded terribly over the years and are gradually declining. How sad. Having seen the cliffs and having completed 4 miles, we turned back. We decided to stop at the beach by East Bay for a break. Our companion Jerry parted ways and continued on, while we enjoyed our snacks on the beach. Anne took a refreshing swim in the lake. We started out again and reunited with our three friends who opted out for cheese and crackers instead of the Buffs. All together, we concluded the paddle at Port Bay. The Bluff crew completed 8 miles, and the Cheese crew probably around 4-5. A huge black cloud was approaching from the west, and we did not want to push our luck by paddling the bay. It was time to pack up.
      Seven of us proceeded to Pier 1 restaurant just down the road from Port Bay launch site for dinner. We enjoyed beer, hamburgers, fries, and some onion rings. It did start to rain, but only briefly. We were really lucky to have been able to enjoy such a great paddle on such an unpredictable day.