BWCA

I had the privilege to spend last week in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness with a group of 8 Dads and 10 Daughters. Most of whom I had never met before. The girls were between the ages of 16 and 20. We had a great time making memories, building friendships, and enjoying God's creation. We hailed from Congerville, Fairbury, Forrest, and Washington Illinois, plus Rockville Connecticut. Because there were 18 of us we split into 2 groups. After paddling and portaging into Fourtown Lake, we found an Island that had campsites on opposite sides that were connected by a trail through the woods. It was very convenient for our groups, so we base camped and did day trips and fishing trips from there. It was especially satisfying to watch the girls bond together and work together away from all the modern conveniences. Except for a 5 hour rain early one morning that flooded the girls tent, we had beautiful weather. I was afraid that maybe the old farmer was getting a little too old for this sort of thing, but I enjoyed it and managed it all quite well. I will try to post more pictures and commentary later.

The group of Fathers and Daughters in Minneapolis the day before.

Group 1 camp mates.

An after picture of the group, ready to head for the showers.

The BWCA is a 1.9 million acre wilderness area that borders Canada in North Eastern Minnesota. With hundreds of lakes connected by portage trails, there are a thousand miles of canoe routes throughout. There are no roads or services, and boats with motors are not allowed. The campsites are primitive, with just a fire grate and a "stump" latrine. There are bear, moose, deer, eagles, loons, and various other critters living here. It is the most visited wilderness in America.

Now it came to pass on a certain day, that he went into a ship with his disciples: and he said unto them, Let us go over unto the other side of the lake. And they launched forth.
But as they sailed he fell asleep: and there came down a storm of wind on the lake; and they were filled with water, and were in jeopardy.
And they came to him, and awoke him, saying, Master, master, we perish. Then he arose, and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water: and they ceased, and there was a calm.
Luke 8:22-24