1st Paddle Boarding of 2020

As the lock down restrictions slowly get relaxed we finally managed to get out on the paddle boards and canoes for the first time in 2020. Normally we manage to start around April time, so its pretty shocking that it has taken to June to get out for the first time. Mind you what a day we picked, 31 degrees outside so absolutely scorching and needless to say the kids spent more time in the water to keep cool than what they did on the paddle boards and inside the canoes.

Today we took a slightly different route by going from our usual bridge in Boreham but then instead of going up river to Papermill Lock, we went down river heading towards the city center until we got to the next lock. It was an absolutely beautiful day afternoon out on the water, but I have never seen it so busy before. There was so many canoes and paddle boards out on the river along with groups of people just chilling on the riverside with BBQ's and beers!

Holly wanted to try a single seater canoe on her own for the first time and she gave it a good crack. She hasn't quite got full control and found it pretty hard after a while. So in the end I tied her canoe on to the back of mine and gave her a tow along the river.

Holly's first time trying to canoe solo.

A little nudge by Dad to get her back on track.

Me and H took the canoes and the boys took their paddle boards.

After a quick cooling dip in the water, Brandon pulls himself back on to his board.

I think they spent more time in the water to keep cool.

Me and my clan heading down river. Love this picture.

We went from Boreham to this lock down river which was packed with loads of people out enjoying the sun and the river.

Holly gracefully sliding in to the river.

After watching the boys jumping from the side of the lock, Holly was brave enough to give it a crack. Absolutely fearless.

And splash down.

Joshua walking on water!

Brandon leaping off of the lock walls.

Not sure what pose Brandon is pulling here?

Despite not having swimming classes for 5 months I was pleased to see Holly could still swim. 

Nice to have these bad boys out on the river again.

All rafted up for a family picture (minus Tina who walked along the river bank).

Love these three and being able to give them days out like today. Makes life worth living to see them having fun in the great outdoors.