Digital publication | Page 8

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appeared just under the surface tugging my pole into a temporary U. I raised the tip automatically looking to set the hook when the fish shook its head, turned, and swam back to the dark depths. It had struck the wrong side of the fly, but I was still laughing with excitement. I had passed the test in some sort of odd way, and it seemed God was giving me a final wink before my departure. I slowly reeled in the length of my line knowing for the first time I would be back.

For me flyfishing had become more of an experience than a chance to catch a fish. It is exhilarating to drive through large stretches of wilderness and participate in a day in the life of a river. Someday I will complete the circle of my learning and tie my own fly before catching a fish I cook in a nearby campground. When I do that, I will feel I was fully able to overcome myself.

Small Adventures from a Big Year

A friend had commented on one of my mini-adventures this past summer saying, that's fine, but you live in an area that has lots to do. I live in backwater Florida. I asked where she lived and immediately did a google search for activities in the nearest town. There were ten things I would have loved to do including a pre-history museum with mammoth remains. Here are some of the mini-adventures I was able to find during my year of 50.

Curling

A curling lesson at my local skating rink was $10. This included beginners playing a match against other beginners for two hours.

Cooking

I was reading a magazine when I came across a spicey fish taco recipe for Cinco de Mayo. Cooking can bring some amazing results for just the cost of a few simple incredients.

ART / CRAFTING

Try things you've always wanted to do but never thought you could. Skies the limit!