As Marlie and I get situated , wetsuit , life jacket , and helmet all on and fastened , Graham — the rafting company ’ s owner and our guide for the day — walks us through the different rafting strokes . He instructs us on how to hold the paddle and brace for impact , leading us through several trials of the different safety maneuvers . Though his notes are filled with warnings and what if scenarios , his sturdy and confident tone is hallmarked by his experience .
On the river , the rapids push and pull us through , guiding us through massive waves that splash into the boat . We paddle hard , brace for impact , then paddle again — all on the command of our expert guide .
We ’ re drenched . Our smiles stretched from ear to ear the entire time .
TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 53