It has been over a week since my journey down the river came to an end at the steps across from Jackson Square in the French Quarter of New Orleans. I am left with mixed emotions of elation at such an accomplishment and also a longing to return to the simple life of paddling every day.

I have found some of the experiences that I miss from the river:

• Beautiful starry nights
• Not having an agenda
• Watching the sun rise and set over the river
• Paddling in the cool of the morning just as the sun is peaking up over the horizon
• Letting the strong current flow over my body after a long day of paddling
• Meeting people who I have never known in my life and being overwhelmed by how quickly they treat us like family

Also, some experiences will not be missed:

• Having sand in my food, in my sleeping bag, in my life
• Mosquitoes everywhere… including the swarm that only appears as soon as I am all set to do my business in the woods. If you think I am kidding… well, I laughed at Michael when he said there were no mosquitoes in sight and then as soon as he was all set to do his business a swarm approached. I laughed until it happened to me the next time.
• Putting sunscreen on daily

I have also found that adjusting to life off the river has produced unexpected issues. Who would have thought that I would have to adjust to seeing myself in mirrors again or bathing on a regular basis? Life is just so proper off the river.

I know that I have learned a lot from this trip and have gained a new appreciation for many details of life. I hope to be more generous after this trip. (Not that I feel I was stingy before the trip, but the bar has been raised.) I also feel I will be much more appreciative of the nuances of life including seasoning on food, taking time to simply relax, the art of storytelling, and just how much culture we enjoy in the states.