River of Rocks. Starting out the last day on the St. John. Photo Scott Mumford
Amazing, last page of my journal, last day of my journey. I do not think I could have worked that out if I tried. It was grey and a little cold this morning as I pulled Sparky out onto the river behind the Pelletier Campground. I knew it would take me about 5 hours to finish up on the St. John, Canada on my left, the USA on my right. I was feeling a little nervous about meeting people at the take-out and somewhat melancholy to be finishing up. I tried to take some pictures but while the light was flat, my heart was jumping, so I put the camera away for the last time on this journey.
Walking into Ft. Kent, ME
The final stretch was uneventful, the water was shallow in spots and I had to get out and walk Sparky some. The St. John was wide, the current gentle, the riverbed covered with small, sometimes slippery stones. Walking was not too difficult when compared to some other rivers I have encountered along the way. Scott found me in a few spots where the river met the road and took pictures. I am grateful because, for obvious reasons, there are very few pictures of Sparky and I out on the water. As I went under the bridge, right before the final take-out the water again became so low that I had to get out and walk Sparky in to the shore.
There was a small entourage waiting for me on the beach, my smile was wide and heart-felt. Answered some questions for the press, took some pictures in front of the NFCT terminus kiosk then went down to pull the boat out one last time. Amen.
I wrote Amen as my final word because this journey felt like one long prayer or meditation. Now, the start of a new song, a different dance. I have a few final entries yet, reflections and observations written after the trip.
“Nothing contributes so much to tranquillize the mind as a steady purpose – a point on which the soul may fix its intellectual eye.” - Mary Shelley
“Do not be afraid.” - Jesus
Congratulations, Cathy. What an accomplishment! My sister, your are a inspiration to me and I feel so lucky to have you as a major role model in my life. You are a paddler extraordinnaire! Growing up, I always thought of you as the pretty sister and I was the smart one, but as it has turned out, your beauty has not faded one bit. And here I have been, sitting at my desk job tracking your progress on the computer while you’re out there chasing your dream, paddling away and enjoying life. Who’s the smart one now?
Love, Beth
P.S. Thank you for not mentioning my temper tantrum on the day that we paddled Flagstaff Lake together. We couldn’t find Ed at the campsite that he had secured for us…. I was tired, hungry and both of my thumbs had blisters on them. I was afraid that we would never find Ed in remote Maine. Your patience was appreciated.
I can’t wait to paddle some more of the NFCT with you this summer!
Beth, my inspiration, a guiding star. The one who first discovered the Trail and brought me to it. Always the smart one, always a beauty, just quieter and more eloquent as you travel along your own path. Your support on the NFCT and through out my life was, and continues to be a tremendous blessing. Thank you, thank you!
Love, Cathy
Great writeup? I’m glad you made it all the way!
Thanks Mark! Glad you have been following all along. I am looking forward to going back to a few low water spots this summer.
I appreciate your encouragement.
I just read through your journal today (4/5/11) and was so inspired. I live in upstate NY and have paddled littled pieces of the trail here. Now I’m thinking about how I can get out there and do much more of it. Thanks for taking the time to share your trip.
Jan, I hope you do. The Connecticut was beautiful and not too far from you. The Allagash in ME was a favorite spot as well.
Thanks for posting. Wishing you lots of great paddling.
All I can say is WOW as I finished reading the entire postings. You are an amazing woman Cathleen Mary Cecelia Quinn Mumford! From the time we were little you always marched to your own beat. I am so proud of you and so proud to have you as my lifelong friend…for about 50 years now! Love you!
Thanks Marie…. my first partner in crime …uhhhm…. I mean my first partner in adventure! Quite possibly about the only person who knows my entire name! Love you!
Whoo Hoo! Just finished you trip reports, congratulations! I told my 4 carpool teacher friends about your journey. They just don’t get it. Sounds to me that you already had an outdoor adventure life going on before your trip. Can’t wait for the movie!
Cathy: I enjoyed reading your account of the adventure – some great stories along the way and some great photos as well. I’ve been bragging about you (“You gotta hear what my cousin did…”) and congratulate you on your achievement.
Dave Huot
Thanks Dave! I could use a good press agent. Currently plotting a few new but shorter adventures!
Hope to see you this summer…
Just finished reading your blog Cathy, great !
I am reminded of Jean Deed’s book on hiking the Appalachain Trail. Her situation was similar to yours.
I am going to try to accomplish a few canoe trips that are on my bucket list.
Mike
Thanks Mike…
I am going to look up Jean Dean’s book because when I’m not paddling I love to read!
Happy travels to you.
Bravo!! You are such an inspiration to all women and showed great courage in taking this journey alone. After reading your story in Guideposts, I decided to research the trail…and it led to your blog. I do think there’s a book and film in all of this. Good luck in ALL that you do, Cathy!
Brenda,
Thank you! I truly want to inspire everyone, especially women, young and old to get out there….into the peace and beauty of the great outdoors. I have started a book…and am planing a few more adventures! Thanks for the encouragement. I highly recommend the NFCT. Let me know if you would like specifics about any of the Sections.