Summer Dreams

April turned in her report cards, her classroom was in order and she left it with a sense of completion, but also anticipation for what the summer would bring. She had asked Kathy, one of their teacher friends, to help with the planning of Bonnie’s bridal shower while her family was in town, and she graciously accepted. She had also talked to Aaron, after their young adult Bible study on Thursday evening, about who she could contact about taking kayak lessons.
“I would be happy to teach you,” Aaron offered. “I’ve been kayaking since I was fourteen. I’m also an instructor and guide some of the trips for Whitecap Kayak in the summer,when I can get time off work.”
April tried to hide her amazement and embarrassment, but didn’t think she succeeded very well. “I knew you did some kayaking, but I didn’t know you were an instructor.”
“Yes. I like to go to the Apostle Islands, see the sea caves and kayak down the river in the spring when the water is high. It’s a lot of fun and I’m sure you will come to enjoy it too. Once you get the hang of it, I can show you some of the sea caves. They are pretty amazing.”
“Whoa, slow down! Let’s see if I can ‘get the hang of it’ first,” April said with a laugh. “So, when would you have time to teach me and what do I have to do to get started?” April asked. “I don’t have a kayak, know what to look for or even what kind to get. You’d be dealing with a novice here.”
“Don’t worry about it. I have one and can borrow a friend’s until you try it, see how you like it and what kind would work best for you. Why don’t I pick you up Saturday morning at nine and we’ll go to Gile Flowage and start with some basics? I even have an extra life jacket I’ll bring for you. Just be sure to have some water shoes with you.” After thinking for a minute, Aaron added, “Do you know how to swim?”
“Yes, why? We won’t be doing anything crazy or go where there are high waves right away will we? Do they tip over easily?” April asked with some reservations.
“We’ll stay close to shore until you feel comfortable and get the hang of paddling. Actually, kayaks are safer than canoes and I will teach you how to balance while you are in the kayak.” Aaron put his hand on April’s arm and said reassuringly, “Believe me April, I wouldn’t let anything bad happen to you.” As April looked into Aaron’s eyes she knew he meant it and wondered if Bonnie was right, that Aaron did care for her as more than a friend. Maybe having Aaron teach her to kayak wasn’t such a good idea after all. But she felt safe with Aaron and didn’t know who else to ask.
“Okay! I’ll be ready by nine on Saturday. And thank you Aaron, for being willing to do this. How much do you charge for your instruction?”
“Let’s not worry about that now.”