Dueling Paddles

“Now Ben,
if you are going to be in front
you have to keep an even rhythm! 
None of that spastic, erratic
slapping of the water,
and stop banging my paddle!”

“Words of wisdom Ben:
in life you keep it smooth, 
keep chatter to a minimum,
and you’ll travel the water 
in style” 

This is going to be a long trip
but luckily, it’s a small lake 

“Stop talking so I can ID some birds!”

“Caw-caw! Caw-caw!”

“Ben!” 

“Look mom! 
Bluegill!
Get closer so I can pick
that white flower”

“Is there something on my back?
Mom, do you see something red?”

“No.  I analyzed closely”

“I love being analyzed
closely” 

I start laughing hysterically
and almost turn us over 

No boats on Lake Lure
but a few lazy pontoons
at 9am
Copyright © | Year Posted 2026

Poem

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