During the preceding weeks, and all the way up until the first participant arrived, I was running scenario after scenario through my head. What do i do in case this happens, or this, or, god forbid, that?! I have taught dozens and dozens of people how to fly fish, often times in groups, but this was a whole new ballgame. As I said, I was intimidated.

So, how did it turn out you may be wondering? In short, it was a very special experience. The biggest part of it was not the fishing. It was being there. Yes, the fishing was fun and the chance to pass along knowledge and experiences to potential new devotees of a sport I love was enjoyable enough alone. The chance to spend some time on a lovely piece of trout water was also great. It all pales in comparison to the people. Those same people whom I spent hours and hours worrying about. How is that for irony?

Of course I did my share of carrying things from here to there, getting water, keeping track of equipment and other sorts of things. All the volunteers did. Those types of tasks are rewarding on their own. But it was being in the water with the participants – that’s where real special things happened. Women who normally have difficulty walking, relishing the river pushing against their legs. Or women who would cast their fly and actually see a trout rise – only to forget to set the hook because they turned to share a smile that a trout was “out there.” I watched their faces light up as the river worked its magic.

Out of the river, listening to them laugh and cry while talking with others, was…educational. Even I blushed a few times overhearing a few things (you know who you are).

I have done as much thinking about that time and those women since as before. Now I run things that happened over and over in my mind and it brings a smile. I am just as anxious as before. Anxious to do it again.

-DGM, Volunteer & River Guide

…I would fly fish.

…I would be treated like a queen.

…I would make new friends.

…I would be able to share my story.

…I would be accepted for who I am, right here, right now.

…I would overcome so much doubt.

…I would laugh so much.

…I would find healing through nature’s beauty.

…I would have so much fun and experience joy.

Thank you for guiding me to renew my spirit and hope. I will forever keep the retreat adventure close to my heart and find on-going great strength from my experience in the river.

FISH ON!

-A Very Grateful Participant

-Mary M.

-Sue W.

-Beccy M.

- Linda W.