So we went swimming in the Tumwater River this weekend. It is so gorgeous up there, I think I need to go take some pictures of it and post them. Imagine high Alpine-like mountains, with a canyon gorged through the middle, the river snaking it's way down...sometimes whitewater, sometimes serene. We found a little sandy cove hidden from view between big boulders, that leads right out into the river, and a nice smooth riverbottom, easy on the feet. Surprising, as most of the river is full of rocks. The water goes to about chest/shoulder high....and when you are there swimming, looking up at the huge granite cliffs and sweeping forest....seeing salmon leaping out of the water, and a family of mud ducks swimming by, you have to think it's a pretty fantastic day.

We got there late yesterday, about 4:30. Me, Larry and Beth braved the initial shock of cold, but soon grew used to the water. The sun was still slicing down through the canyon, and was utterly dazzling on the water. Even Griffin got in on the act, and up toward the bank, pawing at the water and biting at the splashes he made. By the time we were done, we were all craving to climb into our cars and soak in that summer time heat that collects in vehicles. It was there, waiting for us like a big blanket right out of the dryer...and we had to laugh when we got home and shut off the air conditioning in trade for the balmy heat. Felt supreme after being in that cold river.

I'll see about getting some pictures, because verbal descriptions just don't do it justice. If I'm lucky, I'll be able to time it so you can see one of the salmon flailing out of the water. Glad I didn't see one up close! They're big enough to make it sound like someone through a good sized rock in the water when they jump!