Babak

Wednesday, August 16, 2023

A Misadventure at Buntzen Lake: From Paddleboarding to a Unexpected Swim

I went to Buntzen Lake to enjoy some paddle boarding on a beautiful sunny day. I was excited to get on the water and have a relaxing time.

I quickly inflated the paddleboard and moved the car to a shaded spot. As I was getting ready, something felt off. Normally, I have both hands occupied with my paddle and other gear, but this time, I realized that I had forgotten to bring the paddle for the paddle board. I couldn't believe I had made such a silly mistake.

I decided to make the best of the situation and go swimming instead. I packed everything back into the trunk and only took my watch and car keys, placing them in a 5-liter waterproof bag. I swam to the first island and then continued swimming to the next island. However, when I checked the waterproof bag, I was disappointed to find that it was full of water. The bag had failed to keep my belongings dry.

I spent some time on the island, hoping that my watch and car keys would dry out. As I tightened the bag more securely, I made the decision to continue swimming to the next cliff. In the middle of my swim, I decided to push myself to complete my journey across the lake. I was determined to make the most of the situation. However, my journey became more challenging as my feet cramped up and I started feeling exhausted.

Fortunately, I spotted a rescue coast guard boat in the distance. I waved and said hello, hoping they would notice me. Unfortunately, they were too far away to hear me. Luckily, a senior lady on a paddleboard heard my call for help. She called for help, and the rescue team arrived within 2 minutes to bring me safely to the shore.

I couldn't help but feel grateful to BC Hydro for providing the support needed in this unexpected situation. Thanks again BC Hydro

Monday, August 17, 2020

River Climbing @ CoQuitlam River

The first River Climbing Club of Coquitlam River!😃

Whether or not if we are officially a club, myself and my friends enjoyed walking against the current in our local river. We laughed, fell in water, got washed away, and even lost a pair of Ray-ban sunglasses, but at the end of the day we knew that we wanted to do it again. That day we enjoyed ourselves, even bonded a little. The day was hot (35 degrees), but the water was cold, and the experience was thrilling.

The sight of the magnificent maple trees, and the immaculate pine trees was remarkable. The rushing stream hitting the rocks against the current released a calming sound, and the heat of the summer air was ravishing while my lower body was in the chilly water. At times like I learn to thank the environment and glorious nature around us.

If you ever would want to do the same, here are some useful tips if you would like to attempt this:

don't wear any glasses. You're sure to lose it within the first few minutes.
don't use a professional hiking pole, it will break as it gets stuck in the river rocks.
don't wear sandals, as the current will pull them off your feet.
wear hiking shoes which have a good grip
try to find a long stick which is 2 feet taller than your height and at least 2 inches in diameter.
this natural pole works as a support.
wear gloves and a bucket hat with a draw string
wear polyester clothes