purpose of ourowntwohands

We are paddlers from the Pacific Northwest who completed a kayak expedition around the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska to raise money and awareness for the Cook InletKeeper, a non-profit organization working to protect waters quality the Kenai. Over 50% of the world's salmon are harvested from these waters.

The Kenai Peninsula is one of the most diverse ecosystems on our planet - home to brown and black bears, moose, caribou, migratory birds, wolves, humpback, beluga and killer whales, sea otters, sea lions, and all five species of wild pacific salmon.

Our 500 mile long journey began May 24 in Turnagain Arm in the Cook Inlet and concluded in Whittier on June 22, 2008. By donating to this cause, you will help support the Cook Inlet Keeper.

So far we have raised $1,500 all from your contributions! Thanks so much!!

25 June 2008

Completion and Reflection

We paddled into Whittier at 1:00 pm on Sunday June 22nd. Steve and Noel (Matt's wonderful parents) awaited us onshore and before we knew it we were on the road to Anchorage driving along Turnagain Arm.
There is so much to write about our trip...and the time will come for that as well. What I am feeling strongest now is the need to slow down and reflect on what we have done, where have traveled. Life moves so fast, it's easy to slip back into the routine, without realizing the insights of our adventure. When we live in the outdoors we live simple lives- long hours are spent just moving through the water and watching and listening. Our clothes, food, shelter- it's all basic and time stretches out into long days. When I turn on a faucet or open a refrigerator, I am reminded of how little we need and how much beauty exists on the edge of the sea.

3 comments:

Ally said...

I'm looking forward to reading your reflections, if you're willing to post them here. I know we have a lot to learn from you all.

Unknown said...

Hey - Sounds like a wonderful way to spend the month of June. So glad everything went well and you had a successful trip. I look forward to your relections and seeing more pictures. Hope to see you all later this year.

sid

Anonymous said...

We wish you a all a gentle return to "everyday life".
Your journey is an inspiration to us all.
Welcome home....
love, heidi and colin (luna and canyon)