Johnny Panther Quests. Ecotours

...Which is synonymous with Johnny Panthering. I often asked Don this question, and he rarely said no. Today it is rainy and blustery, not very nice out. I can remember times like this when he and I would load up and head out. Back then we had the heavy, bulky, rubber rain gear, no matter it worked just fine for us. Don especially liked thunderstorms, and back in the day when I would somewhat rely on his lack of weather savvy, we were caught in some real ground (and water) shakers. Stopping to empty the water out of our little flat bottom boat, we often soaked in the serenity and stillness the forests had to offer during those soaking rains. The sound of the wind and rain helped to shroud our presence from the wildlife. Many times while still and motionless animals would wander up to investigate us.

Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall we were out there exploring. Sure the sunny days were nice, but there is something about weather that makes times both magical and memorable. To this day I am taken by showers and storms, mesmerized by the tranquility and sometimes power they bring. To share times like these with someone special is like mortar holding the bricks of life together. Wether it is with your soul mate, or co-workers out team building, weather can be a common thread that all will relate to.

As time goes on, it seems I have less opportunity to really enjoy the weather. And when I am lucky enough to be out in the boat in one of our favorite places I give thanks for being so lucky to have been able to experience and share them. Of course some rain, snow, or wind only acts as a conduit or injection of all that is good in life. I am thankful for all of the days I have been able to appreciate the weather, and all of the times Don said "Yes!" to Johnny Panthering. He used to always say "Zoom, zoom" as we headed out on an adventure, long before the Mazda car commercials. Every time I see one I think of him. Sometimes I say "Zoom, zoom" to myself now as I salute him on my way through another adventure.

I feel some quality time with the weather coming on...