Illinois River Adventures
As I sit on my porch watching the sunrise peek over the trees on the east side of the river, I am reminded of the peace most take for granted. In these little moments I am reminded of how grateful we truly are to be alive and able to take in such views. For me it provides greater proof, a higher power surrounds us every day. As my morning coffee dwindles the sun seems to rise a little more until finally a bright burst of light is now shining on the west riverbank.
One would think that life begins after the sun rises, but the birds start to sing and squirrels begin to rustle about long before the sun is even visible in the sky. You can hear the raccoons grumble as they climb into their daytime retreats and the Owls let out their last calls before sunrise. If you are lucky you may get to hear the squeal from an unlucky small animal who ventured too far, before the Owl went to sleep. Nothing is ever at rest along the banks of the Illinois River, one may cease to act as others begin their day. Some of the things I have witnessed on these river banks have been truly amazing and others quite beautiful, yet tragic.
I love to sit and listen to the chorus of animals sing and chat throughout the day and am reminded there is just as much work as there is play. The dawn is kind of like a shift change at work, it just seems that the schedules vary each day depending on the weather. I often sit and wonder what it was like when the Illinois native Americans used to roam these river bottoms. No homes, large structures, factories, and other obstructions in view. Just large old growth timber and pristine river to play in. The wildlife had to be overflowing in abundance and the fish were so thick in places you could walk on their backs to reach the other side of the river.
One could sit and imagine things like these every day, especially when you are out on the large expanse we call the Illinois River. Driving across bridges and roads alongside the river tend to make it seem small and insignificant as if man has become too big to enjoy it anymore. This is quite deceiving in all actuality. Once one is alone in a boat, kayak, or on its bank you realize the true power this river commands. Instead of viewing the river as small you begin to realize you are the one that is small and it does wonders for your sense of the world. It reminds me every time how insignificant most of our problems can be. It helps me gain perspective in a busy world where none seems available to find.
Sitting in the middle of the Illinois River is an adventure that feeds my soul. I feel as if I become part of the landscape the more I journey upon its waters. The busy life of working and attending to family affairs leave little time for exploration and it’s in these little moments I immerse myself the most into the mysteries of this great river. When I lived away from the river I found myself driving there whenever I found some free time to fish, swim, or just relax and watch the sun set. I have been blessed with the opportunity to move right on the water in 2021. Since moving in I have been able to witness some gorgeous views, adventures, and tranquility on this great river.
I still lead a very busy life and have my hands full with my 4 children and my full time job, however I will always make time for my true love. The Illinois River. I hope this post draws you to the Illinois River, especially if you live nearby. Its sights, sounds, and peace will surely consume you as it has me. This website and Blog is being created to share my personal adventures with you. I have had many and want others to realize the cheapest and most gratifying entertainment right in our backyard. There have not been any times I wasn’t mesmerized by the rising or setting sun over the River. Please follow along and sign up for our newsletter if you want to catch these adventures when you can’t be on the water. Until the next Illinois River Adventure!
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