A Day on the River

We spent a beautiful day in Heber Springs, Arkansas today. As many of you know, Matt and I love to fly-fish. We haven't been since Lily Grace came home from China. (as many of you also know, after 3 years and 5 months as parents, we still have a little problem with leaving her too so... ha!) Matt has been looking forward to the day when Lily Grace was old enough to go out and give fly-fishing a try. Matt has given her a couple of 10 and 2 (casting) lessons in the back yard. Today however, he took the day off for his birthday and we drove up to the river for the real thing.
We started out at Collins Creek. The waterfalls are beautiful there. This area is designated as a catch and release area for children only (an adult may assist) and it's a great first introduction to the movement of the water, wading on river rocks and the temperature. (These are trout waters and the water stays at a constant temperature of 50 degrees. VERY COLD- I should know, I have fallen in before, waders and all and might I mention in the winter, but less I digress) The trails are really well defined and again beautiful! Lily Grace loved it and got quite comfortable with it.
After about an hour of exploring Collins Creek, we took her over to the Little Red River. Matt and I love fishing the Little Red.(The world record brown trout was caught here.) It is so tranquil and if you go all day without netting a trout, the scenery alone has made it worth the drive and provided you with a peaceful day. Once there, Lily Grace pulled out her boots (rain boots actually) in order to be just like daddy. (After today's trip, I have a feeling she may be getting her own pair of real wading boots and waders like daddy has, of course.) Without fear, she waded right in and gave it a try. When tired of casting, or when her feet got cold, she would wade over to the side and explore all the river rocks and dragonflies, or nibble on some snack.
While on the river, we also got the pleasure of watching a mother doe cross the river with her fawn following soon behind.
I didn't pull on my waders today. (ok, well I did wet a line once or twice though- I couldn't resist) I just served as the resident photographer and enjoyed watching every moment of a little girl and her daddy together. You were great with her Matt!
Needless to say, it was an awesome and memorable day, and I think Lily Grace is hooked. (excuse the pun) Congrats daddy! Looks like you may have a new sidekick. Hopefully, you won't be carrying her out when she's 20. HA!
Lily Grace had a wonderful time and 20 minutes into the ride back home, she was fast asleep. The water has that affect on you and I have a feeling she will sleep quite well tonight too.
Happy fishing to ya!