by Linda Aksomitis

The rafting team begins their adventure! photo courtesy of Magic Falls Rafting Company

I kept my eyes on Lisa, our guide. "Both sides paddle ahead!" she shouted. Then a second later, "Rest!"

Paddle in front of me, feet braced, I rode into Tester - the first rapid on the Kennebec. With a swift, straight motion our boat was up and into it, riding the wave. Elation spread through me. It was incredible!

Another splash and up again.

"Left side paddle back," called Lisa, her voice urgent. My hands were poised, waiting for a right side command. The rush of water filled my senses.

With every wave we crested, adrenalin pumped through my body, taking me higher. It might have taken a minute or two - maybe longer, to raft through Tester. For me, time was suspended.

"Rest," called Lisa, as the raft plunged into calmer waters.

Lisa, one of the guides of Magic Falls Rafting Company.

I had full confidence in Lisa, my guide at Magic Falls Rafting Company. With three years of experience on the Kennebec waters, she was not only fully accredited, but knew how to create a fun adventure for all of us in the raft. At the beginning I'd had some doubts, especially when teen-aged Heather announced, "I can't do this!"

For a few minutes after we pushed the raft into the swirling water I certainly shared her feelings. What was I getting myself into? And why?

The truth of the matter was I'd always wanted to take a whitewater rafting adventure trip, but circumstances never worked out. I'd thought about going along as a staff member with our high school students, but that was a whole week-and I wasn't prepared for that much adventure with 25 students! (CONTINUE...)