We supplied up in Campbell River (God help 'em) and boarded the MV.Uchuck lll, a converted WW ll Navy Minesweeper. With three kayaks heavily laden with all manner of supplies, food and sharp objects, we were dropped at sea from a crane and paddled due south into the crotch of Nootka Sound to camp for a week amongst the tame wilds. We stayed on Vernaci island, and others nearby, finding Bligh island occupied. The wonderful First Nation peoples of Friendly Cove helped us learn of their
local history, and allowd us to enjoy their sacred land. The smooth and wide pebble beach soothed our toes and the lake nearby was a welcome tonic for our paddling muscles. Our encounters were always friendly, the food was always good, and we caught our dinners to boot. (Thanks to Mother Nature for sharing her bounty!). My companions even brought their magic Dutch oven, and a double-burner Coleman... not to mention a M.A.S.H.-sized medical kit and lugged it all in an enormous double Necky I dubbed "The Beluga Whale". They wuz livin' large. The weather held up and the water was sweet and thankfully challenging in places.

Special thanks go out to the crew of the Uchuck lll, and to the Fist Nation Muchalat people of Nootka. Considering what our ancestors did to theirs, it's a wonder that they tolerate us at all. It is with respect that I show pictures of their church and lands.

A nod and a wink also goes out to Leslie and Thomas Quinn for their anecdotes and sharing of their table in Gold River. And last but quite far from least, we thank the Campin' Canadians, Anne and Rob, for their company, ideas and good humor. Beauty, eh?