Patricia and I were invited today to take a maiden canoe voyage, a trial run, (along with about 8 other participants) sponsored by the newly-formed Pinelands Adventures down the Batsto River from Quaker Bridge to the head of Batsto Lake. The water level was good, the temperature brisk, the stillness, awesome. Very little was in bloom: shadbush, leatherleaf, a few golden club, livid sedge, and trident red maple (most of which had already turned to keys). No doubt, the buds of sour or black gum and those of the highbush blueberry will burst into bloom with a string of a few warm days by early May. We extend our thanks to the PPA and wish them the best of luck with this new venture!