The overcast skies we awoke to were a welcomed respite from the hot sunny skies of the last couple days. 
But once we hit the water, the sun gave the perfect warmth for swimming, splashing, and playing in the river.
Although it was the shortest paddle trip of the week, at a little less than 14 miles, today was both Trash day and Professionals day and there was no shortage of intriguing conversations and interesting trash items cleaned from the river.
Professionals ranged from legislators and riverkeepers to representatives from watershed coalitions and community foundations. This was most professionals’ first time on the Flint river and for some their first time paddling on a river in Georgia.
Rivers Alive ‘Trash Queen’ Bonny Putne
y led the clean-up and reported approximately 100 lbs. of trash collected and 10 tires. 
In addition to the usual plastic bags, paddlers found some quite interesting items including a vintage coke bottle, basket balls, a dress, a pair of leather pants, and a can of chicken livers.
Touted as one of Georgia’s Seven natural wonders, Radium Springs was quite the thrill. Adults and kids alike, enjoyed the striking arched stone bridge and waterfall and large pool beneath it.
No matter what activity evokes
the idea of fun to you- it was found at every river bend, shoal, and sand bar, from squirt gun fights and rambunctious circus-like stunts (including flipping GRN Development Director, Davin Welter), to bubble blowing and lazy lounging picnics – it was all smiles all around.
The Blue Springs were truly magical with the cool 68 degree crystal blue water gurgling from the limestone depths below.
It seems to just keep getting better with each passing day ~ So glad to share it with everyone!
Keep on rollin’ down the River,
Gwyneth Moody
Paddle Georgia, A Project of Georgia River Network - Weblog 