Just Say Yes

By Alex Borsuk

We all know those people – the people who are always down for anything.  The people who don’t ask questions, yet still agree to whatever shenanigans you have up your sleeve at a moment’s notice. These are my favorite type of people. I know them too, and I’m lucky to call them my friends.

A few weeks ago, I had an idea. I thought it would be fun to go to Washington to kayak across the Bellingham Bay and camp overnight on one of the San Juan Islands. I had never done an overnight sea kayaking trip before, and to be honest, I really didn’t know what logistics it entailed. The only thing I did know is that I had some friends who would be down for the adventure.

The next day, seven of us (including my dog Peanut) set out on the Bellingham Bay with all of our overnight gear packed in our kayaks.  By the amount of food and cold beverages that we brought, you would have thought we were heading out for at least a week. Our stoke levels were high as we set out for our 6+ mile paddle across the bay to Lummi Island. Along the way, we saw seals, sea lions, flying fish, and purple starfish. We knew it was going to be beautiful, but I think we were all blown away by what an amazing experience it was.

Once we arrived to the island, we set up camp, cooked dinner and enjoyed a beautiful sunset together. It was one of those simple evenings I’ll never forget - where good conversation, cold beer, and a warm campfire created the perfect trifecta of happiness. We unplugged from the world and just spent the evening enjoying each other's company, telling stories and sharing laughter among the sound of waves crashing on the shore. The next day, we paddled back to Bellingham, feeling rejuvenated and refreshed from a night spent in the wild surrounded by good company.

Lately, I’ve come to realize that the best adventures are the simple, unplanned ones. It’s fun to try new things and step out of your comfort zone. Embrace the challenge and accept the surprises. These are the experiences and memories that you’ll hold close to your heart for years to come. And honestly, it really doesn’t take much. You just need two things: a crazy idea and the willingness to say “yes.”