Paddling my kayak gives me the opportunity to explore the treasures to be found in, on, and around the shorelines of many lakes in the Cariboo. Helena Lake was perfect for kayaking, not too large but a very interesting shoreline with several inlets and channels, beaver lodges, nesting loons, ducks, otter families, and a variety of water lilies. I found I was partial to these small, white lilies and their somewhat pointy leaf shapes. Leaning well over the side of the kayak gave me an interesting perspective that I found quite inspiring for a painting.