~White Water ~

In the mountains of West Virginia there runs
the Gauley River, a paradise for water fun
Each fall the Summerville Dam is opened to unleash
what is known as the "Beast of the East"

It is a chance to experience the river's pace
choose between small rapids and a relaxing race
or my favorite, the run with a wilder ride
careening through rapids on the wilder side
A stimulating, heart thumping adrenaline thrill
anticipating what's next, hoping it's not a spill

On an eight hour run a river has many faces
thundering, frothing over giant boulders it races
into steep drops, massive holes and colossal waves
as we dig our paddles in, through a watery haze
Dropping over waterfalls and out the other side
our raft is flung upwards for the next slide

At other times it's a liquid roller coaster ride
with leisure to enjoy the scenic views on all sides
Sore muscles after a long day, causing many sighs
but what an incredible, unmatched, unforgettable ride

(c) March 2005
by Carole Mathys