For hours the weary, determined paddlers crawled on the ground sifting grass, dandelions, ticks, and deer scat. Using logic, inquiry, and superstition, they combed the area. They missed their only chance to rest in the midst of an intense paddling schedule just to help me find the trickster wedding band. A few of the seekers knew me, but many did not. Still they searched determinedly. Never mind that they were late for dinner or skipping happy hour or a shower.

This ring would not be found! Next came the stories of other rings lost and found. Rings found years later, rings in snow drifts, rings in clothing, a ring in the ocean. Stories of hope and luck. Crossed fingers and prayers.
‘Good St. Anthony look around,

Something’s lost and must be found.’

The good-hearted paddlers came after dark with flashlights and ideas. The state park staff roped off the area to be searched with a metal detector. Dave R. drove all the way home that night to fetch one himself. And still they searched.

‘If you know where something is, it isn’t really lost.’

Echoes of Harold and Maude. At least I’ll always know where it is. Somewhere here on the very ground where we first met. Here where we first found each other. Before wedding rings and house projects. Here where we found the incredible kindness of the Rapids Riders. Dave’s metal detector did not find the ring. After all the seekers moved on and we stopped searching, the Ring showed itself in its mesh bag hiding place. We found wonderful friends and reconfirmed our commitment to each other. Only when these things came into view would the ring be found.

Many thanks to all the paddlers and friends who helped with the quest for the elusive wedding ring at Canoe U this year. We were extremely moved by your concern and your willingness to get down on your knees and help.