My sisters and I embarked down the same river we had traversed hundreds of times as children, and then later with our own children. What we expected was a leisurely float with time enough to take in all the beautiful birds, sounds and smells around us. What we encountered instead was constant challenge that tested our physical strength, skills, patience, and good humor. The five hour trip seemed endless and was filled with danger instead of relaxation. We laughed through it all, encouraged each other and worked tirelessly as a team. There were some tense moments, and some frightening ones, but they were fleeting. What we will always remember from our trip is our strength, perseverance and care for one another. Sometimes our greatest challenges bring out the best in us, especially when we are pushed beyond our limits. It is then that we find out just how magnificent we are. I am grateful for what challenge brought each of us as we responded to it with strength, fortitude and kindness. It is a trip we will always treasure as one of our very best memories encountering the adventure of life together.