Fancy trying Stand Up Paddleboarding in Scotland?
I can highly recommend the guys & gals at Beyond Adventure.
 
This print features in the 2024 Squirrel calendar available here.
 
Tails From The Riverbank
 
Once upon a time, in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, there lived three adventurous squirrels named Nutty, Hazel, and Chestnut. These three friends were known far and wide for their insatiable curiosity and love for exploring the great outdoors.
One sunny morning, as the birds sang and the river glistened in the golden light, the trio gathered at the edge of the riverbank. Nutty, the most daring of the bunch, had a gleam in his eye and a plan in his heart.
"I've heard tales of a great adventure down the river," Nutty said with a mischievous grin. "It's said to be the best way to see the beauty of our homeland. What do you say, my friends? Shall we embark on this grand adventure today?"
Hazel, the practical one, and Chestnut, the adventurous yet cautious squirrel, exchanged glances. They knew that Nutty's ideas were often crazy but fun.
"Alright, Nutty," Hazel agreed, "but we'll need a way to navigate the river safely."
Nutty's eyes twinkled with excitement as he revealed an inflatable stand-up paddleboard he had stashed away in the bushes. "Behold, my friends! I knew you'd agree, so I prepared for this moment."
With the paddleboard inflated and their small backpacks packed with snacks and supplies, the three squirrels set off downstream. The river was cool and gentle, its waters singing a soothing lullaby as the friends paddled.
As they journeyed down the river, they marveled at the lush greenery of the Scottish Highlands. They saw cascading waterfalls, tall cliffs, and dense forests filled with the sweet scent of pine. The gentle current carried them along, making their adventure feel like a dream.
However, their tranquil journey was soon disrupted when they encountered a rapid. The once calm river turned tumultuous, with frothy whitecaps and strong currents. Nutty bravely stood at the front of the paddleboard, paddling with all his might to steer them safely through the turbulent waters. Hazel and Chestnut clung on to the sides, their tails fluffing up with nervous energy.
Just as they thought they might be in trouble, Nutty's determination and skillful maneuvering guided them through the rapids safely. As they exited the turbulent stretch, they erupted into triumphant cheers and laughter.
The rest of the journey was smoother, and the friends took turns paddling and admiring the scenic beauty of the river. The adventure down the Scottish river was filled with wonder and delight as they passed by deer drinking from the riverbanks, otters playing in the water, and even an eagle soaring majestically above.
After a day of thrilling exploration, the three squirrels reached their final destination, a serene lake nestled within the Highland wilderness. The setting sun painted the sky with shades of orange and pink as they carefully deflated their paddleboard.
With the water still glistening around them, they sat on the shore, sharing stories and their sense of accomplishment. Nutty's crazy idea had turned into a memorable adventure, bringing them closer as friends and giving them a newfound appreciation for the beauty of their homeland.
As nightfall descended, the squirrels built a cozy nest in a nearby tree and fell asleep under the starry Scottish sky, dreaming of their grand adventure down the river. Nutty, Hazel, and Chestnut knew that this was just one of many tales they would have to share, for their love of adventure and exploration would always bring them together for new, exciting escapades.