John-Angus the Canadian Crossfolf hadn't paddled a canoe in years, and he was more than happy to accept the loan of his friend's canoe for a leisurely solo trip along the East River where they were fishing.

Gus was cruising along enjoying the pull of the water against the paddle and deeply breathing in the fragrance of the evergreen trees along the river's edge when he realised that he hadn't put on a life jacket. Gee, he thought to himself, if I dump this thing I guess I'll have to swim to shore and not just bob up and down. I think I can manage that...

Moments later, his friend's canoe was capsized and sinking fast, the paddle forever lost to the current. The cursing, spluttering crossfolf was making his way to shore, wondering how the day's events went sideways so suddenly and vaguely aware that he'd also lost his friend's favourite hat.

A typical end to one of the crossfolf's adventures.
A delightful surprise gift from my friend  doggedly Thank you so much, good sir!
Art by  doggedly
John-Angus the inept outdoorsman belongs to Yours Truly,  john-angus