I am sitting on Bye George with the intention that we will loose the lines and head down stream through the canyon today. There is fog this morning so we wait. But it does give me time to reflect on the trip thus far.
When we said we would take our time on this trip, little did I know that would be evident on the very first week. We have taken a week to reach Chattanooga, a trip that only take most people three days at most. We have faced snow, sub-freezing weather, frozen water lines and frozen pump outs during our travels to here. We have also met some of the nicest people. Everyone has been helpful and knowledgeable. They are willing to share their knowledge.
Some of the nicest and most helpful are the lock masters. I usually call them the day before we go through the lock. I tell them that this is my first time through their lock and that I am a novice. They will explain how the lock works, where the bollards are and which one they want me to use. They are always encouraging.
We have been through three locks so far and I have managed to avoid any incidents that would be worthy of airing on America’s Funniest Home Videos. I came close this last time though. I mistook a ladder well for the bollard. I headed towards the ladder and then Pam realized I was wrong. I corrected for this mistake, but the damage was done. I yo-yoed as Pam calls it until I came to the bollard. I needed to do the crab to get the boat close enough for the tie-off.
Pam reminds me that I am tempting fate when I make statements about my success in getting the boat to go where I want it to go. I think she is right and I really am living on borrowed time. But for now life is good. The fog has lifted so now we are off again.
Bye George 