Great Loop Simplicity

Planning new trip for 2012 or 13

2012-01-30T07:42:00.000-05:00

Getting the itch again and getting older:( Alan and I have started to plan a boat trip along the east coast and Maine. We haven't decided as to when we will start this until after Alan has his knee checked out. Has really been giving him some pain and the boat will aggravate it right now. Not giving up though.

Avery Island home of Tabasco

2011-04-18T17:21:00.002-04:00

We left Houma and traveled to Avery Island. We stopped at Morgan City to fuel up then proceeded on. Finally found Avery Island and the dock. Some people who lived there let us tie up at dock in front of their house. I don't know if it was private or public, but they were kind enough to say go ahead. Got up this morning and toured the Tabasco plant, bought some souvenirs and walked back to the boat. Loaded up and left for Houma. This was the point where we decided to turn back east and head back home. It has been too stressful with the weather and finding fuel. Lots of barges and tug boats, even more so that on the Mississippi and Tenn-Tom we were on 3 years ago. This is suppose to be fun boating and it hasn't been. We are going to try and explore Lake Ponchatrain and take our time heading back east and explore those areas. I am glad we did it, but it's time to turn around. We arrived back in Houma this afternoon, tied up and went for a walk. Will leave tomorrow morning for Seabrook and back through the Harvey and Industrial locks.

Houma, La

2011-04-16T20:24:00.028-04:00

We left New Orleans about 10:30am from Seabrook Marine. The wind was blowing, but not as much as it had the night before. Wanted to make it to Houma and knowing that we had enough fuel to get there and had called ahead to see if there was some available. We had to wait at least 45 minutes for the bridge to open then noon for the industrial lock. Rafted up to sailboat in the lock and it went pretty smoothly. Lock tender must not have had a food start this morning because he was a little crabby:) We cruised out of the lock and headed upstream on the Mississippi past New Orleans then we locked through the Harvey Lock and canal. Not much of a wait at all and we locked through with no problems. We were the only boat and the crew was nice. You do need at least 20 feet of line though, because it is about a ten foot drop and it is a cleat on the side wall. Usually they throw you a line or it is floating bollards that adjust with your boat. Luckily we have been through a fair amount of locks and was prepared. Not much to see along this route except big ships, tugs and so forth being worked on. We only went 54 miles and it took us all day. We arrived at Houma and plenty of dock space. Nice Town dock with electric and a laundromat within walking distance. Got a bite to eat while laundry was going and hydrated ourselves. We were both thirsty and drank three glasses of tea. Walked back to boat and after putting away laundry we both crashed. Next we are going to try to make it to Avery Island(Tabasco sauce) and probably turn around and head back. We left on the 7th and in nine days we have only cruised this far because of weather. Gas not being available everywhere is an issue also.

New Orleans-Day two

2011-04-15T20:43:00.000-04:00

Aquarium

Riding the streetcar

Streetcar driver

We went back into the city for the day since we couldn't cruise and bad weather was coming. Took a cab into the city and had them drop us off at the beginning of the the streetcar route uptown. We rode it all the way to the end and really enjoyed the scenery (beautiful homes) and mingling with the people. We went to the aquarium, ate at Landry's, walked around more and took a cab back to the boat around 7pm. Brad Pitt is filming a movie in New Orleans, but we never saw him. Just the film crews and prop guys. The cabbie told us that movies are always being filmed there and it was good for the economy of New Orleans.

A day in New Orleans

2011-04-14T20:58:00.013-04:00

Jackson Square

Streets of New Orleans

French market

Cafe Du Mond

Riverwalk Sculpture

Took the cab into New Orleans and spent the day wondering around the french quarter, bourbon street and the waterfront. Had lunch at the Acme Oyster House, saw the market and had beignets at Cafe Du Mond.It was really nice just strolling around and not being in a hurry or there to see one particular thing. When we arrived back at marina our package was waiting for us and I installed the software update in GPS. Whohoo it worked. We are expecting a storm with 15-25 knot winds tomorrow so we will stay put at marina. Hopefully Saturday we can lock through the locks and get to Houma. We will spend the day in New Orleans again and ride the streetcar and who knows what else.

New Orleans

2011-04-13T15:42:00.000-04:00

We are tied up at Seabrook Marine in New Orleans. This is a really nice marina and the owner is very hospitable and knowledgeable of the intracoastal waterway. Sounds like fuel is going to be an issue between here and Texas. We did not bring any jerry cans with us so we are going to travel to Houma next and see what the fuel situation is. If we can't get fuel, then we may have to abort the Texas run. Making phone calls to plan ahead so we don't get caught with our pants down.:)

On to New Orleans

2011-04-12T20:59:00.000-04:00

Package arrived late at the farm Tuesday so we decided to move on to New Orleans since the weather would be decent tomorrow to cruise the Mississippi sound. Will have it shipped to marina there. Figures the one day I needed something my regular driver was off so they give it to another driver who delivers later in the evening. My driver always delivers to me first usually since she has to drive a mile and a half on a dirt road to the house. :) Anyway, all will work out.

Still in Biloxi

2011-04-12T12:44:00.001-04:00

Package should arrive tomorrow with any luck from the Post office. I want hold my breath though.:)
We took the transit bus to West Marine for charts , but had to get off at stop that was a mile away. Walked to West Marine, then found out there was a bus stop right there near them:( We got on that bus, which was alittle longer and more of a local bus, but we got to see a bit of Biloxi other that the strip. Stopped at Hard Rock casino on our way back and I am happy to say we walked out ahead . I just couldn't pass it up.:) Took the hopper bus back to boat and was beat. It got pretty windy and rained last night , but boat was in a secure marina. I am GLAD we weren't anchored out somewhere last night. Today is mine and Alan's 31st anniversary. We will celebrate by not getting on each others nerves in such close quarters.:) jk
Will probably go out to one of the restaurants around here tonight. If software gets here by noon tomorrow we will set out for New Orleans then. Never know what we will do. It's an adventure.

Biloxi

2011-04-10T16:24:00.000-04:00

We left Ingram Bayou this morning in patchy fog. Sometimes it was a little hairy, but then the sky would be blue. Of course, crossing Mobile Bay was somewhat treacherous at times. We arrived at Biloxi and docked at Marina until Wednesday. Hoping Garmin disk arrives by Wednesday, if not we will stay another day. Can't beat the rate at 1.00 per foot includes electricity and HOT showers. After third night 50 cents a foot. Need to do some laundry tomorrow and walk around on shore.

Ingram Bayou

2011-04-09T17:06:00.001-04:00

Today was a beautiful day for cruising. We left our anchorage and took our time cruising and seeing the shoreline. We stopped for fuel at the Oyster Bar and marina in Perido Key and of course had to try out the restaurant. We would sometimes run into some patchy fog, but nothing to bad. We went into Robert's bayou and Pirates Cove was hopping. This is obviously a very popular place. We looked around and left. We are now anchored in a very nice bayou for the night.

Anchored between Ft Walton and Pensacola

2011-04-08T17:18:00.001-04:00

Well it did not start out to well today, but ended in a lovely anchorage spot. Decided to go outside cruising from Panama City to Destin instead of using the intracoastal. It was foggy, rough(at least to me) and I was green and not a happy camper by the time we reached Destin. It WON'T happen again. We finally arrived at the Ft Walton beach city dock and pulled in for a couple of hours. Walked to the Publix , bought a sandwich since we both were starving and had not eaten since this morning. It was good to walk and and get my sea legs back. We pulled out and headed to anchorage another boater told us about. We are tucked in behind an island and across from Eglin Airforce beach property. May have to stay here tomorrow also if this fog doesn't lift.

Launched and headed to Texas

2011-04-08T11:30:00.000-04:00

Chris launched us about 9:45am this morning in Panama City Florida. Chip didn't work in Garmin, but they are sending us an update for our model early next week. We have the one for here to New Orleans so we will be fine with the GPS until then. All in all, so far we are good:)

a monthand half away

2011-02-14T12:48:00.000-05:00

Well, we are getting closer to our trip. Only a month and a half away. We are getting the bottom of boat painted next week, then we start organizing trip.

The route planning

2011-01-07T06:48:00.002-05:00

We visited Biloxi this past weekend and found out that there are two marinas there. Beau Rivage marina is not opened and won't be anytime soon. I am wondering how much of this we will encounter on our trip due to the hurricanes Katrina and Rita that his the coastline. The guides do not seem to be up to date anymore.

Planning our next adventure

2010-12-22T00:06:00.003-05:00

Well we are starting to get the fever again for some cruising and are planning our tri to complete the loop that we didn't in 2008. We are going to cruise from Panama City , Fl to the Texas Coast the first of April 2011. The planning is always one of my favorite parts.

Panama City , Flcruising

2010-03-22T18:45:00.003-04:00

Bayou Joe's for lunch. Pulled boat right up to restaurant and got out.

Took the boat out for an overnight trip to get away from the farm a bit. Cruised around St Andrews Bay, stopped at Shell Island, ate lunch at Bayou Joes and then dropped anchor at Smack Bayou for the night. Had a great trip....

72 restored chevy pickup for Alan

2009-11-14T21:06:00.001-05:00

So we went to a car show and Alan came home with a 1972 Chevy Cheyene pickup (Sport model).

Black with original interior except radio. Now we putt around town like ole farmers.:)

Back home

2009-10-27T21:48:00.002-04:00

We left early in the morning from Wingates to beat the bad weather that was headed our way. We dodged the rain several times and even tied up to the wewa dock during one squall. Made it back to the boat ramp and pulled her out and drove home. It was a fun trip and hopefully we will do it again and this time head up the Chattahoochee River to Eufaula, Al.

Bainbridge, Ga

2009-10-26T21:40:00.004-04:00

We left Wingates early and headed for Bainbridge. It was a nice trip and we found the town dock to tie up to. We walked along the river and through this beautiful Live Oak park to the small downtown area. Had lunch at a chinese restaurant which was the only sit down place available there that we could see. It was actually very good. Headed back to Lake Seminole and decided to stay at Wingates Lodge again for the night. They were very nice and we liked it there. Pulled in mid afternoon to our same spot as the night before.

Apalachicola River cruise to Bainbridge Ga

2009-10-25T21:33:00.002-04:00

We left John's on Sunday morning after a great breakfast from our host. Alan and I wanted to cruise up the river to Chattahoochee and lock through to Lake Seminole to the Flint River. We had a beautiful day for cruising and made good time. Saw many houseboats along the river that people use as weekend or hunting camps. We stayed the night at Wingate lodge and marina for the night. We are going to cruise to Bainbridge, Ga in the morning up the Flint River.

Apalachicola C-Brat gathering at John's place on the River

2009-10-23T21:27:00.001-04:00

Put the boat in at Apalachicola ramp and cruised over to Papa Joe's for some lunch. After a great meal we cruised over to John's for the C-Brat weekend of fun.

BACK HOME

2009-08-15T07:03:00.000-04:00

We arrived safely and had a really great time on this trip to Wisconsin, and Lake Superior. We dropped off the car to Wayne and had the brakes fixed and was ready to go again. Scallop season is still opened so we took Zack and his friend Michael scalloping at St. Joe and had a fun time. We didn't do too bad considering this was our first time. We were planning to scallop the next morning, but TS Claudette popped up. We pulled the boat out of the water and headed home.

Birmingham-Oak Mountain

2009-08-11T07:01:00.000-04:00

Oak Mountain state park in Birminham, AL is where we spent our last night on the road. It was a nice campground and you wouldn't know you were in a city. We left out early in the morning headed for Chipley.

Tupelo, Mississippi

2009-08-10T06:57:00.000-04:00

We pulled into state park at Tupelo Mississippi and the place was empty except for one camper. It was a great place to do some hiking and chill out. We stayed 2 nights and cleaned out the car and organized our stuff again. We did not see Elvis or visit his home place so I hope he forgives us. This will have to be another day and trip.

Sandy Beach Campground Iowa 8-02 thru 8-7

2009-08-01T06:34:00.000-04:00

After driving over 300 miles which we broke our rule we made it to Sandy Beach Campground. This was a really nice Corp campground between Cedar Rapids Iowa and Iowa City. We had a mishap about a mile from the campground. When we made the turn we blew our tire on the right side of trailer and hit the curve pretty hard. We limped in, got our campsite and set up camp. Alan changed out the tire with the spare and then we went the next day looking for another spare to have with us. When Alan was putting the spare back on the rig he notice that part of the trailer was broken. This was an important part because if we had to slam on brakes then the boat would have either landed in the back of us or come off the trailer and hurt someone else on the road behind us. We were also trying to take it easy on the brakes on the Tahoe because they were giving us a problem. At this point I just want to limp home to Wayne's Auto our trusted mechanic.

We called the manufacture of boat trailer and the part was being shipped to us, but it would be 2 days. We decided to rent an economy car to tour Iowa since we would be there for a week and to save the brakes on the Tahoe.

We rented the car and set out for Kalona(the amish country of Iowa) and Swedesburg( home of the swedish museum). We covered quite a few miles and saw a lot of farmland. There was miles and miles of corn and soybeans as far as the eye could see.

The next day we decided on visiting northwest Iowa and Wisconsin.

The third day we drove to Ames Iowa and saw the university, then to Winterset which is home to the many covered bridges in Iowa. This is also the area where the movie "Bridges over Madison County" was filmed. We had lunch at a cute little coffee shop that had wi-fi. The town had a great little downtown area and no WALMART. It seemed like you were going back in time with small business and drug stores with soda fountains. They had a Rexall drugs that had the soda fountain and grill just like the one I used to go into at Clewiston as a kid. It is a shame we don't see more of that in this country instead of the BIG corporate stores that come in and put these little guys out of business.

After Winterset we drove back to campsite exploring along the way.

We missed the UPS delivery of the part so we had to drive into Cedar Rapids and pick it up at the UPS center. Mission accomplished and Alan put the part back home and we were ready to roll again. We really enjoyed the week in Iowa exploring and it is really a nice place to visit. We had been through there traveling a few times, but having to wait on part gave us an opportunity to really see it.

Hinkley, Mn

2009-07-30T06:30:00.000-04:00

We stayed at St. Crois state park for two nights. Alan did some hiking and of course we had to go see what the casino was like in Hinkley. Of course, they took my money. The campground was full for the weekend and kids everywhere. It was nice to see families spending time together in the outdoors and most of them in tents or more modest campers like popups. Very few big rigs. We will leave in the morning for Iowa which is about 200 miles.

Cruised for bread

2009-07-29T06:20:00.000-04:00

We had stopped in Washburn on Monday at Coco's a new bakery that had opened and they have daily breads that they cook. We found out that on Wednesday was the roasted garlic bread. Well, I LOVE garlic so we decided to take the boat for one last cruise to Washburn. We docked at the municipal dock and walked up to the bakery, purchased my bread and had a nice walk back. We were going to go back to Madeline Island, but it was too early for lunch and the wind was picking up. We went back to Red Cliff , prepared the boat for a road trip back home. I had made plans with the office at REd Cliff to pull the boat out and back her into camping spot for the night. Of course , the spot was right next to the office and showers so we had many gawkers. One lady asked me how it was sleeping on the boat out of the water. I kinda looked at her(not to be rude) and said it is just like a camper inside except the only difference is that it will float. Maybe with this economy the way it is the boat dealers should market them as amphibious campers. Just a thought.....

Tomorrow the road trip home begins.

Festivals and concert

2009-07-25T12:14:00.000-04:00

We attended the festivals in Bayfield and Iron River. We made a circle trip around from Iron River through Hayward then back to Bayfield. Later on we drove up to the concert and heard Marshal Tucker Band. It was a lot of fun, but we are tired. Not used to these late nights!

Sand Island fogged in

2009-07-23T22:00:00.003-04:00

We woke up to the worst fog we have seen on the lake since we have been here. They were calling for fog until 1am Friday morning. We decided to make the best of it and cleaned the boat up and wait it out. Finally it did not life, but we could see enough to cruise over very slowly to Sand Island which was only about two miles from us. We made it over there, docked at the public dock and hiked to the lighthouse which was 2 miles from boat. When we got there, they were giving tours which was really eat. We then hiked back(another 2 miles) and started back to Red Cliff. The fog was lifting in some spots so Alan hugged the shoreline and cruised back slowly to our marina. We had a great time and we might do some cruising tomorrow if the weather is good. Saturday we have festivals to attend in the area and the Marshal Tucker Band show is Saturday night.

Sand Island, Corucopia and Little Sand Bay

2009-07-22T21:57:00.000-04:00

Today we left Red Cliff after a leisurely breakfast which consisted of Coffee and Blueberry pancakes with maple syrup. Hum HUM Are you hungry yet?

We cruised to Little Sand Bay first to check out the dock there. We planned to stay overnight here and just wanted to make sure how many docks and the conditions of them. Afterwards we set out for Cornucopia (about 12nuatical miles) for lunch and to top off our fuel tanks. We pulled up to the marina, which is the same one Alan took a picture of last week when we came here by car. Nice young man greeted us at the fuel dock and we took on water and gas. He let us tie up to walk over and have lunch at Fishy Lips lounge and restaurant. Alan had a pan grilled fish (Trout) sandwich and I had chicken. We went into Ehlers general store and picked up a few things then stopped by the coffee café, grabbed a cup of coffee for me and of course, we had to try the fresh scone and muffin. A storm was brewing just southwest of us so we need to head back to Little Sand Bay. In just the hour we took to eat In Cornucopia the wind had shifted and picked up alittle. That is why this lake can be intimidating. We cruised by the sea caves and kayakers paddling hard to beat the weather. We made it back to Little Sand Bay and tied up for the night, ate supper onboard and watched a movie I downloaded on the laptop. Boy, it doesn’t get any better than this. Tomorrow morning we will cruise over to Sand Island and check it out before cruising back to Red Cliff.

Around the area waiting for weather to clear

2009-07-18T19:59:00.001-04:00

Today we drove over to Duluth to pick up Alan's phone. Went to Sam's and Barnes and Nobles bookstore. We are back at boat getting ready for cruising tomorrow. It is suppose to be clear and beautiful so off we go island hopping and will stay overnight on one of them. Maybe catch some fish and fry them up.

Duluth.Minn 7/14-16 Tuesday and Wednesday

2009-07-16T18:21:00.001-04:00

Since the weather was going to be very windy and possible showers we decided to take a road trip to Duluth for a couple of days. We drove into downtown Duluth, decided on a strategy then drove to CArlton to Black Bear casino and hotel resort to stay the night. Our first intentions were to take there shuttle into downtown Duluth to spend the day, but we decided to check out and drive in ourselves. We walked around Bay Harbor, went to the maritime museum and had some lunch. We then drove to Two Harbors, Gooseberry State Park and got a room at a B&B for the night. It was a great two day trip and we are now back at the boat and it is 54 degrees and dropping. They are expecting it to be 47 in the morning. To top it off it is raining. Well , we wanted some cooler weather!

Island hopping today

2009-07-13T21:50:00.005-04:00

Today the lake was perfect. It started out this morning around 49 degrees and warmed up to 76 by the end of the day.We left the dock and cruised to Oak Island first and went on a 4 mile hike. The view was breathtaking and the workout was good for both of us. Alan caught a fish of the back of the boat, but no keeper. They are small mouth bass, but it has to be 22 inches or more to keep. It was fun though just to catch them. After Oak we went to Rocky Island and docked for a bit to check it out. We then cruised by Twin Island, Otter Island on to Stockton Island to check out the docking facilities there for a future overnight stay. They are docks that are managed by the National Park service. Hiking trails and picnic areas. It was the perfect day so far for cruising around the Apostle Islands and to top the day we went to Bayfield to fuel up , top off the water tank and ate dinner at Maggies in Bayfield. ow we are suppose to have windy weather for the next two days so we will stick to the land and explore the area in the next two days.

Cornucopia, Wisconsin

2009-07-11T22:12:00.003-04:00

The water was too rough so we decided to take a ride and see the area some. We drove over to Cornucopia to see the Ehler's General store that is still like an authentic general store. It was a cute little town that consist of the post office(really tiny) , marina, coffee shop, and 2 restaurants. Even the has station was closed up and for sale.

Red Cliff, Wisconsin (Apostle Islands)

2009-07-08T20:16:00.001-04:00

We departed from Winneconne around 12:30pm after waiting for garmin chip to arrive we had ordered for Lake Superior. We pulled the boat out of the water, loaded and unloaded stuff for the road trip. We took the scenic route, so therefore it took us longer to arrive in the bayfield area. We stopped at the visitors center and got some good inside scoop n launch ramp and marina 3 miles north of Bayfield. We pulled into Buffalo Bay campground and marina at Red Cliff and launched the boat and got a slip with electricity. We decided to stay for the month here(@ $8.34 a day with electricity and wi-fi, you can't beat that) and explore the area by boat and car.

It is on the indian reservation and very laid back.

Lake Winnebago, Wisconsi

2009-07-06T21:14:00.000-04:00

Left Debbie and Phil's dock around 7am and headed towards Oshkosh. We took our time enjoying the view and taking pictures. After cruising through Oshkosh we were in Lake Winnebago and headed to Manasha for a lunch stop. Walked around a bit, ate at Naut's Landing(the only one open on a Monday) and then headed to High Cliff State Park marina. Docked at the marina and Alan went for a long hike on the hiking trails and I chilled out. They actually have Wi-Fi at this state park. Will leave in the morning for Fond du Lac.

Winneconne, Wisconsin

2009-07-02T11:30:00.001-04:00

Arrived at Debbie and Phil's around 10:30am. It was a beautiful ride, since we took the back roads and avoided the interstate view. Will be here until Monday and celebrate the 4th here at their house. They have an annual party here on the 4th. Debbie has worked really hard in the yard and it shows. It was real relaxing to sit on the porch and watch the boats go by on the river. You never know what you will see. We always enjoy visiting them and they are great host.

Starved Rock State Park Utica Illois

2009-07-01T08:23:00.000-04:00

Left early from Benton and drove to Utica Illinois. Camped at the campground Starved Rock state park for the night. Alan went on a 2 and half mile hike and I picked him up at the parking area. This is the same area that we stayed last year on the Illinois river in the Starved Rock marina. We were seeing the area from a different view this year. Pulled out at 4:30am headed to Debbie's in Wisconsin Wednesday am.

Rend Lake Benton Illnois

2009-06-29T20:18:00.000-04:00

Pulled into campground at Rend Lake South Marcum campground that is managed by the Corp of Engineers. We decided to stay 2 nights there and the campsite was right on the lake.

Lake Superior Trip July 2009

2009-06-28T20:11:00.000-04:00

Well, it has been over six months and we are back on the water again. Tending to the farm, chickens ad garden is nice, but we were ready for cooler weather.

Leaving mom and sons Adam and Zack behind :( to tend to the place, off we go.

We left Chipley around 6:15am Sunday . We drove to Rogersville Alabama the first day and camped in our boat at the Wheeler state park. It was a beautiful place and we caught up on much needed sleep.

GREAT LOOP COMPLETED BY SIMPLICITY

2008-10-02T16:36:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone..

We were met at the boat ramp by our sons Adam and Zack with the car and trailer. It is hard to believe that six months has past since we started this adventure and here we are back where we started.

WE HAVE COMPLETED THE GREAT LOOP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

DESTIN, FL

2008-10-01T20:48:00.003-04:00

We left our anchorage at Fort Walton and cruised over to Destin. Found Harbor Docks restaurant(one of our favorites by car) and docked for lunch. After lunch we decided we would stay the night in Destin and anchored by the beach in front of Harbor Walk. We had the best view in the house and the music was great too.

Mobile to Ft Walton

2008-09-30T20:52:00.003-04:00

We left Mobile and cruised the intercostal to Fort Walton. On our way we stopped at LULU'S(famous place because Jimmy Buffet's sister owns it) in Orange Beach. After lunch we cruised and enjoyed the Panhandle view and the white beaches that the Florida panhandle is famous for. The emerald water and the sugar sand beaches.

Pebble Isle Marina-TEnnessee River to Mobile Alabama

2008-09-24T22:29:00.001-04:00

Traveling by Pontoon and boaters at pot luck

We left Prizer Point early in the am and traveled on Kentucky Lake 96 miles to Pebble Isle marina in Tennessee. We stayed two days there and re provisioned for the trip south. Next we cruised to Aqua Yacht Harbor and stayed for two nights there. We knew that three of the locks on the Tenn-tom would not be opened until the 24th so we were taking our time going down. We cruised 36 miles from Aqua Harbor to Bay Springs to be close to the lock the next morning to leave. While at Bay Springs we joined some other boaters for a pot luck supper and met these four young men who were on an adventure themselves aboard there pontoon boat. THey launched in Minneapolis Minnesota and have been cruising the Mississippi River and headed to Mobile. They were having a good time. We left the next morning around 6am to go through the lock. There were 9 of us pleasure craft boats to lock through. At the end of the day we stopped at Columbus marina for two days to rest up and chill out. We have been putting in long days, but we usually stay for 2 days when we arrive at a marina. Columbus was a real nice stop and we enjoyed it. We left early and traveled to Demopolis Alabama 90 miles and 3 locks. The last lock before Demopolis was the beast. The water hyacinths were so bad that they completely covered the entrance to the lock and we have to stop and clean off the motor at least twice just to make it into the lock. We have never seen anything like it before. We finally made it through and got into the marina. We left this morning around 7:30am and went through 2 locks and 228 miles to Mobile ALabama. We are at the Dog River Marina for the night and will leave in the morning for Destin. Arrival at home will be Wednesday to Lynn Haven for kids to pick us up.

Prizer Point Marina and campground

2008-09-19T21:20:00.001-04:00

We locked through Cheatam after the fog lifted this morning. We had 98 miles to cruise today to Prizer Point. It was a nice day to cruise, but there were so many barges on the River with really huge loads. We arrive Prizer Point and topped off fuel and went to our covered slip. After tying up and securing boat I inquired about a courtesy car for grocery shopping. The owner loaned me her car and pointed me in the right direction. I was so thankful because we had not bought any real groceries since Buzzard Rock way over a week ago and I was just about out of everything.

We are staying 2 nights here so we can get the boat ship shape for the next leg on the Tennessee River to the Tenn-Tom.

Granville Marina Cumberland River to Defeated Creek

2008-09-19T09:09:00.000-04:00

We left Shady Cove and cruised up the Cumberland River to Granville Marina. We arrived before lunch and topped of fuel tanks, grabbed a bite to eat and went for a walk. Cell service was spotty, but they did have internet. We had planned to leave from there early the next morning and cruise to the end of the navigable waters of the Cumberland to Celina and turn around. We did just that and then went to Defeated Creek marina for the night to try a different place. We had made arrangements with the lock-master to lock through at 10am Thursday morning. Alan the owner of Defeated Creek has recently bought this marina and is really trying to turn it around. They were very nice and accommodating to us. It is a beautiful setting with a Army corp campground and hiking trails on the property. We left around 9:45am Thursday morning to make the 10am lock. We were greeted by lock master Lampton with 2 grocery bags of FRESH homegrown tomatoes. WHAT A TREAT! He said he liked to treat his out of state customers and they were GOOD. After locking through we had decided that we would cruise all day to get through 2 more locks to be close to the Barkley Canal. There was a back up on the Cheatam lock when we arrived and so we anchored for the night in a really nice spot on the Harpeth River. This is the same anchorage that Eva and Rob Stowe were at in their side trip book. VERY PEACEFUL NIGHT AND THE SCENERY WAS BEAUTIFUL.

Shady Cove Marina and Resort on Cumberland River

2008-09-15T22:39:00.003-04:00

We left Cherokee Marina and Steakhouse after topping off our spare gas cans because of the possible fuel shortage. Chris Cunningham of Cherokee was great with info about Cumberland River and the area. We bought a chart for the river and a guide book for the river . We left and cruised slowly to absorbed our surroundings and conserve the fuel. We arrived at Shady Cove Marina and campground around mm 249 which is about 2 miles of the channel, but well worth the trip. It is absolutely beautiful back on the creek. Gene and Lucy Conyer bought the place about 4 years ago and have really made quite a retreat. They have a restaurant, Tick Bar and all the other necessities like shower and laundry room. The restaurant was closed on Mondays, but Lucy brought Alan and I out a plate of catfish, fries, white beans and cole slaw for us to eat. Man, I thought I had died and gone to heaven eating some good southern food. I was so appreciative that she would do that. Good ole southern hospitality. They winter in Okeechobee, Fl and of course knew where Clewiston was.

They really have something going in this place and we wish them the best of luck. We have to stop back by here on our way back on a Thursday or Friday and check out the Tiki Bar action.

Everyone along this river have been so gracious and the scenery is spectacular. The leaves are just starting to change here and it is beautiful.

Cherokee Steak House and Marina

2008-09-14T21:09:00.000-04:00

We arrived at Cherokee Marina in the afternoon , topped off fuel and got a slip for the night. The nice young dock hand told us about the storm that was coming the next day. We connected to wi-fi and sure enough Ike was heading our way. After securing the lines we went to eat at the Steakhouse and enjoyed a great meal and the A/C. Temperatures were in the 90's today and very humid. After a restless night due to the heat we started out on Old Hickory Lake, but turned back to Cherokee and tied up to weather the storm. It finally cooled down a bit and we decided we would leave tomorrow morning for Cordell Hull Lake.

Rock Harbor Marina and Nashville

2008-09-12T12:00:00.004-04:00

Tennesee Titan stadium and Nashville looking up Broadway

Honky Tonk "The stage" and band Sweet tea and the homewreckers

Didn't go in there Carla NElson and Scott Collier

BB Kingsmen and Chainsaw Dupont playing the Blues

We left Buzzard rock this morning and cruised to Rock Harbor marina. Nashville's city docks were closed for 5 days so we decided to stay at Rock Harbor and take a cab into Nashville. We got settled in and went to eat at the Blue Moon Lagoon cafe for dinner and some A/C that was much needed. We had a great meal and our waitress Andrea was full of great info about Nashville. We also found out that we were eating in a restaurant that Erv Woosley (George Strait's manager) owned. THis is a very popular place and boats could also cruise up to their dock and eat.

We went into Nashville around 10:00am by cab and we walked around the waterfront then went into the Stage for a little entertainment. THe band was good and then it was lunch time. We ate at a nice restaurant on Broadway then went to the famous Tootsie's. There was a great band there playing and we stayed for a while. The singer Scott Collier and the fiddle player Carla Nelson was totally awesome. They should both be recording and playing all over.

To finish the night and day off we went to BB KINGS for some blues. Chainsaw Dupont from Chicago and the BB Kingsmen were playing and bringing down the house. This was a fun day for us both and we will now continue our trip on the Cumberland River to our next stop.

Alton to Hoppies then on to Buzzard Rock in Ky

2008-09-10T00:23:00.003-04:00

We left Alton and cruised to Hoppies on the Mississippi. We were dodging logs and current all the way there. We fueled up at Hoppies and purchased 3 more 5 gal jugs to carry extra fuel on our next leg. We would be cruising 259 miles and no fuel stops between Hoppies and the Cumberland River. Now Hoppies was a unique marina in itself. It was about 4-5 barges linked together with electric and water setup and the fuel dock We actually had a GREAT nights sleep and it was an experience I won't forget. We left at 7am this morning and cruised 259 miles, through 3 locks and 3 rivers to get to Buzzard Rock marina by 6pm. We had one incident on the Ohio River when we hit a log that we did not see. The propeller was slightly bent, but we could still keep going and Alan will change it tomorrow. You would think after all the lumber we saw floating in the Mississippi and did not see ANY in the Ohio River , that is where we nailed it hard.

Alton, Mo

2008-09-10T00:16:00.002-04:00

We arrived Alton and pulled into ramp so that Randy could pull the boat out of the water and service the motor. All went well and he had her back n within an hour. We really appreciated Randy and his son for spending there Sunday with us. We cruised back to our slip at the marina and then decided to take a walk around Alton which wasn't that much to see. We walked by the casino and yes we ducked inside for a little bit. A very short bit since we each had $20.00 bucks to play with. Well, it was a good night for us and we came out winners and ran as fast as we could to the boat so that we would hold on to it.

When we got back to the boat I was fixing the dinner and Alan was on the deck of the boat watching a show over at the next dock. Obviously the young lady had way too much to drink as she was pole dancing to music and EVERYBODY could see it.

Tall Timbers Marina to Grafton Mo and Linda is a year older

2008-09-07T22:59:00.002-04:00

We left Tall Timbers and headed for Grafton Marina. We arrived and decided to stay 3 nights, clean out boat and just relax a bit. Friday morning I met Duanne in the marina store and started talking about boats. He used to own a c-dory and invited Alan and I out that night. He took us to Fast Eddies in Alton which has the cheapest food around(and it was good) as long as you buy a drink. They served bottled tea so I was good. The shrimp and wings were fantastic and the atmosphere was great. The next day we celebrated my over the half century mark by riding bikes to the state park and having lunch at the lodge. 10 miles later, sore butts and me not feeling any younger we came back to the boat and had soup for dinner.

We met Randy Sheehy a C-dory dealer from St. Louis who came to look at out Cape Cruiser 23. Randy made the arrangements to haul out our boat and have her serviced tomorrow at Alton. We will leave in the morning for the short 15 mile trip and stay the night there.

Chicago to Peoria, Il

2008-09-03T22:05:00.003-04:00

We left Chicago and had a great cruise through the city. It was amazing from the water to see what rush hour is like in the mornings. People were everywhere walking across several bridges, taking water taxis, trains and etc. It was a beautiful morning for cruising and the weather was great. The locks went smooth until later in the afternoon and it started getting busy on the river with barges. We had to wait an hour and half for the last lock so we pulled into Starved Rock marina(wonder how they got that name)for the night near Ottawa, Illinois. Very nice people and marina. It had been so hot that day that I thought we might had somehow been beamed back to Florida. The humidity was about 85%. After not much sleep we topped off the fuel tanks and headed south again. The river was busy again today with barges so we had to wait for locks. We stopped and fueled up again at the Illinois Valley yacht club and had a great lunch. They called ahead at a marina for us near Peoria to expect us. We arrived about 5:30pm and tied up for the night. They are expected Gustave here tomorrow so we will see if we are going to travel. It has really been interesting on this leg of the trip watching the barges and how they operate. They have 3 or 4 barges and sometimes 2 wide that they are pushing along the river. Seems like barge traffic is up this summer, which I am sure has to do with the price of fuel and the economy.

Chicago-Pictures

2008-09-02T20:59:00.000-04:00

Roosevelt Bridge and Sears tower in background

Rush hour taxis along waterway in the morning

Skyscapers and and those who have to go to work

walking on bridge during rush hour

Chicago Harbor Lock and Soldier Field "DA BEARS"

Chicago skyline and cruising through the Chicago River

South Haven to Chicago

2008-09-01T21:54:00.001-04:00

We left SOuth HAven about 11am on Sunday and arrived CHicago around 2:45pm after crossing Lake Michigan in nearly flat waters. It was the smoothest ride we have had on Lake Michigan since Mackinaw. We arrived at Burham harbor in Chicago and tied up to dock. We knew it would be busy because it was the holiday weekend. We just didn't know HOW busy. We requested another dock space the next morning and they moved us to an inside spot. We visited the Shedd aquarium on Monday and had a good time. We got to see the final dolphin show for the season that afternoon and it was pretty cool. It was so hot we just hung out for the A/C. Tomorrow will be an early morning so we can get through the Chicago Harbor lock early. We want to see the city when it is hopping by water.

Lawton, Michigan

2008-08-31T07:34:00.011-04:00

"THE TERRIBL E SWEDE" John Larsson

later changed to Lawson in America

"The Three Swedes" BOB, ALAN AND KEN

Bob, Debbie,Alan, Linda and Ken

Lake house and LINDA AND ALAN BEFORE CRASH

We have enjoyed our stay at Lawton visiting Alan's cousins, Aunts and Uncle. We stayed at Uncle Earl's lake house on Cedar Lake and was entertained every night. It was fun sitting around visiting and enjoying the old stories of their childhood. Friday morning we had the 1st annual "Terrible Swede" memorial bike race where Bob,Deb, Ken, Alan and myself started out at Grand Junction (bike path) and rode to South Haven. We had lunch at Clementines and then rode back which totaled 25 miles according to the official time and miles keeper Debbie.

"The terrible swede" AKA John Larsson was ALan's, Bob and Ken's great grandfather and was a professional bike racer in the USA who had emigrated from Sweden. They also had a great uncle Iver who raced and had changed his name to Lawson.

The trip was great, but I have the scars to remeber it by. Alan and I managed to get tangled up and crash , BUT I finished it even if there was pain. THere was no way I was going to wimp out on this.

Later that night we all gathered at the Lake house along with cousins, Nancy,CHarlene, Connie and Aunt Lorraine to have pizza and rehash the day.

Yesterday Alan and I went to the Wolf Lake Fish Hatchery and walked the nature trail then later I fixed dinner for Ken, Judy and Uncle Earl.

This has been a great stop and boy did we have ADVENTURE!

South Haven Michigan headed to Lawton

2008-08-26T20:00:00.001-04:00

We arrived at South Haven after a beautiful almost FLAT cruise from Ludington . We docked at the NOrth Municipal marina because the SOuth marina was reserved. We secured the boat and Alan's cousins from Lawton, Bob and Ken drove over to pick us up. We are staying at their family lakehouse on Cedar Lake. We will all be getting together tomorrow . The Lawson's are great host and really make you feel like you are part of the family and glad to see you. We will be here for a few days and maybe catch up with everybody. It was good to see Uncle Earl and Aunt Delores. It is hard to believe that it has been 14 years since we were last here.

I will post more later and update our great stay here along with pictures.

Winneconne, Wisconsin

2008-08-25T09:37:00.003-04:00

The S.S. Badger

Their Boat and their house from the river

We arrived in Wisconsin by way of the "SS BADGER" a steam ship ferry from Ludington, Michigan to Manitowac, Wisconsin. My sister Debbie and brother-in-law Phil picked us up at the ferry. We enjoyed 4 nights at their house in Winneconne on the Wolf River. Friday Al and Phil explored in the area and Debbie and I enjoyed a day of SHOPPING. SAturday we went out their boat for a fun cruise and enjoyed the company of Captain Ron and Steve their friends. We enjoyed a delicious meal at the Supper club that night here in Winneconne with Ron and Jeannie, Rose and Dale, Phil, Debbie and us. Sunday Deb and I went back to the mall and Alan and Phil went to an outdoor show. We enjoyed a dinner that evening with Dan and Colleen at Debbie and Phil's house. We leave this morning back on the Badger to Michigan. We have really enjoyed our stay there and it was time off the boat which we haven't had since the 1st week of June.

Now we will visit ALan's Michigan family in South Haven. We look forward to our visit with them and family time there.

Ludington

2008-08-20T20:50:00.003-04:00

After two more nights in Frankfort due to the weather we left at 6:15am this morning heading for Ludington. Alan did some trolling on the way, but finally gave up and we picked up speed. The waves were not to bad, but they were choppy and about 1-2 foot. We made it into Ludington about 10am, fueled up and got our slip at the Ludington Municipal Marina. We took a walk over to the Badger and got our tickets for tomorrow to Wisconsin. We will be there until Monday visiting my sister, so don't panic if nothing is posted for several days. This is a very nice marina and the staff is superb!

Frankfort, Michigan

2008-08-18T21:37:00.003-04:00

We arrived in Frankfort yesterday and winds were picking up. Today some fisherman told us the waves were over 6ft on Lake Michigan. I am glad we were in port. A cold front is pushing through tonight and hopefully the Lake will settle down by tomorrow evening and we can proceed on. Last night we had one of the best meals in awhile. The local high school football program were having a benefit for the team and serving a pork loin dinner with all the fixings for $5 right here at the marina park. BOY was it GOOD!

Northport, Mi

2008-08-16T19:02:00.002-04:00

Well we did decide to leave at 6:15am this morning and see if we could make it a little further south. This time we had the 2-4 foot seas to our bow. We only had to go about 12 miles so I toughed it out. Once we made it into Traverse Bay it eased up some and we got a slip at the marina. We walked around a bit and I did a little grocery shopping.

Charloviox, Mi

2008-08-15T18:55:00.002-04:00

We left Beaver Island at 6:30am heading to CHarloviox before weather conditions deteriorate. We have 2-4 foot swels to our stern for a surfing 30 mile trip. We made it there and got a slip for the night. Walked around and listened to the bluegrass music they had going on at amphitheater. There was a 74 foot hatteras that was parked right in front of us and people would walk down to the end of the dock to look at it. We would make some comment like we were their dinghy. We felt like an ant to this big monster, BUT we were both at the same marina. We also met Skip from Indiana who had recently purchased a 2008 C-Dory from Marc at Wefings in Appalachicola. The name of his boat is "Lizzie" and he winters in Orange Beach, Al.

We will decide in the morning if we are going to leave depending on again the weather.

Beaver Island, Michigan

2008-08-14T12:22:00.004-04:00

Easy Rider Weiland's
Beaver Island

We arrived at Beaver Island yesterday around 8:30am. We left St. Ignace about 6:30am and had a fairly smooth ride through the Straits of Mackinaw.

We tied up the boat and walked up the street for breakfast and decided that we wanted to stay here for a couple of nights. This island is really cool and very few cars. We rented mopeds and toured around on the sometimes dirt roads and back woods for a couple of hours. WE HAD A BLAST!!!

The wildlife is incredible and the view is spectacular. You would think you are in the Caribbean with the water color and sand dunes.

After the mopeds we went back to the boat, napped and planned the next day. WHAT A LIFE.

It was a very quite night and I decided I wanted to spring clean the boat so Alan went biking on the island. THere are miles and miles of road and trails to cover here. Tomorrow depending on the weather we will go to GArden Island which is right close by then head to the eastern shore of Michigan and start south.

Mackinaw Island by ferry from St. Ignace

2008-08-12T22:37:00.001-04:00

We pulled into St Ignace and tied up at municipal marina there. Tom and Linda on the (Harvey J Kendall) were already there. I went walking around and shopping, but did not buy much. It is a very cool little place downtown. We met up with Linda and Tom and got the ferry schedules for Mackinaw Island. Alan and I went over the next morning on the 8:30am ferry and Linda and Tom came over on the 10:30. They had been there several times and love it. Alan and I rented bikes and rode the 8 mile trail around the island then around town some. We also walked up to the Grand Hotel for some kodak moments, but declined to pay the $10.00 a piece charge to walk through the hotel and in the court yard, so we found a little path by the tennis courts and snuck in for a few photos.

The island is motor free and the only way you get around is by horse and buggy or bicycles.

We met Tom and Linda for lunch at the Yankee Tavern Inn and had a nice time. We took the ferry back where we both took a nap after our adventure.

We leave in the morning for Beaver Island and will part ways with Linda and Tom. They are headed back home to Toledo Ohio by way of Lake Huron. I have really enjoyed the past few days with them and look forward to our next time together.

Detour Village to St. Ignace, Michigan

2008-08-12T18:45:00.004-04:00

Stormy evening after arrival at Detour.

Alan Caught this spout on camera!
We left Detour VIllage around 6:45am in relativity calm waters and headed for Cedarville and had breakfast. We also visited the Great Lakes boat-building school which was really interesting.It is amazing to see how wooden boats are built from the bottom up starting with plans. It is a 9 month program then the students go out in the work force among some of the best wooded boat restoration and boat builders. They also offer summer classes for anyone who wants to participate in the various workshops. After that eventful visit we left and headed for Hessel where the antique boat show had been that past weekend, but the weather was too bad for us to go. We had lunch at the little Inn there and met up with Dave from the Boat building school again. He was having lunch there also. (He recommended the place to us) We left Hessel and headed for St. Ignace which was a beautiful and FLAT cruise. Today was a fun day and we really enjoyed it. We are going to stay at St. Ignace for two nights so that we can go to Mackinac Island by ferry.

DETOUR VILLAGE_USA

2008-08-09T17:35:00.002-04:00

We left Meldrum BAY, Ontario around 7:00am this morning and arrived at Drummond Yacht Haven for customs about 8:10 am. Checked through customs without any problems and headed for Detour which is only about 8 miles away.

Will update travels in a couple of days when we have wi-fi at a marina.

Meldrum Bay

2008-08-08T22:52:00.003-04:00

Meldrum Bay marina

Linda and Tom with their boat in background

Lighthouse and inlet

We arrived at Meldrum Bay around 10:30am. The seas were picking up and we decided to head for a harbor. We tied up and walked around the small , but quaint village. We met Linda and Tom from Toledo, Ohio and just hit it off. They have been boating in this area for several years and have great knowledge of it. We had lunch with them at the Inn the first day and Peggy from the marina lent us her car and TOm drove us all to the lighthouse at Mississiagi Strait. Tonight Bob and Lois on the "Going There" trawler organized a pot luck supper that most cruisers came to. Lois and Bob are from Pennsylvania and doing the loop. We all had to stay an extra night at Meldrum Bay due to the weather. This has been a really crazy year with the winds and storms here in the North channel and Georgian Bay. I think the weather has been crazy all over.

Pictures

2008-08-06T08:52:00.002-04:00

I am trying to load more pictures, but haven't figured it out yet. I am trying to link our picassa web album.

http://picasaweb.google.com/meluvscruzin/GreatLoopSimplicity

Spanish heading towards Drummond

2008-08-06T08:06:00.003-04:00

We stayed for two nights at Spanish and had a heck of a rainstorm last night. Kurt and His mom Pat stayed at marina also and invited us for dinner aboard their boat. Kurt is a great cook(stir fry) and it was good. With his knowledge of Lake Michigan we have planned our trip south. We are going to cruise the Eastern shore of Lake Michigan and take the ferry SS Badger to Manatowic on the Wisconsin side. This ferry is a coal fired ferry and should be a nice trip. We will visit Debbie and Phil on that side.

Well we are sad to be leaving the Georgian Bay and North Channel, but there is always next year.

We will probably anchor somewhere tonight before Drummond.

Until next post.

Safe Travels:)

Spanish Ontario (HAPPY BIRTHDAY HANK)

2008-08-04T22:37:00.003-04:00

Today is ALan's Dad's 91st birthday. HAPPY BIRTHDAY HANK!!!!!

We are at the Spanish Municpal marina in the North CHannel and here for two nights to reorganize the boat and load up on some groceries. We walked into town this morning and went to the only grocery store they had. Today was a civic holiday for Canada so there wasn't much opened. Tomorrow we will wash her down and try to get the boat ship shape again. We will anchor out after this and get ready for the crossing over to Drummond Island where we will check into the US Customs and we will be in Michigan. This will probably be towards the end of the week or early next week. We will want to make that crossing when the seas are VERY calm.

Oak Bay off Perch Bay anchored

2008-08-04T17:32:00.002-04:00

Well we cruised around trying to decide where we wanted to thrown the hook. Today was a real gunk-holing day. We first stopped at Hotham Island and dropped the hook for some lunch. After a sandwich and a little rest we headed for Oak Bay. Found the spot between some rocks and away from the main anchorage. A good mud bottom we set out bow and stern anchors and watched a movie on the laptop I had downloaded from I-Tunes. Life is Good.

So Benjamin Island 1 night anchored

2008-08-04T17:27:00.003-04:00

Found a spot that was just for us. Our own private cove with cliffs above us and a view that was incredible at our front door. Was a little crazy at first because it turned out our front anchor was dragging so the boat was inching towards shore. ALan had gone off kayaking, but LUCKILY came back in time to see me trying to push the stern away from the rocks. He got the stern anchor and we reset the bow anchor . This was another comical routine that should have been filmed for America's funniest videos, but it wasn't. We finally got everything squared and the anchors were holding. We breathed a sigh of relief and looked at each other and said"Are we having fun yet?"

Of course we are. We WANTED adventure!

Croker Island- WELCOME HOME MOM

2008-08-02T17:23:00.001-04:00

We arrived at Croker Island and picked our very special, almost private spot to be anchored for two nights. it was a nice spot and only one sailboat a little ways from us, because we can anchor in shallow water. the blueberries were scare and picked over. we did manage to get a few to throw into the pancakes the next morning. pulled up anchor on the 2nd Saturday morning and headed for South Benjamin Island.

FRIDAY was a great day.MY MOM went home from the rehab center. She is progressing very well and glad to be home.

Gore Bay

2008-07-31T08:13:00.005-04:00

C-Dory at the same marina we were at. Leslie and Eric recently purchased their C-Dory and were doing some shakedown cruising. They are from Michigan and are up here enjoying the scenery.

This was another very interesting boat from Ohio. The captain gave us a tour and I regret that we didn't get their names.

We stayed the night at Gore Bay Municipal marina and stocked up on groceries and did the laundry. We were suppose to have bad weather, but we never saw it. We are heading out this morning to the Benjamin Islands to gunkhole and chill out.

The blueberry picking is suppose to be fantasic here. We will see if we have blueberry pancakes in the morning.

Logan Bay (Clapperton Island) Anchorage

2008-07-29T19:57:00.005-04:00

Kagawong trails and harbor beach

Trail to Bridal Falls

Bridal Falls
Alan's catch for the evening

We crusied to Kagawong first and hiked to Bridal Veil Falls . This is a local swimming hole and tourist. Kagawong also has a swimming bech at the harbor. We decided to go out on the hook instead of staying at the marina that night so we headed to Clapperton Island. We spent the night on the hook in Logan Bay along with two sailboats. It was so quiet and peaceful. Alan went kayaking and fishing later in the evening and landed a nice pike. He was in the frying pan the next night.

Whitefish Falls

2008-07-28T19:56:00.003-04:00

Alan's catch first day This pump really works..It is a classic

The river runs through the fish camps

We left Little Current yesterday and headed to Whitefish Falls. It was still rough , but near as bad as Saturday. We knew that if we could make it to the Waubano channel that leads to Whitefish then we would be okay. It was white knuckles but we did and then we were behind so many different islands that we were protected. We arrived at Whitefish and it is a very small fishing village. Fish camps line the river and most boats were under 30 feet so we really fit in here. We pulled up to the government dock and got directions from Craig at Bay Villa Lodge. He directed us to a slip , helped us dock, get power and was very gracious. Turns out his mom and dad( Don and Judy Datz) are from Michigan and bought this place a few years ago after coming to it for several years. Don actually use to come here as a kid. The fishing is great and the whole feel is rustic and looks out at the mountains. There were actually artist here renting the cabins while we are here painting. This is place we would consider coming back to next year and trailer the boat and stay in a cabin for a couple of weeks. We see alot of Ohio, Michigan, Indiana and a Minnesota car tag. We stayed two nights, but will be moving on tomorrow to someplace new. I don't know exactly where yet, but in the NOrth Channel of Lake Huron.

Back in Little Current

2008-07-26T17:23:00.002-04:00

We left the anchorage and stopped by Little Current to water up and catch wi-fi. We set off for Whitefish falls and the wind had really picked up. It was blowing 15-20 and waves were increasing. We decided to go back to Little Current and stay at Spider Bay marina that was more protected. WISE CHOICE! The winds picked up and were blowing 30 to 35 knots. Hopefully tomorrow we will be able to set out to our next destination.

UPDATE ON MAMA

She is doing quite well and she will be going home it looks like Thursday or Friday. She still has quite ways before she will be able to use to right leg and shoulder to its full extent. She appreciated the phone calls, cards and visits from everyone.

Browning Cove-Anchored

2008-07-25T17:13:00.003-04:00

We left Little Current and headed for Heywood Island off of Manatoulin Island. We anchored between Browning and Heywood . First we dropped the hook and tied off the stern to a tree on the island. We were pointed south(weatherman prediction of wind) and then realized it was going to blow southwest and a thunderstorm was coming. Since we were so close to the shore I told Alan to just jump overboard (notice I said him not me) and move the line to another tree. He didn't really think it was a good idea without the kayak, but he did it my way. WELL, when he dropped the stern anchor in the water it didn't hold so I went swinging out AWAY from him. Now we had the bow line set so no danger of me floating down river, but he had to swim to the boat. He got his kayak and paddled back to shore and reset the stern line. WHEW!!

We got all settled for the night and the clouds rumbled. Thunderstorm has arrived and neither one of us could sleep until it was over. Luckily it blew over fairly quickly.

Well, we wanted adventure!!!

Little Current, Ontario

2008-07-25T07:07:00.005-04:00

Little Current is on Manitoulin Island in the North Channel. Little Cuurent is one of the biggest towns on the water to stop for supplies. It kind of reminds me of downtown america years and years ago before the HUGE department stores and such came .

Downtown Little Current

Town dock along waterfront

We found the ice cream store. They serve the ice cream that is made on the island.HUM HUM!

More pics from Mary ann Cove

2008-07-24T22:36:00.002-04:00

Our little friends near us

Alan's view from the top

Our anchorage at Mary Ann Cove

Killarney, Ontario

2008-07-24T22:10:00.006-04:00

Crocodile dundee AKA Don from Georgian Bay

Pittsfield General store, pull up to dock and shop

Fish and chips Killnarney

Sportsman marina and welcome sign
Rocks in channel and Crabby indian

Ice fishing houses on land for summer

We left Britt and started out on the outside passage but it was getting a little rough so we went back into the inside passage at Collins Inlet. The view is so much nicer and I even got a picture of the crabby indian. At least I think I did, you can decide what you see in the stone.

The granite is of different colors and as we were in the Killarney channel it was pink where the sign was. We stopped at Pittfields General store on our way through and stocked up on a few groceries and topped off the fuel. Decided to head to Coverage portage cove to anchor for the night. We got a great spot tucked in to the cliff. THere was about 14 boats anchored there when we arrived. Later that evening there were about thirty. This is a very popular anchorage and I can see why. We stayed on the hook there for two nights. The first day after we were anchored, I heard someone calling out"Hey Simplicity" anybody on board? It was Don that ALan had met and talked to in the Frying Pan bay anchorage by Beausilie. He had a kayaking tour group in the Kilnary area and saw us pull in. Came over to chat and gave us some pointers on anchorage, which the spot we were at was one he gave us before. Dony definitely knows the Georgian Bay area. He reminds me somewhat of crocodile dundee.

After we left there(July 22nd) we went back to Kilnarney , stopped at the beer and liquor store(bought some beer to be able to dock there) and I picked up some ice and meat from Pittfields. We headed back out to Baie Fine anchorage. We cruised down to the famous"Pool" anchorage, but the bugs were so bad and the weeds made it hard to anchor that we left for Mary Ann Cove. This was a beautiful spot and we stayed for two nights. There was no phone and definitely no wi-fi service so my dear husband hiked up a mountain to get a signal so he could call mom and see how her orthopedic doctor appointment went. He came back down the mountain and gave me a full report. He said it was a beautiful hike and View and of course I have enclosed picks of what he saw. The blueberries are wild here in this area and we have had blueberry pancakes just about every day. We have seen otters, beavers and cute little red squirrels. We left this morning and came to the town of Little Current to re provision. We plan on leaving tomorrow , weather permitting and go find some more anchorages.

Britt-Art show

2008-07-19T23:20:00.003-04:00

Today I did laundry, ALan did some kayaking and we waited for the storm that didn't come. We walked down to the art exhibit they were having in front of the inn and managed to purchased a piece of work from Two Feathers . She takes old logging timbers that are in the water and dries them out , cleans and carves images and etc into them. Well we both fell in love with two different pieces, but am coming home with one. It will go over my french doors in the cabin great room when I get home. For those of you who don't know the name of our farm is Wolf Bay farm. so the piece we chose has 3 wolves carved out in it. This is the first souvenir we have come across the purchase so far on this trip. Pretty good huh? Will have to photograph it and add later.

Tomorrow will be a cruising day for us.

Anchorage at Sandy Bay and Britt, On

2008-07-18T22:23:00.005-04:00

Our anchorage spot for the night and meal time.

Narrow cuts and channels Rocks beneath surface

LIght house at inlet Rock islands and rocks just below surface

We left Parry Sound Thursday morning and headed north. After some of the most nail biting cruising on this leg we have had we pulled into Sandy bay in the afternoon and found our own little cove to anchor. We had cruised through some of the narrowest channels and watching for rocks was something. The water is so clear you can see the rocks under it. We set out both anchors and I cooked a gourmet meal . Grilled some chops, potatoes and salad. We settled down for the evening and then all hell broke loose. It was the most awesome storm I have seen. THe Lightening was everywhere and one was too close for comfort. Finally it calmed down a bit then the waves and wind came. After the storm passed the waves started to settled and so did our nerves. We went to sleep and woke up it was still drizzling rain. It is Friday am we decided to go to a marina because if it was going to be crappy weather we wanted wi-fi and land to stretch the legs. Alan really couldn't do any kayaking and I wanted sunshine when we anchored. So we backtracked about 6 miles to Byng Islet and got a slip at St. Armanti marina. Cute little( really small) town, but has charm. We walked down to the post office and went into Jane's Cafe for ice cream and a cup of coffee. Tomorrow there is a art show/festival in front of the INN.

Even though we had to pay a tooney for the shower it is by far the BEST shower on this whole trip in the Canadian waters. In the US Mike's at Pier 225 gets my vote.

Parry Sound-Rented car

2008-07-16T07:15:00.001-04:00

Big Sound marina and the restaurant Parry Sound Grill where we ate.

Really cool rock sculptures on highway

I called up West Marine and they had the chip, so we rented a car and drove to Midland. We were on the 400 highway and I kept seeing these little rock statues or creations. They were really cool to see. I think there is a name for them, but I will have to research that.

After we purchased the chip we took advantage of having wheels and went to the farmer's market here in Parry SOund and the supermarket. You have to take a taxi to the A&P or Sobey's for some real shopping. There is a small market here in the downtown, but I needed everything. The peaches were so good from the market that I went back and purchased some more.

Parry SOund is a nice little or big town if you go outside the downtown area port. I would recommend it as a stop for all the boaters out there. This weekend kicks off their summer music festival , but we are moving on to new territory this morning. Please keep in mind that serious grocery shopping is not close by. Taxi will cost you $8.00 each way to the A&P which is at one end of town and the Sobey;s and farmer's market is at the other.

We have no real plans except in the direction of Kilnarney and depending on the weather.

Henry's at San Soucci on Frying Pan Island

2008-07-16T01:10:00.003-04:00

Henry's famous Georgian Bay Restaurant

We HAD to stop at Henry's for lunch. THis is a Georgian Bay tradition and we can see why. Alan had the Fried pickerel that he said was some of the best he has had. The batter is like a tempura batter real light and flaky. I had the smoked wings because I am not much of a fish eater. They tasted like some of the bar b q I have had in the south. We left Henry's and headed for Parry Sound for the night.

Beausoleil Island and Bone Island National Park July 12-15

2008-07-16T00:46:00.001-04:00

Families enjoying Frying Pan Bay for the weekend. Beausoleil National Park in Georgian Bay

We left Bayport Marina around 10:3am after a big thunderstorm came through. We decided that we would head for Beausoliel and drop the hook for the weekend and so did everyone else. We cruised to the different bays tried anchoring a couple of times, but either the winds were wrong or the anchor wouldn't hold. We finally found a nice little spot in Frying Pan Bay and dropped the hook and then Alan put an anchor out the stern towards shore. There must have been 30 boats in the bay, but they were there for the same reason we were. Canadians love their National Parks and I can see why. It was the weekend and several boats were rafted up and having a good time. Alan kayaked around the bay and outside to some of the other ones. He picked wild blueberries on shore and I made blueberry pancakes. What a treat that was for us. I look forward to finding some more when we are in the North Channel. It was nice to sit back and watch the kids from the other boats swimming, fishing and just plain having fun. After two days of this we pulled up the anchor and cruised on over to check out Bone Island. There was dock space available so we stayed the night there. The weather was cloudy all day, but Alan did get a little kayaking in before the rain. Tomorrow we head for new territory and a new adventure.

Parry Sound

2008-07-15T21:08:00.000-04:00

We arrived at Parry Sound and went to Parry SOund marina first. Our motor cap kept popping up a little in the back so Alan wanted someone to look at it. A very nice young man Mke Bretz checked it out and resolved the problem. We then went over to Big Sound marina for a slip that night. Settled in the slip went for a walk and had a nice dinner at one of the local restaurants. e decided that we had to have the chip for our Garman for Georgian Bay to make up both more comfortable for this cruising up here. If West Marine has the chip then we wold stay another day and drive back to Midland and get it.

We got back to the boat just before dusk and I thought I was in the everglades again. The mosquitos are vicious and hungry. We closed everything up(all screens) and put on our fan. Finally after the boats kept racing and their waves bouncing us around and we were closed up like a cocoon we were safe. We were on the C dock and there is an open area between the break water and the wall so the waves from the boats would come in through there. We are going to ask to move tomorrow to the B dock.

Midland, Ontario

2008-07-11T21:49:00.005-04:00

Today was a BIG day for us. We left lock 42 and continued on the Trent River to Georgian Bay. There were several very narrow cuts that we had to go through and the BIGGEST thrill was lock 43 called the "Big Chute". This was totally awesome as you are loaded on a railway lift that takes you out of the water completely and over a hill and back down in the water on the other side. This has got to be the highlight of our trip so far as far as locks go. After the thrill ride was over we headed on up to Port Severn lock which is the last lock before Georgian Bay. As we are about to go into the lock Roland and Helene blow their horn and we see them at the marina by the lock. We stopped to catch up with them and then locked in with them. THey were headed for Honey Harbor and we were headed for Midland for provisions and phone calls. They will be coming to Midland tomorrow. We are planning to leave Midland and start exploring the National park islands in Georgian Bay and anchoring .

Lock 42 Trent River

2008-07-10T21:44:00.002-04:00

Narrrow cuts, but beautiful
Yard work along the Trent River

We traveled from Bobcaygene to Lock 42 today. By the time we had arrived at Lake Simcoe it had laid down so we decided to go for it. We still had 2 hours before dark so we knew we had time. After we crossed the lake we tied up to the blur line on the lock wall for the night. Met a couple from the Georgian Bay area that had lots of info for us and also Elliott from the boat "Leticia" that is traveling the loop, but in the opposite direction. He had some really good info also on Georgian Bay. Had a long day so a good nights sleep will be good.

Bobcaygene, Ontario

2008-07-09T17:05:00.004-04:00

We stayed another day in Bobcaygene and explored every inch of this town. Alan finally got his fishing license the day before yesterday for Ontario. Today was his first catch a small mouth bass. It will be dinner tonight.

Bobcaygene, Ontario GOrdon Yacht Marina

2008-07-08T22:08:00.004-04:00

HOUSEBOATS ON LOCK WALL WITH US
We went into Gordon Yacht marina today in Bobcaygene and plan to stay 2 nights to do laundry, shopping and catching up on email and blog. Roland and Helen from Montreal came in also and tied up in marina. We all had dinner that night together (Pot luck) and had a great time just talking and seeing the DVD Roland had on the Trent Severn. We have to really watch our step in some of the areas due to rocks that lie underwater. We spent the night on the wall by the lock last night and all was quite considering how many houseboats were there. That seems to be a popular thing up here to do for vacation with the whole family. It looks like a lot of fun.

Peterborugh to Buckhorn

2008-07-07T22:00:00.005-04:00

The first lock of the morning was the awesome Peterborugh. You steer your boat into this pan of water and it lifts this whole thing up and to the top. It was very exciting to watch. We left Peterborugh and headed across a couple of Lakes and several locks to Buckhorn. After a very long day we tied up to the lock wall and Roland and Helene went to a marina. I fixed dinner, called the kids then walked to store for an ice cream. There was a cruise boat tied up on the opposite side of us and after a while we decided we were refreshed and wanted to head on to Bobcaygene which was 18 miles away. It was too noisy on the wall in Buckhorn. So we loaded up and headed out and it was a beautiful cruise across Pelican Lake and the waterway. It was about 7:45pm and it doesn't get dark till about 9:45pm here. We pulled up to Bobcaygene wall and tied up.

Peterborugh, Ontario

2008-07-06T21:45:00.002-04:00

We cruised from Campbelford to Peterbourgh. Stayed on the wall at the lock before the big lift and walked into town. It was a Sunday and hardly anything was open. We finally came across a restaurant that looked interesting and decided what the heck. We met another couple outside looking at the menu who was from Hudson, Fl and doing the loop also . They invited us to join them and we did. We had a good time trading info and just socializing. Turned out to be a Great meal. Tomorrow we go through Peterborough lit lock which is suppose to be awesome.

Campbellford, Ontario

2008-07-05T08:30:00.001-04:00

Waterway and Alan as we lock thru

"Hero" Captain of Roland and Helene's boat

We had a very restless night in Trenton due to the fact that a search helicopter was flying overhead with spotlight from 3am till daylight. They were looking for someone who had been in a small boat and were missing. I was a little cranky this morning and needed 3 cups instead of my 2 cups of coffee.

We cruised through 12 locks today and are staying the night on the wall in Campbellford. It is nice to find a place that has free wi-fi service. We met a couple from Montreal Helene and Roland who went through all 12 locks with us. We are trying to find a place to get Alan's ontario fishing license so he can fish the rest of the trip here. Helene told him we are expecting fish for dinner tomorrow evening in Peterborough.

Trenton, Ontario on the TRENT SEVERN-WATERWAY

2008-07-04T08:13:00.003-04:00

HAPPY 4th of JULY

We are headed to Trenton, Ontario and proceeding on the Trent-Severn Waterway to the Georgian Bay. We are tied up at Park Frasier Marina in West Quinte which is part of Trenton. Went to the A&P stocked up on groceries and found the Public library and wi-fi service. Met some fellow boater who are traveling the loop also. Checked into customs today with out any problems(no slap on wrist this year) and ALan stayed in the boat while I called them. THis is a bit confusing because in the states you both get off the boat and go to the phone and call. They video each one of you with your passport. I found out last year t in Canada that no one gets out of the boat except the person calling. We had pulled the boat out of the water and loading her on trailer when I called and I was reprimanded over the phone. HUM Felt like I was in school again. Bet I won't do it again. There was an immigration Ontarian judge right next to us that just laugh and said don't worry about it. Whew! I though I had a record now.

Anyway, we are legal and I intend to keep it that way.

Lachine to Clayton, N.Y.

2008-07-01T22:39:00.004-04:00

Coast Guard ship at Clayton and Simplicity docked at Pier 225

Linda and Mike (owner of Pier225) and the marina(What a gem of a place!)

Today was a LONG day. We did get to meet up with Elliott and Sheryl last night We had a fun evening with them, their daughter Jennifer and their friends(who I am sorry I do not remember the names), but they were fun to be with also. Maybe Elliott will refresh my memory if he reads this.

Because it was such a beautiful day today we took advantage of it and cruised 190 miles today to Clayton, New York. We had stayed here last year and really liked the place. We can get cellphone service here, so I made my calls to mom, Connie and the kids. Mom is groggy and doped up on pain killers, but she came through the surgery well. Connie said that she will need some rehab and there is a rehab place in Chipley. She had to have surgery on her leg, but the shoulder was just set and in a sling. THe leg had pins and ect in it. She broke the bone in two on her upper rt leg. For those who do not know she is at Southeast Medical in Dothan, Al Rm 273.

We are going to stay in Clayton for 2 days and regroup.

Lachine, Quebec

2008-06-30T18:30:00.001-04:00

We left around 8:30am from Montreal and we are going the Lachine Canal and to the Attwater market. This is the same one we went to last year that I loved so much. I can’t wait to see all the fruits, vegetables and butchers to cut your meat. I am hoping to talk to Connie and my mom in the am and see what is happening. After Attwater we will cruise on through the Lachine and tie up for the night on the dock at lock #5 before proceeding the next day on the St. Lawrence to Ontario. We hope to be meeting up with Elliott and Sheryl at Lachine Monday night. We met them last year in the thousand islands when we were cruising and they live in Montreal.

We arrived lock #5 around 2pm EST. I spoke with mom while in Attwater and Connie. Mom was going into surgery today around 1 or 2pm CST. She was very aware of what was going on and was emphatic that I not even consider coming home that Connie and the boys had everything under control and she knew what was ahead of her as far as healing. She will have some rehab after surgery and she knows what is expected. We are going to proceed with our trip and evaluate whether or not we will have to abort the trip later or fly home for a couple of weeks.

Longuel, Quebec

2008-06-28T22:24:00.007-04:00

Scenery along the Canadian locks to Sorel, Quebec

Locking through the locks

June 28-30

Longueil, Quebec (across from Montreal)

BONJOUR!

Yes we are definitely in the French speaking neighborhood. I think I am actually getting pretty good at reading and figuring out what signs and some packaging is saying.

The young man who checked us in at the dock spoke English fluently and was very nice and helpful. Everyone here has been nice and most of them speak English. We went grocery shopping at the IGA at the mall, but it was different than any IGA’s I have been in stateside. It kinda reminded me of Wegmans in Jersey. It was fun shopping there and seeing them cut your meat, you pick out the size of bread you want and the kind of bread( I mean they had all kinds) and package it yourself and write the code. The fruits and vegetables were fresh and local. They had 2 sushi chefs there making sushi to order. I know that we have it in Publix in Florida. But this was different in how they prepared it. They had all kinds of meat including horse meat steaks. YES I said horse meat. Alan said the French like to eat horse. NO thank you, that I won't try.

We then walked back to the boat , chilled out until 9:30pm and went up the hill to watch the fireworks.

It seems that every Saturday night during the summer Montreal puts on a fireworks show over the St. Lawrence. We had the best view in the house being on the opposite side of the river. Last year we were in a marina in Old downtown Montreal and couldn’t see them because we were not going to pay the $20 to go up on the bridge to see them.

Sunday, we walked back to the mall and was going to get a throw away prepaid phone for here in Canada. Decided to wait until we get to Ontario because it would be long distance calling marinas and such in Ontario if we had a Quebec number. So we had lunch in the mall, went back into IGA and walked back to boat. It has been raining and storming off and on all weekend so we have been on the lazy side.

Sunday night I got a phone call from my sister Connie that my mom had fallen at her house and broke her leg and shoulder. Adam anad Zack were at her house when it happened and called the ambulance and Connie. Thanks Adam and ZacK!! We really depend on you guys and appreciate you helping out. It was a hard night for me being so far away. Tommorrow we will know more and as to how our trip will pan out.

St. Ours Lock, Quebec

2008-06-27T22:23:00.003-04:00

New concept in boat launching near St. Ours, Quebec

June 27, 2008

St. Ours Lock, Quebec Canada

We locked through all 9 locks today on the Canadian side. We entered customs this morning around 7:30am and made it through without a hitch. They were very pleasant and couldn’t believe we came all the way from Florida by boat. We looked around St. Jean locks and city before locking through the 1^st lock. We decided to purchase the seasonal pass for the passage and the mooring on the locks and boat docks at Canadian locks in the thousand islands. We tied up for the night at the last lock before the Sorel and walked into the little village of St. Ours which was about 4 ½ miles round trip. We had a really nice meal in a French bar and restaurant on the water. They spoke very little English, but we managed to understand the menu and the food was good. I must say the French DO know how to cook.

2008-06-26T22:17:00.000-04:00

Valcour Island

After leaving Snug Harbor the seas were so rough we went back and dropped the hook at Valcour Island again only this time the opposite side and a different cove. We had a very calm and peaceful night before our journey to Canada.