Chapter 14 - Day 15: One Third Point

6:00 am
Saturday, September 18, 1999
Day 15

It seems amazing to me that two weeks have past already. We've come a long way. In fact from a distance standpoint we've covered almost 1/3 of the Great Circle Trip. (Approx. 5000 miles) Later today if I get chance, I'll give you some of the facts so far. (miles, fuel, etc.)
Yesterday, we finished our treck on the Tenn-Tom waterway. Both Deb, and I enjoy river boating, but I'm glad to have them behind us. The Tenn-Tom is pretty straight forward to navigate, and it's pretty, but boring. In the last two days we've traveled 218 miles, and there were two places where you could stop, and tie up your boat. Notice I did not say marinas! We are lucky in that we can go fast if we need to, and get down river, but most who take this trip are in sail boats, or trawler type hulls. These boat can only go about 9 mph at most, so their days are much longer, and therefore have more trouble finding a safe place to spend the night.

Things sure did change when we arrived at Mobile. This is a busy place.

Barges, ships, and boats everywhere. It was a treat to thread our way through this maze (at least for me). I've attached a couple of pictures that were taken to give you a little feel for the activity. I enjoy this type of boating. You have really got to pay attention to everything, and follow the charts exactly, or you'll get into trouble. I enjoy the challenge.
I've decided that the people who put together these boating guides border on con artists. The things they write about the amenities are stretched as far as they can without lying. I can almost understand this but how do they get these pictures? You flip open your guide and see a full page add of a pretty marina, in a wonderful setting. Then you get to the area where the marina should be and you can't find it. You pull over to this old rickety looking place and ask "Pardon me, where is so and so marina?" and they tell you "This is it-you're here!" That is close to where we're at. Not bad mind you, but the person who took the brochure picture was gooood. Real gooood.

But, you know what? Who cares. We made it. For those of you who are following us on the map, we are about 1/2 way down Mobile Bay in a channel that leads back to the west. Grand Mariner Marina.

Today-- crew change. Steve and Chris will get off the boat at 11 am. And get a shuttle to the airport. Les, and Ann, and Terry and Jeanie will be picked up by that same shuttle, and brought back to the boat. They will then borrow that car and go get groceries for the week. I will use today to check things out in the engine room that have been neglected. We will also give the boat a through outside cleaning. Steve has done a great job of cleaning it each morning (almost as good as you Darrell), but it needs extra attention today.

The next leg of this segment of the trip should be exciting, and beautiful.
We will cross the Mobile Bay (it's huge!) and pick up the GIW (Gulf Intercoastal Waterway). We will follow this east, along the upper part of the pan handle, until we get to Carrabelle, FL., where we need cross the Gulf to get to Tampa. I have been watching all signs of any tropical storms, but as of now, we look pretty good. We'll see.

Hope you enjoy the pictures.

BK

An Update from Deb

9/17/99

Hey Everybody!

I just read BK's e-mail for the day. Yep - we all look forward to the daily episode as much as you all do. "Did he mention that I finished my book and I know who the murderer is?" "Did he tell them about the big dredger we saw?" "Did he tell them that he had his first margarita since we left

Starved Rock Marina?" "Did we have any fun yesterday?"
Anyway, it occurred to me that y'all might want to see some pics of our restaurant last night. This will be a test, let us know if you're able to retrieve them.
It's 9:30am - ST is driving, BK is here & there, checking things out (with a Bloody Mary in one hand), CVA is slicing a musk melon and I'm catching up on my journal. It's 74 degrees and (what else?) cloudless. The steam has burned off the water and we're gliding along at about 1100 rpms (saving fuel). Life is good! It's time to get my suit on and hit the front deck!

As BK says, Headquarters clear...standing by...

DK

P.S. BK just said he forgot to tell you about a point in our trip yesterday. The river was so winding that according to the guide book, we traveled 3 miles on the water to move 1000 feet. Does that make sense?

P.P.S. BK & ST have a bet. ST says we'll see an alligator today. BK says - no way. The bet is dinner on the loser. Hm-m-m...I think no matter who wins, CVA & I get a dinner out! You go guys!

Chapter 13 - Day 14: 118 Miles to Mobile

4:20 am
Friday, September 17, 1999
Day 14
Yea I know it's early again. I went to bed so early (8:00), that I've already had plenty of sleep, so I got up to get some work done, and also send another captain's log.

The weather could not be more perfect. Cool evenings, and crystal clear. The days are sunny, and cloudless! I went outside before sitting down to write this, and the stars are amazingly bright. (of course we are in the middle of nowhere).

Yesterday (Thursday) was a great day. From a travel standpoint it was almost the opposite of Wednesday. Wednesday we ran hard to make four locks, and catch up on some time. (by the way I figured out we used 271 gallons of fuel that day) Yesterday, we got through the Demopolis lock first thing, then had all day to make about 100 miles. We took our time, and traveled almost the whole way at 1050 rpm & 10.5 mph. (using 10 gallon an hour of fuel) It was actually a lazy kind of day. Cruising at that speed on a meandering river was wonderful. In the morning, Steve drove for a while and I messed with the charts, getting ready for next week. Then after lunch Steve, Chris, and Debbie went out on the bow to enjoy the sun, and the scenery. At one point along the way Deb, and Chris came in for something (probably another Corona), and Steve was sitting in a chair by himself on the bow. At about the same time we met a barge going Northbound and as we passed the tow boat captain said "dat boy out dere on da bow bout got it made....... dun ee". It was perfect, and he was right.

Between Demopolis, and Mobile (216 miles) there are only two places to stop.
Bobby's Fish Camp, and Lady's Landing. If you read the books, neither seem like much, but you have to stop somewhere, so I chose Bobby's, at mile 118.

When we exited the locks early in the morning I thought I'd read about the sights along the way in the book, and it was then I realized that Bobby's Fish Camp didn't have a transient dock for overnight docking. Now that could present a problem. We didn't want to go through 2 locks today, and go all the way to Lady's Landing, so I called Bobby's. My first clue that we would be in the country was when he answered the phone, because he just said "hello?". I thought maybe I had a wrong number so I ask him if this was Bobby's Fish Camp, and he said "yeaya". I had read in the book that Bobby's had fuel, so I knew he had a dock. And I also read that he had a restaurant, and Bobby did the cooking, so I told him we were heading south, and wanted to stop and eat, and could we spend the night on his fuel dock, and he said "yeaya". I told him that was great, and ask him if it was ok if we got there about 4. He said "yeaya" That was it. I guess he wasn't much of a talker.

When we got to mile 118 we found out why they don't offer transient docking.
They really don't have a dock! Here's how Chris describes what they have----" I'll bet they were sitting around one day looking at this thing, and said Hey!, I'll bet this'll float---let's put this on the river in front of our place". She's probably right. I don't know how to describe it, other than it is a platform that floats, and has tires hanging from it.(probably so you won't harm the platform) I wasn't concerned about it sinking, but I was concerned that if we tied up to it, would it be here in the morning. It had 2 poles attached to the shore (one was some type of a drive shaft, because it still had the universal joint attached-I'm not kidding) It also had a couple of ropes tied to shore, just in case the poles let lose.(well they weren't actually tied) Did I mention that it is about 40 feet long, and we have a 50 foot boat? But it is morning----and we are still here.

Dinner at Bobby's was great. Catfish, french fries, hushpuppies, and cole slaw. Great food served, and prepared by Ann. (it seems Bobby went home) She also entertained us. Told us Bobby used to be a drunk, till she told him to either straighten up, or get him another waitress. (waitresses must be hard to come by because she's still here, and he hasn't touched a drop in over 4 years.) He didn't get any help from his wife though....bless her soul.....she's an alcoholic herself. But Ann told her "As soon as you're ready to quit, just call, and I'll stay up with ya all night if I have to" (somehow Ann has figured out how to cure this in one evening). Toooo much.
Today, we head for Mobile. I can't wait to get this boat back to some real marinas. I'm all for adventure, but I would never have made it as a pioneer.

Our plan is to be in Dog River, just of the Mobile Harbor by mid afternoon.

We have one more lock(about 3 miles from here), and 118 miles to go to get there. I can't wait to see Mobile Harbor.

Steve and Chris will catch a flight from Mobile tomorrow, and we will have a crew change. Ann Walleck (Deb's sister), and her husband Les, along with Jeanie (another of Deb's sisters) and her husband Terry will join us. We spend a fair amount of time boating with them, so this will be fun.

I just called ahead to the lock, and he said he'd take us down in about an hour(7:00), so I'm going to get the boat ready, I'll keep you posted.

BK

Chapter 12 - Day 13: Demopolis Yacht Basin

5:25 am
Thursday, September 16, 1999
Day 13

Good Morning. I hope wherever, and whenever you get this you are in having half as good a day as I am.

We are now in Demopolis Yacht Basin, in Demopolis, Al. I just walked the long dock from our boat up to a restaurant that opens at 5 am, and I tool the computer to do some work, and jot this captain's log. You don't get much of a chance to get a full breakfast on a trip like this, so I thought I'd take advantage of it. It is 67 degrees out, and the sky is beautiful (although it's still dark) so I'm in my normal uniform--swim trunks and T-shirt. Which turns out to be a good thing, because, just 30 seconds ago, my waitress spilled a half of cup of coffee on me. The good news is the coffee didn't burn my bare legs, the bad news is my Cancun T-shirt is history. Oh well-I don't think you could get me mad this morning.

Yesterday started the way it ended, and the way it was all day long---perfect!
We left at about 6:45 from the slip, and I called from the slip to the lock, to let them know we were getting ready to head out, and they had it waiting for us when we arrived. (Illinois could take some lessons from these guys). In total we went through 4 locks and did 145 miles. We actually didn't get to the slip until dark. Before tying up at the slip we took on 350 gallons of fuel. $1.05 @ gallon. It was a long day, but it put us back on track time wise. We are only 216 miles from Mobile now, and we should be there by Friday evening.

The Tenn-Tom is a great waterway to make this trip on. The scenery ranges from man made banks of stone, to cliffs, to many areas that look like a normal small river. Commercial traffic is somewhat light, so the going is fairly fast. The only problem with that is that when Headquarters goes fast so does the fuel. Example: If we go 10 mph we use about 10 gallons an hour.

Seem like a lot? If we go 20 to 22 mph we use 50 to 60 gallons an hour Yes, that's right, this is not a misprint. So......on those days we make all that time, we must go fast, so the fuel stops are more often. (this is why I wanted to make this trip while I was still working---so we could recover when we returned).

An interesting fact---follows this now.

On my dash I have this interesting thing called a chart plotter. It is a computer screen that is meant to show you where you are. I works like this:

You buy chart chips (navigation charts that are computer generated from the original charts, and put into small chips about the size of a stamp) You put these chips into the plotter so you now have the area you are traveling on your computer screen. I also have a GPS satellite system that sends a signal to a satellite and receives one back to let you know exactly where you are.

You interface the GPS system with the plotter, and you can actually see on the screen (chart) where you are. There is a lot more to it that I won't bore you with, but the point is this-yesterday I took the plotter cursor, and put it on the marina we are headed for in Mobile. The plotter said that it was 232 miles away. I thought that can't be right. We were at the 358 mile marker. Which is 358 miles to Mobile. So how can that be. Well the plotter computes in straight lines, so in a straight line is was 232 miles, but because the river twists, and turns so much, it will actually take us over 100 more miles of travel to get there. Well I thought it was interesting.
Today.......

1 lock (three miles from here), and 105 miles to a place called "Bobby's Fish Camp" (that should be special) The weather continues to be perfect. 87 and sunny.

Well the sky is starting to brighten in the east, so I think I'll pay my bill and head back to the boat. (what do you think I should leave as a tip?) I need to check the fluids in the engines, and look at that pesky seeping manifold bolt to see if it is getting any worse. Then we'll spray the bugs off the boat, (Steve does this every morning-it's great to have a good crew) and we'll head out.

Thanks for all the notes-
* Neal-still no fishing, not enough time, maybe next week.
* Jenny-you're on the list now
* Randy-Dad is doing good-Thanks
* Holly-another vacation for you?
* Art-yes, more fuel
I'll keep you posted......

BK

Chapter 11 - Day 11/12: Two Messages

7:00 PM
Tuesday, September 14, 1999
Day 11

Yes, two e-mails logs about the same day.

I'm going to try an experiment. I'll jot a few thoughts down tonight, and read them in the morning, and see if they makes sense.

Before I say too much let me describe..... NOW.

We are in a small back river marina, called Aberdeen Marina. A little stop off along the way that is "something special" (you figure it out).

Deb has three projects going. 1-Laundry in the marina (after she got the dock hand to show her hoe to turn it on). 2-laundry on the boat (she is using the boat washer because as she says "why not?" 3-she's sautéing green peppers, and onions for the polish sausage. (and doing a hell of a job at all three) except that she has space in the washer. I don't understand this concept. She has room, so she is walking around trying to get stuff to wash.

"Bob-go take a shower and give me those trunks you have on"........but there not dirty......"no matter they will be, and I need wash, cause I have room". Someone explain this to me.
Chris is sitting out front on the bow reading her book. Which bothers Deb, because she says "if she finishes it she will be ready for another book, and I said I'd give her mine, but I'm not done" (makes that engine problem seem small by comparison). As Chris sits on the bow enjoying her book she is oblivious to all that is happening around her....neat huh?

Steve has been working for a while to send each of you some pictures he took. Did you get them? He also is in charge of cooking and is looking for a time we all expect to eat so he can get the grill out and get started.

What about Bob? Me, I'm taking this all in, and enjoying all of it.

Just now, I looked out to my left and a guy and his wife went by in a bass boat. She was just sitting there, and he was fishing. (in his "cammo"
pants..what a picture) It all just seemed so serene...(I don't know if I have ever used that word before) Chris just came in and said "what are you guys doing in here it is beautiful outside".
Deb just blew by...stirred the onions, and the beans...set the table (at which I am sitting)....and went to check the laundry. Man I am just tired watching all of this!

5:25 am
Wednesday, September, 15, 1999
Day 12

Well, I looked at what I wrote last night and had to laugh, again. As usual, the writing is not so good, but the scene is correct. I wish I could do a better job of sharing the descriptions with you.
By almost all accounts, yesterday was a near perfect day. That fog lifted as soon as the sun came up, and we were able to get on our way about 7:15. We went directly to the mouth of the Tenn-Tom and headed south. It was breathtaking. Still a little cool, the water showed a little mist, but the sun was a big orange ball, and if you stood in it you were warm.

The river itself is a combination of man made waterways, and natural rivers, and creeks. There were several marinas, but hardly any other pleasure boats out on the water. You could travel fast most of the time if you wanted to.

The locks are great. If you're a boater I know that seems weird, but it is true. They actually seem happy to see you. They get to you as quickly as they can so they can keep you moving (they actually let us in ahead of a coal barge so we wouldn't "be traveling until night"). And, they call ahead to the next lock to let them know you're coming. It went so good that we got through 6 locks, 95 miles, and were at dock by 4:30. Not bad!

I said earlier, we are in Aberdeen Marina, in Aberdeen, MS. Getting in here was a real treat. You get off the Tenn-Tom and wind in a kind of a "s" curve around cypress trees to snake your way back about a 1/2 mile to an opening, and here is the marina.

When Chris went inside one of the ladies ask her "wheeere ya from". Chris said "why don't you think we're from here?" she said "cause ya'll taulk funnie." No doubt we are in the south.
The boat is running great (do I use that word a lot?) I still have that bolt on the side of the manifold that is seeping a little, but it causes more of a mess than anything else. Generator battery is fine now. Not sure what caused that problem-but it is fixed.

Today-

We will continue down the Tenn-Tom, and see how far we can get. I am used to having a plan for a spot, or a marina, but as the books I have read tell you, when you're on the Tenn-Tom you see how far you can get, and then come up with a plan. The good news is, it is faster going than I expected, so I believe we will make up that time we lost with the engine. I still plan to be in Mobile by Saturday.

It seems funny, that just a few miles east of here on the coast they are dealing with Hurricane Floyd, but our weather continues to be perfect. 60 degree nights with crystal clear skies, and sunny, bright, and 85 during the day.

One last note before we head out. For a boater this is an unbelievable trip, but for anyone this would be great. The people we meet, the places we see (from the richest to the poorest) are really exciting. Each day is something completely new.

I wish I could share it each of you......well I am...... sort of.

BK

Chapter 10 - Day 11: Four Rivers...and Counting

5:50 am
Tuesday, September 14, 1999
Day 11

Well include the Tennessee River as one of those we have left behind.
We have now traveled the following;
* Illinois River 234 miles
* Mississippi River 218 miles
* Ohio River 47 miles
* Tennessee River 215 miles

We made it to Aqua Yacht Harbor, in Iuka, Mississippi yesterday. Of all the marinas I have been to, this is one of my favorites. It has everything you would need, and it has several hundred slips with some beautiful boats. I just enjoy walking on the docks.

Before leaving yesterday I called Harborside Marina and asked them to call ahead and have someone come on the boat when we arrived at Aqua, to look at our Generator battery that seemed to be over charging. That's exactly what happened. We got here about 3 PM, and they were ready for us. They checked out the battery, and found it to be bad, so they replaced it.
They also tightened a manifold bolt that was seeping oil from it. We're good to go!

The 90 mile trip yesterday was beautiful. It rained as soon as we untied the lines, but not that hard. I decided to go below and drive because this boat has a great pilothouse ( a lower area where you can drive that has full instruments, and good visibility). Steve took the sun covers off the windshield and I turned on the wipers, but the center one had a problem. It seems that one of the clips that hold on the wiper blade had come off, so the wiper wouldn't stay attached. Steve did a "McGiver" trick, and used a picture hanger to fashion a clip from, and we were back in business. From that point, no problems, and the scenery was great. Hardly and boat traffic so we were on top of the water most of the way.

This morning it is foggy. We had plans to head out at first light, but we'll have to see how long it takes to burn off. We're heading down the Tenn-Tom about 60 miles and going through 3 locks.
The Tenn-Tom is an interesting waterway. The idea actually dates back to the 1700's, and has been studied since 1946, but construction didn't begin until 1971. The plan was to give boats (intended for commercial tows, but used more now by pleasure craft) an easy short cut to the gulf without going on the Mississippi all the way to New Orleans. More dirt was moved for this project, than was moved for the Panama Canal. Enough of the history lesson, I just thought you'd like to know.

Responses to e-mails, and calls;
* I too am glad we are mechanically sound again. My nerves are getting back in order.
* I know that Debbie's notes are funnier, and more interesting than mine.
Her perspective is a little different.
* Art-no way, I want copy rights to this journal. (although I can't imagine who would want to read it)

Thanks for all the notes, I save them, so everyone can read them.

BK

Chapter 9 - Day 10: Cuba Landing

5:50 am
Monday, September 13, 1999
Day 10

Cuba Landing Marina-Waverly, TN

We had a great day yesterday. Except for a little wind on our bow, the cruise down Kentucky Lake was near picture perfect.

We left the marina at Green Turtle at about 8:15, and arrived at Cuba Landing at about 3:30. Most of the trip we cruised at 10 to 11 mph, but we ran on top of the water for an hour or so. Really, except for that, not much to report. Great cruise.

Chris and Steve arrived just as we were fueling up. (100 gallons @ $1.09) they flew from Chicago to Nashville, and drove about an hour to Cuba Landing. They also got the weeks groceries along the way. Great to see them, as they boat with us fairly regularly, and know the ropes, but sorry to see Darrell and Donna leave. They were a real joy to have aboard. Although we didn't know them very well before, we got along great. (this can be a problem when you can't get away from each other) Darrell left us something to remember him by. Before he left he was in the engine room helping me, and when he went to get out he step where he shouldn't have and upset to different tool boxes. Stuff went everywhere. Only casualty was a missing socket that is gone somewhere, but a memory of Darrell I'll have for a while.

Today we head south 110 miles to Aqua Yacht Harbor in Iuka, MS. (I am going to try to get someone to look at my generator battery, as it is still
overcharging) This is where we get off the Tennessee River, and join the

Tom Bigbee or as some call it the Tenn-Tom Waterway. This is the 450 mile, (man made), stretch of water to take us to Mobile, AL. I'll give you plenty of information on this interesting stretch as we go.

The weather now is good. The sun is not up yet, but it is 70 degrees. At about 4 am it rained a little. There is a cold front going through, but I'm not sure if that was it or not. The weather channel (yea, when we got to Cuba Landing I flipped on the satellite, and it tuned in just fine---who knows) shows a little rain yet to come, but we'll see.

I'll keep you posted.......

BK

Chapter 8 - Day 9: Things are Looking Up

6:22 am
Sunday, September 12, 1999
DAY 9

They installed a new head on the right side, fired it up and it still smoked. Not as badly as before, but enough to make me worry that we hadn't completely fixed it. Keith, our mechanic, said not to worry, the engine was loaded with unburned fuel inside and it would clear up. The other mechanic, Jeff, wasn't quite as optimistic. So we took a ride to see who was correct.
When I got outside the harbor, I pushed down the throttle and it took just like normal, except the smoke poured out the stbd. side. My heart was starting to sink when little by little it got better. Within a minute there was no smoke and the boat was running normal. You should have seen the smile on Keith's face. It was definitely an "I told you so" smile.

Once we got back to the dock we checked the engine for any leaks, and all looked good. The engine compartment itself looked like someone blew it up.

Stuff everywhere, and oil residue all over. Oh well, that can be cleaned.

The mechanics left at 4 PM, and I think they did a great job.

Before closing the hatch, Darrell and I changed the oil in the generator.

That oil change should get us to Florida. While we were down there we found that the generator battery was boiling out it's water. Probably from a charger that won't shut off. We unhooked the cables, to keep it from continuing, and I'll have to have someone look at this somewhere along the line.

Today-Sunday
Weather looks good. Cloudy, but 85 to 90 degrees.

Once the marina opens up at 8 we plan to pay our bill, and head out. Our destination is a marina called Cuba Landing. If you get out your Tennessee road map (that you always keep handy), and follow I-40 west out of Nashville, where it meets the Tennessee River, you will see where we'll be.

It's out in the middle of nowhere, but a great marina. We've stayed there before, and it is a perfect stopping place.

We change crews today. Darrell and Donna get off, and Steve and Chris get on. They fly into Nashville, rent a car, get this weeks groceries, and will meet us about 3 PM this afternoon. Darrell and Donna will take their rental car to Memphis and turn it in there.
We should have a great day. I'm looking forward to cruising down Kentucky Lake. It is a beautiful lake formed at the southwest park of Kentucky when they dammed the Tennessee River. It is wide, and surrounded by hills, and cliffs. Like I said-beautiful.

I hope this message finds everyone well. I'll keep you posted........

BK

Chapter 7 - Day 8: Dead Heading...

5:55 am
Saturday, September 11, 1999
Day 8

Weather wise it is going to be another beautiful day. It's 69 degrees out now and the sky is just starting to get light. It is supposed to get to 85 before the day is over.
Engine wise--it is quite another story. What they found is that the #1 cylinder on the right side of the engine is dead. Yes dead. That means there is no compression, which is what fires the fuel in a diesel engine. They think that we have a burnt valve, or probably the valve has a hole in it.

It is a major problem.

I spent most of the day yesterday either in the engine compartment, or on the phone. I continued to talk to all those people I did before, and wanted to find out whose responsibility this was so at cocktail hour on Friday afternoon everyone didn't go home, and say "See you on Monday!".

What has happened is just the opposite. A mechanic got on board at 8 am and worked all day. No breaks, no lunch, non stop, until he figured out what was wrong. My phone calls paid off because once we determined what needed to be fixed, Detroit authorized any, and all, costs necessary to get us up and going as soon as possible. (not normal for warranty work) That means Keith (our mechanic) called the shop and told them what he needed (a new head for that side of the engine). They got the parts together, and sent them to the boat with another mechanic, and the two of them kept working. In fact when I went to bed last night they were still working.

Based on their progress we may be running yet today. Darrell and Donna have changed their plans several times trying to keep with what is going on. They now have a flight leaving Memphis on Monday evening. Steve Thoke (my business partner) and his fiancée Chris Van Allen will be joining us starting on Sunday. We haven't got all the logistics details figured out yet, (because of our location) but we will.

On another note. Remember my comment about the on board TV satellite system,
and how great it was to track the weather? It broke! We have to find
someone to fix that as well.

Two challenges lie ahead.
1. Because of the breakdown I don't know if we can make it all the way to Florida by the 24th of September. I have been working on a new plan, but until we get underway I can't make too many decisions.
2. Hurricanes-I know Floyd is out there, and there are two depressions behind him, so we'll have to watch them to see if they effect the Gulf at all. We have a crossing of over 120 miles in the Gulf, and we can't make it if it is too rough. (yes I know we will be getting to Florida during hurricane season, but this we needed to do this now)

As you can tell this trip is not like a normal day of boating. That can cause a lot of stress, but I enjoy the challenge as well. My crew looks at me sometimes, and wonders why I'm so uptight. I explain it this way:

You are having Thanksgiving dinner at your house, and you are in charge of preparing the meal. You have thought most everything out, and told everyone that you'll eat at noon. While you worry about the final preparations, the quests are thoroughly enjoying themselves, and not worrying about a thing.

You realize that the potatoes won't be done on time, and they may be a little lumpy. You are under a little, or a lot of stress, but your guests could care less, in fact they sense you're under pressure and say "what's your problem, why are you so uptight?". Eating at noon is not at all
important to them, and lumpy potatoes---who cares. YOU DO! While
everyone waits for you to say it's ready, you're worrying about the outcome.

In reality, it's not important what time you eat, or small lumps in the potatoes----but try telling the cook that.

Talk to you soon............

BK

Chapter 6 - Day 7: The Saga Continues...

6:36 am
Friday, September 10, 1999
Day 7

So much to say, so little time.

I'm sorry I didn't get an e-mail off yesterday, (I appreciate all the phone calls checking on our status-I can't wait to see this cellular bill) but as you will see as I give you a update--- it was not possible to send on yesterday.Wednesday.....

On my last update we were at anchor in a cove in Cape Girardeau, MO. on the Mississippi.
I was feeling pretty good about getting the engine repaired, because I had made all the right calls the day before, and I just assumed that the wheels were in motion. Wouldn't you?
After I sent my e-mail to you I waited for those return calls--- that never came. So I started calling again. This time I reminded everyone why I bought this boat, and these type of engines.
Probably the biggest was Tony at Harborside Marina (where I bought the boat) He called everyone as well to see if he could someone's attention. (I would love to give you the details of some of the conversations I had, cause they were special, but there just isn't time) But before it was over I talked to the people who built the boat. The Detroit engine company who supports their engines in these boats. And even the salesman who sells these engines to Cruisers Yachts.
We were starting to get somewhere, but here we were floating in the middle of the Mississippi waiting for someone to tell us where to go for repairs. I mean this literally. We were dogging tows, and barge traffic in the middle of the river, cause that is where we had good cell phone signal. Every 5 minutes someone different would tell me that someone else would call me back in 5 minutes. Those conversations began at 9:30, and ended at 11:30. At that point some finally told us to head down river, and we could deal with it there. Which exactly what I had said was our only option at 1:00 the day before.

Anyway......we headed down to Cairo (48 miles) and talked to various people (when we had signal) along the way. By the time we got there we had two different companies calling me and wanting to work on the boat. At one point I had three calls going on at the same time. I had a cell phone in each ear, and one on hold via call waiting. We were getting action. The thing that I told them was that is was going to be tricky finding a place to tie up in Cairo, so I said we should go to Green Turtle Bay. It was 80 miles further, but they have a full service facility. No problem I was told, they could find us a place in Cairo.

This is where the story really begins!

As we are talking to the service person we had chosen (between the two) he told me he had made a call to his friends in Cairo, and all we had to do was pull up along the yellow wall next to the city, and tie up, or anchor there.

I knew we had a problem. First there was no wall to tie to---it was 50
feet---up--- from the waters edge. Secondly, we were in one of the busiest harbors in the entire river network (where the Ohio meets the Mississippi, and there were tows and barges going everywhere) and it wouldn't be safe to anchor here! He said not to worry, just call this person he had talked to and he would give me clear instructions. (we had one other problem in that it was getting late, and we couldn't make it up river to a safe anchoring
spot) So I called this guy, but he didn't have a clue what I was talking about. He told me to call the "Ronnie Tucker" he was in charge of all of the spots where someone would put barges, and stuff, in the harbor and he could help me.

So I called, and he told me to anchor right there where I was (Neal---this is where you called me on the cell phone) I asked him if was safe and he
said,---- "NO PROBLEM"!

We were in 25 t 30 feet of water. That's not good because you need a lot of anchor line to make sure it wouldn't drag. He said don't worry it gets much shallower near the bank---really?
With no other choice we dropped the hook close to the bank in 20 feet of water. I was concerned that we would swing into the shore, so we decided to put out an aft anchor. Good idea, but the current was so strong, and the bottom so bad that it wouldn't hold. So I had to get the big anchor out of the engine room, and set it up with chain, and 200 feet of rope. We put the dinghy in the water---the anchor in the dinghy---motored out away from the boat and dropped it in the water. After two tries it stuck, so we felt were safe for the night. Can you sense anything coming here?

After dinner, but before going to bed the wind really picked up-right at our side, so we were being blown directly into shore. Not to worry though because we had two anchors, and they were both holding-actually they were both straining. It's funny that after the exact right combination of bloody marys, beer, gin, and wine you feel safe. (this is getting too long so I'll skip all the parts about the tow boat coming up along side us and seeing if they could see in, and showing off his maneuvering skills) During the night we rocked quite a bit from the wind, and the boats going by, but at 3 am we were blasted by a wave that made Deb and I sit up straight in bed. We thought we were hit, or on the shore. We ran out to see no one, and to find we were still at anchor.

I tried to go back to sleep, but couldn't so I got up to make coffee, and send an e-mail. As I was getting the computer, I looked outside to find we had moved, and we were much closer to the shore. I felt that if we got much closer I would not be able to use the engines to get us off.
This was not good. It was 4 am. Over 2 hours to daylight, and I did not want to be out there with all those tows and barge traffic. I also didn't like the thought of being on that rocky shore. I thought about it for a while, then went and woke the crew to tell them my decision.
There was not a question, or complaint, just a "what do you want me to do".

Without much of an issue we got both anchors up, and headed out into the main channel. I had the radar on, and was just getting used to the dark when I turned around and thought I saw a barge coming up fairly fast from behind. (tells you how fast we were going) I was right, so I was trying to plan how to get out of his way when the radar, and the running lights went out. (no I am not kidding) It seems that the person who installed the radar put it on the same circuit breaker as the running lights. (seems logical to me---why would you ever need those at the same time) I must admit I was a little concerned, but you should have seen Donna. She kept saying "do you think he sees us? Do you think he sees us?" she was jumping and waving her arms in a motion like she was trying to maneuver in a 747. She was so shook up that she finally said "I can't stand this,---- I'm going below". I would have laughed then, but we still had to get out of this guys way.

With a calm head, Darrell found the circuit breaker, and we had lights again. (No radar I didn't want to take a chance). The tow captain call me on the VHF and asked us if he could pass us (like I had a choice) and he even used his huge spot light to tell us what part of the bridge we should pass under. (did I mention we were coming to a bridge?) The name of the tow was "The City of Rosebud", or as he said on the radio "Roze--buudd".

He was a very nice guy, so I told him of my problem, and ask him if could follow him. I also told him to keep me out of trouble-if he could-by telling me what may lie ahead that I couldn't se, or wouldn't know about. He said, "no problem", and we let him pass, and quickly got in line.
The next two hours went fine, but I will always remember them. At about 6:15 the sky got light enough to see the markers without a spotlight. Shortly after that the sun came up, and we could tell we were in store for a beautiful day.

And it was.

By 5:30 PM we were in Green Turtle Bay, fueled up, pumped out, and secured for the night. It is a great feeling to once again be tied to a dock. We all got the drink of our choice, and toasted our adventure. The plan was for the mechanic to on board first thing in the morning.
It's now 9:15 am on Friday the mechanic is here, and he's not sure what the problem is. In one breath he'll say "no problem", and the next he'll say "she doesn't look good" He has just pulled some side covers off the engine and said "it looks bad". "What does that mean", I asked. He said "aaah don't worry", and starts to tell me about other boats that he has repaired.

It' s now 2:30, and the mechanic still isn't sure-doesn't look good for this engine.

That's where we're at. I'll keep you posted.........

BK

An Update From Deb...

Wednesday

Hi to All!

This is Deb. Thought I'd try to get a word in edgewise on this thing!

Originally this was going to be my job but I just can't seem to get up earlier than BK! He's really gotten into this "Captain's Log" idea, and actually, it's kind of interesting to hear his take on all this travelling stuff. I'm still keeping a journal of my own and it will be interesting to compare notes at the end of the trip. So far it's been a great time, aside from the engine trouble. But the boys don't seem to be THAT concerned so Donna & I are taking our cue from them. Yesterday when the trouble escalated, Donna & I went out on the bow of the boat with our lawn chairs, the box of life jackets (footstool), big mugs of Mudslides, & trashy novels.

At least 50% of this crew is still on vacation! It was another cloudless day & 87 degrees. Yes, we put our sunscreen on! The scenery along the river is pretty steady, just a wide, twisty, shallow, muddy river with flood plain on each side. You can see a band of younger trees near the water, then more mature trees behind those. Must be because of that big flood years back. I guess nature takes care of itself.

Bob has been up for awhile, I just got up at 7:15, the Double D's are still sleeping (it's 8am), and we're just waiting for a call from someone saying the helicopter hauling Detroit Diesel's top mechanic is on it's way -

"Where can I land this thing?" I'm thinking (in my "just a grunt-worker"
opinion) "Hey! We've got another engine don't we? What's the problem?"
HA!

Well, I need to go wash my hair and since we're conserving water, I'm allowed one cup. It may take some doing! Where's "Mini-Poo" when you need it?

Seeyabye----->DK

P.S. Beccah - Make sure you clean up after your parties! (& shake hands)

Chapter 5 - Day 5: Smoke on the Water...

6:50 am
Wednesday, 07, 1999
Day 5

Remember that comment I made about dealing with the challenges as they come?
Remember that short comment about the white smoke from the starboard engine when we pulled in the lock and I wondered what that was?

Well, we're about to find out!

Yes, we have engine problems. That little puff of white smoke I saw turned into a lot of smoke. First black, then white.

Here was our day yesterday:
* It was a little cool so I decided to let the sun come all the way up before we left.
* Darrell, and I washed the boat, filled the water tank (not all the way, because why carry the weight-this you will hear about later)
* At 7:15 we left the dock
* At 7:40 I got a call on the VHF Radio from Hoppie's Marina that they got a call from the place in Cape Girardeau where we were going to fuel that they were broke down, and we couldn't get fuel, as we had planned.
* 7:45-turned around and went back to Hoppie's to top off the tanks so we could go all the way to Kentucky Lake ---188 gallons at $1.30 @gallon
* 8:15 on our way-awesome day
* Deb, and Donna fixed a great big breakfast of bacon, eggs, potatoes, and toast
* It became a little windy, so we didn't go fast. We went about 1050
rpm/12.5 mph for almost 4 hours.
* 12:00 the wind had died down quite a bit, so I said lets pick it up and make some time so we can make it to Cairo. As soon as we started going fast the black smoke started to pour from the starboard engine. I slowed down immediately, and now the smoke turned white. While Deb drove the boat, Darrell and I went worked to see what different speeds we could go without any problem. There weren't any. What I found is that the engine smoked at all speeds, and above 750 rpm the engine started to shake. Houston---We have a problem!
* I talked to three different Detroit (the make of my engines) dealers, and got three different answers as to what my problem could be. I also talked to the dealer where I bought the boat, and directly to Cruisers Yachts (the boat manufacture). They were all very nice, but they did not know what to do.
* Soooooooo.........We idled on both engines the next 60 miles to Cape Girardeau, where we dropped an anchor in a little stream, at mile 48.6, just off the Mississippi.

That was yesterday.

Today (6:50am) we sit in that stream/river and wait to see what's next.

There are no marinas here so I'm not sure what they can do. There are also no marinas in Cairo, IL, our next logical stop. The next marina is Green Turtle Bay, on Kentucky Lake, 140 miles away.

We are ok on fuel, but remember that I didn't fill the water all the way? (I figured we'd be in a marina tonight, and why carry all that weight) Well, we're on water rations now until we figure out what to do. But it could be a lot worse, right?

It is a beautiful morning. As I type this I'm sitting on the fly bridge having coffee and watching the barges go by and seeing all the fish jump.

At 8:00 I'll start to follow up on my earlier calls and decide what to do.

If they think I won't hurt the engine any more I'd like to head for Green Turtle, but we'll see.
Thanks for all the e-mail responses, we enjoyed reading them. So far we have been lucky, and had cellular signal each morning so I could send these off, and receive yours. If some morning, you don't get one, don't worry, I may have to wait to get to a better cellular area.

* Randy, yes 630-235-8296, and the Mississippi is ok now. Anyone who has made this trip will tell you this is the worst part, and the Mississippi is a terrible river. I agree. But that said, it is low now, and the current is only 3 to 3.5 mph, so it is manageable. But there are no marinas, in fact no towns, or life to speak of, so it's not a great place for boaters.
(especially if you have a problem)
* Mando-I slept in today. 6:15 No where to go yet.
* Chris-yes this is the same route we took before, and we will be staying at most of the same places.

I'll keep you posted.......

BK

Chapter 4 - Day 4: Hoppie's Marina

5:30 am
Tuesday September, 07, 1999
Day 4

We covered 140 miles yesterday, and made it all the way to Hoppie's Marina in Kimmswick, MO.

It was a great day, full of sunshine, and a breeze from the north that most of the day was on our backs.

Day 3 highlights:
* Left our cozy slip (tied next to the barge at La grange lock) at 6:15 am
* Sunrise was at 6:30 and it was beautifull
* Traveled 80 miles to reach to Mississippi at almost exactly 12:00-noon
* Lots, and I do mean lots, of boat traffic
* Once we hit the Mississippi we picked up about 1.5 mph from the current
* Went through two locks before reaching St. Louis-in and out pretty quickly
* In the second lock we noticed that the starboard engine was putting out white smoke each time I put a load on it. It would stop quickly though.
Don't know what that means.
* Once we got out of the second lock we joined the current from the Missouri river and gained a total of over 3 mph of current
* It was neat to go through St.Louis, but you can't imagine the commercial traffic, and the number of barges parked everywhere. If you have ever seen a rail yard with hundreds of rail cars on the tracks beside one another---it comes pretty close. They are 7 or 8 wide, and 10 long. Like Darrell said "How do they find a certain one when they need it?"
* Reached Hoppie's at about 5 PM
* Put in 200 gallons of diesel--- $282, including $30 for slip fee for the night
* Deb made fresh bread, and an AWESOME pasta dish, and we started to watch a movie-I went to bed at 8:00-so I'm not sure what happened from there.

This morning (Tuesday) I slept in till 5. It is dark out now, and we are tied to a long barge (Hoppie's Marina) not far off the main channel of the Mississippi. As I write this I am looking south, and watching a tow boat heading north. He is still a long way off, but I can see his lights. It's a great sight, and it gets me excited about the day ahead. The weather channel says it will be 90, and sunny, and in just the last couple of minutes the sky is starting to brighten up in the west. By the time that barge gets here it will be light out.

Today's plan is to head out shortly, and either stop at mile 48.6 and drop a hook in a small river there, or go all the way to Cairo, and drop a hook about 1 mile north of the Ohio river. It will all depend on how we feel.

By the way we are now at mile 158. The mile 0 is where the Mississippi meets the Ohio at Cairo, IL. Why this is mile 0 seems strange, because the Mississippi goes on to Memphis.
So that's it for now. I need to go check all the engine fluids, and clean the strainers before we leave. I'll also top off the water tank so we will have plenty of water tonight while we're at anchor.

The sun is just starting to show itself, and that tow boat is still down river.
Looks like maybe we'll meet him as we go by.

I don't think my dream was this good............

BK

Chapter 3 - Day 3: Hams Marina

4:05 am
Monday, September 06, 1999
Day 3

Great day yesterday.

We left Hams Marina (mile 178) about 6:30 to a beautiful sunrise. As we headed out there were guys in their blinds hunting ducks. The river was a little hazy, but we could see enough to keep track of the red and green buoys. (the ones that mark the channel-you knew that---right?)
I decided to stop in Peoria to top off the fuel because the port fuel gauge showed that I had already used a 1/4 of a tank. (we had 178 miles before we could get fuel again so I was concerned). I also have a flow meter that keeps track of fuel used and it said that I had only used 49 gallons so..........rather than wonder, we stopped at East Port Marina (mile 164).
As it turns out the flow gauge was right and it took 51 gallons to top off the port tank. In total it took 110 gallons, and cost $ 170 which included $5 to pump out the holding tank (septic)

The haze stayed with us and at 9:30 we entered the Peoria Lock (mile 157).
The drop is only 9 feet, and they let us float in the middle while they took us down.
As we made our way south there was quite a bit of boat traffic so I had to keep it at about 1000 rpm, and 10 mph, so I didn't make a large wake. Our plan was to get to mile 46 and drop the hook, but at 4:00 PM when we got to the La Grange lock (mile 80) they were just putting in a south bound double.

We asked the lockmaster how long of a wait, because we told him we may have to go back to Beardstown to have a place to spend the night. He said it would be 2 hours, but we could tie along his lock wall and wait, and once we were through the lock we could tie up to a barge they had on the bottom side. We knew we didn't have enough light to make it mile 46, so we did as he said, and stayed the night tied to a barge-- that was tied to the bottom lock wall. For dinner Darrell grilled some pork chops, Debbie made some rice, and we were set for the night. We started to watch a movie, but I had enough, so I was in bed by 8:30.

This morning, at 3:30 am one of the ropes on our bow started to squeak. Why after all night it started then-- who knows, but I got up to fix it---which I did----and just decided to stay up.

Yes, this will be a long day!

Now I'm on my second cup of coffee, typing this note, and watching the weather channel. There are a lot of things I love about this boat, but having the on board satellite system is high on the list. Normally on a trip like this you're out of the loop, because you don't have a good way to get information. Having the satellite TV gives us a way to keep up with things, but especially the weather. I'll admit I am a weather channel guy, but it helps so much when it comes to planning a safe trip. If I can help it, I don't want to be anchored out somewhere if severe weather is coming.

Speaking of plans. Today we are going to finish our trip down the Illinois River to the Mississippi. We join the Mississippi at mile 218. From there we stop for fuel, go through two more locks, and on to Hoppie's Marina at mile 158. Like I said---long day.

One last note before signing off. Deb said to apologize to everyone (again) about any misspellings, and errors in grammar. Actually I thought I had been doing fine, but she must have spotted something. Funny how this happens.

BK

Chapter 2 - Day 2: We Are Under Way...

4:55 am
Sunday September, 4th
Day 2

Well day 1 was a complete success.

We left the dock about 8:15 and stopped to get fuel. (136 gallons-- $220) The lock to a while to get through. When we got there a southbound double a barge that is 3 wide and 5 long that has o be split in half in order to get in the lock-therefore it takes two locks for it to get through), We got there at 9:15, and didn't get through until 12:30.

The weather was perfect. I mean a 10. 90 degrees, & sunny. Most of the day we cruised at 10 to 11 mph. At times we went faster, but Headquarters (the name of our boat) makes a large wake when we run fast, so when there are a lot of other boats out, I keep it down.

There were 5 of us running together. We got to Hams Harbor Marina about 5 PM. I guess you could call this a marina, although it looks more like a junk yard. This place has tremendous potential, but the owner just doesn't make it work. Great location-great harbor-but uuuugly!
For dinner we took something for the grill, and went over to the dock where the others were docked. They were all together, under a covered slip, so we had a party. Well actually they had a party. I was tired. I got up too early. Sooooo......at about 8:00 while they were hollering and carrying on-I went to bed.

I made my first mistake of the new day already. You see when we run the generator ( which is any time that we are moving) the electricity it creates is not perfect so the electric clocks run fast. Normally we reset them when we dock, to get them back on track, but last night I guess we forgot because this morning laying in bed the red digits on the clock said 5:00, but when I got up and dressed, my watch said 4:30. Oh well I'll get a early start on the day.

This morning looks great. Stars are out, and it's 66 degrees. Forecast is for nice, warm, with a chance of rain latter today, as a cold front passes.

The plan is to head out at first light and travel about 100 miles-or so. We have two locks today, and plan to anchor out along the river tonight.

Hopefully we will make it to about the 50 mile marker or so. Which means we will be 50 miles from the Mississippi.

So that's it for now. It's 5:35, and I need to get a few things done before we fire up the engines.
As they say on the VHF radio

"Headquarters clear----and standing by"

BK

Chapter 1 - Day 1: Our Adventure Begins

4:20 am
Saturday
September 4, 1999
Day 1

Well it's finally here-ready, or not.

Whatever preparations we were going to make have been done, and whatever we forgot-we'll have to fix, buy, or do without.

It's early. Way too early. (Chuck this is even earlier than in the BVI) I woke up about 3:30 and couldn't go back to sleep, so I got up. The weather channel is on, the coffee is brewing, and I thought I'd get this captain's log started. After that I'll finish the last minute preparations.
Darrell, and Donna Thompson (friends that we have met through boating in the Ottawa area) got on board last night. They will be with us until next Saturday. After storing their stuff, and a quick pizza, Donna and Deb headed out to the store for our first weeks provisions. Deb and I had already put our refreshments on board for the entire 3 week first leg, so if the girls forgot any groceries, we'll still be ok. (I was very involved in the planning of the liquid beverages-definitely an important part of the captains duties)

Today's weather looks to be beautiful. About 90 degrees, no rain, and light winds. Right now it's perfect outside. 66 degrees, and the stars are very bright. Last night is probably the last of the moon we'll see for a while.

Too bad because Sunday, and Tuesday we'll be at anchor, and it's always great to have a big moon over you.

Our plans this morning are to leave about 9:00 am. We would normally leave much sooner but we need to top off the fuel tanks before we head out. There are only a few spots on the IL. river to get diesel fuel, so if I fill up here we can make it to St. Louis.

We have 4 other boats joining us this morning Deb's sisters Ann, and Mooie (nickname for Mary) and their husbands each have their boats. Plus Ann's daughter, and her boyfriend are taking their boat-- along with John and Sue-- other boating friends.
Today, were heading for Hams marina, in Chillicothe, IL. About mile marker 170. (Starved Rock Marina is at the 234 mile marker so we'll be traveling about 64 miles.) We have one lock to go through about 1 mile down river from our marina. The drop is about 20 feet. I hope the wait to get through is not too long. The time can very greatly. Sometimes the gates are open and we pull right in-but we have waited as long as 5 hours to get through.
We'll see.

In response to your comments/questions;
* These engines each take 26 quarts of oil-1 oil filter-and three fuel filters. It took me about 4 hours just to change the two engines, not counting the generator. (5 quarts-1 oil filter-2 fuel filters) I'm supposed to change them every 150 hours.
* Yes we can receive e-mail while we're traveling. Either just click on "reply", or my e-mail address is; bk@prosourcegroup.com
* No I'm not smart for figuring out how to do this when we have just started
a new business. 1--While we're growing it may be the best time because
next year we'll be to busy. 2--I have two great partners who not only
support this, but talked me into buying the boat and doing this now. 3-As I said before who knows what will happen in the future. I'd hate to look back and say "I wish I would of...."
* Steve and Claudia---thanks for the wine and especially the lighthouse, it looks great on the boat.

So with that we're off. There will be a lot of water under this hull, and a lot will happen before we return to this slip again. Most of it good, but I'm also sure there will be a lot of challenges as well.
We'll deal with those as they come.............

BK

T-Minus 14 Days - Two Weeks Away...

5:00 PM
Saturday 8-21-99
T-14 days

Well it's getting much closer now. We've been chipping away at our "get ready" list, but it seems to be getting bigger instead of smaller. Today was a good day though, because I did the big job. Oil Change, and engine compartment things. (I love it down there) I was just thinking, this engine room is bigger than some boats we've owned!

It's been a long day working on the boat, but now I've just had a shower, and sat down for a well deserved gin and tonic. Deb is moving a little slow today as last night we went to see "The Little River Band" (they were awesome!) and it seems that maybe she had one too many Miller Lites. Her job was to go to the store today, which I might add she did a great job of, and now she is taking a nap. What? We just got a call from Anne (Deb's sister) and they may bring their boat over-6miles- for a "gin and tonic" cruise.

Just another great day on the water.

I wonder what they do all the time on the boat you ask?
* Bob up early, Deb up about 8:00 AM
* Clean, or work on the boat if necessary-a labor of love
* Leave dock about 10 to 12
* Head out to a sand-bar or drop a hook (anchor) somewhere
* Swim-laugh-play-generally have a great time
* Either head back about 6 PM or stay out on the hook all night (We have a generator that will handle everything on board)
* Start all over again

As we go you'll learn more about the boat, but just a few facts-
* 50 ft
* 34,000 lbs.
* 600 gallon of fuel
* 150 gallon of water
* 100 gallon of septic ( which we pump out when we fuel)
* 2 toilets, 2 showers
* Stove, and Micro wave
* 3 TV's, VCR, and a Satellite that will track a TV signal where ever we are, or as we travel
* GPS, Radar, Plotter, and lots of other neat electronics
* 2 queen sized bedrooms & 1 bedroom that has twin beds
* 2-625 HP Detroit engines (1250 HP total)
* 13.5 Kilo watt generator to run things when we're not plugged into a dock somewhere
* Full sized refrigerator in the galley-plus a small one on the bridge
* 3 air conditioners that also provide heat (like a heat pump)
* In short-anything we could ever need (or want)

Enough for now except to respond to all the e-mails and calls:
1. No we didn't win the lottery
2. No I didn't retire, I'm way to young
3. Yes this will be scary, but very exciting as well 4. No I will not be taking off for 6 months to a year, I'll be working all the time, just leaving the boat at different places, and going back to the boat to move it.
5. Yes we are fortunate (I don't believe in luck) 6. The boat should be back at Starved Rock Marina next July, or August at the latest 7. You're right--- this is a dream come true

So-------
It's now 6 PM. The gin and tonic is kicking in, and I'm slowing down. Deb's up, and making herself a Bushwhacker, so it looks like she will be fine.
I've got to end this so we can eat, and go on that evening cruise was I talking about.
I'll write before we leave, or at least within the first few days of out trip.

BK

T-Minus 49 Days...and Counting

t-minus 49 days
Saturday, July 17, 1999
4:45 am.

Hello all,

(I should explain here that this is going to many different people---and I'll explain why later)
This is the first of what should be several e-mails from Debbie or I concerning our "Great Circle Trip".

What is that you ask?

Well that is the official nautical name for our boat trip which will take us by water over a route from Chicago to Florida, up to New York, across the Eire Canal to Buffalo, across the Great Lakes to Michigan, down to Chicago, and back home again.

As some of you know Deb and I (well more me than Deb) have been talking about this for a few years. My goal was to leave some Labor Day and take a year to make this circle. Our original plan was to do this when we retired, but I wasn't sure when that would be.......... if we would be able to afford it then.............. and the way we were going I was also concerned what type of shape we'd be in. So a little over a year ago we began to plan a way to make this trip while I was still working. We sold our Gibson Houseboat, and bought a "Cruisers Yachts" cruiser (I know it sounds confusing) that will be very comfortable, and safe to make this trip.

We leave on September 4th.

We will make this trip in several legs. The longest time we will be traveling will be three weeks, and the shortest will be one week. We plan on being back in our slip at Starved rock Marina next July sometime. During this year, I will be taking off about 44 days from work, and we will be moving the boat about 77 days. There may also be a time that we will be able to visit the boat in between the times we will be moving it, but right now we don't have this set up yet.
My normal style of writing is to use bullet points so I can cover several thoughts, and not have to worry about tying things together.......... so I might as well get started.

* First of all, as I said earlier, this e-mail is going to several people.
Family, friends, vendors, and even one of my customers (who belongs in the friend category). Keep this in mind as I/we make some of our comments, because they may be directed to someone specific and you won't have a clue what we're talking about. The goal is to keep some of you posted, and to share our journey with others.

* I will try---but I'm not going to worry tooooo much about grammar, or punctuation---more on content, and information.

* We will be traveling over 5000 miles.

* The computer we have on board has a small keyboard, so typing fast, and accurate, can be difficult, so some of the messages may be short, and to the point.

* Once we leave we will be sending e-mails by using a modem hook-up from our on board cellular phone. This is slow, because of the modem speed, but it works great----if----we have a strong cellular signal. Because we will be traveling in many remote areas this signal is sometimes non-existent so although we may write an e-mail on a certain day we may not be able to send it. So, you may get several days e-mails together, because we finally found a good signal.

* Our plan is to try to write something each day we are traveling. It will keep you posted on our travels, and make for a good diary once we're finished.

* We are using a master list to send this e-mail. If you'd rather not be on this list let me know. Or when you see an e-mail with a subject of "GCT"
(great circle trip) just hit delete! Or.......if you know someone who we should send this to let us know.

As I said our first leg begins on Sept. 4th. The first week we will leave Starved Rock Marina and head south--down the IL. River-past St. Louis, & down the Mississippi to Cairo, IL.-up the Ohio-up the Cumberland to Paduca, Ky.-and then up the Tennessee to Iuka, Ms. The total trip is about 700 miles, and we should arrive at Aqua Marine, in Iuka, on Friday Sept. 11th.

Daryl and Donna Thompson will be joining us for that week.

The next week Daryl and Donna will fly home, and Steve Thoke (my business
partner) and his wife to be Chris Van Allen will fly to Memphis meet us at Aqua Marine. We will then take a week to travel 450 miles down the Tom-Bigbee to Mobile, Al.

The third week Debbie's two sisters, and their husbands will join us in Mobile, and we will cross the Gulf to Tampa, where we will leave the boat for the winter.

After Christmas we will move the boat from the West Coast of Florida to the East Coast. Then in the spring (late April-early May) we'll start north and our plan is to stop in Richmond, Va. for a while. We are building a new distribution center there for Perdue (the chicken company) and I will be spending a lot of my time there. From there to New York, home for a few weeks, then probably take three weeks from New York to Starved Rock.

We have a lot to do to get prepared for our journey. Cruising guides, charts, manuals, oil changes, engine checks, spare parts. All the fun things! We spent a week on our new boat recently, so we have a feel for what we'll need. Just as important is what we can take off the boat. We have been working hard on this one. We realize we don't need all this stuff on board.
So that's it for now. As I said this is just a note to tell you more notes are coming. If you have any questions drop us a note, we'd love to hear from you. As you can see the e-mail address is mine (Bob) at work, but I'll forward any comments to Deb at home if you send them. That is until we leave, at which time Deb will be with me, so I won't have to tell her then because..................you know!

BK