Wednesday, November 19, 2008

COLUMBUS

11/19/08---Woke up to a cold, calm, clear morning. At 27 degrees there was plenty of frost on the boat. There was a layer of frost as seen on the Life Jacket storage box. However, with no wind the water was glassy and it is time to move on. We warmed up the diesels and called the Wilkins lock. They said the gate would be open in 15 minutes. At 7:15 a.m. we left the Smithville Marina and made the short run to the lock. The light was green and we got right in at 7:30 and tied to a bollard. At 7:45 we exited the lock after being lowered 30’. The next lock was only 5.2 miles away and they had the gate open waiting for us. In the Amory Lock at 8:15 and out at 8:30 after another 30’ lower. We traveled along at a nice rate of 10 MPH at 2350 RPM, just enjoying the Canadian Geese, loons and various ducks. After traveling another 13.6 miles we arrived at the Aberdeen dock. In at 10:15 and out at 10:35. This was another 30’ for a total of 90’ today. This makes a total of 264’ lower elevation since Grand Harbor Marina. The Dream Manor continued smoothly as we enjoyed the view for 22.5 miles to the Columbus Marina just above the Stennis Lock. The wind had picked up, but the marina is nicely protected by trees and there was hardly any wind effect as we docked at 1:00 p.m. Total distance today was 41.5 miles. After we hooked up to shore power, took on fresh water, and paid the docking fee it was time to kick back and relax the rest of the afternoon. That is Keith and I relaxed while Maryann did the laundry at the marina facility. About 4:00 p.m. several deer came out of the trees to graze along the bank on the east side of the marina. There is about 100 yards of water between us and the deer. They obviously knew they were quite safe. We watched them until after dark.

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

that close to deer you know you are not close to a lot of people.
rrgranny

Anonymous said...

After all the lock talk - what actual state are you in..... do you river runners know that the rest of us somewhat identify with those pieces of land known as states? I realize that rivers and locks tell you everything you need to know - but some of us need clarification as we live through you vicariously. :-)
Love you
Steph

Anonymous said...

I agree Steph, we need to know the state you are actually in so we can look on a map and follow along. We don't have the 'river guide' which explains all that other stuff you are mentioning. Don't get me wrong, I like to know about the locks, etc. but it would also be nice to have some sort of idea where you actually might be. Not being a 'river' person, I'm kind of lost. P.S. "Hi" Steph and Max, long time no see. Vicki from Bakersfield

Anonymous said...

Hello Vicki - thanks for backing me up - have a fabulous weekend my dear!!!