October 11, 2006 First Mates Notes

Hi Ya All, That's how everyone talks down here. We left port about 10:30 this morning and had an easy run to Pickwick. It was calm water, few barges and overcast. It was very comfortable at about 75 degrees. We arrived at the Pickwick Lock and the pleasant day disappeared quickly. Before we left port today we made a hoop to go over the Bollards. Everyone told us they make a world of difference, so naturally we tried it. We also talked Diane and Rick into making one. She doesn't enjoy the locks anymore than I do. Everyone warned us that these would be the roughest locks to negotiate, and they weren't kidding. No problem getting hooked to the Bollard, but the wind and current in the lock was unbelievable. We managed to get things under control, but not without a lot of YELLING and several different ties to make it work. LadyDi (Rick and Diane) caught up with us at the lock and were right behind us. They have the 52 Hatteras and didn't fair quite as well. They took a small chunk of fiberglass off the stern. Then we proceeded to the Pickwick State Park Marina. Naturally no dock hands, but friends of Rick and Diane were already here and helped us both in. Very windy and difficult to get to the docks, but we are here safe and sound. Betty and Bill, Diane and Rick are coming for drinks shortly. They are nice couples and seem to be fun. We are staying here tonight and tomorrow night. That's about as much of a slow down that the captain can manage. I think we are going to Shiloh National Military Park tomorrow. Craig found some Taxi that would do a little mini tour and then give us some time in Shiloh. Diane and Rick are going with us I think. Don't know about Betty and Bill. They have been here a week and are probably done with the touristy things. Till next time.....Hugs, ML