Better than I Thought

Here's a piece of advice. Never try to do math when you've been working hard in the hot sun, low on energy and in desperate need of sleep. Today I had to reassess my reassessment. My math was wrong. Last night, when I was trying to figure out how far I still had to go and how many miles per day I needed, I made one mistake. This trip is a month. Last night, a month was 28 days,or 4 weeks. Today, I realized that Susan is picking me up after a calendar month...Doh! So, that leaves 2 more days to figure in. Today, was a good day and I made 38 miles. That included 3 locks which was stellar. That leaves me with 12 days left and 28 miles a day to average. Much mre doable than the 34 a day I had worked out last night. A little over 350 miles to go in 12 days. I've made over a 100 in the last 3 days so give me some good weather...meaning cooler and less humid and I should get to Mobile on time.
Last night was spent at Midway Marina. Nice group there and I really enjoyed just hanging out and talking with them. If they're reading...thanks for making me feel welcome. The sunset last night was awe inspiring. God really knows how to end a good day on a high note. Enjoy the pics.
Today, up at 4:30, in the boat and 5 and through the first lock at 6, with the sun rising as I entered. The 3 locks today were really smooth. None of them had the high tie-offs and all went down with the water level. Even still, I was ready. Instead of a couple half hitches, I tied a bwline with a bight. If I needed to, all I had to do was pull on the end of the rope and off it came. No need to though,thank goodness. 14 hours later I pulled into Aberdeen Marina. Drank a Dr Pepper and made a couple phone calls. The marina isn't big, but has a convenience store and gas pumps alongside it. Speaking to the ladies behind the counter I asked about camping on the dock and explained the whole deal. They ahd to call the owners to see if it was ok. I thought, uh oh. No way would they let some stranger with some sort of story camp there. Once again I was surprised. The owner, Miss Susan, not only said ok, but let me stay on her screened in pontoon boat, had the ladies fix me a burger and fries and set me up with a fan. They later came in while I was eating and introduced themselves. Great folks once again. Kerrie, one of the women working there made sure Ihad everything I needed and helpe3d find the fan for me. Again, thanks. I've been blessed numerous times throughout this. It's sounding somewhat like a broken record. The eternal optomist in me is silently rejoicing that the world, no matter the media we hear, isn't all bad. We live in uncertain times right now, but one thing is for certain. Most people in our world are genuinely considerate, helpful and kind...no matter what you see in Atlanta traffic.
One last thing. I can tell I'm movcnig south. Saw my first White Heron today. Also, the water and surroundings are starting to get that lowland, swampy feel as you move away from the main channel and into the backwaters. Cypress knees and hydrilla floating by. I'm definitely not in the mountains any more.
One last work. Thanks to all who are commenting and messaging. I can't respond to all, but they are appreciated and mean a lot.
Nite

The Heat Is On!

Finally have a good connection and want to catch up with everyone. 3 Days ago I had just entered Pickwick Lake from Florence Al. Beautiful lake with gravel and shell beaches that made rest stops comfortable and easy. No worry about boat wakes with the boat pulled over to shore. Usually, that's the big worry,but not here. Spent a long day with several breaks just enjoying. Probably one of the more pleasant days I've had in the heat. Pulled into Coleman State Park on Mississippi. Yes..Mississippi. Really can't believe I've paddled from Bryson City to MS. Met a couple law enforcement guys from the park and talked about the project. Great guys and really liked hearing about it. I went back to the boat to secure it and get my stuff. In pulls a boat, careening into the boat dock with the gas pumps. I was parked just behind them about 15 yards and immediately got worried. They were obviously drunk and the girl was seriously mad at one of the guys. Lots of F-bombs and crying and generally making a scene. I immediately got back in my boat and paddled around to the other side, picked up my stuff and headed off the find the law enforcement guys. Gladly, they took off and handled it. I didn't care what happened to them...they were going to hurt themselves or someone else if nothing was done.
After a dinner of mashed taters, ground beef and veggies with lots of butter. Finished it off with some coconut cream pie pudding. I was happy. I slept well. The next morning, I started down to my boat to start loading. When I got there, there was a note on my seat. Evidently one of the officers had read this blog and decided to help out. On top of the note were 4 pair of sunglasses. I took a picture of the note so you guys could read it. Just another helping hand along the way.
The next day,by comparison was the worst day of the trip. HOT with no releif anywhere. I entered the Tenn-Tomm Waterway, headed south. Reaching a milestone like this is big and I was looking forward to the "Ditch" as most call it. Well..its a ditch. Riprap lining both sides and no coves or inlets to get away from boat wakes. Not only that it was a water skiiers paradise. It was Sunday and all day I fought boat wakes and sun. Not only is there no place to pull off, there isn't even hardly a tree big enough to offer shade. I could only keep going. Drank 2 gallons of water and splashed water on me all day. Pulled into Bay Springs Lake at around 9 pm after a 36 mile stint. Don't want to do that again.
Today was much better. A front passed through taking some of the humidity with it. Temps were in the low 90's instead of the high 90's as the day before. Listening to the weather on the radio, yesterday had a heat index of 110. Today,it was only in the low 100's. Up early as usual to clear skies and light wind. Cool breeze actually and it was at my back. Pushing early, I made the first lock of the day. The Tenn-Tomm was created to provide an alternate shipping route to the east instead of using the Mississippi. To make it, they had to create a channel to conect the3 Tennessee with the Tombigbee River. Using a lot of locks..I think there are 15, they were able to make the connection. I had to wait until the lock filled to enter, taking about 20 minutes. After I entered and tied off, they started lowering the water. After about 10 minutes and 20 feet, they started filling it again. Another boat was upstream so they decided to refill and let him in. A big cruiser entered and tied up opposite me. Turns out its a family, dad, mom and a small boy of about 6. The dad asked about the "purpose" as he had seen it printed on the side of the boat (Thanks Getcha Graphics). We spoke a bit and introduced ourselves. Dad, Bill Butler, and his family were heading to the Abacos in the Bahamas for a year. He owns an internet company and can work from anywhere. I wanted to go with them..badly.
Anyway, the water lowered and off we went. Nice guy and I hope they have a great voyage. I did see a snake up close and personal while in the lock. It swam along the wall toward me, stopped for a sec at my boat and then zoomed past me, between the wall and me. The watersnake was not interested in me as he swam by at inches away.
Thenext channel and then lake were only about 6 miles long. As the lock came into view, I saw the same cruiser entering and a tug with barge attached leaving. I knew I wouldn't make it in time to enter with Bill's cruiser. Another wait until he locked through, they refilled and I could enter. Waiting for this takes about 20-30 minutes. So, I waited.
This time, the lock was a little different. The tie-offs were up high. High enough that I had to stand to tie my boat off. These tie-offs are engineered so that as the water lowers, the tie-offs lower also. They are like cylinders sliding up and down inside the lock. I stood and tied the boat and sat back down to wait. That's when my worry became a reality. At every lock, I wondered what would happen if the water started lowering, but they cylinder tie-off didn't. This one didn't go down at the same time as the water. As the water lowered, the rope became tighter and tighter. I had some slack, but it quickly played out. The rope got tighter and started to pull the side of the boat up as the water lowered. I frantically tried to untie, then started to reach for my knife when "Bang". The rope popped. The little D-ring on my boat broke. It was hard plastic and easily fixed, but wow, not a comfortable feeling.
Water lowered and my nerves feeling better I set off again. It was not about 3:00 in the afternoon and hot. Not as hot as the last 2 weeks, but still summer hot. A light wind still blowing at my back I made some time. This time it was about 8 miles to the mext lock. This time the same tie offs. This time, I learned and left some more slack and tied it in such a way so I could pull the bight of the rope and untie it quickly. This time, no problems, but still had to wait for a tug and barges coming up river. Another hour to get through the lock. I paddled for another few hours and came to Midway Marina where I am tonight. Glorious sunset and a shower with plenty of hot water. Even a hot-tub which I used to pound my back for awhile. Great folks here as well. Boat people seem to like to hear the story, share some of their own and generally make anyone around welcome. I guess its one of the perks of a trip like this and I'm glad to found it out.
Now seems like a good time to do a little assessment of where I am, how far I've gone and what challenges lay ahead. First, there is more than 500 miles of water between Bryson City and me right now. That amazes me. I still have 392 miles to go. I thought I would be really counting the miles I've paddled, but Ihaven't really cared. I can't count like that...it would be like watching a clock go by, or watching water boil. Time just drags on. I just focus on the next task and stay in the present. What do I have to do next. Last night when I finally reached my campsite, I had to fix dinner, set up the tent and go to sleep. Everything was in slow motion and all I could focus on was the next task. It would have beento overwhelming otherwise.
So, 392 miles left. I figured out at yesterday morning as I made the turn into the Tenn-Tom that I had to average 34 miles a day to make Mobile. If I have more days like yesterday, I won't make it. Today, my body was still paying for yesterday. Also, I wasn't expecting the 3 locks today to take so much time. Taking 3 hours out of a day to virtually stand still doesn't get me closer, but it still takes a toll on me in terms of sun and energy. My hope is that I'll get lucky and not have to wait as long tomorrow. I don't know, but I'll keep trying to make it and see where it goes. Would I be dissappointed? I don't think so. I have 30 days to do all I can and so far I've done it to my limit. Putting 12-16 hours a day in the boat is about all I have so I'm satisfied with that, and I'll keep doing the same from here on. When I started this project, I wrote the 2 purposes. #1. To honor the service of my dad to his family, community and country. #2 Raise funds for the Swain County Schools Foundation in my Dad's name. Those have, and continue to be successful thanks to all of you.
Tomorrow, I'll get up at 4:30, pack and start paddling again. I'll see where it leads. The weather is supposed to stay like this through the week. Hopefully, with some breaks and good timing, I'll make up some time. I'll let you know.

2 Locks and a Mink

Tonight I'll be spending in Mississippi. Tomorrow morning I'llm ake the turn into the Tenn-Tomm Waterway, heading south. One nice thing is that I'll be facing south and won't have to paddle into the sun during the later afternoon. That's especially good now that I've lost my Native sunglasses. Bummed is putting it mildly. I seem to have bad luck with sunglasses and can't seem to hold on to them. I had been so concious so far, but as luck would have it, they are now gone. I can blame it on the mink. Isn't that what your supposed to do when someting like that happens?
Ihad just come through the second lock of the day. It was hot as usual and I had just battled the wind crossing the last part of Wilson Lake toward Muscle Shoals. I was tired nad cranky, There is about a 3 mile channel after the lock as it heads to Florence AL. The wind was still kicking my rear so I was paddling as close to shore as I could to find calmer water and what little shade the trees could afford me. The bank was lined with riprap and lots of industrial junk. Out of the weeds and in amongst the rocks I spied a small shape moving. It popped into a hole between 2 rocks just as I got a good look at it. A Mink!! Cool. The day hadn't gone very well so far, but this really brightened my mood. Out came the camera and I stayed very still, right up under the trees along the bank. Out it popped and snaked its way under the leaves. I snapped a few quick shots, but still hadn't gotten a clear photo of it. Cute little guy looking like a little brown ferret. Callie and Rye would have loved to see it. Heck, they would have loved to hold it. Anyway, it disappeared and off I went down river. A couple minutes later I noticed a spider on the bill of my hat. Spiders arn't my favorite thing and it had probably climbed on while I was getting a look at the mink. I quickly took my hat off and gave it a flip. Off went the sunglasses flying to the water. The boats momentum wasn't letting me stop and go back very quickly, but I could see the glasses slowly sinking. Finally, I stopped and reversed my momentum and reached the glasses just as they sank out of site. In hindsight, I should have jumped it after them. I was close to shore and easily could have managed the boat back to shore to get in. I was worried about all the junk in the water and along the bank too. In addition, I have a little, slightly infected spot on my foot from the sandal strap rubbing. I didn't want to get it wet. Btw, it's fine this morning. So...no more glasses. Bummed me out for acouplehours.
Back to the morning and why it wasn't a great day to start with. I awoke from my luxurious slumber at Wheeler state park at around 4:30. I didn't want to go, but still managed to get into the boat around 5:30. It was a mile or so to the dam and I wanted to get through the locks early. Disappointingly, the lock master wasn't monitoring his radio, or looking out his window. I hailed him on my vhf and waited. Nothing. I didn't this several times while floating in front. Finally, after about 30 minutes, he comes out and notices me. Stupidly, he asks if I wanted to go through and tells me to go to the end of the wall, which is about 200 yrds back. First time any lock had asked me to go that far back. Usually they just ask me to go off to the side, out of the way. So,off I go. Another 20 minutes and the gate finally opens. As I paddle into thelock I asked what channel he was monitoring..16 or 14. Most of the time, youhail them on 16 and they ask you to switch to 14. He said 16, saying he heard the radio keep coming on, but didn't see anyone. I wasn't happy getting out of the lock at 8:30.
My usual 8 before 8 goal had evaporated into 11 before 11. I knew it was going to be a long day. Out of Wheeler and into Wilson. Long, wide straight away with only a slight bend before I reached the dam at Muscle Shoals. The staights were 6 miles long and took a a couple hours to get across. The last one had the wind in my face and the boat moving all of 3 mph. Finally, at 2:30 I reached it. This lock operator was much more professional and locked me through fairly quickly. From there it was down the channel to Florence.
The river front in Florence was pretty cool. A small harbor with a marina is just after the bridge. Flags and what looked like a tower/torch marked the harbot on either side. The marina was moderate size and hot..way hot. Into the restaraunt I went...but it wasn't open. I found some shade which was still 90 degrees and read for awhile. I was drained, but the Dr Pepper did help. At 5 the restaraunt opened and in I went to get some ice water and check it out. The a/c felt glorious and instantly I felt better. A couple glasses of water and good conversation with the waitress were enjoyable, but the best part was the owner was trying out a new recipe for fried oysters. Coming up with a small tray, she asked if I woulld try a couple. Oh my! Good could not describe them. I ordered a baked potato with the works which went down in a heartbeat. I knew I would be paddling for awhile still and didn't want to take the time to cook later. The waitress was not only helpful, but said the potato was her donation to the cause. Awesome lady. I left Florence around 6:30 once the sun had started to go down and the wind had died. Feeling refreshed and energized I headed down river to 7 mile island. Beautiful section, but much different than those above. High bluffs on one side and sandy, lowlands on the north side. The paddling was easy and comfortable as I made my way down river over the next few hours. Finally, as the sunset and my headlamp and lantern attached I pulled into a suiutable camping spot. Nothing fancy, but clear, sandy shore with a flat spot for te tent. Exhausted I set up the tent, climbed iin and slept soundly inspite of the heat and no wind.

Wheeler Lake and Decatur Alabama

Absolutely a great day today. I spent last nnight at the Riverwalk(?) Marina across the river from Decatur Alabama. A couple mile upstream for Decatur, a jetski passed by and circled back to talk to me. Kevin, the owner of the jetski was out cruising around and was curious about me sohe stopped. We floated along and taLked for awhile enjoying the slow current and late afternoon sun. At least he was enjoying it. I was ready to be done. Another very hot and humid day with about 26 miles behind me. I was grateful for the rest, but wanted to be done. Anyway, Kevin and I were talking for about 5 minutes when he offered to buy me something cold to drink. Of course I said sure. I still had a couple miles to go so he offered a tow. Of course I said yes. It was funny,he asked me if it would be breaking any rules or something. No way came out of my mouth before I could stop it. No records trying to be made here and I'm not the first one to do this so off we went with me in tow. At 5 mph,it wasn't much faster than what I was paddling.
Kevin,it turns out, is in the steel business. I imagine Decatur would be part of the "Rust Belt" in Alabama. He also turned out to be just an all around nice guy. His wife, a former elementary teacher was on a trip with the kids and Kevin was bach'n it. He towed me into the marina and from there we headed to the restaraunt, a nice beachy place on the water called the Hard Dock. A cold drink and catfish poboy later, I was feeling much better. Spent the rest of the evening talking about everything from kids, to work, to river travel. Nice. Slept on the end of the boat dock, in the tent, right next to the boat. Thanks Kevin...
My routine has settled into somewhat of a pattern. Awake at 4:30, make coffee, pack and load up the boat. Shove off around 5:00 in the dark. A couple photos today are of Decatur industry lights as I left. Played around with moving the camera as I took the shot. Couldn't get a steady one so I went the other way. I thought they looked pretty cool. I've got a headlamp on and another little lantern that I put on my back deck so other boats can see me. The best part is when the sun comes up. Glorious every morning. Best part of the day.
I usually paddle slowly at around 3.5 miles and hour and stop every so often to sip my coffee. I also have a sort of silly guage for how I'm doing. If it's an 8 before 8 morning, its good, meaning I've paddled 8 miles before 8 am. A 9 before 9 morningis average. A 10 before 10 isn't great and means I'll be paddling later in the heat. Today was a 7 before 7 morning. I had some big lake crossings that I needed to get across. In fact, pretty much all day I was out in the middle probabaly 1/2 mile from shore most of the days. Most of the time I can paddle close to shore and get some shade as the sun and day heat up. Today, I knew, wasn't one of those days. One good thing about today, was I didn't have any natural stopping points. No trees for shade...no bends or points in the river to stop. Instead, just kept paddling and keeping a 50-55 stroke pace. The dam at Wheeler lake was 30 miles away. My hope was I would get there early and take a long nap, recharge and rest was needed. Wheeler State Park was just before the dam so I was also looking forward to the marina there and seeing what the park was about.
No lunch today, but constant grazing. I have a bag of peanuts, cashews, almonds, raisins and such that I munch on all day. I also had found my beef jerky a couple days ago. I also still had some tortillas that were good. Eating the tortillas and the beef jerky was sorta like a burrito if I used alittle imagination. Good!
Surprisingly, I made it to the state park by 2:30. I killed that 30 miles today! Also, the park had a lodge/hotel with a room for incredibly reasonable rates. So, tonight, I'm sitting in a room, watching tv and resting. What do you think I did first when I checked in? First, ordered a burger and fries. Second, shower...loing and hot. Ihadn't grown a beard in a long while. Not surprised to find it mostly white on the sides. It made me laugh. I'm now sporting a goatee. Next was a long nap. A good 3 hour, dead to the world sleep. I'll sleep again in a couple hours, once I update all this.
Tomorrow, through the locks at Wheeler and on to the turn at Pickwick onto the Tenn-Tomm. Not sure what to expect as I head south. The pattern here on the Tennessee has been lakes with varying amounts of civilization such as houses and marinas.That followed by the tailwaters with little or no civilization for a day or two. Then the next lake. I think the 15 locks on the Tenn-Tomm will be just another part of this that I'll get to see what its all about. Looking forward to it. I'm probably close to, or just over 400 miles of water between me and Bryson City. Hard to believe that I'm just about 1/2 way. I can't look ahead too far though. It's just too large of a distance. I just take one mile at a time and one day at a time. If I let myself leave the here and now, it gets too daunting and demoralizing, but I can always paddle one mile. Seems like there's a message there I believe.
Enjoy the pics..I'll get up tomorrow and start again, but for right now, I'll enjoy the moment.

Moving Along

I'm sitting on a bench near Huntsville Alabama and just found out I'm trespassing on military property. It's 5:45 and a gentleman walked up and very nicely asked if I was here for the fishing derby. We started talking and well, go figure, I'm on hte Redstone Military Arsenal. Evidently, NASA owns part of this too. Something to do with missles. I don't ask too many questions at this point. Its peaceful with bird chirping and fish splashing while the sun is just rising up river from me.
Made it through Guntersville yesterday. Again, the morning, I kicked butt. Lots of big, open water to cross, but the wind wasn't an issue. The afternoon, in the heat, I slowed, but still managed to make 33 miles. Beautiful section from a couple miles above the dam, to where I stopped about 10 miles below the dam. Moved into some pine forests and later, on the river passed some huge cliff faces. This section, below the dam was definitely more scenic than below Watts Bar, Chickamauga and Nickajack. Nicajack was by far the most unscenic yet. Laid on a big flat rock,in the shade for anhour and actually fell asleep for awhile.
I pulled into a marina about 3 miles upstream for the night. The marina store was closed but still bought a Dr Pepper out of the machine there. You don't know how good that was. One of the workers came by with a key and went inside while I was fixing dinner on the dock.. Spoke to him about sleeping there and he pointed over to the transient dock. Cost was 15 bucks so I paid and paddled over. I was just getting my things out when the door to the big boat next to me opened and I met Ron Wilkerson. After talking for all of 2 minutes, he offered me his boat to sleep on for the night. Another good semaritan! Again, I was blessed. A/C and a stocked fridge. He offered a cold water and to the roof deck we went. We talked for a bout an our before it was time for to go shower and get some sleep. Nice guy obviously,but what amazes me are peoples good will. I've expereienced this level of kindness rarely, but it's usually when traveling. For some reason, people tend to open up, lend ahand and somehow move out of their everyday, hectic pace for awhile. When they see someone roughing it, people tend to want to help. That to me is priceless. Thank you Ron for your generosity.
Highlight of yesterday...2 bald eagles. Saw them above Guntersville. Lucky to get s photo of them. Playlist was a comilation from Garageband.com artists. If you haven't gone there, check it out. Great music from rising, unknown artists. Huge selection with a lot of free downloads. Also, a plug fo audible.com. Listening to books on tape has been a great time passer. Ken Follets follow up to Pillars of the Earth is one the Zune today.
Off to put in more miles in the continuing heat. Hope for some clouds and wind like yesterday. Not a big wind, but just enought to keep the air moving.
Last thing, thanks to Cat, Marc, Deb, and Peter for your donations. It really keeps the spirits up when I see someone has donated. Coming from you guys,it means even more. Thanks!

Great Interview Joe..thanks

Ok, maybe I'm getting smarter about this whole thing. At least for now anyways. Yesterday temperatures rose once again to record levels. The day before was absolutely no fun and as I said, it hurt. So instead of pushing through and down river, I decided to take a long break mid day and paddle in the morning and late afternnon. After about 13 miles, I found the Goose Pond Marina. Great place to relax and rechaqrge all my electronics. Cool breezes blowing through the covered picnic area allowed me to relax, read and take a nap even. Got there around 11:15 and stayed until around 5 pm. Didn't cover as many miles but it made life easier. Covered 24 miles and that was just fine.
Received Joe Jacobi's interview video blog of our time together in Chattanooga. Have to say, great job Joe. Thanks for the opportunity to spend some time with you and talk about this project.

Day 10 morning break

Had an opportunity to post during a quick rest stop to stretch. I really like mornings when the miles are so much easier. Listening to the Zune this morning and trying to go a little slower and smoother. Yesterday afternoon hurt. Pulled in about 7 pm to the sound of fish jumping and an osprey warning me away from her nest. Not only was I hot and tired, but my upper back/neck just can't seem to loosen up. I end up paddling for about 5 minutes and have to stop and stretch a little. Then it's on again. Trying to not move my neck side to side and concentrate on relaxing my shoulders and not hunching helps, but the burn and tightness continues. I keep hoping it won't get worse. Every morning, I get up and it feels pretty good, so thats a good sign. Might have to slow down and even take some time off. Also, my forearm started feeling some tightness too. The top, going into my hand/thumb. A little tendonitist I'm sure. Doesn't hurt, just isn't right. Ibuprofen, water and rest is probably what is needed. I'll see where today takes me and how it all holds up. 8 miles so far and, as I said, it feels good so far this morning.
So, the important stuff. What did I eat last night? First, found my beef jerky I had dehydrated before I left. Awesome discovery. Ate about 4 sticks of that. For dinner I had couscous with chik peas, a little dried tomato and onion, and mixed veggies. Not bad at all. Couldnt eat it all so the fish had theirs too. For dessert, Chocolate pudding and coffee. By that time I was ready to lay down. Read for a bit.."Angels and Demons" First time is several days I had the energy to do that. Went to sleep around 10 pm. Up again this morning at 4:30 and felt great.
Since I'm in Alabama now, I actually got up at 3:30...ouch. I'm not changing my watch. Don't think my brain could handle that early, even thought the body is feeling good wtih it.
Playlists this morning...started off with some Coldplay - Parachutes. Then listened to Debra Arlyn...a Oregon artist who I found on Garageband.com. Check that out. She's pretty good. Lastly, the Doors. Great losing myself in Riders on the Storm for awhile.
Need to stretch so I'll try to post laster tonight. Another 95 degree day and 100 heat index awaits.

Sad Day

It was a sad day today. I learned this morning of the passing of a friend, David Ennis. David intersected my life in many ways. First, his son, Chris, worked with me at NOC in instruction. Talented paddler and all around great guy. I can tell you Chris got this way through the guidance of his parents. David was a great father..encouraging, mentoring and setting wonderful examples of service, friendship and responsibilty. Long time board member at NOC, he also became NOC's President for a couple tough years. He did so with poise and consideration.
After his stint at President, we took our dogs out birdhunting a few times. It was actually more of a walking and hiking exercise, but I enjoyed out talks about the outdoors. We'd talk dogs, fishing and just about everything in between. A passionate bonefisherman, he would tell me his Bahamas trips with great enthusiasm. I would have really like to have had a chance to go with him.
Later, I would see him at school. David started a local Big Brother program. He and Donna would show up every now and then to spend time with one of our kids. Mostly just having fun at whatever the kid wanted to do, but it was invaluable and greatly needed/wanted by those students.
I'm not going to post much about the trip today. Suffice it to day that it was long and hot. Today was more about remembering my times with David and wishing his family peace in their grief. In closing, please remember to live each day as it's your last. Do something you always wanted...do it with your family and love them. Time is precious. Peace.

100 degree Fathers Day

Made it below Nickajack dam, but wow...hot and slow. Took care of myself with lots of water and paddlingin the shade of the overhanging branches. Also stopped for a couple hours in the heat of the day.
Not writing much thismorningas I want to get a start and was too tired last night to do much except check email.
Thought the pic would brighten everyones day. After 6 different places I finally found one. Thank you Sullivans! It made my morning.

Chattanooga Joe

First, excuse the spelling as I'm not taking the battery and time to check before I post. I'm good to even be posting as it takes about an hour at least to get all in order and write. Hope you understand and take points off.
Yesterday the highlight was meeting up with Joe Jacobi, olympic gold medalist, paddler extraordinaire and all around great guy. He's taught me a lot aboutusing social media to promote and draw interest toward just about anything.
We met about 10 am above Chicamauga dam and locked through toward Chattanooga. We paddled about 5 miles or so to downtown having a great time talking about all kinds of things. Everything from the state of paddling to how the trip is going. Some of you whoknow Joe, know he is a social media fiend. Twittering, postiing on FB, taking photos, commenting and responding is a constant. Pretty cool to see how connected heis and what interest that generates. We stopped into Rock Creek outfitters for bit. I've been having some issues with my sandals and TEVA has been working hard to get a pair overnighted to me through Rock Creek Sadly they hadn't come in, but Andrew...a man I would have working for me in a heart beat is still working on getting them to me. He even has offered to drive them down river at some point and pass them off to me if they come in on Monday. Over and above the call of duty for sure. Rock Creek needs to give this guy a raise, and TEVA needs to give him a pair of shoes for his herculean efforts.
Anyway, Joe said some great things about the project and gave some great support to my spirit. His family was there too, which was great to see. He also got me thinking about this project and the message it's sending. My goal is to raise money for scholarships, but its definitelymore than that. Swain County Schools Foundation has made a great start in providing scholarships, but it's realy going to measured by the success of our students who go to college and finish successfully.
Four years ago I tood a position at our local community college as Director of GEAR UP. A federal grant program designed to get middle and high school students on a colllege path that leads to completion. Some of these students would enter college,but drop out after the first year to return to work. One of my goals was to create programs that inspire interest and passion for something that leads to a career. For instance, Robotics was a program we brought to the area. Offering interesting programs like this,I beleive, lead to passionate, headlong desires to continue on into college. So, how does this project fit into that? A big obstacle to following that path is confidence and experience. This project, I hope, is an example of going out and goal oriented, passionate direction. An example of, even if its difficult, don't quite, because the end result isn't as far as itlooks. Just like college. If a students is passionate about something, and with the right support, maybe, just maybe, theywill complete those two or four year programs.
Joe and his partner Scott were great examples of that very thing. Training for years for the chance to compete in the Olympics, theynot only competed, but won the biggest prize of their lives. It changed their lives forever from that point on.
So, Joe, you keep poswting and twittering and talkiing to anyone who listens. Keep teaching the idea of not letting the world come to you, but go out, find a passion and follow it until you reach whatever goal it is. You go bro! I'm with you trying to do the same. Find a passion everyone and pursue it. you never know were it may lead. The only reward for me would be the appreciation of someone who might be reading this and pursued their goals to the fullest. Now that would be cool. I wish Swain County Schools Foundation the best in their goal of assisting those accomplishments.
Off the soap box now.
At thismoment I just finished breakfast and am standing on the banks of the Tennesse, south of Chattanooga. I'm watching fisherman just about 15 yards away who are probabalywondering what the heck this guy with the compueter and kayak is doing. After Chatt. I paddled on and finished the day with 28 miles under my belt. Again, as I was starting to wind down the day and look for a suitable camping spot, there was a group of folks right at Suck Creek. They wre bar-b-queing chicken and having a good time. I stopped to talk to them cuz thehad a dog likemine...a weimeraner. One thing led to another and they offered me a big dinner of chicken potato salad, and rice and beans. Killer rice and beans. An evening of talking and asking questions again and next thing you k now it was 10:30 and I was sleeping under theirr picnic area with a fan going to keep the bugs off. Being an apartment complex, it had alot of diffferent people, but the waterfront was the hangout with people coming and going all night. When I say allnight, I mean all night. At around 1:30, the radion was turned on..they didn't know or didnt care that I was trying to sleep. I just went back to sleep,but kept waking up all night due to the music. At 4:30 when I woke up, I turned it off and started to get ready to leave. When I went to my boat, there was the couple who turned on the music, still locked in an embrace, sitting next to the boat. I hadn't met them last night and said a quick hello. Not a word from them. Maybe I was disturbing something...who knows, but II quickly packed and headed down river in the dark.
Today I'n on Nicka Jack and feeling tired. My neck muscle is still tightening up so a lot of stops and stretching are the order of the day. I'll let you know. In the meantime, enjoy the photos.

Harrison Bay Comfort

Just a few quick notes this morning. Meeting Joe in a couple minutes, but I first wanted to send prayers and thoughts to the Ennis's. David is sick..doing ok and stable, but sick. I'm really thinking and praying for him and his family

Ok, it seems the picnic table made some people feel sorry for me...Leigh...but, it was the best nights sleep so far. Last night, my accommodations were even better. Stayed about a 60's era, mahogany/teack trimmed Chris Craft. The cabin below with A/C was offered to me for the night by Mike and Taylor...absolutely great and kindhearted people. Boat people siince they live on their boats in the marina. The evening at Harrison State Park was peaceful and comfortable...Leigh. I also met Dina and her daughter Goose who treated me to dinner and hospitality. The restaraunt reminded me of some of the places that that Food Network show, Diners Dives and Drive-inns would be. Great food and only about 30 yards frmo where I slept.
More to come later, but wanted to say thanks to those wonderful people at Harrison Bay Marina. They really made my stay there worthremembering. Hope to see you again soon
I think I see Joe...need to go. I'll post more later. Until then, I'm loving reading the messages to me from all areas of my life. Its great to have the support from all corners...thanks

Recharging to Sale Creek

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Short entry thismorning. Yesterday did 20 miles with 8 in the morning. Stopped at Blue Water Marina for needed electronics recharging, me recharging and good conversation with the guy who runs the place. The place was like a throw back to the 70's with shower house and a front porch with a porch swing and ceiling fan. Loved it. Thunderstorms were in the area but had passed by around 4 pm. I headed off again, not really knowing how far I'd go. Twelve miles down I found Sale Creek Marina. It was filled wiht sail boats of all kinds. A few had full time residents, obviously living there instead of renting a house. Met Arte, the owner, a nice, grey haired gentleman with an accent I couldnt quite place. He said no problem to sleepiing there. Had a picnic table under a roof and a ceiling fan to keep a breeze going and the bugs away. NICE.
Dinner was some of my own Chili I had dehydrated which turned out quite goood. After talking with Arte, and 2 boys who were staying with him, about sailing and boats for awhile, it was off to shower and sleep. My second shower of the day. Luxury!
Late start this morning on my way to Chattanooga. Its about 25 miles. Still have a nagging muscle in my back that shoots pain if I turn the wrong way while paddling. You know, that muscle between the shoulder blades...(trapezius, rhomboid and erector spinai)..DrPilch would be proud. Hope it will loosen up soon.
All for now. Its 8 30 and starting to heat up. Oh, in the pics you'll see these may fly like bugs. When I paddle next to the docks and some trees, they literally swarm all over me. Startled me the first time. Harmless, but big. Glad they don't bite. Enjoy

A Cultural Divide and Playlists

A day of miles and a day of recharging. Day 4 was epic, but smooth. Contradictory I guess, but here's how it went.
The morning started out dark. I woke up at, what I thought was 5:30. Made my coffee and loaded up. On the water fairly quickly I was feeling real good. No vitamin I (Ibuprofen)and I started to paddle downriver in the dark. Hmmm, a little darker than I expected. I looked at the watch and it didn't say 6:00. It said 5:00. Cool! That just means I can make the miles earlier when its cool and get down earlier too. I didn't know at the time I would put in 40 miles and be out for 13 hrs. The morning was great. Plugged the Zune into my ears and quickly headed across Watts Bar Lake. A big, open lake. Hardly a boat, or house to be seen all morning. Listening to Alan Parsons' Eye in the Sky, Alanis Morrisette's Jagged Little Pill, and Slowing it down later with some Cowboy Junkies, the morning turned into noon. I had made 20 miles by lunch and was still feeling good.
Forgot to mention food. No moonpies yet..sorry. Instead, 2 packs of Grits with Bacon and 3 strips of Bacon. I didn't need to cook the bacon. It comes pre-cooked and packaged. No refridge needed, and, it tastes awesome. Definte comfort food.
Lunch was PB&J, gorp and a gatorade that some fisherman threw to me. The kindness of people as I go along this journey reinforces what I believe about most people. No matter where, there are always people willing to help and support.
The afternooon heated up with temps in the low to mid 90's. The pace slowed, but I could see the steam rising from the dam at Watts Bar. Made the dam at around 2:30, locked through and was glad to get out of it. It smelled soooobad. In front of gates, there were about 10 dead carp, bloatet in the sun. Auuurrggh.
Below the dam, life was a little better, but there was nothing around, except the smell. This time, it was the smell of cows. A lot of cows and a lot of cow smell. Finally after 4 miles or so, no more cow smell...just fish smell.
Once past Watts Bar, the cultural tide had turned. Tellico Lake was filled with modest to very nice houses and boat houses. Watts Bar had some weekend retreats and huge, huge spreads with huge houses. Now, nothing. Nothing except catfishermen. I defintely crossed a cultural threshhold.
The miles were still going slow, but i wanted to keep going. Still felt alright. Stopped for lunch below the dam and moved on still seeing nothing.
About 8 miles down I met a couple fishermen at a boat ramp. Asking them if there was anything like a marina down river, they looked at me funny. A marina? Heck no,but there is a Fish Camp about 2 miles down. As I paddled away, I asked over my shoulder if they had food. "Yeah, and BEER TOO!" Alright. I could use one of the those. So, I paddled on.
Well, 4 miles later and still nothing on the horizon. So, I paddle on. Another couple miles and still nothing. A big bend ahead so maybe there? I had just about given up and started loooking fora place to camp. I made a couple phone calls and low and behold, a faded sign about a 1/4 mile away. I steered toward it and saw a boat dock with a Gas sign. I was exhausted and very hungry. Turned off the GPS and saw it had just turned 40 miles. I was done.
Went inside to a 60'era campground office, restaraunt and bar. About 8 locals were at the watering trough and in I walk with laptop and smelly clothes. Ordered a hamburger all the way and a cold beer while I sat down to log in. The computer only had 30 minutes left so all I could do is update the Trip Tracker. But, it was a conversation starter. Before I knew it, Kris Berra, grand Niece of Yogi Berra had given me a 10 dollar donation and started asking questions. Before long, all the friendly locals of Cottonport, TN had asked questions about the project with me writing down the blog address. I could tell they were quite proud of ole Cottonport http://cottonportlanding.com/ .
Overall, a full belly, revived spirit and good conversation. Thank you Cottonport.
Crept out of Cottonport and headed about 1/4 mile down river to find a spot top sleep. Comfortable spot over lookiing the river and gorgeous sunset. I slept ok,but was very sore and tired. Too tired and hot to fall asleep quickly. Finally a very small breeze came up and I drifted off.
Today is an easy day. I'm at the Blue Water Marina about 8 miles below Cottonport resting and recharging me and my electronics. Its about 28 miles to Chickmagua Dam where I'll be meeting Joe Jacobi on friday. I'm ahead of schedule and glad for it.
Signing off for now. Thanks for reading this far and following along. I'm enjoying it.

A Great Blue Heron Morning

Ok, I'm heart broken. I typed a great write up for today, but when I went to publish, my connection had been dropped. All my writing gone. But, nothing to do, but redo.
nd I gfe
You get the readers digest version though

Today was a Great Blue Heron day. Literally hundreds all day would pop up in fron of me. Osprey too seemed to be in abundance. Mile this morning came easy and I felt stronger. Lower back was better, but my mid back was talking to me. My lats and triceps as well. The 3rd day is always when the body starts talking back to me. From here it should be easiier and the body getsused to the routine.
I made 12 or so miles before 10 am. Stopped and bought some hamburger buns for my PB&J. Poke my boat into a little cover in the town of Lenoir. Three men in a boat were trying to catch shad...or bait as they would call it. They said to paddle up that little canal and I'd get there in a couple hundred yards. Up I went, right through town, past the ball fields and tennis courts and to the culvert. I got out of the boat the sure enough, the store. Turned around and paddled back and I was on my way.
The afternoon was hot. I was starting to slow down so into the water I went. It was a good swim and gave my body a chance to stretch out and cool down. Refreshed and feeling stronger, I was off. The afternoon had long straights and wide shorelines. I don't like em as much. I like to look and see whats around the bend. With straights, you have to paddle a ways to see whats around the bend. So, I hammer out the first half and then they are only half as long. Works for me anyway.
Interesting math here. If I paddle at about 60 strokes a minute and average 4 miles an hour, how many strokes do I paddle in a day if I paddle 30 miles? First person to tell me gets a free Gold Medal Billy Bar!
Dodged a thunderstorm later in the day while approaching Kingston. Sought refuge in a very nice boat house. It gave me time to recharge a few things and rest some. The house it belonged to was up through the woods just a little ways and I could hear voices every now and then when the rain slowed. Anyway, I was poking around and realized they had a fridge...with beer. Ok, delimna. No, I didn't take the beer. Thought that wouldn't be the right thing to do. I need all the good karma and I don't think the good Lord would be smiling on me if I did that. So, instead, I left a note thanking them for the refuge and told them a little about the trip. Who knows, maybe they're reading this. If so, you might want to lock up that fridge!
After that I had one other storm, but hung out under a bridge till it passed. Passed the town of Kingston which from the river, looked like a golf course, but I did see a couple deer. They were looking at me like they were wondering what the heck I was. Kinda like the Spanish Conquistadors and their horses, but I was in the boat.
Past the town, I stopped for the night. Great campsite and good dinner of Cashew Curry with Couscous. Another wonderful meal by Hawk Vittles. Thank God I found them. My foood is ok, but his is great out here.
If you like the writings and haven't donated yet, I urge you to consider it. Remember, not only is it tax deductible, but it goes directly to students scholarships.
G-nite all...