Spent a delightful week in Charlevoix...eat well, enjoyed good company of longtime friends...and met a few new ones.  Crossed Traverse Bay this morning to mixed reviews...first hour was a brief reminder of our bad days of boating...those were not two foot or less!! But once we rounded the point, it began to settle down quite nicely. Smooth waters into the marina. Greeted warmly by a couple of boaters we met here in June. (They've not gone anywhere...) They are amazed we are back...guess they didn't believe us or maybe thought we'd get lost?!!! Anyway, we are here with a list of chores...plan to go get the RV in the morning and begin the transistion to Kansas. Our plan for now is to head south on Thursday...we don't have much faith that our friends boating this direction will make our current location before we go! Which is a real bummer! But we will see them again sometime...just maybe not this time!!

Farmer's market was delightful...Linda B rode her bike over to join me! We made plans for snacking and drinking on the aft deck tonight while listening to the free music concert. We don't even care what / who plays!! Heat here is cranking up... High today will be 88... Light steady breeze makes it very nice really. Though the locals are complaining a little. Rain is suppose to be moving in tonight and temps for the next three days predicted to be in the 70s!! Another good reason to be in the north in the summertime!! I still have shopping to do in town...but sure thinking about putting that off until it cools tomorrow. Today 40 boats left...and they tell me 40 more will arrive...think I'll go read on the aft deck and watch the boat parade!! They do come in bunches because the low bridge only opens every 30 minutes!!

Interesting fact...this is my 1,220th post to this blog. Mission when I return to Kansas is to post photos taken last summer in Canada...and print Loop 2....Merry Christmas!

Up early to place the call to Charlevoix...and we are in!!! One day at a time....I did manage a reservation for Thursday...but Friday and Saturday will once again have to be a day-to-day gamble. But we are living on the lucky side these days so I'm not worried! But you should see the slip we are in! I'm so glad my Captain can park this boat on a dime!! Wow!!

The gentleman are here...and Linda and Ted Bemis are here too....so farmer's market in the morning...free in the park music tomorrow night...shopping and eating with friends. Weather looks really good for the rest of our Michigan stay.

We plan to return to Northport on Sunday, retrieve the RV on Monday and start the transistion to Kansas. We have buddies in the North Channel...looks like one will make it 'round the horn before we leave and one won't. But such is the life!!

Frankfort to Leland...41 miles...another gorgeous day on the lake!! It almost makes me forget about the "bad" days we've had!! Key word is almost...we do seem to be living on the lucky side. Right now, we are wanting to visit my fav little burg...Charlevoix...and there are no reservations available...but they keep saying to call at 8 on the day of our intended arrival and they will put us on the wait list. So we are going to proceed as planned!

Leland is a busy little port...we couldn't stop there in June on our way down so we were determined to make this stop. They have trouble with shoaling at the channel entrance and we had heard that this year they were denied funding to have that dredged...but even though it was very narrow, they are open for business and busy as ever. We arrived with perfect timing as boats were waiting in line the rest of the afternoon to get in. Cute little Fishtown tourist attraction...and cute shops...we managed to find several items worthy to keep. I even bought two pairs of shoes...Olukai sandals...my favorite boating shoes. Floyd just shakes his head...first because I already have 20 pairs of shoes stored on the boat...and second, because these are identical to some I already own. But you gotta have back up!!!

Anyway, it was a fun stop. Gentleman on the boat next to us are from the Cleveland area..and plan to follow us to Charlevoix tomorrow. Three looper boats...but they are distracted and too busy to spend much time with us.

Manistee to Frankfort...29 miles...truly the best day ever of boating...smooth water, gentle breeze...we knew where we were going and where we wanted to eat! Kilwin's ice cream was in our day...great grassy park for Dakota...and probably a dog or two that he knew! YES! Fusion Asian bistro lived up to a great second visit...all things went according to plan.

And since I'm on the real computer (instead of my Ipad)...let me post some new photos of TUMBLEWEED we took at anchor on that skanky Illinois River...LaGrange Lock and Dam in the distance...we think she looks really good with that new black canvas and wax job....sometimes even we don't recognize her. This year we seem to getting lots of compliments about what a good looking boat she is!!! We totally agree!!!

Captain says sleep and then we'll leave whenever you get up...so headed to Frankfort about 8...it was another perfect day on Lake Michigan...smooth and pleasant.  We have a sushi restaurant on tap for this evening...and there's a Kilwin's ice cream store. Walking to town shortly.

The bad news was our request for dockage in Charlevoix this week is a mess...we hope to get on the wait list...and may not be able to stay as long or where we want...we shall see...guess there's big doings there this week....

We are on the down side of our trip!! Plan to be headed toward Kansas on the 11th...but I'm really torn! Wee have good boating friends who are in the North Channel headed our way...while I don't want them to rush, I do wish they'd hurry and get here before we leave! Aaarrrggghhh!!

A lovely day in Manistee!! We mingled with other loopers...and re-connected with a boat we'd seen in Grand Haven. One of the loopers was actually a couple we had spent time with last fall at the rendezvous in Joe Wheeler. We were both there in RVs. Small world!!

Dakota and I finally got a dinghy ride...though several folks warned us not to go...seems a lake freighter had come in this morning and they were expecting him to head out this afternoon. W saw nothing.....but then around 4:30 , we heard the horns (Floyd wants those horns) and knew beyond a doubt that it was something big a coming!! WOW!! Up close and personal!! Shoulda seen the little sailboat trying to get out of his way...there was no where to go...so he hightailed it back to the lake. We never saw him again.

Even growing tomatoes and such on the deck!!!!

Freighter Stats say he was 65 feet wide...channel was maybe 95 feet. Three football fields long!! We were amazed...and even more so than we didn't get rocked as he passed. But then people were walking the boardwalk faster than he was going. Bow thrusters and just a little throttle...empty and riding high. We've been chased by freighters in St Petersburg and Mobile...but never have we been this close! WOW!!

Sunday was truly all those things we love about Lkae Michigan...clear skies, gentle breeze, no waves, no salt, no sharks...26 miles at 8 miles an hour doesn't take long or require an early start. Ludington to Manistee...arrived around noon...seems to be three looper boats here...so we'll practice our social skills, tour the town...and head to Frankfort in the morning.

By the way, the Rolling Stones tribute concert in the park last night provided a nice backdrop to our dinner on the aft deck...and evening of leisure....we like Ludington!!

Friday night is Ludington is pretty exciting in July....guess we made the last one! They shut down Main Street, stores stay open late, vendors appear, children's activities materialize...it's small town America at its best! No parade though! We had some pretty good BBQ at the Q...walked the streets with the masses...and enjoyed some Kilwin's ice cream. Exhausting work but we were up to it!

It's been a fun day...gave a couple of boat tours to folks walking the dock. One couple operates an asparagus farm...another were UM sleep disorder techs...Floyd says I need to quit bringing home strays! Ha, I say...what if they can cook??? We keep telling them we'll be in the area for the next couple of years...hopefully, they'll keep in touch and we can have passengers who cook!!

So far Saturday has started quite nicely...we enjoyed a late special breakfast with the locals at CHEF JOHN'S BAKERY AND DELI... Definitely not fast food...and quite pleasant, off-the-path choices. Floyd's egg sandwich had prosciutto...my french toast was made with Apple cinnamon bread!! Tonight is the free concert in the park next to the marina...Rolling Stones tribute band. Must be good as folks started leaving their lawn chairs in rows on Thursday afternoon...the place is filling up. We think we'll be able to hear them from the aft deck just fine. Though we may do a walk by just to check them out!

Tomorrow we plan to head to Manistee..26 miles...and I have some cinnamon nut concoction to keep us from starvation! Hehehehe!

How did it get to be Friday already??? I've missed some exciting things....not really...

We had a great meal at the Kirby House...but Floyd wouldn't allow two ice creams in the same day...so back to the boat...Water fountain show on Tuesday night was pretty impressive...We left Grand Haven early Wednesday morning...spotted a fawn and two babies drinking from the water across the inlet...don't see that every day.

Arrived at White Lake right on schedule...though it was about three miles up the lake to arrive at the marina. Small place...smaller town...nice big public park adjacent to the marina with lots of shade. Floyd found a post office and Dakota and I opted to nap...oh, and two rounds of serious squeaky ball. Leftovers for supper tonight...nothing special going on here. Weather check gave us a little concern so we decided to leave really early and go to Ludington instead of our previously planned stop at Pentwater. If we're going to be held captive by weather let it be Ludington.

5:30 AM rolls around rather quickly...and our first couple of hours were as planned...then wind started to shift directions...and the next couple of hours were not exactly comfortable. We rounded a point toward Ludington and it began to settle down. We arrived with a troop of other boats...coming and going...got our gas and pump out...had some lunch...walked the dog...then I went to bed!

There are lots of friendly folks here...we met a guy who had piloted F-4 Phantoms in the Air Force at McConnell...fun chatting with him. Two Loopers here headed south...we spent time with both of them. Hopefully able to calm their fears about the mighty Mississippi and the river hell they'll face on the Illinois....they are headed out today.

Our big adventure today was the dial-a-ride bus trip to the grocery store...naps are once again on the agenda. Rains last night have cooled things to the low 80s...gonna be a pleasant weekend. We plan to eat out at the new Q restaurant tonight...attend the free park concert on Saturday night (some Rolling Stone tribute group...just a little different from the Clown Band we saw last time we were here). More looper boats have arrived ...so we'll be practicing those social skills!! Looking forward to heading toward home in a couple of weeks. It's all good!!!!

Tuesday's travel to Grand Haven was a good reminder of all the things we love about Lake Michigan...smooth water, clear skies, gentle breeze...the three hours went really quickly...we left Holland around 7 AM and arrived here around 10 AM....A 20 minute walk to Home Depot, haircuts at Great Clips....lunch time...Floyd and Dakota opted for a nap while I went to town. I scouted out a place for supper and returned with a couple of enormous cinnamon rolls for tomorrow's breakfast. Two looper boats had arrived so I practiced my social skills...friendly folks headed south ...asking lots of questions. We are having some electrical issues...the outside breakers keep popping...so we decided to move to a different slip...but same issue there. It is warm today and there at lots of boats running ACs full blast, I'm sure....we think it's their issue not ours...tonight we'll stay up to watch the musical fountain show (10:10 pm)....tomorrow we head to White Lake/ White Hall...just another short hop with not much on the other end this time.  Grand Haven is a busy town...lots of folks walking around town and kids playing in the water fountain at the marina. Tons of folks lounging in the shade or looking for Pokemon....really!! Floyd's excited that there was ice cream at the dock...and then I told him there's a Kilwin's in town....so maybe we'll have two ice creams today!!

Sunday was a do nothing kind of day...and the wind howled. We are parked against the wall right at the restaurant entrance...so almost everyone wants to chat. They don't get many "loopers" ....interestingly, most seem to have the same questions. Floyd thought maybe he could just make a recording...but I keep assuring him that it is good to practice his social skills. We did grab a burger at the restaurant last night...totally different atmosphere...I think we were one of five tables...same blonde waitress, though I think maybe she was more intimidated tonight than last night...whatever that was about!

Monday morning and Floyd has had to replace one dock line...seems that rubbing on that cement piling caused so much fraying that it was almost worn through.  We are lucky he found that in time to save us from being slammed into the dock.  Weather and wind seems to be calming down...looks good for heading north again tomorrow. Just going three hours to Grand Haven. The big sailboat race from Chicago to Mackinaw was this weekend so we expect to encounter some of them heading back south... Followed some of that on Marine Traffic app...over 300 boats registered. That was a lot of dots moving on our section of the lake yesterday.

Last night this place was deserted....pretty typical of marinas...we expect even fewer folks around today...I'm planning to do a few delicate laundry items...play some serious squeaky ball with sweet Dakota...and start a new book....oh, and cook something for supper. Restaurant is closed tonight. But first I guess I'd better get out of these jammies!!

While Saturday didn't go exactly as planned...we'll take it! Thank you very much! Dakota was off to the groomer at 8:30 and I must say she did a great job...he was finished ahead of schedule...so I made a quick call to the bus for transportation to the local grocery store...thinking that by the time I returned the AC mechanic would be hard at work. Well, not so much....he finally stopped by at 12:30 saying the part was here ( just a small fortune to make that happen) and he had just 30 minutes of work to finish on another boat, then he'd be right here...well, that didn't happen either. Thirty minutes became two hours...the guys at Coral Gables Marina had a chance to rent our slip and were anxious for us to vacate...Doug the mechanic needed to go to his marina to get attachment pieces...long story short...we ended up moving TUMBLEWEED to Tower Marine for another couple of hours. Dakota and I found a shady cool spot and friendly people. The good news is that at 5o'clock the ACs were up and running...generator on...we headed into the boat parade coming and going from Saugatuck...just a little over an hour later we joined the boat parade coming and going from Holland....now we remember why we don't travel on weekends! Quick stop at the fuel dock for pump out and directions...I had the perfect view of the 6 lane boat ramp and the parade of boats/jet skis waiting in line to use them...we pull into our slip and are all secure by 8.... Storms are coming...we quickly headed to the yacht club restaurant...coulda been a big mistbake. It was more than warm in there...and packed. And just to let you know what a fiasco it was...we left at 10:20. We went to the bar to get our own drink refills...and waited for over an hour for our food! It was mighty tasty...so we were glad we waited..but really!! At least turn up the AC.

Early this morning, the thunderstorm arrived....Dakota and I slept liked we'd been drugged or something. Floyd even came back to take a little nap...and we slept on. I think these last few days of no ACand other folks enjoying some late night revelry have taken a toll on this ol' gal. Winds and waves on the lake will hold us here until probably Tuesday...not much planned...reading and napping are agenda items for today!!

It's Friday...and we've done about all you can do in Saugatuck. It is a fun little town...with two, yes, two Kilwin ice cream stores! Floyd has visited them daily!! Dakota gets groomed in the morning then we hope to head on to Holland....there is just a tiny little issue with the AC...seems the raw water pump is giving up...which means no AC... That middle of the night discovery has not been easy...temps in the upper 80s today have been bearable...but the repair person who said he could come on Wednesday did not win the award. Floyd found one who came this afternoon...and for a small fortune will have the part here in the morning. Worth it!! So stay tuned to see how all that works.

Wednesday...July 20... We are outta here...little less than four hours to Saugatuck...but really got our money's worth at St Joseph...four huge loads of free laundry...big load of trash left behind...great grassy shade where Dakota ran with a little Havanese puppy and played squeaky ball.

Saugatuck is a quaint little town...not much room for transients...so we have had to drop the dinghy and stern in to an open slip...we climb down the swim ladder and exit off the swim platform to a ladder attached to the wall. And it is one of the most expensive marinas we've visited! ..Dakota is not too thrilled with this drill as he needs the support of his life jacket for Floyd to lift him....and the heat has come up. But no matter how hot it gets here, it is always hotter in Kansas. Plus we know the heat here will only last about a week or two. This marina is right on the "Boardwalk" just off the main drag ...lots of foot traffic. Floyd has already given two boat tours and met folks from Texas who want to buy a boat. He needs to start charging admission...could help buy gas!! Lol

We did walk around a bit today...but once we discovered the Kilwin's ice cream store we were done!! Before that, we managed to locate the dog store where Dakota is set up for a full groom on Saturday morning...we are thinking that if the weather and groomer timing all works, we'll probably head out on Saturday afternoon. This town is all about decoration shops and women's clothing...fine for me but a bit much for more than a day for Floyd. Holland is our next stop...and it is just 9 miles north...less than two hours. Think we can handle that...plus this climbing the swim platform will grow old quickly, I'm sure!

Tuesday...July 19....a great reminder of all the things we like about Lake Michigan...no waves...little breeze..we are the only boat motoring though we did see gobs of fisherman. Quick stop at the self service gas/pump out station (Captain is still not happy with that front head...and he's thrown enough time and money at it ...shoulda just bought a new one)....everyone enjoyed the four hour cruise to St Joseph. We're on the opposite side of water from the town...and washer/dryer is free...so we are calling the rest of this day LAUNDRY TIME! Taco Tuesday...and laundry.  Weather looks to be nice again tomorrow... But more than a little iffy on Thursday so we will head on in to Saugatuck...it's gonna be way more fun!!

What a great stop Michigan City, Indiana has been! Plenty of grass for sweet Dakota...mansion, zoo, outlet mall, and restaurants. I made serious contributions to Vera Bradley, Talbots, Eddie Bauer and Harry and David...we had fun at their little zoo...would have visited the Lighthouse Museum but it's closed on Monday. Wish I had brought my Fit Bit...I've walked miles today.

Tomorrow we head to St Joseph...weather looks really good" but that can change in a heart beat....as we we'll know. Nothing really there. We are just trying to reverse the negative experience we had there in 2011 ... Stayed at a dumpy marina on the Benton Harbor side...so we've been calling it St Joe/ Benton Harlem ever since. We'll see how that works for us this time. Saugatuck is our next fun harbor...great little community...lots of shops and restaurants...plus Dakota is scheduled for a groom!! Boy, is he ready...and so are we!!

We had grand plans to dress and visit the casino in Hammond...but after that nap, we thought leftovers and hitting the sack early was a better alternative. We aren't as young and energetic as we thought!
So 7 AM departure went well...even though the lake was a bit rougher than we had thought, we knew it was a short trip to Michigan City. About an hour in to our three hour trip, Coast Guard issued a small craft warning for our spot of Lake Michigan....and a quick check of the weather showed a fast moving line of thunderstorms with lots of lightning headed our way! Holy €#%$, batman....Captain bumped our cruising speed up to 12 MPH...and we flew into our slip, lines tied and electric on....and the rains came!! Didn't last long, but winds are still gusting at over 20 MPH. That's life on Lake Michigan! No plans to go anywhere soon.

We headed to town to play tourist at Barker Mansion Museum...grabbed lunch/supper at Matey's on our way home. Napping, blogging, rest and relaxation will fill the remainder of this day. Tomorrow Floyd's headed to another museum...and I'm headed to the local outlet mall...over 100 stores just blocks from our boat! We shall see what we shall see! So much better than river life! We have nothing on our agenda except an appointment with that dog groomer in Saugatuck on Saturday.

Saturday...July 16...Captain turns the big seven - 0!! It's a great day to be on the lake...temps in the 70s...waves are a little higher than we like but very doable....so special breakfast for the Captain...squeaky ball onshore to wear Dakota down...11ish and we are off...a little 14 mile jaunt to Hammond, Indiana...2 hours later we arrive at rush hour on the fuel dock! Cigarette boats are making a mass exodus and everyone needs gas! We manage and park...a minor glitch once we get to our slip with the pass gate card (someone forgot to activate it)... And we seem exhausted! A little meet and greet at the docks...a little birthday celebration...a little nap...a little supper...yep, it's about bed time. I will say the folks around here are mighty friendly. But alas, tomorrow we head to Michigan City. We plan to be there a couple of days..touristy things to do...and the only deadline we have now is an appointment with a dog groomer in Saugatuck on Saturday the 23rd...we can handle this!!

Thursday in the Windy City...we got plans to mingle with the masses! Short walk and mass transit bus ride to Wrigley Field ...met our friend, MaryEllen Hendricks, for an early lunch at Yak-sees...then found scalp tickets that were awesome (first base side, on the aisle, mid way up)(not cheap...but not overpriced either)...did a little shopping  (those grandsons need Cubs wear)....helped the Cubs win over the Texas Rangers without freezing...headed to the El train a little early only to be caught in the mad exit because it had started to rain...we managed just fine...and returned to the TUMBLEWEED in a light drizzle.... Dakota was well rested. So once the rain cleared, we played squeaky ball until he couldn't keep up! Tonight we have reservations at our favorite...WEBER GRILL RESTAURANT (which happens to be across the street from a grocery store)....so we'll be stocked and ready for action. We'll be celebrating...no more locks or skanky river!! KJ...Jack Daniels...beef!!

Tomorrow is Floyd's actual birthday...though he has been celebrating for awhile...we plan to head to Hammond, Indiana...14 miles (2 hours) ..around noon...cause a man should drive his boat on his birthday! And he'll get to fly his Indiana flag....anything to keep the man happy!!

Wednesday was a do-nothing day...drizzle, rain, nice breeze...talked to lock master in the morning to see how things were going...he assured me that things were going according to plan in spite of the weather and to listen to VHF 14... About opening at 7pm. We didn't need to listen because the tows stared showing up...and moving through...but we did have our radio on. Fixed a great pork tender on the grill..and went to bed early as we wanted to make it to Chicago ASAP. About 9 PM, our AC water flow was really low...and pump seemed to be making strange noises...so we shut things down and opened windows...Floyd's thought was that river sludge was restricting either in take or outflow and as soon as we moved away from the wall things would eternal to normal. Tows passed through all night...

5 AM is really early...but the bridge tenders were more the pleased to coordinate their openings and we arrived at the lock at 5:45....only to be told that they were closing at 6... That guy got an earful of frustration from this ol gal...he admitted that they knew we were down there...knew we were coming...and yet made NO attempt to communicate with us...Really!! Got to obey rules, ma'am...you'll be first up when we open at 10.... Yeah, right!  Thankfully they had a short cement wall we could tie to while we continued to wait....

Two tows showed up at 12 or we'd probably still be sitting there. WILLIAM C pushing a six-pack of sand and gravel and light tow JOANNE...got them moving big time. And of course, we got to tag along....we left the lock at 1PM...we have giggled more than once about winning the award for patience and bad timing...from first call to lock through, we've concluded our wait for lockage at Lockport Lock And Dam was 52 hours. So ready to be done with river and locks...but one more.

Figuring we'd make it to our slip before it got dark...and with any luck at the last lock maybe by 6:30...we somehow neglected to consider that we'd be transiting downtown Chicago during rush hour.  Lucky for us, river traffic wasn't never as bad as road traffic ...and we can sneak under all bridges except one...we called him and he said rush hour started for them at 4:30... No way we could go fast enough and still have gas to get there before then....so I called back and whined...he said "so maybe you'll have to wait 15 -20 minutes".... Woo hoo...we came around the corner...honk honk...10 foot railroad bridge lifts and we scoot through. The lock at Navy Pier was busy and we went right through...6:35... We are in our slip, tied secure and Dakota is relieved. We are actually in the same slip we had here three weeks ago...every thing familiar and wonderful....off the river and no more locks!! Time for celebration!! But we're old and tired...and just want to eat and go to bed! So we did! BTW, Floyd was right about the AC...working just fine! (But you should have seen the mess of sludge that we had trapped between us and the wall...skanky!)

Two days on the wall in beautiful downtown Joliet...no restaurants (unless you count Wendy's three blocks away)...no grocery store or laundry in the area...no water...but electricity is free and we've got books, oreos, chips and dip!!! Diet Coke, Pepsi and alcohol...We've got shade shade...lots of shade and grass for sweet Dakota...and plenty of folks walking around staring into their phones looking for Pokemon Go...what a deal!!!

 Talked with the Lock master this morning and they are on track to open at 7 PM tonight...with a long backlog of tows headed south. We plan to listen in on VHF 14 to that chatter...but for now, we are planning to head to Chicago in the morning. Corps rule is that every third lock through should include a pleasure craft, if they are waiting. We are planning to be in sight of the lock master...waiting... since we are north bound, shouldn't be an issue. Stay tuned to see how that works for us!!! lol

In the meantime, we've made some cruising plans, booked a grooming for Dakota, ordered cigars, paid bills, and napped!!!! I'm waiting to purchase Cubs tickets until we really arrive in Chicago. Floyd's birthday is this weekend...BIG Celebration...Woo Hoo...

Our luck will surely change! We started today so hopeful...and No waiting at Brandon Road Lock and Dam...they'd be open and ready for us when we got there...we were in the midst of a "happy dance" when lock master said...not so fast! Lockport lock is CLOSED for the next 36 hours!! WTF!!!


 We are living right! On the way down three weeks ago, we traveled with a couple of other boats and spent time on a cement wall in Joliet waiting for a lock opening (of course)...pretty rough neighborhood but the locals pointed out free electricial outlets for mooring...if need be, they said great free stop....boy, oh, boy, did that information save the day!! So here it is....9ish on Tuesday morning and we are trapped by maintainance at the next lock! No laundry near by...a few chores we could do...rain is due to arrive later tonight....we are done for a couple of days! Not where you'd really plan to spend a couple of days...but as my colleague Ralph Teran use to say....it could be much worse!! I'm calling it another part of a miracle...God's timing to delay our visit in Chicago until the Cubs return!! Linda and Floyd ARE going to Wrigley Field!!! And Weber grill!! Woo hoo!! So worth it!!

Monday...July 11...Starved Rock to Harborside...40 miles...2 locks... We are starting to count each lock as a four hour turn. Thinking that if we make it through in less than four hours, we've earned some sort of honor! This day was no exception...tows and barges are backed up...waiting waiting waiting. We anchored and enjoyed a cool breeze at the first lock of the day just outside of Ottawa. Then, they had us ride up with a light tow (he had no barges) and we both "shot the gap"... That little space between the end of the lock, the waiting barges and the cement cells that keep folks from going over the dam. Turn time at this lock was 4 hours and 10 minutes. Current is getting to be less of an issue as we get closer to Chicago so we made great speed up river to lock number two. Made up for the extra 10 minutes at lock one. Not that it did us any good...again, tows waiting on both sides...lockmaster says, "come on down and anchor between my island and the two cement cells on the left bank where I can see you...I'll try to get you up but it is going to be a while...as in at least four hours." Even though it looked like a rather precarious site, we did it! 2:40 in the afternoon and we are less than 3 miles from our stop for the night....but we can't get there! Captain Floyd fired up the generator and AC ...Dakota and I were very comfortable, thank you so very much. Reading and snuggling took up our afternoon...Floyd, on the other hand, had a ringside seat for all that was happening at the lock. Smoking cigars and supervision of that work kept him occupied...did you know that tows have groceries delivered to the locks? No wonder it takes so long. We knew SAM FLEMING was a down bound split...and were ever so hopeful that they could pull his first set of barges forward enough to squeeze us in for the up switch....and sure enough...suddenly lockmaster is saying get in here...up anchor (more difficult than usual, as Floyd had caught some sort of iron piece in the anchor)...but we "shot that gap" and then "shot the other gap" getting out!  6:25 pm and we are tied to the dock at Harborside! Woo hoo!

Our dilemma for tomorrow is 55 miles and THREE locks...the last one at Navy Peir won't be an issue..these tows and barges don't go that way...too many tour boats and water taxis...but the other two locks, oh my! That adds at least 8 hours (could be more) to our already long travel day. Our AIS app shows boats backed up on both sides of both locks..and we know the ones we traveled with today will be added to that traffic. Our only hope is that they work through the night to get them through...and because we're a pleasure craft they will work to fit us in. Floyd's getting really proficient at "shooting the gap"...

Sunday...July 10...sun rise start...a really pleasant time to be headed north...we made good time...and experienced great weather...and then it all feel apart! Starved Rock Lock and Dam...less than two miles from our stop for the night...1:30 in the afternoon...TWO tows with chemical barges put a stop to every thing... They said it would be at least four hours...and they were right. We pulled off the channel and anchored...took Dakota to shore thinking that would help...but since he was so distracted, his business didn't happen. We weren't too uncomfortable with a little breeze...but really....at about 4:30 a down bound tow arrived and we reminded the lockmaster that we were still here waiting...he announced that we should move closer and that they would split the CITY OF CHICAGO and we could ride up with him. WOW...what a ride that proved to be...with his barges blocking the exit and him in front of us...we had to slip around him, go between his barges, the holding cells and the down bound tow...but at 6 PM...we did it...it sure beat waiting another 4 hours.

Around the bend to discover that someone else was parked at the gas dock, so we entered the narrow channel into the marina...picked a slip...parked, walked the dog (he was ever so relieved), headed straight to the bar/restaurant...just saying it is 8:30 PM and This ol' gal is not long for the world! This day has been forever...we have two more probably just like it or worse before we reach Chicago. But then we are done with locks and skanky river water!! There's light at the end of this tunnel!

Friday we left Tall Timbers...and Arrived at Peoria ...Illinois Valley Yacht Club (IVY) as planned...200 gallons of gas and a pump out...headed to the pool to cool down...dinner in a very cold dining area...and we were done in!

Saturday Floyd outdid himself with the special breakfast...cream cheese stuffed french toast...ooooohh la la...Dakota and I slept in and then after breakfast found some wonderful shady grass to play squeaky ball....we managed a few boat chores but really this was to be a totally down day... I visited the pool...Floyd worked on a little trip planning...we decided that early starts would need to happen because the locks are so busy and ssssooooo slow! With a 530 AM start on Sunday...we grabbed a burger at the bar and skipped the tiki party....oh, the sacrifices!!

PHOTOS that need posting...

The Captain on the rocky rolly Mississippi...June 19th...Father's Day...changing our gold Looper flag for a PLATINUM one. Pretty darn special. We've only seen two others in the eight years we've been looping. wonder if anyone will know what it means??? They sure seem to know the Gold flag.

Two of the reasons I went back to Wichita...grandsons Ryne ( 3 1/2) and Cal ( 9 months) ...swim like fish...busy boys. Cal is already walking...My girl Kelli is in big trouble keeping up with these two...but she is more than capable. She's always had energy to spare!!! I'm thinking these two will take care of that!

My good friend Dee and I (we've known each other a long long time!!!) ...sporting our TUMBLEWEED shirts and curly hair. Dee discovered all about boat life humidity ...can't fight it...just go with it!!!

July 7...Thursday...Rain and storms predicted for the morning arrived right on schedule...we slept in...and piddled around. After lunch we made that trek to the Dollar General...and I'm catching up on that blog!!!! Tomorrow we head 48 miles to Peoria...Illinois Valley Yacht Club...gas, pump out and pool time. May spend another day there just because...I mean they have a four-star restaurant and a pool...why not??? Plans are to be in Chicago on Tuesday...and, of course, we entend a return visit to the Weber Grill...which is just across the street from a big grocery store...two for one taxi ride!!! That's the plan for now...stay tuned to see how all this works out. Against current is an adventure...every thing takes longer!!!!

July 6...It is raining...at 6 AM, Lock master says "we've got a tow in now...when he leaves better be ready for us to lock you up...otherwise, it'll be three hours or more, cause a big double is headed this way. Oh, by the way, if lightning strikes within five miles, we shut down for at least 30 minutes." Dakota and I went back to bed until we got the call to scurry on over.  So sorry, Dakota, no trip to shore for you this morning. We were through the lock at 8:30AM...and parked at Tall Timbers at 1:35. Dakota wasted no time getting to shore...temps today were much cooler and a little breeze helped as well. In a classic case of good timing, wind kicked up and stormy weather appeared after we were docked. Water level here is quite a bit lower than when we were here June 17th...who knew there was a small dam at the end of these docks???? Dakota got plenty of play time with that squeaky ball...and we plan to take a down day Thursday...catch up on communications and run to the local Dollar Store for a few supplies. More rain is coming.

July 5...bright and early...in dense fog, we headed out of Grafton (cell phone hell) and pushing our way north. We are going against current for a couple of miles of Mississippi... and still against current in the Illinois River. We have 80 miles to our anchorage just short of the LaGrange Lock and Dam...for the first  two hours, we couldn't even see the shore line...tows and barges were stopped  as I'm sure they couldn't see to the front of the barges they were pushing. Thank goodness for excellent radar...we felt our way along quite nicely. Around 10 the sun finally burned away the fog and it began to heat up in earnest. I was once again nursing an upset stomach...so Dakota and I stayed below most of the afternoon with generator/AC blasting.We did manage to get 7.5 miles an hour without too much effort.  Once again, who should we encounter????...WAYNE P LAGRANGE...I'm beginning to think of him as our big personal good luck charm!  Just a little after 5PM we arrived at our sandy shady beach and dropped anchor. We took Dakota ashore and dropped a stern anchor as well. Then Floyd talked to the lock master who said..."NOPE, we'd like you up here in front of the house on stilts". REALLY!!! So, yes, lucky us! Got plenty of anchoring practice in the heat! Cause you always do what the lock master says especially when you still need to lock through. Leftover supper of Dee's Skinny pasta...Dakota ashore one more time...then it was generator off for the night. Thunderstorms came...and were still hanging around in the morning. Delightful!!!

July 7...While we loved our time in Grafton for a variety of reasons, we were trapped in what we began to call cell phone and internet HELL. Seems to be the only place where our Verison coverage was a challenge. AT&T is the service of choice in that area and every one else suffers big time. We were no exception. We could rarely make and receive phone calls...texts usually went through...and internet was practically nonexistent.  So here's what happened while we were off line...

I made it to Wichita and back safely...My mission to find suitable mother of the groom attire was successful...rehearsal dinner is in the making...Muriel made a great carrot cake for me to deliver to her baby brother (he has a birthday coming up) and all other items on my list of things to do were accomplished. Two are worthy of narration...

1. Those pesky could not find anywhere extra camera batteries and re-chargers. Of course, I visited the local camera shop and he special ordered the things I needed. When i picked them up, I immediately unpackaged them and went to the "camera drawer" to see if I had a small bag to put them in...and what did I find there!!! Yep, you guessed it...the extra batteries and re-chargers!!! Seems as though I'd never gotten out of the house with them after all! Sometimes I am a mess!!!

2. Floyd's Invisalign trays...Yes, both Floyd and I are wearing those invisible braces. (My supply would last until we returned; Floyd's would not.) The dentist had said before we left that I just needed to call and they would order the next 10 sets for Floyd. I called...seems there were a few issues...once we worked through all that...they were concerned about whether or not the new trays would arrive before I left town on Wednesday to return to the boat. We had a plan B in the works...when a miracle occurred. As I was sitting in the dentist waiting area for my quick exam Wednesday morning, the UPS lady delivered Floyd's new trays! Crossed plan B out...and made it out of town with everything on the list!!!!

I returned Mom to Fredonia, did laundry and made it back to St Charles around 2:30pm...Ann and Bob Kallemeier were kind enough to pick me up and drive me back to the TUMBLEWEED, now in Grafton. We had a lovely dinner together that night.

Friday afternoon we were joined by Dee and Craig, friends from Wichita. They stayed through the soggy Fourth celebrations. We had such fun...but the weather was anything but cooperative. I'm sad to say the highlight of the trip was probably our journey to Wal-mart. We ate well...explored Grafton...watched fireworks...shared knowledge about boating, tows and barges...and Asian Carp...we probably consumed too much alcohol...but hey, they were on holiday.

They headed out early Tuesday morning for Wichita...and we cruised out shortly thereafter headed back toward Chicago.

Feel like I've been trapped in a whirlwind for the last few days.... We finished the loop and pulled into Polestar...where my pleas for shade and being close to laundry were met with staunch resistance. It was hot hotter hottest on that long wall...gravel and asphalt every where...not good for puppy paws... so plans were made!

I rented a car...Dakota got groomed...Floyd did serious grocery shopping! Workers showed up and started those boat projects...and I headed back to Kansas. We think this is a pretty smart move..once projects are completed, Floyd and Dakota will move the boat to Grafton where they will have shade(!!!), grass, pool, laundry and restaurant ....slip rental is much cheaper in Grafton than in Chicago (which was my original planned point of departure)....plus we are thinking river traffic will ramp up over Fourth of July week...so why fight it?? For now, I'm planning to return on Thursday, June 30th...spend the weekend hanging in Grafton...then we'll head north on the 5th..

Things have worked well so far!! After several miscues, I finally got out of St Charles and arrived safe and sound at Mom's...after she finishes her bridge session this afternoon, we'll head to Wichita. We plan to camp at my daughter's to maximize time with those little ones...and my list of things to accomplish just keeps getting longer! Major issue is for me to find suitable attire for that September wedding...mother of the groom is probably least important. In the whole wedding party..but requires some new items!! And I'll sleep better knowing it is under control!!

Boat projects were completed...and Floyd and Dakota somehow managed to get to Grafton yesterday without my assistance (there goes my job security...I've been temporarily outsourced)....Floyd announced that laundry was done...so now I'm a bit worried about him staying out of trouble...but he assures me that without my influence he'll be just fine!!

Sunday..June 19...

Without shades, that sun comes up and wakes you pretty darn early...dog ashore...anchor up...we are underway before 6.... It's much cooler then...and today is gonna be another hot one. We thought we'd escape the heat of the Midwest ...HA!! That didn't work so well.

In an almost magical moment, we passed a tow pushing 15 barges...WAYNE P. LAGRANGE... The same tow we had encountered in 2011 as we headed from Polestar to Green Turtle Bay....he was behind us most of that day and was quite chatty...we pulled off to anchor for the night ...then the next morning as we pulled back into the Mississippi channel, there he was again...loaded and heading the other direction. His comment then was, " didn't think you'd ever get up"... Obviously he'd been busy...anyway, today's Captain was just as chatty...and ,of course , had no recall of that incident...very well was a different Captain....but Floyd and I were amazed that on the day we would "close our loop" , we would encounter him again....gave me goosebumps!!

It's Sunday...and Father's Day...lots of boats on the water....the last four miles on the Illinois River and the turn up the Mississippi was almost as rocky rolly as NYC harbor. Boaters, jet skis, tows, ferry and fisherman...seems all area dads had but one request for the day...be on the boat!!!

1:45 PM....on that rocky rolly Mississippi...someone ventured out to the fore deck... Straddled the bow pulpit and anchor to install our new platinum looper flag....we didn't have our crew/photographer this time...and Internet coverage here is just a step above crappy...so photos are few....maybe later....but glory hallelujah WHAT A TRIP!!  And that platinum flag is georgeous ....you sure don't see many of those. We know lots of loopers and wanna-be loopers....and several gold loopers (folks who've actually finished a loop). Floyd and I have only met three platinum loopers...folks who've finished more than one loop.... Anyway...TUMBLEWEED has been great to us...and we've certainly enjoyed this lifestyle...we look forward to more fun time cruising....more about all that later...

For now, we have made a couple of grand decisions...slip rental is cheaper here than in Chicago...and I have the itch to get home....so Floyd and Dakota will stay in St Charles (really close to St. Louis) to supervise those boat repairs and do a few maintainance chores... I'm renting a car and headed home to check on Mom and play with grand kids. Oh, and find something suitable to wear to that September Wedding....

All  those worries for naught!!  Saturday June 18....Floyd was up and called the Lagrange lock at 4AM... And wonder of wonders, they answered...were most helpful and friendly ...yes, there's a great anchorage with sandy beach just a mile down stream. So Dakota and I slept in...and quick walk to the Dollar General  for bread and a few groceries...we left Tall Timbers right on schedule....and hot four hour ride to that lock. Guess what?? It was open...wickets down...we drove right through...and sure enough, about a mi let down stream , just off the channel was a little beach. We had no trouble setting anchor...dinghy worked just like it should and Dakota worked just like he should. A couple of tows went by and assured us that we'd be fine anchoring there. Leftovers for supper ...and we were done in. We did fire up the generator and run air conditioners to cool things off a bit. But it was windows open and fans spinning. It was warm but certainly not uncomfortable. If any other tows went by in the night, you couldn't prove it by us, we slept like rocks! We knew Mother Nature would wake us early...and we had 80 miles to get to Grafton...then turn up the Mississippi a couple of miles to reach Polestar Marina. It's gonna be the best Father's Day ....we'll finish this loop!

IVY to Tall Timbers...Friday, June 17...

Left around 7 AM... First and only lock today was ten miles out....waited two hours for our lock down! What the Heck?? It was only a three foot drop...took them forever to move folks through! We made great time after that....river current is pushing so we got an extra couple of MPH...we thought we be at Havana around 3 and we got here at 1:30... Even with that delay! It's a quaint little marina...Floyd and I opted to have a quick cheeseburger and beer ...then Dakota and I walked to town...seems someone (me) forgot to bring birthday cards...and young son number one is having one of those. So up hill...both ways...to get a card in the mail but he is worth it! A Small group of boaters from Peoria pulled in around 2:30....very nice. Of course, they fell in love with Dakota...so we were up past our bedtime chatting with them. (No drinking was involved...right??) we are all drinkers with a boating problem.

We are worried about the next 120 miles to a marina at Grafton...one lock...no marinas...and we are struggling to find a place to anchor where we can get Dakota to shore....and you know, dog's gotta do their business!! We don't think we can make Grafton in one day....but the thought is we should try...the key to us making it before dark is the lock. Say prayers!! We depart at 5ish....

The other fear is the trip back...120 miles with current helping vs 120 against a current...Floyd is thinking we may have to board the dog at a kennel and rent a car to retrieve him after we get back to Havana....geesh! We've got all sort of boater friends who have made the trip...we have asked for suggestions...we'll see!!

Starved Rock to Peoria...Illinois Valley Yacht Club
June 16
Left at o' dark thirty...no gas or pump out...weather is getting warmer than warm...and this waiting for locks makes us more than a little nervous. First and only lock was within the first mile...and no barges in sight...so minimal wait but even though we called ahead, they weren't exactly ready for us. Next 5 hours were nothing to shout about...pulled into the IVY club...and who was sitting there??? Our new looper friends, Kurt and Jim....and what a great stop!! Gas, pump out, pool, restaurant and dog beach!! Dakota had a blast running on that shady "unkept" beach...but what a mess he was! Wet and full of sand! We cleaned him up with a power rinse and then headed to the pool for a little cool off ourselves. Supper at the restaurant with the boys...(Sorry, Becky Bauman, dollar tacos are on Tuesday night ) ....a little meet and greet of Yacht club folks. Tomorrow is another travel day...and it is hot! We seem to be traveling with the wind...so not even that to help! Thank god for shade!

Harbor Side to Starved Rock...
AND THE RAINS CAME...we had it all yesterday...cool and cloudy...sunny and hot...sprinkles..we kept a close eye on radar. Big storms kept missing where we were....but last night it let loose. How Floyd slept though all that I don't know.  In the middle of the night...bright lightning, loud thunder and pouring rain. Blew open our hatch doors and filled the small aft deck trash with water. Didn't last long but dumped a lot of water.  But did it cool things off??? NO!!!

Forty miles today and 2 locks. We started less than a mile from lock #4...didn't wait long as no barges were around. Hopeful that we could just zip though the rest of the day...almost.  Lock 5 had a tow and barges coming up...that were broken apart...so we waited about an hour for them to finish their lift and get reassembled. Another hour and we arrived at Starved Rock marina just as they were closing (What marina closes at 4 o'clock???) ...so we are parked at the gas dock...with the promise that workers will arrive at 730 AM. We had planned to get gas and a pump out before heading out in the morning...Maybe...Maybe not!!!.

Supper tonight is at Captain's Cove Restaurant and Bar..overlooking the Illinois River....it's night two and no one wants to cook. We'd rather nap and shower. Seems reasonable!!!

HOT HOT HOT...we sure thought we'd be getting into St Charles before the summer heat kicked in...HA!!! We have gone straight from winter to summer...skipped right over those cooler nights where you didn't need to run the AC...temp today was 92. Floyd says tomorrow will be cooler...only 86. Double HA.

Another interesting fact...Starved Rock is close to the town of Utica Ill...according to my google maps...1 hour and 34 minutes driving time from Chicago...but not near as much fun as the 18 and a half hours we've spent boating here. hehehehe  Our new friends, Kurt and Jim had a bit of bad luck today...did some prop damage on a floating log. They stopped in Ottawa ...made a switch and then blew on past us...they are trying to get their newly purchased boat back to Louisville...in a bigger hurry and they travel at a faster speed...so who knows if we'll see them again or not. That's the way this stuff works.

Tomorrow is another long day...to Peoria ...Illinois Valley Yacht Club...one lock but 62 miles...as long as we are moving the heat is bearable. Slather on the sunscreen and drink lots of water...we think we'll be in St Charles on Sunday...what a great Father's Day!!!!

Chicago to Harborside Marina...Tuesday, June 14...can I start by mentioning how smooth the water is??? After the day Dakota and I had crossing yesterday, we were delighted. And warmth!!! Finally it is feeling like summer is close. Yesterday in our long sleeves and winter rain gear...today in shorts, sleeveless tops and flip flops. The goal was 55 miles...3 locks...and 70 bridges. The ride through downtown Chicago at 830 AM was delightful. Plus we didn't have to aggravate those worker bees...we were short enough to go under all bridges without requesting them to open. Lots of water taxis and working barges around a couple of construction sights ...and people people people...several took our photos...I LOVE CHICAGO!!!!

Dakota was more interested in supervising my work...and he did manage to "bark" hi to several folks...we were having some fun!!!

and then came the shipping canal...WOW!!! narrow is putting it mildly. Barges parked on one side with just enough room for another barge to get by on the other...at one point we had to stop and back between two parked barges to let a tow and barges get by. Pretty exciting stuff!!!

and then the locks...Tow SAM FLEMING carrying chemicals and pushing 6 barges was in front of us. He was so big he had to break apart, use two passes and then reassemble. Takes more than a little while. We arrived at lock #2 to find two other boats waiting (they told the story) . We waited for an hour and then locked though attached to another tow SYDNEY REESE and 4 barges. We had experienced this before but hadn't had to attach to the barges...so new experience for us.

And now we are all backed up...next lock was a two hour wait. Luckily we found a wall in Joliet just down from lock 3 to tie off and wait. It was an interesting experience. We got to meet the other two boat folks...a mother and 7 very inquisitive young kids...but most important, Dakota could get off the boat and do his business. We walked and played...but it was warm!!!

Finally we locked though and pulled into our marina stop for the night...it was 7:20 pm...we had thought we'd be there around 3....LONG day...we dashed to the restaurant because we were told they closed at 8...no one wanted to cook! Amazingly, they didn't close until 9...and we were joined by Kurt and Jim, future loopers that were part of our crowd in the locks. Service was fast, food was good and overall a delightful experience...but we were hot and tired. And tomorrow is another long travel day...I think they all are for awhile. 

Probably forgot to post the SS BADGER...we watched her come and go from Ludington where it was cool and windy for 5 days...that horn can wake the dead!!!

 This tiny 110 footer joined us on the docks in South Haven at 11pm Saturday ...blocked our view of the Sunday parade actually...3 men...2 crew and 7 children under 10...they played with all the toys. Sunday evening all but the crew  took off for a camping experience. Shoulda seen the pile of sleeping bags. Anyway, Captain Josh had dinghy troubles and Floyd came to the rescue...our reward was a quick tour of the inside and a bottle of Chardonnay. It was nice...but I wouldn't have it...Set up to be party city but with white carpet!!! Even though it was pretty new, it is already showing wear...and stains and chaos from all those children, geesh. I think sometimes my friends think this is the style I'm boating in...NOT !!! We are way more low maintenance and practical.

Up and at 'em... Ready to go...but then oops! That low Amtrak bridge four miles in doesn't open during rush hour traffic...probably should have read that last night before going to bed. Dakota and I could have slept a bit longer...oh well ...such is the life of this first mate....and looks like we are going to get a little wet today...sprinkles in the forecast...rain this afternoon. But we're on the river! Shouldn't be an issue...though the barges, bridges, current and locks will step in to take over!!
Last time we did this leg of the journey, we had crew aboard! Becky Bauman, I'm missing your assistance and humor!! Dakota is not much help...more of a supervisor type...watching watching watching your every move!

Good bye South Haven....everything seemed to say go and so we did! It wasn't the worst day we've spent on the water...but it wasn't the best by a long shot. Wind was behind us...so waves made us wallow more than usual...I had the worst time ever...tough morning! Dakota was my cuddle partner and I'm sure Floyd felt like he was doing this crossing all by himself.  Once I finally lost my meager breakfast and had a nap, I began to improve.

And then we arrived in Chicago...and even though the marina advertised gasoline...it was at a totally different marina. But it all worked out...200 gallons of regular and a quick pump out....then off to find E-1 at Dusable Harbor...we are right next Navy Pier and the lock that leads into the Chicago river...right next to the sidewalk...gate...grass. Floyd has to attend his condo board meeting tonight (via speaker phone)... Then we'll make a quick trip to our favorite Chicago restaurant...Weber Grill.

Plan for tomorrow is to go 55 miles...70 bridges through downtown Chicago...last time we did this on Sunday morning...it'll be interesting to see how it works during the week. Most bridges we can sneak under but we will have to remember to drop our antennas. Should be exciting! Photos at 11!!

Ludington to Muskegon...just over six hours...piece of cake. Marina in Muskegon was a pice of work...close to the maritime museum that Floyd wanted to visit...but not much there. Worker bees were scarce...we had to hunt one down to pay our bill.  Lots of grounds for Dakota...but the Yacht Club next door had gone under and was very neglected! Not many people around ....

We waited in Friday morning for a big thunderstorm to pass and then headed out to South Haven...another six and a half hours...relatively smooth water...we got this.

South Haven is a thriving boating community...river banks are packed with docks....mostly full. In fact, it's the busiest marina we've seen so far.....we are right along the main drag between town and the beaches...boat traffic on one side...people traffic on the other... Friday we hiked up to Black River Tavern for cheeseburgers, fries and beer....once Floyd pulled the paper wrapper off the cheese, he was happier...lol...good help is so hard to find. Waiter was helpful and it ended with a dish of Kilwins ice cream...Saturday morning Farmer's Market was a delightful experience. Decadent Dog store visit for sweet Dakota...more girls to love! Then we spent the windy afternoon on the aft deck watching  boats come and go...and people come and go...a lazy Saturday afternoon. Reminded us of Ft Lauderdale ...but the boats are more practical!

We'll probably not leave here until Monday...west wind and waves predicted to be over 4 feet...we need to cross Lake Michigan to Chicago...we figure 8 hours...and this first mate wants smooth water...probably hit St Charles sometime the week of the 20th. Marina there is already on notice to do repairs on front head, leaking bow window and dinghy stand off. We have parts ...so shouldn't be a big deal! Yeah, right...nothing around here is easy...or goes according to plan. But you learn to adjust...or get really frustrated! We prefer attitude adjustment!! Our hair is already gray!!

Floyd is off visiting another maritime museum...he thinks there's a marina store and maybe a small grocery over there as well. Dakota and I are just hanging out...enjoying "home alone" time. Then the Sunday parade will begin.

And we are outta here...pulled in for a day or two...held hostage for five! But, hey, coulda been worse!...

Woke to clear skies and a limp flag...yeah! We are headed to Muskegon...at just over 9 mph it'll take us a little over six hours. We are hoping this weather holds and we can scoot out to South Haven tomorrow and then into Chicago on Saturday. But, you know, we hardly ever get to go with Plan A....it is good to have a plan...just don't count on it really happening.

Chicago is one of my favorite towns...Cubs, Navy Pier, Million dollar mile, Second City, Weber Grill Restaurant...spent many good times here visiting my brother Stan...he'd have loved our boating life...miss him! Anyway, we will pass through again in a couple of weeks so not really planning to spend time there this time. Besides, Cubs are away! Hehehe ...we've got to work on our timing!

Last time we came this way we were able to leave Chicago on a Sunday morning which we thought worked really well. Tour boats and downtown traffic was non- existant. So we are hopeful that we can do that again...yah, right! Looks possible...but the wind needs to hold it down....oh, right...Windy City!  So as they say, stay tuned for further developments! For now, we are toasty warm inside where Dakota is napping, Floyd is supervising "George" (the trusty auto pilot), and I'm blogging!! Be in Muskegon around 2ish!!

Pulled into Ludington on Saturday thinking we'd be here just a couple of days...and now it's Wednesday. Weather predicters keep teasing us ...predicting a wind shift and calmer waves in the evening. But by morning, they've changed their minds. Thursday, Friday and Saturday are looking really good...and once we get to Chicago (3 travel days) we won't have to worry so much about wind direction and waves...6 days on the river to St Charles to finish our second Great American Loop. I'm afraid once we do start moving, we'll be unstoppable. So it's another day of watching the BADGER ferry people to and from Michigan /Wisconsin.

Oh, those home style haircuts that were on the list still haven't happened...too cold to be sitting in a t shirt while someone figures out the clippers.

In the meantime, we've managed to generate some laundry...and find new books to read. And there's always someone who wants to play "squeaky ball". Bundle up! Baby, it's cold outside!!

Weather here has gone from bad to worse...small craft advisory for Lake Michigan means we won't be leaving anytime soon....it's why we call this "long hours of pleasant boredom"... Not much to do except watch the SS BADGER come and go...read books..play games and work puzzles...oh, and eat fudge!! It's a tough life!!

Winds out of the west ...waves predicted 2-4... Captain said no go again today. We googled a grocery store that was close...only to discover it was closed for remodeling. Our trip next door to the visitors center resulted in the discovery of a " dial a ride" bus service...for a one dollar fare ( we are senior citizens, you know) we rode to an auto parts store ( stuff for Floyd's projects) and a really top drawer grocery...rainy afternoon nap and Mexican food Monday...a little Rummikub lesson and it's almost bedtime. This is a nice little town ...and the marinas and car ferry terminal surround the neatest park area. Dakota, Floyd and I explored all the sculptures, historical markers and even playground equipment this evening. Tomorrow will hold us captive again...when they predict 4-5 foot waves, we stay put. Besides, we bought a pound and a half of fudge at Kilwins...we're good for a couple more days!!

We have yet to meet anyone who can explain the siren...noon and 10PM....loud and long...every day....seems weird. .?? Wonder who started all that and why?? We did have one local tell us one was the signal to get the restaurant and the other was time to go to bed...though I doubt that was the original intent. Mystery to be solved....

Looked "iffy" early this morning so we elected to stay put...no need to get in a big hurry.  Weather for the next couple of days could get worse, so we may be here for awhile. It's not a bad place to be. It's fun to watch the SS BADGER come and go...and a great space for Mr Dakota to play ball....when he wakes up, that is. We are getting the impression that boating is hard work for him....???

We still have front head toilet issues...sometimes it works...sometimes not so much. Floyd has taken it apart again this morning and has vowed to have the folks at Polestar Marina work on it when we are there at St Charles. For now, we are okay...but if the captain quarters head goes south, we are in BIG trouble.

Hair cuts (home style) are on tap for today...oh, and finding the camera battery recharger...yes, I'm a mess with that camera stuff! It is always something around here...

Saturday ...June 4...skipped our usual special Saturday breakfast to get under way earlier...just a little more wind today...waves were 1-2 feet...mostly at the bow...we can handle that. Off we go...about 50 miles today to Ludington. A barge is just ahead of us and 5 miles out all day...but really, other than a couple of fishing boats and a sail boat, we are the only other boat on the lake. Wouldn't you know it, he turned and headed into Ludington...we beat him in the breakwater by minutes...

We are in long sleeves, weather gear...driving from below...and yet we see people in swimsuits enjoying the sandy beaches...really, what's up with that??? We've come to the conclusion that locals are similar to the Canadians we met last summer...it's such a long cold winter that as soon as they see sunshine they break out the shorts and flip flops. We aren't that desperate!! All girl crew at the gas dock fell in love with sweet Dakota...so far, he's got girls in every port!!!(doesn't he look handsome in his new harness collar???)  We walked to a local brewing company/bar for a burger and fries in the middle of the afternoon. Interesting taste of blueberry beer...sort of reminded me of some moonshine I had once in Soddy Daisy, Tennessee...though must say this beer is better!!!.

Guess what was for dessert???? Kilwin's ice cream...our next favorite. (Nothing beats Kawartha!!!)..so much for that diet thing.....Sprinkles of rain all the way back to the boat...serious rain is coming...my trusty weather man says we might get a down day tomorrow....my turn to fix breakfast... Either way we could be in Chicago by Thursday...just zippin' right along!!!

Friday morning...we are outta here. And it was truly a gorgeous day!! a bit longer than we'd like...but absolutely perfect...water was glass smooth coming out of Traverse Bay. Silting issues made Leland impossible for us...so we went 70 miles into Frankfort. Lovely little town...not yet in full gear for the tourist season...but busy enough. Boat ran and handled well...we were amazed that we didn't even have to re-calibrate "George", the auto pilot. Ran at 10 mph...which seemed pretty speedy when we have been running for years at 7.5....but shaved off some time and used just 14 more gallons. Dakota fell in love with a golden lab, Curby Girl, on the sailboat next to us. Lots of play time made him a happy camper. Floyd and I walked into town (2 blocks maybe) for a fine dining experience at FUSION, a little sushi, maki, and seaweed salad with his Jack...now he's a happy camper. I should have followed his lead...but no...I had to venture out...my Kung Pao chicken had way too much PAO...I know it is spicy but this was over the top ...melt the fork...spicy. I tried everything I knew and had to admit defeat!!! They couldn't have been nicer about it...and I ended up with some decent Lettuce wraps...but not the fine dining experience I had hoped for. A trip down Main Street...a little t shirt shopping...and ice cream made it all better. We had trouble staying awake til the sun went down...Tomorrow we move on...

Thursday...today is the day...i distracted Floyd with major grocery shopping in the tiniest grocery store ever...but he was waiting when the UPS man came into the parking lot...final (we hope) toilet piece delivered. Let the work begin. ......Wish I could say it is back to normal...but we just aren't sure. Things seem to be ....yet...sounds off and maybe not. It's dicey...but weather for tomorrow is looking good so we plan to head out in the morning. Word is that Leland Marina is not an option because of shoaling and since we can't seem to get anyone to answer the phone...we'll head on the Frankfort. Thatwill put us out of the Traverse Bay into true Lake Michigan... 70 miles on our first day is a bit more than we wanted to chew. But no locks...and I'm sure there won't be any traffic to slow us down. Floyd is even talking about increasing our speed from 7 to 10 miles per hour. Where's my seat belt???? hehehe...stay tuned...it's an adventure!!!

Wednesday...June 1, 2016...Toilet fiasco part two....yep, you got that. Re-build kit arrived but the one other part that we knew we needed didn't. Seems as though some UPS type in South Carolina decided that the address was incomplete...so sent us an email to get more info! at 1 o'clock in the morning!!!!Priority shipping isn't going to help that situation....and really it is a village north of nowhere...of 527 people...the marina is in the heart of the place...and everyone knows it...including the UPS man!!!! It's cold and rainy...and no repairs are going to happen today...might as well do laundry. Sheets, Towels...any thing and everything that we can...three dollars total!!!

Tuesday...This was not to be Dakota's best day ever!!!  yep, it's ear trouble. Short night for Dakota and I as he scratched and flopped around...I called the local vet/ animal hospital in Sutton Bay...and they could see him at 11...but the real trip was when Floyd went to take him for his morning business...he fell into cold cold Lake Michigan. Yes, new harness collar worked well. But now it's almost 10AM, wet ...cold...dog...mom's still in pjs and we need to leave in time to get there. Some how it did all work out...yes, he's on ear meds...even thought he'd hurt his back so chiropractic adjustment and laser treatment. He's good. Floyd was anxious to get back to take delivery of parts.

We were sitting on the aft deck when the UPS truck drove by...and didn't even stop...panic!!!! Floyd immediately got on the phone with West Marine...they couldn't even find the order. Nice nice customer service lady(we'll be visiting her in St Charles) fixed him right up...priority delivery tomorrow ...so one more day of waiting.  and then the confirmation e-mail shows that the parts are being sent to Wichita!!! panic again...30 minutes on hold and get that straightened out...but we are beginning to wonder about this whole toilet part fiasco....

Memorial Day Monday...Floyd flew our state flag collection...it is quite impressive all strung together from bow pulpit to fly bridge and a little beyond. I convinced him to fix his spicy jerk chicken wings and we watched all sorts of coming and going from the boats around the marina. Spent the afternoon visiting with two retired teachers who are going to start their loop from here in September...good times. Floyd is anxious to get his toilet re-build kit tomorrow so we can "get a Move on". Dakota is a little off today...think we're getting an ear infection.

Sunday we made a quick trip into Traverse City...hit West Marine, Wal Mart, Pet Smart, Bed, Bath & Beyond, and even managed to find an open Thrift store that would take our "stuff". We had a long list of things and some how managed to find them all. Some were things we wanted for the RV for our trip home in August. Dakota enjoyed the trip...he likes visiting new areas. We bought a new harness type collar for him...we'll see how that works.

Wedding and car show....lovely, just lovely!!!

Here's how things normally look...Dakota has great fun playing ball and greeting everyone as though they are his new favorite friend.

Dinghy floor replacement photos!!! and we took a test ride!!! Dakota was one happy camper!!!

Rainy night..cloudy morning...sunny afternoon! Just like being in Kansas...well, except right now they are in 40 days of rain...but usually that's the way it works. Turned out to be a lovely day ...Floyd out did himself with special breakfast....it stopped raining just in time for the car show (about 150 classic cars) ...and bright and sunny for a delightful little 5 o'clock wedding in the gazebo....
But what you really want to hear about is that dinghy floor replacement!

Detective Walpole to the rescue...he watched the UPS truck go down the street...right on by the marina ...pulled out his trusty computer and discovered "his dinghy floor" had been left at the back door...so off he went...three doors down, on the back porch...sure enough, box with his name and marina address...lugged it back here! Quick as a flash, the old floor came out and the new one slipped right in. Aired up...motor replaced....we are thrilled! We plan to purchase some sort of rug to use as protective covering for it while we are in Traverse City tomorrow and then come back and take a little dinghy ride...woo hoo!

Though I'm beginning to worry that Floyd won't have anything to worry about now that the damn dinghy is finally fixed!! Oh, yeah, toilets!! Heheheh!

It's a moment, for sure!...Floyd has spent countless hours for a couple of boating seasons fighting with that leaky dinghy floor....patches, special glue and loads of advice from other boaters and even a few passing strangers....he admitted defeat and ordered a replacement floor today. It was a struggle...and according to me, a long time coming...now with impending holiday weekend, we worry that delivery may be delayed. So even though he paid almost the cost again to have it "next day" delivered....we are a little skeptical. Stay tuned!

We spent today finishing the cleaning chores and preparing the crew quarters...we are ever so hopeful that this summer we will have guests. I told Floyd that since we are ready.....they probably won't come...so please, go ahead, make me wrong.

I've been a cooking girl all week...roast...chili...BBQ beef...so tonight we eat out!! Oh, and those Rummikub lessons are going really well!! Wedding rehearsal at the gazebo is in full swing...and guys are measuring off the grassy area to the north for a classic car show...dockmaster Mark tells us they expect 200 autos....tomorrow should be full of activity! Our work here is almost done, so Dakota and I plan on front row seats...oh, and picture taking!!

Two steps forward....three steps back....my cleaning efforts are about to end...but alas, front head is still not working right...and while we do have two toilets, we prefer them to both work. Floyd is on the hunt for repair kit and parts...and we are still waiting to get the new fender covers...and make a trip to Traverse City. We would sure like to leave here this weekend...but that may not happen. It's a nice place...but ready to get a move on.

Dinghy repairs have improved...Floyd has managed to slow the leak to manageable proportions...so if we need to we can use it...but there will be no pleasure rides around marinas anytime soon.

Boats continue to arrive from the storage yard...four or five yesterday...could get busy around here this weekend.

This week the marina has spent a lot of effort getting "spiffy"... Planting pansies, weeding, new mulch, mowing...I thought just because it was the season...this morning I learned there's to be a wedding Saturday in the marina park gazebo....oooh, la la!! We can watch!!

And just as they predicted...wind came, temps cooled and rain started. They had said at 7pm...so it was right on schedule.

Yesterday's excitement included the arrival of the impeller that fixed the day head dry flush problem (yeah!!)...and the sad discovery that the latest patching of the dinghy didn't work!! Dakota is heartbroken...he almost dragged me into the lake trying to reach his departing Daddy...he just knew he was going to get a dinghy ride out of all that.  Floyd managed to get it to the boat...but it is leaking rapidly. We won't really need it on Lake Michigan...so the decision is that we'll need more patching materials and that Floyd can work on that in July when I travel home for a visit. It'll give him meaning and purpose.

The other bit of excitement occurred as the wind arrived but before the rain, when emergency vehicles suddenly gathered at the marina. Officers fired up the rescue boat, donned gear and took off with lights flashing....seems they had gotten a call about a man in the water off the far point. Floyd went over to chat with those on shore...all volunteers...and they returned shortly...nothing! No harm, no foul, no nothing. But, man, were we in the perfect spot for observing!!

We are hoping the rain and cooler temps will eliminate these midges...what a nuisance!! Huge swarms just hanging around...we really have to be aware of breathing and talking as we come and go from the boat....they seem to like our aft deck and side panels...they are easily inhaled.... Icky!! The Off lantern seems to discourage them...but we'd like to save those for the mosquitos that we know are in our future....so far, none of Floyd's cigar smoke has done the trick!! Though he is still experimenting!!

We plan to head to Traverse City tomorrow...(that shopping list continues to grow). We remain hopeful that the weather will clear and we can head out of here this weekend.