River Wrap Up

Naturally when we first started out on August 6th we had preconceived ideas of what this river trip was going to be like.  Harley wanted to come this way because it was different from anything we have done before. I was apposed to the idea but went along with it agreeing that it would be an adventure if nothing else. 

When we entered the system on September 5th I was expecting a fast running river full, of obstacles, lined with industry, commercial traffic, and no sailboats.  Harley was expecting much of the same but knew we'd meet lots of interesting people and see a part of the world that not many get to see or experience. 

We've been on the river for two months and for the first two weeks I was saying to Harley, "see, I told you so!"  (Sorry Harley! xoxo) (Truth be told, he was saying "you were right!") 

The first river, the Illinois River wasn't bad at all, especially compared to the Mississippi, which was every nightmare I imagined.  But once we turned on to the Ohio River it was like entering a whole new world.  All of a sudden the current was gone, the debris was gone, and the scenery became wild and wonderful.

Belive it or not it just kept getting better and better.  What has surprised me the most is the amount of wildlife and wilderness we've seen.  If I  were to estimate, I would say this whole river system is 90% wilderness!  Not what I was expecting AT ALL! .... and a very pleasant surprise indeed.  At times it felt very jungle-like and at others it felt like northern Ontario. 

Having done the Intercoastal Waterway six years ago, I am now so very happy we came this way....this time.   Make no mistake, the intercoastal was wonderful and we loved it.  Every turn was new and exciting, but if we had gone that way again it would have been "ho hum...are we there yet?"  Coming this way has brought back the excitement and newness that we seem to crave.  Thank you Harley for talking me into this.  You were right!

We are only 35 miles outside of Mobile Alabama...the end of the river.   We could be there by now but, like I mentioned before, our mast isn't due to be there for four more days.  This anchorage is quiet and remote with a resident alligator.   (Yes, I finally got to see them.....big ones!)  We're going to stay here for the day then move down the river to another anchorage.  We called Turner Marine to let them know we will be there on Thursday when the mast arrives......but more about that....next time.