Captain's Blog: 8 August 2010 (Voyage #23)

Well we finally made it back on the river.  I must send out a personal thank you to my dad (previous boat captain).  He was kind enough to read my blog (Voyage #22) about our battery dying, and was generous enough to send us the funds for a replacement.  Thank you again dad for your seemingly endless generosity.  This has certainly bought you a dinner cruise, or two, or three the next visits you make.  Also another special thanks to Tim and Vicki who have also lend their help in keeping us on the river.

Now anyone who knows us, knows our luck isn't the greatest.  In keeping with tradition, I injured my shoulder last week at work, and I am now in an arm sling trying to find out just how bad I hurt myself.  Not to mention a touch of stomach flu to boot.  Needless to say, it was time for my first mate (Deb),  and our son Rob to take on some added responsibilities  Rob handled all of the muscle work when launching the boat, and pulling the boat out of the water.  Deb dealt with the motor lifts, gas refueling, and let's not forget about opening my beer (very important stuff).   And she did it all without a single complaint.  And if anyone knows me, that's not easy.  Thanks Deb, an extra ration of rum for you!

It was a wonderful feeling when I turned the ignition key, and she stared right up.  From there on it was just a beautiful day.  It had been a long period of time since we were on on the boat, due to one reason or another.  It was relaxing and enjoyable, and I actually felt a sense of relief being on the boat again (not too obsessed, huh!).  You know the saying you don't know how much somethings means to you until you can't have it.  I'm here to tell you it's true.
Not much exciting happened out there on this voyage.  We saw plenty of Blue Heron.  We did stop at our beach for a bite to eat.  And yes, we used our handy-dandy grill.  Deb made hot pastrami sandwiches, which were great.  We did use a tank of gas, and even dipped into our reserve a bit, but it was a great day to drive around and see the sights. 
Well that's it for now, so until we see you on the river again . . . ahoy!