tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66059157903910641392024-03-12T17:58:46.579-07:00The Parrent FamilyParrent Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14096024725430067991noreply@blogger.comBlogger88125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605915790391064139.post-33904420019728230422014-08-13T11:17:00.002-07:002014-08-13T11:17:53.490-07:00Boat US Magazine article<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We were honored to be recognized in a Boat US article this month on our boating adventure.<br />
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<a href="http://www.boatus.com/magazine/2014/august/looping-with-little-ones-page-2.asp">http://www.boatus.com/magazine/2014/august/looping-with-little-ones-page-2.asp</a><br />
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<h1>
Looping With Little Ones</h1>
By Gary Kramer<br /> Photos by Danielle and Craig Parrent<br /><span class="published">Published: August/September 2014</span></div>
<em>Tackling the Great Loop with three young kids turns out to be doable and rewarding for this family of five</em> .<br />
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Besides education, safety was a crucial issue. The kids are all good swimmers, Danielle says, but "there wasn't a day they stepped out of the cabin without life jackets." The boat's bow was their front yard, so it was wrapped with safety netting, increasing Craig and Danielle's peace of mind. They coached the kids not to panic in an emergency, and established strict safety procedures. Clear, written instructions at the helm explained what to do if a parent fell overboard, how to make a VHF call, and how to stop and shut off the engines. On an overnight, 160-mile Gulf of Mexico crossing from Apalachicola to Clearwater, Florida, the kids slept in the main saloon so they would be close at hand if an emergency occurred. An unexpected safety boost came early in the morning, Craig remembers, when Morgan became "absolutely invaluable" with her fresh eyes helping spot crab pots.</div>
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<a class="popup noLine noHover cboxElement" href="http://www.boatus.com/Assets/www.boatus.com/magazines/boatus/2014/august/img/travelling-with-tandem-bikes.jpg" title="Photo: Danielle and Craig Parrent"><img alt="Photo of travelling with tandem bikes" class="polaroid" src="http://www.boatus.com/Assets/www.boatus.com/magazines/boatus/2014/august/img/travelling-with-tandem-bikes.jpg" title="Travelling with tandem bikes" width="435" /></a><span class="pictureCaption">Tandem bicycles helped broaden their range in port.</span></div>
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<a class="popup noLine noHover cboxElement" href="http://www.boatus.com/Assets/www.boatus.com/magazines/boatus/2014/august/img/trampoline.jpg" title="Photo: Danielle and Craig Parrent"><img alt="Photo of young child bouncing on a trampoline" class="polaroid right" src="http://www.boatus.com/Assets/www.boatus.com/magazines/boatus/2014/august/img/trampoline.jpg" title="Bouncing on a small trampoline onboard" width="250" /></a><br /><span class="pictureCaption left">It was easy to get a little antsy, but the kids kept themselves amused.</span></div>
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"We did everything together, always," says Danielle, including laundry. They used grocery shopping as a rich source of hands-on learning. They used a dinghy and kayaks to explore places only accessible by water, and used tandem bicycles to venture beyond marinas and harbors. Danielle says the children really didn't develop bad attitudes or fight, but they did miss playing with other kids. The solution was to schedule weekend opportunities to interact with other children. Craig says that when the trip started, the kids weren't particularly outgoing. But as a result of the random interactions with other children, they quickly learned how to make friends and easily adapted to the weekly gatherings of home-schoolers in Marathon, Florida, where they spent a month.<br />
The kids remember getting a little antsy on some long, slow cruising days. To counter that, Danielle and Craig worked to stay upbeat, organized, and focused, and learned that a positive attitude was contagious. Activity planning at family meetings helped smooth over differences of opinion about where they should go and what they should do. It also became a group function to help cheer up a family member who was a bit down or unhappy.<br />
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<a class="popup noLine noHover cboxElement" href="http://www.boatus.com/Assets/www.boatus.com/magazines/boatus/2014/august/img/exhausted-little-cruiser.jpg" title="Photo: Danielle and Craig Parrent"><img alt="Photo of a exhausted little cruiser" class="polaroid" src="http://www.boatus.com/Assets/www.boatus.com/magazines/boatus/2014/august/img/exhausted-little-cruiser.jpg" title="Exhausted little cruiser" width="435" /></a><span class="pictureCaption">Jaxon Parrent may be the youngest Looper to complete the whole circuit.</span></div>
"It was the best trip," reflects Danielle. "We didn't have the day-to-day challenges that most people face with work commitments, mortgages, and keeping up a house, so we had time to focus on our family. The more time we spent with the kids, the more patience and understanding we had with them. They thrived."<br />
<h2 class="h3">
Epilogue: On The Road Again</h2>
Three years have passed now, and Danielle says there are constant, ongoing reminders about their grand cruising adventure. "The kids have a never-ending source for writing assignments. In history class, they frequently bring personal photos to school of the site being studied. Our house is filled with their collections and mementos picked up along the way, each item connected to a place and time we fondly remember."<br />
Looking back, the Parrents wish they'd taken more side trips, which they now realize were a treasured part of the cruising experience. They also wish they'd taken two years for the trip. "Oh, and we could've done it in a smaller boat," says Craig, "which would have saved significantly on fuel and slip rentals." In June, the Parrents take off again for a few years, on a road trip of sorts, headed first to Alaska. Craig has customized a 48-foot car hauler so the front part has a kitchen, bathroom, and separate sleeping spaces for all. The rear part holds bikes, ATVs, and a 13-foot Boston Whaler. The rig is self-contained. The kids will follow the state of Michigan online curriculum so when they do return to school, it should be seamless. For more of the daily details of their voyage, visit <a href="http://parrentfive.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">http://parrentfive.blogspot.com</a> </div>
Parrent Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14096024725430067991noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605915790391064139.post-44645064710103980372014-03-05T10:03:00.002-08:002014-03-05T10:03:17.096-08:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
2014 is going to be a great year!<br />
We look forward to new and exciting adventures and another chapter in our lives.<br />
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Parrent Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14096024725430067991noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605915790391064139.post-43723241793251343932011-09-25T08:17:00.000-07:002011-09-25T09:09:13.940-07:00Life on land<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Our life on land has been an entirely new journey than that on the water. The people we meet, conversations each day and relationships moving forward take a whole new perspective than our cruising life. We love our life and still hold the memories close....I hope we always do.<br />
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I love waking up at 5:30 with Craig and watching the sunrise. This is the view from our living room window. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2bEDlAq4KoM/TnuLKb6DIQI/AAAAAAAACQY/NHOmoOzke4o/s1600/IMG_9264.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2bEDlAq4KoM/TnuLKb6DIQI/AAAAAAAACQY/NHOmoOzke4o/s320/IMG_9264.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Craig has taken a position as Site Superintendent at a well known high end large home builder in town. It'll be a welcomed change to the higher stress and laborous work his days are filled with now. It truly reflects our goals moving forward and we're celebrating the new path. The girls are sporting some of the new clothing he received. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uAhQVY4g7k0/Tn9EjBvFHkI/AAAAAAAACRc/xRRPI5ACojY/s1600/IMG_9284.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uAhQVY4g7k0/Tn9EjBvFHkI/AAAAAAAACRc/xRRPI5ACojY/s320/IMG_9284.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
Jaxons kindergarten teacher, Mrs. VanEizenga, is a sweetheart! School is going very well for all of the kids and it seems our homeschooling and life experiences have only enhanced their education. A sigh of relief on our part and it's amazing how well adjusted they are. Making friends, getting involved and bringing home great grades is not a problem...YEAH! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KbC2YCrn754/TnuLRy5xGEI/AAAAAAAACQc/ZVIVT-ir0VQ/s1600/IMG_9234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KbC2YCrn754/TnuLRy5xGEI/AAAAAAAACQc/ZVIVT-ir0VQ/s320/IMG_9234.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Jaxon and his best friend, WatchOut, playing in the puppy's 'bedroom.'<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LV0RUJBFLBE/TnuLUfubdmI/AAAAAAAACQg/hJlKjCMFFEg/s1600/IMG_9229.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LV0RUJBFLBE/TnuLUfubdmI/AAAAAAAACQg/hJlKjCMFFEg/s320/IMG_9229.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The "Healing Field" at Cannonsburg ski lodge in Rockford (Grand Rapids area) had one flag for every person is passed in the 9/11 tragedy. It was purely touching to see and thousands gathered for days to view and mourn the loss.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EYNCiKKW2Kc/TnuLW94NzwI/AAAAAAAACQk/BJn1yAoba-Y/s1600/IMG_9237.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EYNCiKKW2Kc/TnuLW94NzwI/AAAAAAAACQk/BJn1yAoba-Y/s320/IMG_9237.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>WatchOut on the beach was hysterical!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o58Yu-tobEE/TnuLZHrPWbI/AAAAAAAACQo/jWFFAy4mN3E/s1600/IMG_9200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o58Yu-tobEE/TnuLZHrPWbI/AAAAAAAACQo/jWFFAy4mN3E/s320/IMG_9200.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>He never stopped!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2loVBDgGHR0/TnuLayEuLII/AAAAAAAACQs/z5oPVK8NXCI/s1600/IMG_9210.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2loVBDgGHR0/TnuLayEuLII/AAAAAAAACQs/z5oPVK8NXCI/s320/IMG_9210.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Jaxon getting a little air time.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YMeZLLU9P_I/TnuLdh0WTnI/AAAAAAAACQw/U7d3J2sPBwI/s1600/IMG_9240.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YMeZLLU9P_I/TnuLdh0WTnI/AAAAAAAACQw/U7d3J2sPBwI/s320/IMG_9240.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>A walk on the pier at Grand Haven and picnic on the boardwalk with my parents. The dog was carried half the time because he was so tired. After this photo was taken he literally sucked down an entire fish from a nearby fisherman...YUCK! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vb1Qgrt7yv0/TnuLgyJY7rI/AAAAAAAACQ4/hlpiA_WDTkc/s1600/IMG_9247.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vb1Qgrt7yv0/TnuLgyJY7rI/AAAAAAAACQ4/hlpiA_WDTkc/s320/IMG_9247.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>We will miss the sunny warm days of summer.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2ky6R_IbHmY/TnuLjlkI83I/AAAAAAAACQ8/hFoIkIjKQQA/s1600/IMG_9251.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2ky6R_IbHmY/TnuLjlkI83I/AAAAAAAACQ8/hFoIkIjKQQA/s320/IMG_9251.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>He actually loves taking a bath!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BuS5ApkTuEk/TnuLmIeL1fI/AAAAAAAACRA/f96em0QxS6Y/s1600/IMG_9256.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BuS5ApkTuEk/TnuLmIeL1fI/AAAAAAAACRA/f96em0QxS6Y/s320/IMG_9256.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Salmon festival in Grand Haven had many crafts and activities for kids.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iQj5oFJgXQk/TnuLoz6EZtI/AAAAAAAACRE/Pt0RQ6TEDuA/s1600/IMG_9274.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iQj5oFJgXQk/TnuLoz6EZtI/AAAAAAAACRE/Pt0RQ6TEDuA/s320/IMG_9274.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Michigan rat snake climbed up Ryanns shirt so quickly.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wNQUJjkcZBo/TnuLsWC8CPI/AAAAAAAACRI/azfUZSlzF3c/s1600/IMG_9273.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wNQUJjkcZBo/TnuLsWC8CPI/AAAAAAAACRI/azfUZSlzF3c/s320/IMG_9273.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Grandma really fooled Morgan with fake poop. We convinced her to help clean it up and she was such a good sport.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Oz6reOCJWgA/TnuL0p51B7I/AAAAAAAACRQ/NpSFuS38Smg/s1600/IMG_9267.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Oz6reOCJWgA/TnuL0p51B7I/AAAAAAAACRQ/NpSFuS38Smg/s320/IMG_9267.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Thank you grandma and grandpa for my doggie stuffed animal and treats. It actually has a water bottle inside so it makes a crackling noise he loves. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_pOweF06LDY/TnuL3TQyhyI/AAAAAAAACRU/qCpfJc9hKHw/s1600/IMG_9266.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_pOweF06LDY/TnuL3TQyhyI/AAAAAAAACRU/qCpfJc9hKHw/s320/IMG_9266.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Our dear friends, John and Carrie, just got a cute little dog named Petri. They gave WatchOut an adorable poop purse and this squeaky toy from his little girlie dog friend! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N3IhxgoLVrU/Tn9FPkn-BrI/AAAAAAAACRg/NdgNnkEMXmw/s1600/IMG_9283.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N3IhxgoLVrU/Tn9FPkn-BrI/AAAAAAAACRg/NdgNnkEMXmw/s320/IMG_9283.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>My nephew, Alexander, turned 12 and we gathered for fun family times! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2KF9yKQ3Oo8/Tn9QO66jq1I/AAAAAAAACR0/3ZMIB2tJVeg/s1600/IMG_9301.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2KF9yKQ3Oo8/Tn9QO66jq1I/AAAAAAAACR0/3ZMIB2tJVeg/s320/IMG_9301.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Ryann's friend, Helen, came for a visit and taught us Origami. The girls had fun and she lives only a quarter mile away. Looking forward to many more play dates with her. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WOwiC_Kgn2s/Tn9QRu78XSI/AAAAAAAACR4/v3BXOygUOQE/s1600/IMG_9298.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WOwiC_Kgn2s/Tn9QRu78XSI/AAAAAAAACR4/v3BXOygUOQE/s320/IMG_9298.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> Morgan continues her training with the dog and she was able to capture his latest moves of high fives!<br />
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The sunset at the pier head.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eUBdRwEVky4/TnuL6sXqwYI/AAAAAAAACRY/2ltt9W2IsXw/s1600/IMG_9223.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eUBdRwEVky4/TnuL6sXqwYI/AAAAAAAACRY/2ltt9W2IsXw/s320/IMG_9223.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
</div>Parrent Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14096024725430067991noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605915790391064139.post-31402317920729314182011-09-09T11:43:00.000-07:002011-09-09T11:43:49.627-07:00"Watch Out" its the Parrent Six<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">After saying "NO" for THREE years to getting a dog, I ran out of excuses. It is the perfect time in our life to add a new member to the family. Our GoldenDoodle's name is "Watch Out." He is 8 pounds, 9 weeks old and ALL puppy! He is actually 75% poodle and 25% golden retriever, so he's a non-shedding, hypoallergenic easy going little guy that loves attention, car rides and a good nap!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nMAwyNhIQS8/TmjB-KIRHHI/AAAAAAAACOE/sVK7xFJA4jU/s1600/IMG_9126.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nMAwyNhIQS8/TmjB-KIRHHI/AAAAAAAACOE/sVK7xFJA4jU/s320/IMG_9126.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> The first day at his new home with us we had a terrible storm and these two were watching it!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SYnAVy4L4vA/TmjC-kswxeI/AAAAAAAACOI/DnoZTm3Js40/s1600/IMG_9140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SYnAVy4L4vA/TmjC-kswxeI/AAAAAAAACOI/DnoZTm3Js40/s320/IMG_9140.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> He has figured out that the only way to get down the big step from the tile floor to the hardwood flooring is to do a running jump. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LvBrn0Ddz0I/TmjDCPzTFEI/AAAAAAAACOM/elJM0hCGmtY/s1600/IMG_9149.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LvBrn0Ddz0I/TmjDCPzTFEI/AAAAAAAACOM/elJM0hCGmtY/s320/IMG_9149.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Backing up a few weeks, my Aunt Cindy, sister Michelle, niece Elizabeth and nephew Derek came for a visit to see the house and walk the trail to Lake Michigan. It was fun to spend time with them again.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IumHZo4amiU/TmjDgPHppjI/AAAAAAAACOQ/l8B1nJJl2Hc/s1600/IMG_9020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IumHZo4amiU/TmjDgPHppjI/AAAAAAAACOQ/l8B1nJJl2Hc/s320/IMG_9020.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The girls wanted to swim so bad, but the rip current was very strong that windy day. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J5220JVV5IA/TmjDjMYLl4I/AAAAAAAACOU/WyfTnnbKnLQ/s1600/IMG_9035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J5220JVV5IA/TmjDjMYLl4I/AAAAAAAACOU/WyfTnnbKnLQ/s320/IMG_9035.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Craigs mom, Debbie came with Alexander and Emily for a walk back to the lake too. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_jk64SJqhwM/TmjDmWrISoI/AAAAAAAACOY/0Ffe8rR-HO0/s1600/IMG_9043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_jk64SJqhwM/TmjDmWrISoI/AAAAAAAACOY/0Ffe8rR-HO0/s320/IMG_9043.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The kids built sand castles and did gymnastics for hours. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QrXxSZMP3w4/TmjDoqFd2TI/AAAAAAAACOc/UhjnEOUBdUI/s1600/IMG_9047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QrXxSZMP3w4/TmjDoqFd2TI/AAAAAAAACOc/UhjnEOUBdUI/s320/IMG_9047.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RBz2f_EaopQ/TmjDraahE6I/AAAAAAAACOg/9HZ9euAVy5A/s1600/IMG_9056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RBz2f_EaopQ/TmjDraahE6I/AAAAAAAACOg/9HZ9euAVy5A/s320/IMG_9056.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>We haven't had a mailbox in so long that Ryann runs at the opportunity to get it each day!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-142NjhRoRSo/TmpdZAi36_I/AAAAAAAACQU/O2BUqQ6JR44/s1600/IMG_9065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-142NjhRoRSo/TmpdZAi36_I/AAAAAAAACQU/O2BUqQ6JR44/s320/IMG_9065.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>We have gone blueberry picking a lot this summer. The kids seem to fill their bellies every time we pick and once home we always end up making blueberry pies too.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uAkuJxYFGMo/TmjDxHdKO-I/AAAAAAAACOs/THMQvCShs3g/s1600/IMG_9068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uAkuJxYFGMo/TmjDxHdKO-I/AAAAAAAACOs/THMQvCShs3g/s320/IMG_9068.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>The pole barn/Craigs shop has a three story firemans pole. It goes from the loft bedroom to the guest house and down into the shop. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BTfH4YW4uRM/TmjD0A0U9lI/AAAAAAAACOw/bg92VNiUD-4/s1600/IMG_9075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BTfH4YW4uRM/TmjD0A0U9lI/AAAAAAAACOw/bg92VNiUD-4/s320/IMG_9075.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>My parents bought a Thunderbird to add to their car collection! It's very clean, metallic color and now their new favorite ride!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_qwDEiNZke4/TmjD3kCw8rI/AAAAAAAACO0/GXKIOmGOQFs/s1600/IMG_9069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_qwDEiNZke4/TmjD3kCw8rI/AAAAAAAACO0/GXKIOmGOQFs/s320/IMG_9069.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Another walk back into the woods is a good reason for a photo!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k9kzFMPDYIg/TmpdEdYP1HI/AAAAAAAACQQ/_kX8R6OSjms/s1600/IMG_9076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k9kzFMPDYIg/TmpdEdYP1HI/AAAAAAAACQQ/_kX8R6OSjms/s320/IMG_9076.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>The walk back in the woods as you turn a corner and can see the lake. It's so pretty that we stop to stare every time. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0rZW2DEkjm8/TmjD-XGUSVI/AAAAAAAACO8/Sokp14SM-cs/s1600/IMG_9078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0rZW2DEkjm8/TmjD-XGUSVI/AAAAAAAACO8/Sokp14SM-cs/s320/IMG_9078.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>My Dad brought this huge kite that we use to have as children. He gave one to us and other will go to my sister. Brought back great memories and the kids had a ton of fun with it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CDsCEhjc2E4/TmjEB36B7zI/AAAAAAAACPE/HpJFeffDv18/s1600/IMG_9082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CDsCEhjc2E4/TmjEB36B7zI/AAAAAAAACPE/HpJFeffDv18/s320/IMG_9082.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>It was a windy day!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sYSj7aBT1T4/TmjEEc11A-I/AAAAAAAACPI/fK5Ebh2FPQI/s1600/IMG_9086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sYSj7aBT1T4/TmjEEc11A-I/AAAAAAAACPI/fK5Ebh2FPQI/s320/IMG_9086.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Optimus Prime Transformer payed a visit to our home this week. He is a friendly Transformer (Autobot) that sleeps upstairs now!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eh7vFmDrAG4/TmjEHphZpNI/AAAAAAAACPM/JFcsxTHIX-s/s1600/IMG_9096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eh7vFmDrAG4/TmjEHphZpNI/AAAAAAAACPM/JFcsxTHIX-s/s320/IMG_9096.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>The cleaning crew got to work in the guest apartment area. It looked and smelled great. They even washed the windows!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ltbwVkJsMCk/TmjEL3znbfI/AAAAAAAACPQ/DspHz_Ng4P4/s1600/IMG_9100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ltbwVkJsMCk/TmjEL3znbfI/AAAAAAAACPQ/DspHz_Ng4P4/s320/IMG_9100.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IUP9ExwP2R0/TmjEP4t5lDI/AAAAAAAACPU/pvLXDwBKgm4/s1600/IMG_9101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IUP9ExwP2R0/TmjEP4t5lDI/AAAAAAAACPU/pvLXDwBKgm4/s320/IMG_9101.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The kids have a constant playmate everyday now.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5LH_z_3SwJ8/TmjEWcSirnI/AAAAAAAACPc/btLygSPThWk/s1600/IMG_9110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5LH_z_3SwJ8/TmjEWcSirnI/AAAAAAAACPc/btLygSPThWk/s320/IMG_9110.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>He seems to have made himself at home.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i0usEMpVqPQ/TmjEdzv9rOI/AAAAAAAACPg/tyM1MBeoNMQ/s1600/IMG_9138.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i0usEMpVqPQ/TmjEdzv9rOI/AAAAAAAACPg/tyM1MBeoNMQ/s320/IMG_9138.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>We take walks on the boardwalk downtown and to north shore beach. The kids actually tire him out.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kFsqRJA3oJg/TmjEir95T1I/AAAAAAAACPk/63qXpxgutUU/s1600/IMG_9123.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kFsqRJA3oJg/TmjEir95T1I/AAAAAAAACPk/63qXpxgutUU/s320/IMG_9123.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
We met another Goldendoodle named Morgan. I guess Morgan won't even leave the house without her sunglasses on. She was a cool dog and so big!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pE2XUzj3rwM/TmjEvviQ66I/AAAAAAAACPs/Md9ihu1RC_M/s1600/IMG_9154.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pE2XUzj3rwM/TmjEvviQ66I/AAAAAAAACPs/Md9ihu1RC_M/s320/IMG_9154.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The kids were drawn to where ever grandma was! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IYgL6qTSEqM/TmjE4o9CsdI/AAAAAAAACP0/tYItsmjHHXA/s1600/IMG_9144.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IYgL6qTSEqM/TmjE4o9CsdI/AAAAAAAACP0/tYItsmjHHXA/s320/IMG_9144.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The doggie door is working out well and WatchOut loves his kennel that Craig made. He's loaded up with fun toys and treats everyday.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UdB4v1wdjxk/TmjE-SzEx0I/AAAAAAAACP4/_0zKQgUWuAs/s1600/IMG_9158.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UdB4v1wdjxk/TmjE-SzEx0I/AAAAAAAACP4/_0zKQgUWuAs/s320/IMG_9158.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>We spent a day building a special area for the dog to relieve himself. Craig put up a fence and we brought in stones (since we can't grow grass). We live on a sand dune and it use to make for a very messy dog. Now the doggie door (bottom right corner) allows him to explore whenever he wants. My mom was a huge help that day too and proceeded to rake the entire yard of sticks, leaves, etc. We're quite sure it had never been done. Thanks Mom!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9n8HJQJU5zw/TmjFDsTUO8I/AAAAAAAACP8/YQGNsN6G6I4/s1600/IMG_9161.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9n8HJQJU5zw/TmjFDsTUO8I/AAAAAAAACP8/YQGNsN6G6I4/s320/IMG_9161.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FK8L3PWZS3c/TmpcUsLnPTI/AAAAAAAACQI/i9KHZYjnhgM/s1600/IMG_9157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FK8L3PWZS3c/TmpcUsLnPTI/AAAAAAAACQI/i9KHZYjnhgM/s320/IMG_9157.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>(See pic above): The kids took turns getting sick this week with fevers, colds and other fun stuff. There were days of school missed, but were hoping to shake it out soon...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>First day of school went really well. Kids were very excited, love their school and teachers and it's going to be a great year. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WnCGwPbW3Js/TmjFI3LLRdI/AAAAAAAACQE/ImdI2lyJYQA/s1600/IMG_9182.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WnCGwPbW3Js/TmjFI3LLRdI/AAAAAAAACQE/ImdI2lyJYQA/s320/IMG_9182.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Our fellow Looper family friends have been in the Grand Haven port this week. We saw the Samway family (from Miami, Florida on a 48' Kady Krogen) last weekend and plan to see the Fallon's (from Virginia on a 36' Carver) this weekend. They both have two children.<br />
<br />
Life is changing so quickly...</div>Parrent Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14096024725430067991noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605915790391064139.post-10330677349332505992011-08-23T06:23:00.000-07:002011-08-23T06:35:57.512-07:00Our new adventure<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">We have finally settled into our home in Grand Haven and it feels like our next adventure. It's a beach house that's built into a sand dune that feels like we're in the trees. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UF0l0HF26SY/TlOYBPd8h3I/AAAAAAAACMM/-6xop6NbPpM/s1600/outside.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UF0l0HF26SY/TlOYBPd8h3I/AAAAAAAACMM/-6xop6NbPpM/s320/outside.png" width="320" /></a></div> It has essentially a four car garage as this heated workshop will be great for Craigs woodworking talents. Above the garage is a guest apartment with beds, kitchen, full bathroom, and a sauna! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zQSuFg75OvE/TlOYD4ghsKI/AAAAAAAACMQ/BYDqgeObCNU/s1600/PoleBarn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zQSuFg75OvE/TlOYD4ghsKI/AAAAAAAACMQ/BYDqgeObCNU/s320/PoleBarn.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> We have frontage on Black Lake too!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aMlZZHawGDc/TlOYGRPHmxI/AAAAAAAACMU/0tltKuTeT3k/s1600/black+lake.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aMlZZHawGDc/TlOYGRPHmxI/AAAAAAAACMU/0tltKuTeT3k/s320/black+lake.png" width="320" /></a></div>It didn't take long for Jaxon and Ryann to find a good running path throughout the home. It's fun to be able to have the room to move around. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hMeegiOLGvY/TlOYvh-1-8I/AAAAAAAACMY/xRCw9qKMP_I/s1600/IMG_8841.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hMeegiOLGvY/TlOYvh-1-8I/AAAAAAAACMY/xRCw9qKMP_I/s320/IMG_8841.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Our first grocery run was a big one! We went from a 7 cubic refrigerator to a 27. It's amazing how much space we have. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oBykENHba7g/TlOY5FZKvMI/AAAAAAAACMc/v3Nsq_HdxuI/s1600/IMG_8836.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oBykENHba7g/TlOY5FZKvMI/AAAAAAAACMc/v3Nsq_HdxuI/s320/IMG_8836.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The sunrise every morning is incredible. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CCZQpEVVNqY/TlOY_QcWXgI/AAAAAAAACMg/qFCLdPY54To/s1600/IMG_8844.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CCZQpEVVNqY/TlOY_QcWXgI/AAAAAAAACMg/qFCLdPY54To/s320/IMG_8844.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>We have a dumbwaiter for groceries to easily be transferred from the car to the pantry. Ryann was a perfect fit, but there was no way I'd let her take the ride. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3qSrs7Ifooc/TlOZGjiURWI/AAAAAAAACMk/Wgsnu5Koq3o/s1600/IMG_8847.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3qSrs7Ifooc/TlOZGjiURWI/AAAAAAAACMk/Wgsnu5Koq3o/s320/IMG_8847.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> The backyard has a great trail out to Lake Michigan through Hoffmaster state park. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ndv3qfKcEUw/TlOZSIxj1vI/AAAAAAAACMo/Yt1KwXUgJXI/s1600/IMG_8852.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ndv3qfKcEUw/TlOZSIxj1vI/AAAAAAAACMo/Yt1KwXUgJXI/s320/IMG_8852.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> My mom, the kids and I took the 20 minute scenic walk one day.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3qoB1oIOPUw/TlOZabO66XI/AAAAAAAACMw/DFmKSAdhi-M/s1600/IMG_8859.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3qoB1oIOPUw/TlOZabO66XI/AAAAAAAACMw/DFmKSAdhi-M/s320/IMG_8859.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The kids can't get enough of Grandma!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BQQw55fRr0g/TlOZhP__VBI/AAAAAAAACM0/n_bC9OpPZho/s1600/IMG_8863.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BQQw55fRr0g/TlOZhP__VBI/AAAAAAAACM0/n_bC9OpPZho/s320/IMG_8863.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The beach was beautiful and water was warm.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6Yhn1uJ1SEw/TlOZn3WW52I/AAAAAAAACM4/TF1IlbGXD6Y/s1600/IMG_8861.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6Yhn1uJ1SEw/TlOZn3WW52I/AAAAAAAACM4/TF1IlbGXD6Y/s320/IMG_8861.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> My mom, Yvonne, and Morgan have been diligently working to eliminate the weeds and bring the dune grass back to life!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vyJG9JS6QvY/TlOZu0q70FI/AAAAAAAACM8/aXtxt4R1Nrc/s1600/IMG_8871.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vyJG9JS6QvY/TlOZu0q70FI/AAAAAAAACM8/aXtxt4R1Nrc/s320/IMG_8871.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I usually let my photos tell the stories, but lately I keep forgetting my camera. Dee, Alexander and Emily came for a visit, my friend Jamie, Alex, Tori and Cole came for a beach day of fun and Craig's mom, Debbie took the kids out for a day of birthday shopping, Craig's Cruisers and ice cream. We've been working on settling into the home and cleaning the boat. We're still going to the pool to swim and driving to the beach for sunsets. My sister, Michelle, Beth and Derek are here in Grand Haven now, but Derek is running a fever and we aren't able to see them....such a bummer. <br />
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Jaxon baked his own strawberry birthday cake. Everyone added something to the cake (Ryann just ate the frosting). My baby is 5...ugh...and will be attending Kindergarten in two weeks. Where does the time go? <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jOS3Xlg9DbE/TlOaCP7NOvI/AAAAAAAACNA/zB4mJhiil8c/s1600/IMG_8881.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jOS3Xlg9DbE/TlOaCP7NOvI/AAAAAAAACNA/zB4mJhiil8c/s320/IMG_8881.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> My parents showered him with gifts and came with 5 balloons to celebrate with us. Jaxon picked homemade pizza for dinner.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4xAEfG49_iA/TlOaK84tbwI/AAAAAAAACNE/IkkoTLr0nfE/s1600/IMG_8884.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4xAEfG49_iA/TlOaK84tbwI/AAAAAAAACNE/IkkoTLr0nfE/s320/IMG_8884.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Transformers is still the gift of choice three years running.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-myG_K-HEgNg/TlOaX098i7I/AAAAAAAACNM/MRNJGEOHndk/s1600/IMG_8900.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-myG_K-HEgNg/TlOaX098i7I/AAAAAAAACNM/MRNJGEOHndk/s320/IMG_8900.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> We went for a boat ride out to Lake Michigan and anchored out at the beach near our home.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mhpZjqrT87c/TlOakGLxWkI/AAAAAAAACNQ/W1hG_KsdgCQ/s1600/IMG_8912.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mhpZjqrT87c/TlOakGLxWkI/AAAAAAAACNQ/W1hG_KsdgCQ/s320/IMG_8912.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Next to the nice flat path that leads to our home is this huge sand dune.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_JPhqXhhlyg/TlOatJLTXxI/AAAAAAAACNU/ohAdelZjGc0/s1600/IMG_8916.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_JPhqXhhlyg/TlOatJLTXxI/AAAAAAAACNU/ohAdelZjGc0/s320/IMG_8916.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> We made the climb to the top and had a great view of the boat (and dinghy).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PVs1BZFLcOs/TlOa5TOyrLI/AAAAAAAACNY/hxZeXYOtM0I/s1600/IMG_8924.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PVs1BZFLcOs/TlOa5TOyrLI/AAAAAAAACNY/hxZeXYOtM0I/s320/IMG_8924.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> Behind the dune we could see Black Lake (on right), but not our home amongst the millions of trees. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bytzOtm6Rlw/TlObSy44fRI/AAAAAAAACNc/jxVnXJqKwy8/s1600/IMG_8920.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bytzOtm6Rlw/TlObSy44fRI/AAAAAAAACNc/jxVnXJqKwy8/s320/IMG_8920.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> We took the path through the woods as the sand was so hot.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HpCIbWJ5OQ4/TlObbVxj41I/AAAAAAAACNg/cQnDZ4S8zf8/s1600/IMG_8927.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HpCIbWJ5OQ4/TlObbVxj41I/AAAAAAAACNg/cQnDZ4S8zf8/s320/IMG_8927.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> The run down the dune was ten times faster than the walk up.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zhAn67GR9RY/TlOb0XvaNAI/AAAAAAAACNo/T7wPHe3bqe8/s1600/IMG_8941.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zhAn67GR9RY/TlOb0XvaNAI/AAAAAAAACNo/T7wPHe3bqe8/s320/IMG_8941.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F2M4aIUJfao/TlOb7bpgSeI/AAAAAAAACNs/RYrHun4BaoU/s1600/IMG_8945.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F2M4aIUJfao/TlOb7bpgSeI/AAAAAAAACNs/RYrHun4BaoU/s320/IMG_8945.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z6US4WeWGjw/TlOcMA2phTI/AAAAAAAACNw/QnRR-hCa7f0/s1600/IMG_8946.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z6US4WeWGjw/TlOcMA2phTI/AAAAAAAACNw/QnRR-hCa7f0/s320/IMG_8946.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> Jaxon lost his second tooth and Ryann lost two teeth...ALL in one day!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lDyNte64f6o/TlOcZJrsPCI/AAAAAAAACN0/hYJFWrJZjXg/s1600/IMG_8961.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lDyNte64f6o/TlOcZJrsPCI/AAAAAAAACN0/hYJFWrJZjXg/s320/IMG_8961.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Craig's shop is a bit overwhelming to organize. It's like me organizing my kitchen, but so much more. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GDKZ60OT0jg/TlOchvDU2iI/AAAAAAAACN4/SDyUZ_lgwWs/s1600/IMG_8967.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GDKZ60OT0jg/TlOchvDU2iI/AAAAAAAACN4/SDyUZ_lgwWs/s320/IMG_8967.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> My grandfather, Wes, gave us a paddle boat from his cottage up north in the Muskegon River. My parents were so kind to go up there, paddle it all the way to the landing, and deliver to us dockside! The kids are super excited to paddle instead of rowing the kayaks.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BiwNO1w-190/TlOcnJ0yz6I/AAAAAAAACN8/-GSa1x2HG98/s1600/IMG_9010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BiwNO1w-190/TlOcnJ0yz6I/AAAAAAAACN8/-GSa1x2HG98/s320/IMG_9010.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I was asked by a fellow boater friend to talk at her company outing (Michigan State Health Care Professionals) about our travels. I was flattered and enjoyed telling our story. I felt guilty that they paid me, but couldn't turn down the offer.<br />
School starts two weeks from today and the kids are getting so excited. It's the next chapter, the journey of life, we all lead everyday. </div>Parrent Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14096024725430067991noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605915790391064139.post-42601956971807947022011-08-10T19:30:00.000-07:002011-08-10T19:30:29.936-07:00Spring Lake, Michigan<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Another great Michigan summer! We can't get enough of the sun and fun. Pictured here with my parents and their dinghy, we went to the beach for the day and did lot's of swimming in the warm water. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c2kaJNaBK2U/TkM3DvOyByI/AAAAAAAACJE/YO51ZvjnaJI/s1600/IMG_8759.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c2kaJNaBK2U/TkM3DvOyByI/AAAAAAAACJE/YO51ZvjnaJI/s320/IMG_8759.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Our home port of Grand Haven, Michigan is Coast Guard City USA!! Each year there's a HUGE event for two weeks with a ton of festivities and people, parades and events. Pictured here is the hill opposite of the town that hosts a water fountain light show (under the temporary sign here) every night across from the municipal marina. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V0D3TNY6zZI/TkM3GShSjwI/AAAAAAAACJI/iweXLK__yXU/s1600/IMG_8760.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V0D3TNY6zZI/TkM3GShSjwI/AAAAAAAACJI/iweXLK__yXU/s320/IMG_8760.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Very popular anchorage that day with a ton of our boating friends all around! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-25IosE4k9S8/TkM3IlwqWEI/AAAAAAAACJM/yNbIh7Etvvw/s1600/IMG_8767.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-25IosE4k9S8/TkM3IlwqWEI/AAAAAAAACJM/yNbIh7Etvvw/s320/IMG_8767.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> My kids love grandma and grandpas dinghy! Behind them is the carnival and municipal marina to the left (free wall to tie up on the right). <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zxGL78n-ZMI/TkM3Leen_HI/AAAAAAAACJQ/WzZ-4sl5OD0/s1600/IMG_8762.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zxGL78n-ZMI/TkM3Leen_HI/AAAAAAAACJQ/WzZ-4sl5OD0/s320/IMG_8762.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> My friend Carrie let us park in her driveway and walk to the Kids Day event close to her home. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iTH6ekeYKOs/TkM3N6kjyhI/AAAAAAAACJU/sX_f-3L7gHc/s1600/IMG_8768.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iTH6ekeYKOs/TkM3N6kjyhI/AAAAAAAACJU/sX_f-3L7gHc/s320/IMG_8768.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> It was a really scenic walk through the woods with lots of hills and trees. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zh-x7Uvr5js/TkM3RbtZBzI/AAAAAAAACJc/L4E7Syq3YFE/s1600/IMG_8769.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zh-x7Uvr5js/TkM3RbtZBzI/AAAAAAAACJc/L4E7Syq3YFE/s320/IMG_8769.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Ryann was super impressed with a girl in the Coast Guard! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--wtfyN8Jxo8/TkM3ULLUbJI/AAAAAAAACJg/oxdOZ7Aa24E/s1600/IMG_8770.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--wtfyN8Jxo8/TkM3ULLUbJI/AAAAAAAACJg/oxdOZ7Aa24E/s320/IMG_8770.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Kids day had a ton of sponsors, fun activities, giveaways and all sorts of great things kids love. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZBJ3C4VQSao/TkM3Vzc1HRI/AAAAAAAACJk/dW4__FwFqvc/s1600/IMG_8771.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZBJ3C4VQSao/TkM3Vzc1HRI/AAAAAAAACJk/dW4__FwFqvc/s320/IMG_8771.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> Scoopee from Culvers is always a hit!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T7ogSPfm0Lg/TkM3YsLAo6I/AAAAAAAACJo/WPBzkGsx5WU/s1600/IMG_8776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T7ogSPfm0Lg/TkM3YsLAo6I/AAAAAAAACJo/WPBzkGsx5WU/s320/IMG_8776.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> Coastie is another favorite among the masses of children.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nXJPUprfFQE/TkM3bUeqqYI/AAAAAAAACJs/zgi__GAbbhU/s1600/IMG_8777.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nXJPUprfFQE/TkM3bUeqqYI/AAAAAAAACJs/zgi__GAbbhU/s320/IMG_8777.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> We opted to do our Home Depot activity in the comfort of our boat. The long lines, humidity with a threat of rain, and crowds made this the better choice. They are even using Jaxons Home Depot tools.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_b7-VZSedXw/TkM3d3mRgEI/AAAAAAAACJ0/xl5S3bBB_-U/s1600/IMG_8782.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_b7-VZSedXw/TkM3d3mRgEI/AAAAAAAACJ0/xl5S3bBB_-U/s320/IMG_8782.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The Coast Guard ships were very impressive. We toured 2 of the 4 and included the Mackinaw! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_EizqItHy0o/TkM3gABEwNI/AAAAAAAACJ4/sXcg9TRFJXU/s1600/IMG_8792.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_EizqItHy0o/TkM3gABEwNI/AAAAAAAACJ4/sXcg9TRFJXU/s320/IMG_8792.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> A view from the helm...what an awesome experience to tour through it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zOXPRYPsUmE/TkM3imM6EHI/AAAAAAAACJ8/xeprnn9g4oo/s1600/IMG_8802.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zOXPRYPsUmE/TkM3imM6EHI/AAAAAAAACJ8/xeprnn9g4oo/s320/IMG_8802.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> Craig's sister, Dee Dee, turned 40 this week and my parents gave her 40 birthday balloons! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BUI46Zklu8A/TkM3ldEt1FI/AAAAAAAACKA/JQQxTDed8tI/s1600/IMG_8809.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BUI46Zklu8A/TkM3ldEt1FI/AAAAAAAACKA/JQQxTDed8tI/s320/IMG_8809.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> It's as if we planned for the two smiley face balloons to be in the photo!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EPO6nZOV9E4/TkM3oDvrXBI/AAAAAAAACKE/-SI5ocqp7J4/s1600/IMG_8811.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EPO6nZOV9E4/TkM3oDvrXBI/AAAAAAAACKE/-SI5ocqp7J4/s320/IMG_8811.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> Grandpa Wes loves his "Little Debbie"....he nicknamed her after her Grandma Debbie due to all of the similarities. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zd-RpJpUlg0/TkM3q8DcgEI/AAAAAAAACKI/QpZeNP7V-_4/s1600/IMG_8818.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zd-RpJpUlg0/TkM3q8DcgEI/AAAAAAAACKI/QpZeNP7V-_4/s320/IMG_8818.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> My Aunt Cindy and sister Michelle threw a great bridal shower for my cousin Christa from Virginia. My sister was unable to come at the last minute as Rob's grandma passed away suddenly. We were sad not to have her and Beth not there. Craig built an addition and remodel to their home last year with a custom kitchen.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qX0FogKZepU/TkM3tlYIhtI/AAAAAAAACKQ/Wf_j8vIWDXU/s1600/IMG_8826.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qX0FogKZepU/TkM3tlYIhtI/AAAAAAAACKQ/Wf_j8vIWDXU/s320/IMG_8826.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> The girls were all dressed up and had a fun time. I did not get a photo of the adults...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-quSzKzPzW98/TkM3wsQhQdI/AAAAAAAACKU/4FCdEjY6BlA/s1600/IMG_8824.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-quSzKzPzW98/TkM3wsQhQdI/AAAAAAAACKU/4FCdEjY6BlA/s320/IMG_8824.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Dee's husband, Mark, threw a huge surprise party at the Score for her. When she lifted her hand up like this I thought she was going to smack him for what he did..haha! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sw9oPqsFtFw/TkM3zFrvWzI/AAAAAAAACKY/cbwExSnAW0I/s1600/IMG_8829.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sw9oPqsFtFw/TkM3zFrvWzI/AAAAAAAACKY/cbwExSnAW0I/s320/IMG_8829.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> About 80 people were there to help her celebrate and it was a great time. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ax17PCTGnmw/TkM327f0YII/AAAAAAAACKc/vgnO8ENJzKU/s1600/IMG_8831.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ax17PCTGnmw/TkM327f0YII/AAAAAAAACKc/vgnO8ENJzKU/s320/IMG_8831.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> For over three years we have stored our belongings at Craigs parents home in Ada. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OuQMc25LW-Y/TkM35jPwKoI/AAAAAAAACKg/37y1h-tPuXA/s1600/IMG_8756.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OuQMc25LW-Y/TkM35jPwKoI/AAAAAAAACKg/37y1h-tPuXA/s320/IMG_8756.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> Again...that's THREE years of being homeless...living on the RV from June 15, 2008, on to the boat, then a temporary rental for the winter months and back onto the boat. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RKL7MMzpb2Y/TkM38f1s2CI/AAAAAAAACKk/nAj_41wGYLg/s1600/IMG_8757.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RKL7MMzpb2Y/TkM38f1s2CI/AAAAAAAACKk/nAj_41wGYLg/s320/IMG_8757.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q3iSuA9_5B8/TkM3_KPwJzI/AAAAAAAACKs/88bIBwT1mEE/s1600/IMG_8758.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q3iSuA9_5B8/TkM3_KPwJzI/AAAAAAAACKs/88bIBwT1mEE/s320/IMG_8758.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>We're ready for our next adventure....living in a home, school, jobs, etc. <br />
It's probably time to settle down for awhile. <br />
<br />
</div>Parrent Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14096024725430067991noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605915790391064139.post-64591381469767837062011-07-26T05:32:00.000-07:002011-07-26T06:34:04.669-07:00Summer in Michigan<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">My friend Carrie met us at an anchorage with these beautiful flowers first thing the next morning that we arrived in port. My sister still had the kids so we had a great chance to catch up, get some sun and enjoy the day. We rafted off to John and Carrie, Bernie and Mike for the day. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ucP1i3n0NNo/TimGKYj3m1I/AAAAAAAACG4/e8cIrkBug8A/s1600/IMG_8507.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ucP1i3n0NNo/TimGKYj3m1I/AAAAAAAACG4/e8cIrkBug8A/s320/IMG_8507.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>My brother-in-law Rob (Michelle's husbands) parents' Mike and Carolyne came for a visit at the Spears house and we celebrated "Grams" birthday with a huge plate of brownies. Michelle made a great dinner too and it was so nice to see them again. On our boat trip we went to their home in the Bradenton area of Florida's west coast during the Christmas holiday.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uwZoXte7QIk/TimGTBI2qII/AAAAAAAACG8/QxNjHhWi76M/s1600/IMG_8541.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uwZoXte7QIk/TimGTBI2qII/AAAAAAAACG8/QxNjHhWi76M/s320/IMG_8541.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The girls made up three dances full of cartwheels and acrobats and did a great job!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_3tRMzdbr7g/TimGaI_iOwI/AAAAAAAACHA/J8zg0v_qux0/s1600/IMG_8528.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_3tRMzdbr7g/TimGaI_iOwI/AAAAAAAACHA/J8zg0v_qux0/s320/IMG_8528.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The boys danced to two songs as we sat on their comfy couch (oops my toes made it into the photo). It was fun to hang out in her big beautiful home again. She took the kids to see a few movies in the theatre, out for pizza and ice cream, over to the country club for swimming in the pool and so much more. They have a great big tree house out back that the kids loved playing in and time flew by fast! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tcm8JCD1bQk/TimGgHkpejI/AAAAAAAACHE/QSH-w89M5KI/s1600/IMG_8535.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tcm8JCD1bQk/TimGgHkpejI/AAAAAAAACHE/QSH-w89M5KI/s320/IMG_8535.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Sweet little Bella, the Spears family dog, styling her new winter jacket. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OBLpLsrmpv0/TimGlx33geI/AAAAAAAACHM/lx5ZQnliRRU/s1600/IMG_8543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OBLpLsrmpv0/TimGlx33geI/AAAAAAAACHM/lx5ZQnliRRU/s320/IMG_8543.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I ended up spending 8 hours on the road to get to my sisters. My parents planted a car in Grand Haven so we could get Craig's truck in Boyne City. Then all the way down past Ann Arbor to my sisters to get the kids and back across the state to Grand Haven to the boat was another 3 hours. It's good to be home! <br />
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Lot's of cousin time!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Hty75Cl4Zu4/TimGsI_EqrI/AAAAAAAACHQ/j2sFMpKEJXA/s1600/IMG_8549.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Hty75Cl4Zu4/TimGsI_EqrI/AAAAAAAACHQ/j2sFMpKEJXA/s320/IMG_8549.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Nothing like a July summer in Michigan! Family joined us in Smith's Bayou in Spring Lake (inside the port of Grand Haven) for a day of swimming and anchoring out with friends. We rafted up next to John and Carrie, Steve and Sharon, Wayne and Shari and Tab and Renee's boat. It was hot and fun!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xOxMHh-hV1c/TimGyeHE9QI/AAAAAAAACHU/LABDW5Hevw0/s1600/IMG_8567.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xOxMHh-hV1c/TimGyeHE9QI/AAAAAAAACHU/LABDW5Hevw0/s320/IMG_8567.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Our friend, Tab, really pulled Carrie around on this raft with his teeth! Ha, it was so funny!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y5I6oqJNYz0/TimG51oYvUI/AAAAAAAACHY/kOblsRHaw70/s1600/IMG_8554.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y5I6oqJNYz0/TimG51oYvUI/AAAAAAAACHY/kOblsRHaw70/s320/IMG_8554.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Craig diving off the aft deck of our boat. I think jumping the 17 feet is scarey enough...but he needs to do it head first and take it to a whole new level.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eqMAd_q8uWw/TimHAp6w0iI/AAAAAAAACHc/MduL3qgrozQ/s1600/IMG_8559.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eqMAd_q8uWw/TimHAp6w0iI/AAAAAAAACHc/MduL3qgrozQ/s320/IMG_8559.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Jaxon has never been the first one into the lake, but it was hot enough to get him in and he had a riot!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5vSVhtwRdFw/TimHHDMP9VI/AAAAAAAACHg/VFRJHQUY8hg/s1600/IMG_8564.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5vSVhtwRdFw/TimHHDMP9VI/AAAAAAAACHg/VFRJHQUY8hg/s320/IMG_8564.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Craig, Tab and John (Carrie's husband), jumping off the aft deck. They did a half dozen times and made a huge splash!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g6xE3E6oQfo/TimHL-D9VsI/AAAAAAAACHo/w08PqMtBhXk/s1600/IMG_8572.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g6xE3E6oQfo/TimHL-D9VsI/AAAAAAAACHo/w08PqMtBhXk/s320/IMG_8572.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>A view from the water! I love my digital underwater camera!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-weO8WHOPoFU/Ti7BayrQy_I/AAAAAAAACI4/ITivJln8Mz8/s1600/DSCF1386.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-weO8WHOPoFU/Ti7BayrQy_I/AAAAAAAACI4/ITivJln8Mz8/s320/DSCF1386.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
The kids couldn't run up there fast enough to keep jumping!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-boypMbZrCJU/TimHQi33BXI/AAAAAAAACHs/7OzwIopI8Ck/s1600/IMG_8582.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-boypMbZrCJU/TimHQi33BXI/AAAAAAAACHs/7OzwIopI8Ck/s320/IMG_8582.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Ryann's shelf needed to be cleaned, so she took the opportunity to play!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9c6BsS1PKS8/TimHXPEHtyI/AAAAAAAACHw/zILEbLu0UXI/s1600/IMG_8550.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9c6BsS1PKS8/TimHXPEHtyI/AAAAAAAACHw/zILEbLu0UXI/s320/IMG_8550.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>The kids were so proud of Craig getting a job that we threw a celebration! Any reason to make cake.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IUlqotmtYHY/TimHdO7MiII/AAAAAAAACH0/jfENy0RYOwA/s1600/IMG_8551.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IUlqotmtYHY/TimHdO7MiII/AAAAAAAACH0/jfENy0RYOwA/s320/IMG_8551.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Craig's first day at work was a sweltering hot one. He's owned those 'lucky boots' for 15 years and now has to duck tape them together. He worked on Spring Lake doing some dock construction for a friend. He's now working in the Grand Rapids area putting a trim crew together and tackling a 4,500 SF home for a high end reputable builder in town. Reality is setting in and he's gone from 6:00 am till 6:00 pm most days. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BTMvPwNOUGY/TimHoOU6p0I/AAAAAAAACH4/5cORQsENHro/s1600/IMG_8601.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BTMvPwNOUGY/TimHoOU6p0I/AAAAAAAACH4/5cORQsENHro/s320/IMG_8601.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The "Red Bull" girls were passing out free drinks at the park!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KfIiZzhUI-8/TimHuptlQ8I/AAAAAAAACH8/_sdsoTr79jg/s1600/IMG_8630.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KfIiZzhUI-8/TimHuptlQ8I/AAAAAAAACH8/_sdsoTr79jg/s320/IMG_8630.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>My sister Michelle and Derek came for a visit and we enjoyed their company very much.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IkHOw1Q4VCU/TimHz6P6knI/AAAAAAAACIA/YXkPsTJ5ehY/s1600/IMG_8606.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IkHOw1Q4VCU/TimHz6P6knI/AAAAAAAACIA/YXkPsTJ5ehY/s320/IMG_8606.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Derek and Jaxon are still inseparable. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8SI9fdWyS0g/TimH5CixobI/AAAAAAAACII/llpf7U3Yszc/s1600/IMG_8603.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8SI9fdWyS0g/TimH5CixobI/AAAAAAAACII/llpf7U3Yszc/s320/IMG_8603.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Hot roddin at the skate park!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7m8GlTGq3go/TimH91yqZKI/AAAAAAAACIM/r0d2QajBNHE/s1600/IMG_8612.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7m8GlTGq3go/TimH91yqZKI/AAAAAAAACIM/r0d2QajBNHE/s320/IMG_8612.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>We missed Elizabeth, my niece, as she was at camp all week. It was rather hard to get a photo of all the kids at one time.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bF_iNosjjd4/TimIFG7KnPI/AAAAAAAACIQ/BNw07rtsiuY/s1600/IMG_8618.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bF_iNosjjd4/TimIFG7KnPI/AAAAAAAACIQ/BNw07rtsiuY/s320/IMG_8618.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>It was so hot during the day, that we opted to do the beach in the evening. 25 knot winds made for fun waves to play in. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zz5QYkPNOHo/TimIL65WhXI/AAAAAAAACIU/C0eSjCk8yQw/s1600/IMG_8642.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zz5QYkPNOHo/TimIL65WhXI/AAAAAAAACIU/C0eSjCk8yQw/s320/IMG_8642.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Best buds!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7I1EpWp4O0Q/TimIUsBgAzI/AAAAAAAACIY/dxsr4Km8AB8/s1600/IMG_8634.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7I1EpWp4O0Q/TimIUsBgAzI/AAAAAAAACIY/dxsr4Km8AB8/s320/IMG_8634.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>North Shore beach has a park, pavillion and path down to the beach! Run Jaxon run - there's no other way for him to go!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m5yOgHu5_AA/TimIaF5K6_I/AAAAAAAACIc/UHQBdsI-eUg/s1600/IMG_8643.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m5yOgHu5_AA/TimIaF5K6_I/AAAAAAAACIc/UHQBdsI-eUg/s320/IMG_8643.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>My dad took me out car shopping (photo to come), and my mom took the kids (with Alexander and Emily) to our Maxine's house to go swimming. She is going to be 95 in September and is an unbelievable woman. She was swimming with the kids and full of great conversation and energy. She worked at McDonalds until she was 90! Just amazing and inspiring!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EsknjIJLZmQ/TimIkRpclWI/AAAAAAAACIk/Zdi5PjySyDE/s1600/IMG_8654.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EsknjIJLZmQ/TimIkRpclWI/AAAAAAAACIk/Zdi5PjySyDE/s320/IMG_8654.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>She has the best pool and the kids played the whole day! My mom barely left the pool all day.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B7UcSek_vGs/TimJAuWg25I/AAAAAAAACIo/LKhzqgGC2bk/s1600/IMG_8653.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B7UcSek_vGs/TimJAuWg25I/AAAAAAAACIo/LKhzqgGC2bk/s320/IMG_8653.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Grand Haven is a great place to pick your own blueberries. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yy6FGxL0o44/Ti7B4KCVxWI/AAAAAAAACI8/Hh4jqW5A4pA/s1600/IMG_8677.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yy6FGxL0o44/Ti7B4KCVxWI/AAAAAAAACI8/Hh4jqW5A4pA/s320/IMG_8677.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Jaxon was on a mission to fill his belly and bucket.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oVFJN4cwTKY/Ti7CHJpxILI/AAAAAAAACJA/zo7ijHUJR2E/s1600/IMG_8672.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oVFJN4cwTKY/Ti7CHJpxILI/AAAAAAAACJA/zo7ijHUJR2E/s320/IMG_8672.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Next posting will be the reality of life as we see it now to include our new cars and home....the next adventure! Off to packing now!!<br />
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</div>Parrent Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14096024725430067991noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605915790391064139.post-28183846340268973662011-07-22T07:12:00.000-07:002011-07-22T07:12:12.452-07:00Going home to Grand Haven, Michigan<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">On our boating journey we pretty much cruised at 8-9 mph on water. Now near our hometown with support from our family and accessible cars, we find ourselves traveling 60-70 mph on land. From Boyne City we took my parents car back to Grand Rapids for a visit.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TCGzePT9AZw/Tily_kxwjoI/AAAAAAAACFg/gx4JiE4hkiE/s1600/IMG_8231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TCGzePT9AZw/Tily_kxwjoI/AAAAAAAACFg/gx4JiE4hkiE/s320/IMG_8231.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> It's good to be with our family and friends again. Gathering for great conversation, meals and hugs, you can always feel the love when you're close to them. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-voUoNgalu5Q/TilzIGIGvWI/AAAAAAAACFk/0pEQFyhi1uI/s1600/IMG_8241.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-voUoNgalu5Q/TilzIGIGvWI/AAAAAAAACFk/0pEQFyhi1uI/s320/IMG_8241.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The cousins were so happy to be together again and it was a constant celebration! On left is my nephew Alexander who is almost 12 and my niece Emily who is 9. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XO9MYsbBU0U/TilzN4mC7PI/AAAAAAAACFo/aD9xGGt_GsQ/s1600/IMG_8238.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XO9MYsbBU0U/TilzN4mC7PI/AAAAAAAACFo/aD9xGGt_GsQ/s320/IMG_8238.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> While we were away there was a new addition to the family, GIZMO!! He's a playful puppy and the kids had a riot chasing him around. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5gBivlVHTlo/TilzUGtaWYI/AAAAAAAACFs/MrG-3HhNZy4/s1600/IMG_8242.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5gBivlVHTlo/TilzUGtaWYI/AAAAAAAACFs/MrG-3HhNZy4/s320/IMG_8242.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> This is Craig's big sister, Dee Dee and one of my very closest friends. We've missed her so much as we weren't able to connect during our entire boat trip.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eXTkWYfRVpc/TilzaP2OetI/AAAAAAAACF0/SbluygiOQ0E/s1600/IMG_8236.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eXTkWYfRVpc/TilzaP2OetI/AAAAAAAACF0/SbluygiOQ0E/s320/IMG_8236.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> It didn't take long for the cousins to get back into the swing of things together and on land. Alexander is riding my old bike when I was his age. Notice the long banana seat...haha, it was my favorite bike!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--ZkEPXTPLFY/TilzhQVcxFI/AAAAAAAACF4/WMLNYUSfxg0/s1600/IMG_8243.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--ZkEPXTPLFY/TilzhQVcxFI/AAAAAAAACF4/WMLNYUSfxg0/s320/IMG_8243.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> We had another addition to the family, my niece Annabelle was born!! She's absolutely adorable and I could barely put her down. On left is my other niece Dalilah who has changed so much as well. Their parents are Stephanie (Craig's step sister) and Kurt (oops no photo).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qz3KUH12inI/TilznhpZ6LI/AAAAAAAACF8/wvNnuEzO9Vk/s1600/IMG_8260.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qz3KUH12inI/TilznhpZ6LI/AAAAAAAACF8/wvNnuEzO9Vk/s320/IMG_8260.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Grandpa Rich and Annabelle as we ate brunch in their lovely home (that Craig built)! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h65BPKU3MtE/TilztANWTHI/AAAAAAAACGA/mYVGpLXy1wY/s1600/IMG_8267.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h65BPKU3MtE/TilztANWTHI/AAAAAAAACGA/mYVGpLXy1wY/s320/IMG_8267.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Grandma Debbie made a delicious meal and we were all so happy to be together again. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g4-w7Q5Mtxs/TilzzIBK6GI/AAAAAAAACGE/BCzkM2ARv4k/s1600/IMG_8268.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g4-w7Q5Mtxs/TilzzIBK6GI/AAAAAAAACGE/BCzkM2ARv4k/s320/IMG_8268.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Grandma Yvonne played with the kids nonstop and I liked this action shot of the ball in mid air. You can see my Dad is a big license plate collector and in his shop they cover all four walls and then some!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0t2kz8076DE/Tilz5DLSf4I/AAAAAAAACGI/0OT1zleBRU4/s1600/IMG_8269.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0t2kz8076DE/Tilz5DLSf4I/AAAAAAAACGI/0OT1zleBRU4/s320/IMG_8269.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> My parents took the girls to see Shrek the Musical, a play in downtown Grand Rapids at the auditorium. We heard later it was a fabulous time!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ryGXHxCRw6o/Til0BPqdYLI/AAAAAAAACGQ/ZP13WTTWOuc/s1600/IMG_8280.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ryGXHxCRw6o/Til0BPqdYLI/AAAAAAAACGQ/ZP13WTTWOuc/s320/IMG_8280.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Sleepover for everyone when we are living 4 hours away from the family! My parents, Craig's parents and Dee's family all live within a three mile distance. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iuN-JX16eN8/Til0IVO4VrI/AAAAAAAACGU/xatYDt0WjL4/s1600/IMG_8283.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iuN-JX16eN8/Til0IVO4VrI/AAAAAAAACGU/xatYDt0WjL4/s320/IMG_8283.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> My goddaughter, Lily, and her new little baby kittens at my cousin Kelli's home. I have a good excuse now why we can't take any home because of living on the boat - haha!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-38LcQ2feeaI/Til0O2H_lPI/AAAAAAAACGY/u4RYsBVWOeY/s1600/IMG_8289.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-38LcQ2feeaI/Til0O2H_lPI/AAAAAAAACGY/u4RYsBVWOeY/s320/IMG_8289.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>My sister Michelle could tell that I needed some time to regroup and insisted on taking the kids for FOUR days. We hadn't had a babysitter since my family came around the New Year holiday. She lives in 5,000 square foot beautiful home and the kids were so excited to get spoiled by her! My niece, Elizabeth, is 11 and now stands 5'2" and wears a size 9 shoe. She's growing up so very quickly. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2v2q0oVjD3I/Til0TrMoRxI/AAAAAAAACGc/HAuLZN_7JGI/s1600/IMG_8483.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2v2q0oVjD3I/Til0TrMoRxI/AAAAAAAACGc/HAuLZN_7JGI/s320/IMG_8483.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> My nephew, Derek, is 7 and is Jaxon's best friend. Once they're together you can't separate them at all! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fZTwMKh5SRM/Til0ZV3CRhI/AAAAAAAACGg/9PSTwDkLGpc/s1600/IMG_8481.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fZTwMKh5SRM/Til0ZV3CRhI/AAAAAAAACGg/9PSTwDkLGpc/s320/IMG_8481.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Our last 175 mile stretch of the Great Loop journey got us officially to cross our wake in Grand Haven, Michigan. Craig and I enjoyed this time of reflecting about our lives and path ahead. With calm seas it made for a great time to play Scrabble too. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m3cGROmlclg/Til0fXo7uDI/AAAAAAAACGk/2zUlC4-GzD8/s1600/IMG_8504.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m3cGROmlclg/Til0fXo7uDI/AAAAAAAACGk/2zUlC4-GzD8/s320/IMG_8504.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Nothing like the great depths of the great lakes. You can see here we are in 588 feet! On the course of our trip, depth seemed to play a factor in many areas.....the great lakes not being one of them. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N69yKdz0BG8/Til0nBCvwBI/AAAAAAAACGs/ogKKLZgFYvk/s1600/IMG_8487.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N69yKdz0BG8/Til0nBCvwBI/AAAAAAAACGs/ogKKLZgFYvk/s320/IMG_8487.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Our first night anchorage was at the South Manitou Island. It was a calm beautiful night.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ISVfkU4E_q4/Til0qtSWoTI/AAAAAAAACGw/rcZoCls6fiM/s1600/IMG_8497.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ISVfkU4E_q4/Til0qtSWoTI/AAAAAAAACGw/rcZoCls6fiM/s320/IMG_8497.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> We traveled all day long the following day and ended up watching the sunset and pulling into the port of Grand Haven at 12:00 midnight exactly! We are very happy with our decision to come home as we once contemplated moving to the northern Michigan region at one time. Once we made our decision to head south we were two hours underway and Craig received a call for an awesome job opportunity. In the end, we will enjoy being close to our family and friends and it'll be nice to settle down in what has always felt like home in Grand Haven! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SN6V6y3a52w/Til0u3GUANI/AAAAAAAACG0/FwBYrhwiFrI/s1600/IMG_8495.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SN6V6y3a52w/Til0u3GUANI/AAAAAAAACG0/FwBYrhwiFrI/s320/IMG_8495.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Next post coming soon! More fun times in Grand Haven and re-entry into the real world on land! </div>Parrent Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14096024725430067991noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605915790391064139.post-87553083155652769952011-07-11T11:38:00.000-07:002011-07-11T11:38:39.693-07:00Boyne City, MichiganOne Water Street Marina in Boyne City was a great stop. The new marina is in Lake Charlevoix and the heart of the city. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oCsfvCnUqiQ/Thsp5W9e16I/AAAAAAAACDg/pAWnkkpCBfQ/s1600/IMG_8304.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oCsfvCnUqiQ/Thsp5W9e16I/AAAAAAAACDg/pAWnkkpCBfQ/s320/IMG_8304.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> A short walk away was a fantastic park that we went to daily for some good exercise and meeting other kids. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4DmOGmbfcLU/ThsqALB6xPI/AAAAAAAACDk/g_clxQZjYCk/s1600/IMG_8307.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4DmOGmbfcLU/ThsqALB6xPI/AAAAAAAACDk/g_clxQZjYCk/s320/IMG_8307.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Car, job and house hunting has been top on our list now that we've entered into Michigan again. Jaxon wasn't as excited about all of this fun stuff to do!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nexlplmuPAw/ThsqIkA3QEI/AAAAAAAACDs/HlIz0djoB1s/s1600/IMG_8312.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nexlplmuPAw/ThsqIkA3QEI/AAAAAAAACDs/HlIz0djoB1s/s320/IMG_8312.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> My parents, Art and Yvonne, came for a visit over the holiday weekend and we enjoyed being together. It was an active weekend of going to the beach, kayaking, bike riding and Fourth of July festivities.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W8p3J2Gbd6s/ThsqNFlSQ0I/AAAAAAAACDw/uu8SvbqsGsI/s1600/IMG_8362.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W8p3J2Gbd6s/ThsqNFlSQ0I/AAAAAAAACDw/uu8SvbqsGsI/s320/IMG_8362.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Craig's sister, Dee, came up from Grand Rapids with my niece Emily 9 and nephew Alexander 11. The kids were so excited to be with their cousins again. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-COiJDsx6Yvg/ThsqSh5EidI/AAAAAAAACD0/BGpeE9JoM4E/s1600/IMG_8367.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-COiJDsx6Yvg/ThsqSh5EidI/AAAAAAAACD0/BGpeE9JoM4E/s320/IMG_8367.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> The kids went from one thing to another and it was nonstop fun all weekend long. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-au4Y3SU6XmE/ThsqaYpPAnI/AAAAAAAACD4/qAPgdeSiWOM/s1600/IMG_8372.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-au4Y3SU6XmE/ThsqaYpPAnI/AAAAAAAACD4/qAPgdeSiWOM/s320/IMG_8372.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> We went to a great anchorage and played all day long in the sun. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EKz_dw9tAoM/ThsqpogS5FI/AAAAAAAACD8/LPJI5xIdVOI/s1600/IMG_8375.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EKz_dw9tAoM/ThsqpogS5FI/AAAAAAAACD8/LPJI5xIdVOI/s320/IMG_8375.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The kids loved having a sleepover in the aft deck. It was a nice night and they giggled until after 11:00. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hn_CIEKhmy0/ThsqvHj-G7I/AAAAAAAACEA/EJQXfPs7xtY/s1600/IMG_8386.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hn_CIEKhmy0/ThsqvHj-G7I/AAAAAAAACEA/EJQXfPs7xtY/s320/IMG_8386.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> My dad, Art, tucked the kids into bed with his 'light-up' glasses. The kids laughed like crazy. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CnuUJweQRww/ThsqxwK7ByI/AAAAAAAACEE/iZGcyrO2HZ0/s1600/IMG_8382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CnuUJweQRww/ThsqxwK7ByI/AAAAAAAACEE/iZGcyrO2HZ0/s320/IMG_8382.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The Fourth of July parade was great with a ton of floats, marching band and thousands of people watching.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dpRrmMy5UPU/Thsq7bJ4IfI/AAAAAAAACEM/0IMCNGjEMrI/s1600/IMG_8397.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dpRrmMy5UPU/Thsq7bJ4IfI/AAAAAAAACEM/0IMCNGjEMrI/s320/IMG_8397.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> It was a sweltering hot morning as the kids sat on the concrete. Jaxon dropped the toy in his hand down the drain moments after the picture was taken.....I should have seen it coming.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iraX3zgTAW0/ThsrBf0YwiI/AAAAAAAACEQ/hzmXlfKQTqU/s1600/IMG_8392.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iraX3zgTAW0/ThsrBf0YwiI/AAAAAAAACEQ/hzmXlfKQTqU/s320/IMG_8392.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> After the parade was a pie eating contest and our kids were the first ones in line.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rj2bPRLFuRo/ThsrJcdpdAI/AAAAAAAACEU/y46FeMHRrhs/s1600/IMG_8400.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rj2bPRLFuRo/ThsrJcdpdAI/AAAAAAAACEU/y46FeMHRrhs/s320/IMG_8400.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Jaxon doesn't even really like pie, but he was a trooper and came seconds away from winning. Not bad even with his gag reflex going off a few times. Big sister Ryann stood right at his back patting him with encouraging words.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m9RA3rZtvks/ThsrWFrx2OI/AAAAAAAACEY/K3tYugvm5gQ/s1600/IMG_8416.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m9RA3rZtvks/ThsrWFrx2OI/AAAAAAAACEY/K3tYugvm5gQ/s320/IMG_8416.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Ryann took the whole experience pretty seriously and did a great job!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qefW9_MjeBs/ThsrdIXzBgI/AAAAAAAACEc/vrTY2Zt3gU4/s1600/IMG_8418.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qefW9_MjeBs/ThsrdIXzBgI/AAAAAAAACEc/vrTY2Zt3gU4/s320/IMG_8418.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The three oldest children competed against eachother and although we had no official winners in the family that day, they all did their best.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iV8cNRkYDf8/ThsrmadvJaI/AAAAAAAACEg/p32xB7TfovM/s1600/IMG_8425.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iV8cNRkYDf8/ThsrmadvJaI/AAAAAAAACEg/p32xB7TfovM/s320/IMG_8425.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Lot's of fun prizes all around and excitement to be had!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ahu3OxYoPRU/ThsrtHUy0mI/AAAAAAAACEk/cuYRbeQtj-Q/s1600/IMG_8435.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ahu3OxYoPRU/ThsrtHUy0mI/AAAAAAAACEk/cuYRbeQtj-Q/s320/IMG_8435.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> After the contest the games began. Ryann and Emily were on a relay team with their friend whom they met at the park last week. They put life jackets on and ran around cones.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ejCwK7P4HKE/Thsr0MHpl1I/AAAAAAAACE0/-jSJkcT7VAg/s1600/IMG_8441.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ejCwK7P4HKE/Thsr0MHpl1I/AAAAAAAACE0/-jSJkcT7VAg/s320/IMG_8441.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Jaxon looked so cute in his bean bag hopping so fast he took first place in his age group!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-45GUUsgUOs4/Thsr6iyx5fI/AAAAAAAACE4/nI1rFBNi_H8/s1600/IMG_8447.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-45GUUsgUOs4/Thsr6iyx5fI/AAAAAAAACE4/nI1rFBNi_H8/s320/IMG_8447.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> Our new friend and slip mate, Bruce, is also the owner of Alpine Chocolate Haus in downtown Boyne City. He has a 35 Chris Craft Catalina and was a joy to talk to. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lpEKv_7nP2Y/ThssABQGTVI/AAAAAAAACE8/68cDCbOjC08/s1600/IMG_8460.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lpEKv_7nP2Y/ThssABQGTVI/AAAAAAAACE8/68cDCbOjC08/s320/IMG_8460.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> One day he came over with the most delicious carmel apples. One had cinnamon on it and tasted like a pie, another was dipped in chocolate, carmel and pecans....yummmm.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NNFgHo1U91Q/ThssE2AJ18I/AAAAAAAACFA/AX-2FHWkSIA/s1600/IMG_8462.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NNFgHo1U91Q/ThssE2AJ18I/AAAAAAAACFA/AX-2FHWkSIA/s320/IMG_8462.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Morgan, Ryann, Alexander and Emily worked together to build their own sailboat. The mast was completed once their cousins left.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yHPxm9vQbfc/ThssXdo46xI/AAAAAAAACFE/UAgqEWDvzHw/s1600/IMG_8468.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yHPxm9vQbfc/ThssXdo46xI/AAAAAAAACFE/UAgqEWDvzHw/s320/IMG_8468.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> They set sail and watched the wind blow her around the docks.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Drq4uHgjxjc/ThsshGNKLJI/AAAAAAAACFM/m3opELanHtE/s1600/IMG_8474.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Drq4uHgjxjc/ThsshGNKLJI/AAAAAAAACFM/m3opELanHtE/s320/IMG_8474.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> Grandma Yvonne and Grandpa Art treated us to delicious ice cream from the Alpine Chocolate Haus.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E4TqTTFw94Q/Thssm9aAuEI/AAAAAAAACFY/qojm5Pg-nvE/s1600/IMG_8476.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E4TqTTFw94Q/Thssm9aAuEI/AAAAAAAACFY/qojm5Pg-nvE/s320/IMG_8476.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The night wasn't complete without Ryann and her conch shell. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nyiByGUh9X0/Thsss7a84lI/AAAAAAAACFc/3-9BNbz9Wdc/s1600/IMG_8477.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nyiByGUh9X0/Thsss7a84lI/AAAAAAAACFc/3-9BNbz9Wdc/s320/IMG_8477.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Life is very busy these days as we try and figure out re-entering into this new way of life. There's a lot to figure out and decisions to be made. Were working through it slowly, but know that the kids would like to settle into a home and go back into a traditional classroom setting in less than two months. Time is already flying by so fast.Parrent Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14096024725430067991noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605915790391064139.post-7763998730517067242011-06-30T20:58:00.000-07:002011-06-30T20:58:20.865-07:00Mackinaw Island, Michigan<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">We made our way into Mackinaw Island, Michigan and anchored in the harbor. Upon reading Active Captain we knew it wouldn't be the best anchorage, but decided to try anyways. We had a great spot with good holding and good night sleep.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QrcqSH-M2Tc/Tg0w8Q76SYI/AAAAAAAACCI/XITlh4Dkan0/s1600/IMG_8179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QrcqSH-M2Tc/Tg0w8Q76SYI/AAAAAAAACCI/XITlh4Dkan0/s320/IMG_8179.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The island of course is full of horses and the kids loved everyone of them!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iZ4EUX9m24M/Tg0xBAlmTYI/AAAAAAAACCM/yL1_Xvh2XR8/s1600/IMG_8181.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iZ4EUX9m24M/Tg0xBAlmTYI/AAAAAAAACCM/yL1_Xvh2XR8/s320/IMG_8181.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> A great view of the Mackinaw Bridge which connects the lower state of Michigan to the upper peninsula. To the left a sailboat and next to that the typical ferry boat that runs all day long to the mainland. This is a great view from the park. As luck would have it we arrived on a very cold, rainy, windy day and opted not to bike around the island (which we have done many times in years past). <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ut7WnE4Tg9Q/Tg0xEu-E-ZI/AAAAAAAACCQ/qXXTSYcf-PY/s1600/IMG_8191.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ut7WnE4Tg9Q/Tg0xEu-E-ZI/AAAAAAAACCQ/qXXTSYcf-PY/s320/IMG_8191.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The Grand Hotel's name says it all. It's always impressive to see it again.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8RAqgImXCF8/Tg0xHFOGIEI/AAAAAAAACCU/LGJYBcBi9Kg/s1600/IMG_8192.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8RAqgImXCF8/Tg0xHFOGIEI/AAAAAAAACCU/LGJYBcBi9Kg/s320/IMG_8192.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The bushes on the lower left are sculpted to look like a horse and carriage. This beautiful sight is right next to the Grand Hotel.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bmzMWMA7oGU/Tg0xK0S1wTI/AAAAAAAACCY/SMYf4HGyhf4/s1600/IMG_8194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bmzMWMA7oGU/Tg0xK0S1wTI/AAAAAAAACCY/SMYf4HGyhf4/s320/IMG_8194.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Bikes, bikes, bikes...they are everywhere and the best transportation on the island as there are no cars! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D-ZhkM0-xeY/Tg0xOg2ZBBI/AAAAAAAACCg/aovqaX-YC2M/s1600/IMG_8196.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D-ZhkM0-xeY/Tg0xOg2ZBBI/AAAAAAAACCg/aovqaX-YC2M/s320/IMG_8196.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> A street sweeper...but of course it's pulled by horses.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9vk2oGBwc7s/Tg0xS0cqIkI/AAAAAAAACCk/roySZ2NSeqU/s1600/IMG_8199.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9vk2oGBwc7s/Tg0xS0cqIkI/AAAAAAAACCk/roySZ2NSeqU/s320/IMG_8199.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> After a long day at the island, great dinner and fun we headed back to the Negotiator to find our anchorage had turned rather bad. The wind shifted directions and the boat was taking it hard on the beam. Mix in the ferry wakes and it was quite uncomfortable. I called the marina and the dockmaster insisted that his marina had no protection from the wind as well and not to bother coming in. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lCUlc9sW_8Y/Tg0xWk5bTkI/AAAAAAAACCo/WYaTMD0SRs8/s1600/IMG_8207.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lCUlc9sW_8Y/Tg0xWk5bTkI/AAAAAAAACCo/WYaTMD0SRs8/s320/IMG_8207.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The moment we crossed our wake was a glorious day! We purchased the boat in St. Clair Shores, Michigan and brought it back the 500 miles to Grand Haven, MI a few years ago. This point would be our official 'crossing' but we look forward to having the boat back in Grand Haven some day where we left last Aug. 2010. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fZXJeu8gKTk/Tg06l9HQLVI/AAAAAAAACDc/0ZPoGgRrym0/s1600/IMG_8213.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fZXJeu8gKTk/Tg06l9HQLVI/AAAAAAAACDc/0ZPoGgRrym0/s320/IMG_8213.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>On the island Jaxon found a great toy....Super Looper! I believe he is the youngest "Looper" on record. Does anyone know different??<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X-wpq6_5HQU/Tg0xaJtFB3I/AAAAAAAACCs/bLTngWWOGkw/s1600/IMG_8187.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X-wpq6_5HQU/Tg0xaJtFB3I/AAAAAAAACCs/bLTngWWOGkw/s320/IMG_8187.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> My Super Looper lost his first tooth at four years old! He was happy and unsure of it all at the same time. Talk about bad karma....he was biting his big sister Morgan when it happened...yikes! His mode of self defense that day from some pesky older sibling....<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_bVGLKOMz6o/Tg0xhhX6T9I/AAAAAAAACC0/pqN5kcwuxpo/s1600/IMG_8222.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_bVGLKOMz6o/Tg0xhhX6T9I/AAAAAAAACC0/pqN5kcwuxpo/s320/IMG_8222.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> My grandfather, Wes Myrick, (my mom Yvonne's dad) has been a huge supporter of our adventures/travels and has come to see us three times along our journey. I really appreciate all of his love and at 87 years old he's a lot of fun to be with and always comes with tons of hugs!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UabJnxwLx9E/Tg0xmU5LhdI/AAAAAAAACC4/tVXOWGtaE6Q/s1600/IMG_8228.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UabJnxwLx9E/Tg0xmU5LhdI/AAAAAAAACC4/tVXOWGtaE6Q/s320/IMG_8228.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> My Uncle Ron (on right) came with my grandpa as they were heading to the Bay Harbor boat and car show over the weekend and featuring my Dad's old 1948 Woody Station Wagon that we owned for around 25 years!. It was so nice to see family and we enjoyed a warm evening over cocktail hour in the cockpit!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tQiV0l7Im1s/Tg0xq8a8ykI/AAAAAAAACC8/ELsW9nQvAKQ/s1600/IMG_8229.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tQiV0l7Im1s/Tg0xq8a8ykI/AAAAAAAACC8/ELsW9nQvAKQ/s320/IMG_8229.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>A little late....but the Big Chute photo's from the digital camera Craig was using. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7nrRTBhRk1w/Tg0yqNE1sdI/AAAAAAAACDE/QWpvDIQzye0/s1600/DSCF1331.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7nrRTBhRk1w/Tg0yqNE1sdI/AAAAAAAACDE/QWpvDIQzye0/s320/DSCF1331.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> It was a long ways down and kids loved it!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-shUFSeU1LhQ/Tg0yvD2-Z4I/AAAAAAAACDI/suFgNfl7fc4/s1600/DSCF1332.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-shUFSeU1LhQ/Tg0yvD2-Z4I/AAAAAAAACDI/suFgNfl7fc4/s320/DSCF1332.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> I have a ton of different photos of our kayaking times on the 'underwater digital camera' that I forgot to include in my blog. This photo is in the North Channel with the boat anchored in the background.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hl2D63ajkGo/Tg0y7tKs1YI/AAAAAAAACDQ/yKZymiQPH1A/s1600/DSCF1353.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hl2D63ajkGo/Tg0y7tKs1YI/AAAAAAAACDQ/yKZymiQPH1A/s320/DSCF1353.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> My photos are a bit out of order, but our very first visitor was my sister, Michelle Spears!! The kids swarmed all around her for the entire duration of her visit. She just happened to be right next to our port at the same time because her husband, Rob, qualified for the Michigan Amateurs in golf and was playing very close to our dock. The timing was perfect and we loved our time spent with her!! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YuU2Vheu0Wg/Tg0zVhOjWKI/AAAAAAAACDU/sZ3br8pDm1Q/s1600/DSCF1375.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YuU2Vheu0Wg/Tg0zVhOjWKI/AAAAAAAACDU/sZ3br8pDm1Q/s320/DSCF1375.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Although we have 'crossed our wake' the adventure still continues for the Parrent family. I will continue to blog our life as we move forward through life. It is very bittersweet to be back in Michigan. We love the state and will enjoy living here again, however, it had proved to be harder to return back to reality then it was leaving last summer. We have no cars, house or jobs. We are truly starting from scratch. It's scary and exciting at the same time. I know I should feel sad that we're back, but I know that there are many new adventures to come. On June 15th it marked three years that we've been homeless. With the RV and boat trip our traveling days have been fun, but are now coming to an end. The kids are expressing a great desire to live in a home again too. More fun to come with holiday weekend around the corner. Life is good and changing every day. More to come next week....have a great 4th of July!! </div>Parrent Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14096024725430067991noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605915790391064139.post-39317640046681278032011-06-24T06:53:00.000-07:002011-06-24T06:53:49.779-07:00Georgian Bay and North Channel<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">The Georgian Bay was the most scenic part of the entire Great Loop experience. We were enamored with the constant breathless scenery that lasted for miles for miles. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l5VGKndDlMg/TgFZV5a930I/AAAAAAAAB_Y/AxhoXx4oog4/s1600/IMG_7968.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l5VGKndDlMg/TgFZV5a930I/AAAAAAAAB_Y/AxhoXx4oog4/s320/IMG_7968.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lG56edILzwA/TgFZ6uqYJ0I/AAAAAAAAB_c/GKf1_-Eay6A/s1600/IMG_7972.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lG56edILzwA/TgFZ6uqYJ0I/AAAAAAAAB_c/GKf1_-Eay6A/s320/IMG_7972.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>They call this the 30,000 Island Region for a reason. Come to find out there's actually criteria for determining what can be included and counted as an island.....circumference and ability to stay above water for 365 days are just some determining factors.<br />
We opted for one of a million different anchorages and chose this one which was near a Parks Canada island. This way we could play on the island and explore the many shapes, colors and sizes of surrounding rocks. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u1RizGshjiM/TgFaAZxAU4I/AAAAAAAAB_g/1WY33ylWrOs/s1600/IMG_7986.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u1RizGshjiM/TgFaAZxAU4I/AAAAAAAAB_g/1WY33ylWrOs/s320/IMG_7986.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Ryann called this her hot tub and didn't want to leave the warm clean water!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--w1xuYIJsVc/TgFaEcFg00I/AAAAAAAAB_k/x94WqoQ9oTQ/s1600/IMG_7997.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--w1xuYIJsVc/TgFaEcFg00I/AAAAAAAAB_k/x94WqoQ9oTQ/s320/IMG_7997.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> There was a blue wooden pallet here, but trash is virtually unheard of in this area. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_zZUbTfSqVg/TgFaH_ZNWhI/AAAAAAAAB_o/6VRpnMz11z8/s1600/IMG_8000.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_zZUbTfSqVg/TgFaH_ZNWhI/AAAAAAAAB_o/6VRpnMz11z8/s320/IMG_8000.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The stone cliffs were breathless and literally didn't phase the kids. With hardly a mention they passed through the area looking for more wildlife. We saw a humungous frog and caught him in our big net as he leaped a few feet in the air and escaped. It was as if he didn't know to even be afraid of us.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kf02O0N23T4/TgFaLvfzuvI/AAAAAAAAB_s/-Am6UbrQFKE/s1600/IMG_8007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kf02O0N23T4/TgFaLvfzuvI/AAAAAAAAB_s/-Am6UbrQFKE/s320/IMG_8007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> We were so fortunate to have perfect weather for our entire stay! The kids loved a bonfire each night. We roasted marshmallows, hunted for fire wood and fought off the mosquitos! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NYBBVpr9idM/TgFaOz7TYNI/AAAAAAAAB_w/Y8wnyOGXGV8/s1600/IMG_8022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NYBBVpr9idM/TgFaOz7TYNI/AAAAAAAAB_w/Y8wnyOGXGV8/s320/IMG_8022.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-71h-fakDvJs/TgFaSFKOcvI/AAAAAAAAB_4/MbjWK23yLiQ/s1600/IMG_8043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-71h-fakDvJs/TgFaSFKOcvI/AAAAAAAAB_4/MbjWK23yLiQ/s320/IMG_8043.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The kids enjoyed the warm weather and hanging on the bow of the boat.....their front yard! Notice the buoys up ahead as a lot of the Georgian Bay is a maze of zigzagging. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gmUkPHrqp-k/TgFaVIxYMJI/AAAAAAAAB_8/X3o3gQY_PZc/s1600/IMG_8049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gmUkPHrqp-k/TgFaVIxYMJI/AAAAAAAAB_8/X3o3gQY_PZc/s320/IMG_8049.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Rogers Island was the site of yet another fun anchorage....or is it a dock? I would highly recommend this one as you tie to metal stakes in the rock formation. What is quite a popular anchorage on the weekends, we were fortunate to tie up and enjoy the night in peace. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T7QVnsVAat8/TgFaXyMWo1I/AAAAAAAACAA/NQWH48774S8/s1600/IMG_8053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T7QVnsVAat8/TgFaXyMWo1I/AAAAAAAACAA/NQWH48774S8/s320/IMG_8053.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Morgan didn't waste any time getting into the water with Craig and Ryann.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SwGPq-j0oLM/TgFaaw5nQ-I/AAAAAAAACAE/bErYTQOS8Zc/s1600/IMG_8055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SwGPq-j0oLM/TgFaaw5nQ-I/AAAAAAAACAE/bErYTQOS8Zc/s320/IMG_8055.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Ryann found the perfect cliff and made a big splash!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZLKfsd-9Elg/TgFadfuJ7FI/AAAAAAAACAI/6iDZ8e6uX0g/s1600/IMG_8064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZLKfsd-9Elg/TgFadfuJ7FI/AAAAAAAACAI/6iDZ8e6uX0g/s320/IMG_8064.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> Every piece of driftwood/firewood found was cut perfectly with beaver teeth. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HAFw_LE8bnA/TgFagYV_xsI/AAAAAAAACAM/jy1LS-e0XAI/s1600/IMG_8075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HAFw_LE8bnA/TgFagYV_xsI/AAAAAAAACAM/jy1LS-e0XAI/s320/IMG_8075.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The girls loved playing in the water.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KDyjwiLIsDo/TgFal97EhuI/AAAAAAAACAQ/iEOmSLT_1V4/s1600/IMG_8078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KDyjwiLIsDo/TgFal97EhuI/AAAAAAAACAQ/iEOmSLT_1V4/s320/IMG_8078.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>These look like old blocks once used for tying up boats?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1SkeYbDBtoQ/TgFat7l0XtI/AAAAAAAACAU/1eolWx_WGwo/s1600/IMG_8082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1SkeYbDBtoQ/TgFat7l0XtI/AAAAAAAACAU/1eolWx_WGwo/s320/IMG_8082.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Smores are gone, but fire kept the bugs off and made for a cozy night.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d3woUN8WCgg/TgFawKs_j9I/AAAAAAAACAY/5w_2nOzDCks/s1600/IMG_8085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d3woUN8WCgg/TgFawKs_j9I/AAAAAAAACAY/5w_2nOzDCks/s320/IMG_8085.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Right next to the boat is a marked path through the woods for a trail to the bonfire. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RiLiQfxH5bo/TgFa0Lp3fVI/AAAAAAAACAc/-VcrYxOS3pE/s1600/IMG_8086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RiLiQfxH5bo/TgFa0Lp3fVI/AAAAAAAACAc/-VcrYxOS3pE/s320/IMG_8086.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Floatplanes are a very common sight in the area. Marinas can accommodate them as well. This one flew by a few times putting a show on for us. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nxM63LbQt3E/TgFa-ZocuLI/AAAAAAAACAg/YdDYCiqWZvo/s1600/IMG_8088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nxM63LbQt3E/TgFa-ZocuLI/AAAAAAAACAg/YdDYCiqWZvo/s320/IMG_8088.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>We weren't totally alone as the beavers built dams all around us. They were "busy little beavers" until late at night!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uZfrhCwajJ4/TgFa_zXTlOI/AAAAAAAACAk/cvgpZIvD2e4/s1600/IMG_8097.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uZfrhCwajJ4/TgFa_zXTlOI/AAAAAAAACAk/cvgpZIvD2e4/s320/IMG_8097.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4e8nu2jU5mA/TgFbDPSyb_I/AAAAAAAACAo/N0_a1FHt6DA/s1600/IMG_8103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4e8nu2jU5mA/TgFbDPSyb_I/AAAAAAAACAo/N0_a1FHt6DA/s320/IMG_8103.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Jaxon had front row seating...or a great tube ride on the bow!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hISOAcozG3Q/TgFbF-V4efI/AAAAAAAACAs/RwJxcbNxjXE/s1600/IMG_8108.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hISOAcozG3Q/TgFbF-V4efI/AAAAAAAACAs/RwJxcbNxjXE/s320/IMG_8108.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>We put the canvas down, enjoyed the sun and turned up the ipod to do some dancing!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gLF1gvmDSD4/TgFbJG2W12I/AAAAAAAACA8/fddkstxk8p8/s1600/IMG_8113.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gLF1gvmDSD4/TgFbJG2W12I/AAAAAAAACA8/fddkstxk8p8/s320/IMG_8113.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1bFmqPHpBwQ/TgFbLz13utI/AAAAAAAACBA/IvLufkVBck8/s1600/IMG_8117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1bFmqPHpBwQ/TgFbLz13utI/AAAAAAAACBA/IvLufkVBck8/s320/IMG_8117.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I can't even explain the millions of water bugs that invaded us while underway. I'm not exaggerating they were EVERYWHERE! I had a hooded sweatshirt with only my sunglasses out. You couldn't even talk without one flying into your mouth. It went on for hours and nothing you could do about it. I would wipe and sweep them away and they'd be back in seconds! It only happened when we went out of the small craft channel and into the Georgian Bay unprotected waters. We wanted to avoid a very shallow area not recommended for vessels our size. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YduL6ZvOqXA/TgFbOCNi0RI/AAAAAAAACBE/qLV0Lsplvqo/s1600/IMG_8121.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YduL6ZvOqXA/TgFbOCNi0RI/AAAAAAAACBE/qLV0Lsplvqo/s320/IMG_8121.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The rock formations were beautiful, but as we entered into the North Channel the scenery took on more trees and height!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cQ8txHtHyqw/TgFbRBasGwI/AAAAAAAACBI/pygKDeiMYTQ/s1600/IMG_8122.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cQ8txHtHyqw/TgFbRBasGwI/AAAAAAAACBI/pygKDeiMYTQ/s320/IMG_8122.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Killarney is a very popular cute little town at the beginning of the North Channel. We stopped to fuel up at the Killarney Mountain Lodge and met a couple that circumnavigated for 8 years. They had great stories and experiences to share. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MIJD-Tp6IEA/TgFbTHiCClI/AAAAAAAACBM/VvVzTwEVEC0/s1600/IMG_8129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MIJD-Tp6IEA/TgFbTHiCClI/AAAAAAAACBM/VvVzTwEVEC0/s320/IMG_8129.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Negotiator looks so different with the canvas down. Another peaceful protected anchorage at Covered Portage Cove that I would recommend to anyone. We took a dinghy ride about a mile back into the town to enjoy a little shoreside fun.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MJS-yWL7x-U/TgFbVvQ4UPI/AAAAAAAACBQ/VmovDd-fbpM/s1600/IMG_8134.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MJS-yWL7x-U/TgFbVvQ4UPI/AAAAAAAACBQ/VmovDd-fbpM/s320/IMG_8134.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>A very popular stop for people from far away come to enjoy "Herbert Fisheries" fish and chips that has been in business for over 28 years. You order at the small counter here and the magic frying happens in the school bus! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SaWzB2Reqww/TgFbYea3ZRI/AAAAAAAACBg/aM4OWL22VeE/s1600/IMG_8140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SaWzB2Reqww/TgFbYea3ZRI/AAAAAAAACBg/aM4OWL22VeE/s320/IMG_8140.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Since we already ate dinner we tried a sampling that included whitefish catch of the day and hand cut fries. It was delicious and although fish isn't the kids favorite, they ate it all! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yGQIm7CJCj0/TgFbbSxZ4wI/AAAAAAAACBk/kkySs0sBY0Y/s1600/IMG_8142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yGQIm7CJCj0/TgFbbSxZ4wI/AAAAAAAACBk/kkySs0sBY0Y/s320/IMG_8142.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--xiQ0cjL8TQ/TgFbd91UpOI/AAAAAAAACBo/nTccNiUtjWY/s1600/IMG_8148.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--xiQ0cjL8TQ/TgFbd91UpOI/AAAAAAAACBo/nTccNiUtjWY/s320/IMG_8148.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>We didn't have time to zip the kids around in the tube that night as it started to rain, but they enjoyed swimming, jumping off the boat and playing with their best friends...eachother! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZiYfBCi7Usk/TgFbh10kNvI/AAAAAAAACBs/6tVtUSheg8Y/s1600/IMG_8151.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZiYfBCi7Usk/TgFbh10kNvI/AAAAAAAACBs/6tVtUSheg8Y/s320/IMG_8151.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Jaxon's first loose tooth. He wasn't quite sure how he felt about it, but the girls reassured him that he'd love the money from the tooth fairy. He immediately started wiggling.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ONUtQL3tMZ4/TgFbkBmPXRI/AAAAAAAACBw/OWN62xp8SH0/s1600/IMG_8154.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ONUtQL3tMZ4/TgFbkBmPXRI/AAAAAAAACBw/OWN62xp8SH0/s320/IMG_8154.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Hard to describe and photograph the seas here, but were caught in about 6-8 footers, as NOAA described them to be 2 feet or less. We kicked up the speed and rode the waves as if we were surfing. We'd crest the top of the wave at 17 mph and fall back to as low as around 10 mph. The kids adjusted well and focused on a movie to pass the time. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dahdJpM68gg/TgFbnbLaY-I/AAAAAAAACB0/RvyT41WO7XY/s1600/IMG_8158.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dahdJpM68gg/TgFbnbLaY-I/AAAAAAAACB0/RvyT41WO7XY/s320/IMG_8158.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nPu06uqWD2g/TgFbpU9wylI/AAAAAAAACB4/0A7oVbCLtSA/s1600/IMG_8164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nPu06uqWD2g/TgFbpU9wylI/AAAAAAAACB4/0A7oVbCLtSA/s320/IMG_8164.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Jaxon had no problem being lulled to sleep!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eW9Mli_OJdQ/TgFbrnlOaNI/AAAAAAAACCE/shz93zYf2Qk/s1600/IMG_8174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eW9Mli_OJdQ/TgFbrnlOaNI/AAAAAAAACCE/shz93zYf2Qk/s320/IMG_8174.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Grand Michigan is just around the corner! That's what Jaxon calls it....I think it's a mix of Grand Rapids or Grand Haven, Michigan (our home towns)....all we know is that Michigan is a Grand place to live. Craig only refers to Michigan as "The Great State of Michigan" when describing it to anyone that asks where we're from. The adventure isn't over......more to come! </div>Parrent Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14096024725430067991noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605915790391064139.post-48553237882534191452011-06-21T19:41:00.000-07:002011-06-21T19:41:10.599-07:00The Big Chute<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">The Big Chute was a highlight lock event of our Trent Severn Waterway experience. We arrived in the evening and were able to check things out before our big ride in the morning. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NSMTq56hrPU/TgFK3oRfdDI/AAAAAAAAB98/vjyx3FY_nrg/s1600/IMG_7842.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NSMTq56hrPU/TgFK3oRfdDI/AAAAAAAAB98/vjyx3FY_nrg/s320/IMG_7842.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> This beautiful rock formation is located right next to the "The Big Chute" was suppose to be a temporary solution while construction was underway for the new canal. After many years they realized the rail system was the way to go due to excavation difficulties/site challenges <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fSsWFm467rI/TgFK6_kF0eI/AAAAAAAAB-A/A5FSmkvGcrc/s1600/IMG_7846.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fSsWFm467rI/TgFK6_kF0eI/AAAAAAAAB-A/A5FSmkvGcrc/s320/IMG_7846.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> This is the view from the Observation Deck above. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wYX8nKYdLeE/TgFK9ydwnkI/AAAAAAAAB-E/zVdScsMWzZk/s1600/IMG_7863.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wYX8nKYdLeE/TgFK9ydwnkI/AAAAAAAAB-E/zVdScsMWzZk/s320/IMG_7863.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> This is the Little Chute which was the first chute used for many many years and then was the back-up until recently put out of commission. Thank goodness....as it is basically a glorified train car. The neat thing about the Big Chute is it's design to stay level utilizing four different tracks during the transport. It is quite a steep hill.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oX6U3iwGtBA/TgFLA-Ic2QI/AAAAAAAAB-I/dcv3DhRoCxk/s1600/IMG_7866.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oX6U3iwGtBA/TgFLA-Ic2QI/AAAAAAAAB-I/dcv3DhRoCxk/s320/IMG_7866.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The night was calm we enjoyed walking the grounds.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-62I-VE06DUE/TgFLDuiO15I/AAAAAAAAB-Q/-XSVaZzgsN4/s1600/IMG_7873.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-62I-VE06DUE/TgFLDuiO15I/AAAAAAAAB-Q/-XSVaZzgsN4/s320/IMG_7873.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The kids had a chance to swim and play in the water.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NIadfj0kcHY/TgFLHhPaFSI/AAAAAAAAB-U/VvQXjiT4eiI/s1600/IMG_7880.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NIadfj0kcHY/TgFLHhPaFSI/AAAAAAAAB-U/VvQXjiT4eiI/s320/IMG_7880.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The next morning I opted to stay on land and take photos of the boat going through the lift lock. It was a tough decision, but I made a good one! Pictured here is Big Chute moving over the passing road and into the water to pick up our boat!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FJiRaHMRqDE/TgFLK-fUKvI/AAAAAAAAB-Y/DwaAq4RPI1U/s1600/IMG_7887.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FJiRaHMRqDE/TgFLK-fUKvI/AAAAAAAAB-Y/DwaAq4RPI1U/s320/IMG_7887.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Craig and the kids got the Negotiator in place (Morgan made a great First Mate in my absence). <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V-3hEyr_Emo/TgFLNq0X4bI/AAAAAAAAB-c/8LuvP61b2-w/s1600/IMG_7898.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V-3hEyr_Emo/TgFLNq0X4bI/AAAAAAAAB-c/8LuvP61b2-w/s320/IMG_7898.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Notice the man knelt down next to the boat....hmmmmm. The problem is that our boat is a true 42 foot Chris Craft Catalina with a 6 foot cockpit at the stern. All of our running gear is set up as a 42....not a 48! We ended going back into the water and repositioning the boat for safety reasons.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w0UL87NUcJE/TgFLQcF2YeI/AAAAAAAAB-g/0p7MpPvRwwg/s1600/IMG_7901.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w0UL87NUcJE/TgFLQcF2YeI/AAAAAAAAB-g/0p7MpPvRwwg/s320/IMG_7901.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The lockmasters claim this is the first time they've had a boat like this. The Negotiator was substantially hanging off the back of the lift. The lockmaster asked if we were loaded with gas in the back tanks and YES we were! We hold 600 gallons of fuel plus fresh water. It was all hanging off the back!!!! This is quite a balancing act. He still put us through.....<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D8AeBK7d2b4/TgFLS5tf_SI/AAAAAAAAB-o/AIKX9Vb_ejM/s1600/IMG_7909.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D8AeBK7d2b4/TgFLS5tf_SI/AAAAAAAAB-o/AIKX9Vb_ejM/s320/IMG_7909.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Craig was amazed to see the pictures later on. It's hard to believe they made it across.....and VERY quickly! This photo doesn't do it justice, but we have approximately 15 feet hanging off the lift. It's a good thing the kids had all of theirs toys and treasure collection stuff located in the bow....we hoped this teeter wouldn't totter! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R58zpYjq-ng/TgFLVtcbk0I/AAAAAAAAB-s/ny2ZIiHQ6WA/s1600/IMG_7915.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R58zpYjq-ng/TgFLVtcbk0I/AAAAAAAAB-s/ny2ZIiHQ6WA/s320/IMG_7915.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> I was running to take the photos. I had the CB radio on my neck with Ryann, the commentator, giving me details of her thoughts onboard the boat. Jaxon chiming in how I should be on the boat and when am I coming back? I have great videos of all of it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tEXgXyngdKw/TgFLYiRPQnI/AAAAAAAAB-w/lPezOgF6JOU/s1600/IMG_7920.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tEXgXyngdKw/TgFLYiRPQnI/AAAAAAAAB-w/lPezOgF6JOU/s320/IMG_7920.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> It was a rather quick ride!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1EM9ovheZAE/TgFLcJ81eFI/AAAAAAAAB-0/eV2CcT-0MB0/s1600/IMG_7924.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1EM9ovheZAE/TgFLcJ81eFI/AAAAAAAAB-0/eV2CcT-0MB0/s320/IMG_7924.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> No wasting time...they pulled out seconds after arrival into the water.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w67eyX_xhHw/TgFLex_bzNI/AAAAAAAAB-4/GC7hdYfQXPc/s1600/IMG_7935.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w67eyX_xhHw/TgFLex_bzNI/AAAAAAAAB-4/GC7hdYfQXPc/s320/IMG_7935.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Morgan was ready with lines and Jaxon ready to have me back on the boat. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ybxWrVbVKd4/TgFLh5Q4yyI/AAAAAAAAB-8/1LSz-pVqZlk/s1600/IMG_7938.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ybxWrVbVKd4/TgFLh5Q4yyI/AAAAAAAAB-8/1LSz-pVqZlk/s320/IMG_7938.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> We met a trawler traveling the area and were able to watch him go up the lift too.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cBM_qbgrAhM/TgFLkqFsNvI/AAAAAAAAB_E/PA0YGmfUyv0/s1600/IMG_7943.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cBM_qbgrAhM/TgFLkqFsNvI/AAAAAAAAB_E/PA0YGmfUyv0/s320/IMG_7943.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> We pulled out of the lift and around the corner to find this sign. It's not an uncommon site here.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FjSNRse8rWE/TgFLmzEVe-I/AAAAAAAAB_I/4IsEnLUMdb4/s1600/IMG_7949.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FjSNRse8rWE/TgFLmzEVe-I/AAAAAAAAB_I/4IsEnLUMdb4/s320/IMG_7949.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Lock 45 is the last lock that we went through. It is the smallest, most narrow one of them all with a big current to contend with for eastbound vessels. We made it through without a hitch, but I can't imagine the westbound vessels approaching their first lock with this experience. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NmSRYEnoURw/TgFLpZUCGBI/AAAAAAAAB_M/sx-tj4C02mQ/s1600/IMG_7956.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NmSRYEnoURw/TgFLpZUCGBI/AAAAAAAAB_M/sx-tj4C02mQ/s320/IMG_7956.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Moments after leaving the lock there were a series of buoys to traverse through. It's not an option to go outside the channel and made for a tight pass thru. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MkepD_exeYg/TgFLs5bFrWI/AAAAAAAAB_Q/RiG5NyvHUTg/s1600/IMG_7962.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MkepD_exeYg/TgFLs5bFrWI/AAAAAAAAB_Q/RiG5NyvHUTg/s320/IMG_7962.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
</div>Parrent Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14096024725430067991noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605915790391064139.post-2164091297927174742011-06-19T18:01:00.000-07:002011-06-19T18:01:53.132-07:00Locks and more locks!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Happy Fathers Day! We just realized yesterday that yet another holiday had sneaked up on us. It's hard to remember the day, let alone the date these days. <br />
<br />
There are 45 locks in the Trent Severn Canal and add that to the 31 we just did in the Erie Canal and it makes for eventful days. This is the Peterborough lift lock and is world's tallest lift lock! It actually lifts you into air while you're still in the water! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k6GW79knzuc/Tf6N39kZalI/AAAAAAAAB74/URBxOet22fo/s1600/IMG_7712.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k6GW79knzuc/Tf6N39kZalI/AAAAAAAAB74/URBxOet22fo/s320/IMG_7712.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Once we pulled up and secured our lines the gate behind us rose and off we went!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m4SEE6GWcog/Tf6N6kekyxI/AAAAAAAAB78/awh4jy2cqgA/s1600/IMG_7713.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m4SEE6GWcog/Tf6N6kekyxI/AAAAAAAAB78/awh4jy2cqgA/s320/IMG_7713.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> To think we would actually be at the top in a matter of minutes?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FV1UXPUVddE/Tf6N-egs4UI/AAAAAAAAB8A/oNcs9zFK_S4/s1600/IMG_7714.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FV1UXPUVddE/Tf6N-egs4UI/AAAAAAAAB8A/oNcs9zFK_S4/s320/IMG_7714.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> It was very impressive and fun to ride. The view was amazing!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7J7-Bkz1AhM/Tf6OAuxz_mI/AAAAAAAAB8E/L0DQ7Rvdym8/s1600/IMG_7719.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7J7-Bkz1AhM/Tf6OAuxz_mI/AAAAAAAAB8E/L0DQ7Rvdym8/s320/IMG_7719.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Very efficient and we were done within 15 minutes of arriving! My mom said I was here with her and my dad when I was 16, but I guess it was a bit more memorable in my own boat as I don't recall it. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OMi_zNr02vg/Tf6ODMmjmlI/AAAAAAAAB8M/tJHitT8qiDs/s1600/IMG_7730.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OMi_zNr02vg/Tf6ODMmjmlI/AAAAAAAAB8M/tJHitT8qiDs/s320/IMG_7730.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The Lovesick lock was located on an island and so cute and small. The lockmaster takes a boat to work each day. Notice all of the houseboats as they are everywhere. It is very popular to rent them during the summer months. You should see all of the dents in the pontoons. The lock tender said it can be quite comical to watch them get the boat into the lock.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z_MqLkFaS7g/Tf6OF93O3XI/AAAAAAAAB8Q/mK6oOfnf-t0/s1600/IMG_7739.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z_MqLkFaS7g/Tf6OF93O3XI/AAAAAAAAB8Q/mK6oOfnf-t0/s320/IMG_7739.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Morgan really enjoyed gathering the stickers and cards at each lock. We had a great routine when entering each lock. Craig of course captained the boat inside the chamber with always some type of wind, rain or current. I grabbed a line midship and secured while Morgan went for the stern line. Ryann would give the lockmaster a ticket which was a chance to win a prize if drawn at the end of the summer. Then she gathered the cards and stickers. It worked well for us and the kids enjoyed their 'job'. When in a flight of locks you could have 7 in a row that were only a mile apart from one another. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JbQ2bxmAXCI/Tf6OItyuQ9I/AAAAAAAAB8U/KOXqhJIVs3M/s1600/IMG_7741.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JbQ2bxmAXCI/Tf6OItyuQ9I/AAAAAAAAB8U/KOXqhJIVs3M/s320/IMG_7741.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> So many many neat homes we passed, so many pictures of beautiful scenery, wildlife/trees/rocks and locks. I just can't do this waterway justice with photos, it's a unique experience and one I'd recommend to anyone.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IfS3rvGEM88/Tf6OLjYUxLI/AAAAAAAAB8Y/DgQflvYjf38/s1600/IMG_7746.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IfS3rvGEM88/Tf6OLjYUxLI/AAAAAAAAB8Y/DgQflvYjf38/s320/IMG_7746.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Bobcaygeon was one of the many places we stopped at. They had a large well known shoe store (on right), a biker event the day we arrived and a great town. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8e3jy4Jnbsk/Tf6OOJIbbSI/AAAAAAAAB8c/jUEIJHMMALs/s1600/IMG_7749.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8e3jy4Jnbsk/Tf6OOJIbbSI/AAAAAAAAB8c/jUEIJHMMALs/s320/IMG_7749.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ow0Ytw08ME0/Tf6OSF8tcJI/AAAAAAAAB8g/ONmGr9X6Nc0/s1600/IMG_7751.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ow0Ytw08ME0/Tf6OSF8tcJI/AAAAAAAAB8g/ONmGr9X6Nc0/s320/IMG_7751.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Fenelon Falls was yet another great stop. We started locking through during lunch time and on a whim I said to Craig "if they have a Subway, we should stop." As we locked up to the top there was a Subway RIGHT next to the lock. I must have smelled it...what are the chances...this is the first Subway we have seen since Cambellford.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-le0vdnXWSQc/Tf6OWthC4lI/AAAAAAAAB8w/tXzzisv3sNM/s1600/IMG_7758.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-le0vdnXWSQc/Tf6OWthC4lI/AAAAAAAAB8w/tXzzisv3sNM/s320/IMG_7758.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The dam next to the lock.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lb0i87RVEr0/Tf6OaHM5pYI/AAAAAAAAB80/eZv4wKiiyjQ/s1600/IMG_7761.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lb0i87RVEr0/Tf6OaHM5pYI/AAAAAAAAB80/eZv4wKiiyjQ/s320/IMG_7761.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Our friends aboard Messenger claimed we had to try Tim Hortons donuts and Skittles. We LOVED the donuts and the Smarties are actually chocolate candies....not like the chewy gummy ones in the states. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oQ7-hr87JQs/Tf6OeG6s_pI/AAAAAAAAB84/y4TDc5swcj8/s1600/IMG_7763.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oQ7-hr87JQs/Tf6OeG6s_pI/AAAAAAAAB84/y4TDc5swcj8/s320/IMG_7763.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The kids want a dog and Craig said they could have one like this....fake! Haha...they didn't think it was funny and now think we should get a bulldog.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-egJr-aP--kE/Tf6Ogyuax6I/AAAAAAAAB88/PKaM7YBc1Ak/s1600/IMG_7765.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-egJr-aP--kE/Tf6Ogyuax6I/AAAAAAAAB88/PKaM7YBc1Ak/s320/IMG_7765.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> "The Narrows" is how they describe these stretches (yes plural as there are many that go for miles and miles) of water that were all over the Trent Severn Waterway.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5Kd82wOdAMU/Tf6Ojy2lr-I/AAAAAAAAB9A/jPcFlAiHWmg/s1600/IMG_7777.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5Kd82wOdAMU/Tf6Ojy2lr-I/AAAAAAAAB9A/jPcFlAiHWmg/s320/IMG_7777.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> No big deal to drive through it, but don't you dare get close to the edge as it's complete ROCKS and as they say 'not forgiving' if you drift off the middle.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RFgeZYlsGes/Tf6Om-1DKUI/AAAAAAAAB9E/eToUck3h_Uo/s1600/IMG_7768.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RFgeZYlsGes/Tf6Om-1DKUI/AAAAAAAAB9E/eToUck3h_Uo/s320/IMG_7768.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Just what you DON'T want to see is oncoming vessels. We were fortunate to see them ahead of time and waited in a 'wide' area to make a tight pass. Good thing we all have a ton of fenders out for the locks in case things get a bit close.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-faSwYAjYh7E/Tf6OqMUY7HI/AAAAAAAAB9M/ekeSpLLTSnI/s1600/IMG_7788.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-faSwYAjYh7E/Tf6OqMUY7HI/AAAAAAAAB9M/ekeSpLLTSnI/s320/IMG_7788.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Kirkland lift lock was very similar to the Peterborough one. Another great view, but a bit spooky at the same time. Glad we're not afraid of heights!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0Vd5Me-lAO8/Tf6Os-4OOMI/AAAAAAAAB9Q/zKkofb_hU-k/s1600/IMG_7791.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0Vd5Me-lAO8/Tf6Os-4OOMI/AAAAAAAAB9Q/zKkofb_hU-k/s320/IMG_7791.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Locking down now for the remainder of the waterway. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4DVR1zYy-38/Tf6OvSXKEGI/AAAAAAAAB9U/DZmLvU5Xnq8/s1600/IMG_7797.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4DVR1zYy-38/Tf6OvSXKEGI/AAAAAAAAB9U/DZmLvU5Xnq8/s320/IMG_7797.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Hole in the Wall Bridge. Many times during our experience it was hard to believe that we actually belonged here. This actually had a 28 foot clearance and we only need 18. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--Hlfm0jWo5U/Tf6OxmLhsQI/AAAAAAAAB9c/X-gQhVCmGOM/s1600/IMG_7800.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--Hlfm0jWo5U/Tf6OxmLhsQI/AAAAAAAAB9c/X-gQhVCmGOM/s320/IMG_7800.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Stuck in the middle of a flight of locks for a night. Ryann went out into the aft deck about a half hour after we arrived and the boat next to us said "Hi Ryann." She said hi and ran inside wondering who it was? I went out to meet them and they saw the burgee and boat name, went online, found our blog and read up on us. Very funny, but they were great people with lot's of good advice! We moored with two other boats and enjoyed their company in this pristine lock in the middle of nowhere. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7lyHuIx85zA/Tf6O1dT0f6I/AAAAAAAAB9g/coLkm8qsoNY/s1600/IMG_7807.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7lyHuIx85zA/Tf6O1dT0f6I/AAAAAAAAB9g/coLkm8qsoNY/s320/IMG_7807.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Great exercise running the grassy hill and they were full of mud and strawberry stains as the hill was full of them! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-INgCk7ZH92U/Tf6O5-rADvI/AAAAAAAAB9k/2Hq8tsofaM0/s1600/IMG_7814.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-INgCk7ZH92U/Tf6O5-rADvI/AAAAAAAAB9k/2Hq8tsofaM0/s320/IMG_7814.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> After a ride through Lake Simcoe, the largest lake on the waterway, we arrived to this train bridge. We waited for about 25 minutes as the bridge operator never responded on the VHF. We watched him looking at us as if he hoped we'd just go away. Three men walked out of the upper station, over to the little house on the left, then back up and down again, and back up. Finally a loud engine started and very very slowly the bridge started to turn. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KNPDipTJhyY/Tf6PBSCbykI/AAAAAAAAB9w/1ZuktpauSc0/s1600/IMG_7824.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KNPDipTJhyY/Tf6PBSCbykI/AAAAAAAAB9w/1ZuktpauSc0/s320/IMG_7824.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> We are still seeing the remains of all the wind damage in the area. This gazebo didn't make it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DZS48LfGs-A/Tf6PEyZg-gI/AAAAAAAAB90/MMj1SYn1tjs/s1600/IMG_7825.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DZS48LfGs-A/Tf6PEyZg-gI/AAAAAAAAB90/MMj1SYn1tjs/s320/IMG_7825.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> It seems after every turn or bend is something new to see. The waters before Swift Rapids here are as unique and pretty as so many other areas. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PA3w9h_B9OQ/Tf6PIkQRfnI/AAAAAAAAB94/ocAWfWB7fMc/s1600/IMG_7830.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PA3w9h_B9OQ/Tf6PIkQRfnI/AAAAAAAAB94/ocAWfWB7fMc/s320/IMG_7830.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
There will be another new posting coming soon....</div>Parrent Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14096024725430067991noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605915790391064139.post-46110600895985227822011-06-11T05:32:00.000-07:002011-06-11T05:32:22.381-07:00Trent Severn Waterway<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Oswego, New York was the final destination in the Erie Canal. Our journey through the canal was very enjoyable and one we'll remember forever!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qE7DLNkRLWQ/TfLaSxTRVRI/AAAAAAAAB58/WdM8O1hkuIs/s1600/IMG_7587.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qE7DLNkRLWQ/TfLaSxTRVRI/AAAAAAAAB58/WdM8O1hkuIs/s320/IMG_7587.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>We waited for a mail delivery on Monday morning to get our Canada charts and guides and left soon after. Pictured here on the wall just before our last lock #31 of the entire Erie and Oswego Canal system. The lockmaster said many locals will dock at these walls all summer long. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5n4djFrm9Zo/TfLaXw4R6yI/AAAAAAAAB6A/KmX2vAEH8Ew/s1600/IMG_7583.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5n4djFrm9Zo/TfLaXw4R6yI/AAAAAAAAB6A/KmX2vAEH8Ew/s320/IMG_7583.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> We enjoyed our adventures through the canal systems very much. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DImJY0NuZJc/TfLaeEhQ3RI/AAAAAAAAB6I/2sFDxcqOJCs/s1600/IMG_7562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DImJY0NuZJc/TfLaeEhQ3RI/AAAAAAAAB6I/2sFDxcqOJCs/s320/IMG_7562.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> We went to Fort Ontario, the park, pizza place, laundry and groceries before our venture into Canada waters. This photo is of the inside of the fort.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bk-pltcM-Xs/TfLaiiqiopI/AAAAAAAAB6M/d-ryBwIEWCg/s1600/IMG_7565.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bk-pltcM-Xs/TfLaiiqiopI/AAAAAAAAB6M/d-ryBwIEWCg/s320/IMG_7565.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Our long trip across Lake Ontario was almost 80 miles into Canada but was a successful day. We left Oswego with no wind and calm seas and within an hour the fog rolled in and we were at minimal visibility the first half of the trip. With the radar on we never saw even a ripple in the water and made it clear into the Murray Canal near Brighton, Canada. Most 'Loopers' take the route directly to Kingston and the thousand island region, but we spent quite a bit of time there on our RV trip just two years ago. <br />
The channel markers are all very small in contrast to the states. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1RmWHRNtWN8/TfLalGwpq6I/AAAAAAAAB6Q/03aBSYhaTjs/s1600/IMG_7597.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1RmWHRNtWN8/TfLalGwpq6I/AAAAAAAAB6Q/03aBSYhaTjs/s320/IMG_7597.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Docked here at the swing bridge which closed at 4:00 pm. We cleared customs without a problem and after a good night sleep (tons of mosquitos, no breeze and sweltering hot) we were on our way. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ymVKG7TknmE/TfLapWzAPlI/AAAAAAAAB6U/3byW8D9jflU/s1600/IMG_7601.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ymVKG7TknmE/TfLapWzAPlI/AAAAAAAAB6U/3byW8D9jflU/s320/IMG_7601.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> We were excited to enter the Trent-Severn Waterway and start our journey through 240 miles and 45 locks.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HLrhXhXDGZU/TfLauUuTHJI/AAAAAAAAB6Y/LKobPEg_mKk/s1600/IMG_7603.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HLrhXhXDGZU/TfLauUuTHJI/AAAAAAAAB6Y/LKobPEg_mKk/s320/IMG_7603.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Most of the locks have manually controlled gates by the lockmaster.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jy3Acjk6VPo/TfLa0qskQPI/AAAAAAAAB6c/OK6g6aJ21eI/s1600/IMG_7606.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jy3Acjk6VPo/TfLa0qskQPI/AAAAAAAAB6c/OK6g6aJ21eI/s320/IMG_7606.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> An interesting overview of the path we're taking.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_eloatNGYfc/TfLa6ByEeAI/AAAAAAAAB6g/m7JBUPXS4_s/s1600/IMG_7611.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_eloatNGYfc/TfLa6ByEeAI/AAAAAAAAB6g/m7JBUPXS4_s/s320/IMG_7611.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>We started having some engine problems after the heat of the day wore on and we had to turn the engines off at each lock. With Craig spending hours in the bilge and biking to the local auto store, he seemed to have fixed the problem. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qH5jVtdBSc4/TfLa_bHwefI/AAAAAAAAB6s/Z7HXCV0Dj9s/s1600/IMG_7614.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qH5jVtdBSc4/TfLa_bHwefI/AAAAAAAAB6s/Z7HXCV0Dj9s/s320/IMG_7614.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The kids love the lock walls as they're all so scenic with many areas to play in the grass and run. This is the turning mechanism type 'key' used to open the large gate doors. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zCE9v14SiMg/TfLbE7vEBeI/AAAAAAAAB6w/z2_DAmbNk9U/s1600/IMG_7625.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zCE9v14SiMg/TfLbE7vEBeI/AAAAAAAAB6w/z2_DAmbNk9U/s320/IMG_7625.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>After figuring out the engines Craig went for a swim to see if he could find the bow thruster problem. It seems we have stripped the bearings and will not be able to fix it until the boat is pulled out of the water. It went out two weeks before we started all 76 locks.....great timing. We seem to manage fine and have installed a new mid thruster which is me giving a little push midship at each lock! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CUveXVoyeOg/TfLbJ2R4WsI/AAAAAAAAB60/Kl0j8TPFN1A/s1600/IMG_7610.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CUveXVoyeOg/TfLbJ2R4WsI/AAAAAAAAB60/Kl0j8TPFN1A/s320/IMG_7610.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Morgan has eagerly been at every lock assisting with lines. In this canal you need to have two lines held at all times. The kids are collecting cards and stickers at every lock which they put into their own map and activity book. They get excited when they see the next lock and the cards represent local endangered wildlife.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ap7ur_zrlRo/TfLbOSWKs7I/AAAAAAAAB64/TuUL3lb58sE/s1600/IMG_7630.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ap7ur_zrlRo/TfLbOSWKs7I/AAAAAAAAB64/TuUL3lb58sE/s320/IMG_7630.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> Ryann and Jaxon made a great team tending the lines.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KsMUyjxL218/TfLbTlnt04I/AAAAAAAAB68/Zv1GGxxfoYI/s1600/IMG_7629.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KsMUyjxL218/TfLbTlnt04I/AAAAAAAAB68/Zv1GGxxfoYI/s320/IMG_7629.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> We came out of the lock (see far back area), to a boat docked alongside and story had it they just went out of the channel and grounded. As we continued on the trawler you see here was grounded in the same spot. They asked us to tow them out and we opted to try and 'wake' them first. We kick up a pretty big wake and they were off within seconds. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-61qb580LGZ4/TfLbWBSd5cI/AAAAAAAAB7A/AljY0TFYvOg/s1600/IMG_7635.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-61qb580LGZ4/TfLbWBSd5cI/AAAAAAAAB7A/AljY0TFYvOg/s320/IMG_7635.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Less than 5 minutes after we left the trawler we ran into a horrible storm. I usually check the weather often, but now without having wi-fi at my disposable I guess ignorance is bliss. Until you hit a big storm with over 40 knot damaging winds while underway. It hit harder than anyone had anticipated and came again two hours later to cause even more damage to the area. We made our way another mile and tied up to the lower lock wall. On the upper half they had a 60 foot tree come down and lost power. 110,000 people lost hydro (power) for a few days, a house was struck by lightning and burnt to the ground and now the waterway is lined with trees that uprooted from the force of the wind. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vg23rTLdZfE/TfLba7wVUxI/AAAAAAAAB7E/skhBNve9oe4/s1600/IMG_7636.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vg23rTLdZfE/TfLba7wVUxI/AAAAAAAAB7E/skhBNve9oe4/s320/IMG_7636.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Canada does not have a one and two dollar bill, however they have a Loonie and a Toonie. This is the Toonie and worth $2. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JhaEdqPVAWk/TfLbgZu6naI/AAAAAAAAB7Q/OWjzLlrCd70/s1600/IMG_7647.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JhaEdqPVAWk/TfLbgZu6naI/AAAAAAAAB7Q/OWjzLlrCd70/s320/IMG_7647.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> Campbellford was a nice stop along the way that offers a town with all amenities needed.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rmIyIkEv1LM/TfLblQzw49I/AAAAAAAAB7U/c_AnYabuhZ8/s1600/IMG_7649.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rmIyIkEv1LM/TfLblQzw49I/AAAAAAAAB7U/c_AnYabuhZ8/s320/IMG_7649.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Doohers Bakery was delicious and well known in the area. Craig made it into the photo with our stash of goodies!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--3nWKa7tWQU/TfLbp4QZOmI/AAAAAAAAB7Y/u7-vfWck4sY/s1600/IMG_7663.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--3nWKa7tWQU/TfLbp4QZOmI/AAAAAAAAB7Y/u7-vfWck4sY/s320/IMG_7663.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> 5 pin bowling was a huge favorite! Played much like the traditional states 10 pin bowling, but the kids and I loved the small balls used. We all caught on quickly but have never seen this played in the states.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lCmEMXJPyLM/TfLbuk6QzCI/AAAAAAAAB7c/8aZ1LbHHFdY/s1600/IMG_7652.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lCmEMXJPyLM/TfLbuk6QzCI/AAAAAAAAB7c/8aZ1LbHHFdY/s320/IMG_7652.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Bag milk? We were forewarned that we'd have to buy it this way by our friends from Messenger. Our brother-in-law, Kurt's family owns a very large dairy farm in Ionia, MI and wondering if he's ever heard of this packaging??<br />
New Canadian candy bars like Mr. Big, Sweet Marie and the Wunderbar was fun to try too!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W-UcShr4rZA/TfLbzz6joyI/AAAAAAAAB7g/deLsfLNTSpw/s1600/IMG_7666.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W-UcShr4rZA/TfLbzz6joyI/AAAAAAAAB7g/deLsfLNTSpw/s320/IMG_7666.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Another great lock wall stop along the way as we made another bonfire with smores and played a ton of baseball. Jaxon has a frisbee hat on and used it to play ball until dark that night and made it out there first thing in the morning before we started our day.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uORYx_Udbwk/TfLb56siMzI/AAAAAAAAB7k/wUCiW2G0pAw/s1600/IMG_7682.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uORYx_Udbwk/TfLb56siMzI/AAAAAAAAB7k/wUCiW2G0pAw/s320/IMG_7682.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Some of the locks were 'doubles' and as you exit one chamber you'd drive straight into another. This one was very large. The entrance into these canals have been surprisingly small and extremely narrow. Couple that with tapered walls, currents and throw in some wind and still by far the best lock system we've been to. The lockmasters are all very nice and helpful. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_FwI6GvnrqU/TfLb_nKqrvI/AAAAAAAAB7s/UgKKsTsMQhw/s1600/IMG_7691.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_FwI6GvnrqU/TfLb_nKqrvI/AAAAAAAAB7s/UgKKsTsMQhw/s320/IMG_7691.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Peterborough was a great stop for us as we filled our tanks with 860 liters of gasoline! The conversion always leads to a slight hesitation, but you catch on quickly. All this time and I never knew we had our own American gallon and most others use the Imperial gallon which varies in volume. <br />
<br />
The marina had full services with the most helpful friendly staff. Located in the heart of town and next to Del Crary Park which is holding a fundraiser event this weekend to raise money for Breast Cancer research. It is worth a stop as they had a great price for fuel and dockage. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wDAa6SF5K_I/TfNbPNeonbI/AAAAAAAAB70/1q5l8vcf4y4/s1600/IMG_7698.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">.<img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wDAa6SF5K_I/TfNbPNeonbI/AAAAAAAAB70/1q5l8vcf4y4/s320/IMG_7698.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Couldn't pass up another round of 5-pin bowling across the street from the marina. It was fun to play on a cool, rainy, Friday night!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V73rLZjJBtg/TfLcDyCz3FI/AAAAAAAAB7w/NDP3dIuLHuM/s1600/IMG_7706.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V73rLZjJBtg/TfLcDyCz3FI/AAAAAAAAB7w/NDP3dIuLHuM/s320/IMG_7706.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Again, I do not anticipate an internet connection for awhile, but will update when possible. We're not even half way through the locks, but it is a very enjoyable part of our trip.</div>Parrent Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14096024725430067991noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605915790391064139.post-57146345978843142502011-06-05T18:00:00.000-07:002011-06-05T18:00:23.433-07:00Canada<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">We are heading into Canada and no longer have internet service. I do not plan on posting to my blog for quite awhile. We will be entering into Canadian waters the first week of June and plan to travel the waters of Lake Ontario, Bay of Quinte, Trent Severn, Georgian Bay and the Northern Channel. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ByJnb5nkcYo/TerknxFjsxI/AAAAAAAAB54/vssjvquGpMU/s1600/Parrents+on+Negotiator+at+Statue+of+Liberty+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ByJnb5nkcYo/TerknxFjsxI/AAAAAAAAB54/vssjvquGpMU/s400/Parrents+on+Negotiator+at+Statue+of+Liberty+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> </div>Parrent Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14096024725430067991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605915790391064139.post-37398744335030337852011-06-04T19:21:00.000-07:002011-06-04T19:21:24.198-07:00Sylvan Beach, New York<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">We were fortunate to stumble upon a great amusement park for the kids right outside our boat in Sylvan Beach. There is a dock wall right before Oneida Lake (29 mile stretch of open water) and the kids were thrilled! We rode all of the rides 100's of times! Our next adventure is going to be 'Coast to Coast on Coasters'!! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VxbgPiWxL7o/TerY4L9RCTI/AAAAAAAAB4c/2K3GSN0YrWM/s1600/IMG_7554.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VxbgPiWxL7o/TerY4L9RCTI/AAAAAAAAB4c/2K3GSN0YrWM/s320/IMG_7554.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> I was designated to be the adult 'least likely to lose my dinner' and rode all of the rides with the kids. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jp6dgAGGubA/TerY7yZnKqI/AAAAAAAAB4g/QgPz__zbuqc/s1600/IMG_7488.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jp6dgAGGubA/TerY7yZnKqI/AAAAAAAAB4g/QgPz__zbuqc/s320/IMG_7488.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> It's a ferris wheel, but in a cage....hhhmmmmm.....<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OV5IhfGp5mA/TerY-8pn5kI/AAAAAAAAB4k/AcDrgc4ZEO0/s1600/IMG_7482.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OV5IhfGp5mA/TerY-8pn5kI/AAAAAAAAB4k/AcDrgc4ZEO0/s320/IMG_7482.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>........and it tips up-side-down!!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JmMXgabijwc/TerZCEq85eI/AAAAAAAAB4o/C8UIpjNTCKA/s1600/IMG_7526.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JmMXgabijwc/TerZCEq85eI/AAAAAAAAB4o/C8UIpjNTCKA/s320/IMG_7526.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> My favorite ride was the classic Himalaya. Great loud music, super fast and this particular one was rather old. Try to see the paintings on the back walls. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4HUrVDgbQ38/TerZF41zTuI/AAAAAAAAB4s/4tzAjw478ew/s1600/IMG_7521.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4HUrVDgbQ38/TerZF41zTuI/AAAAAAAAB4s/4tzAjw478ew/s320/IMG_7521.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> We were suppose to be scared in Lafland, but Jaxon said it just wasn't!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZWEIi8n6TOI/TerZJO4dpeI/AAAAAAAAB44/s9hyrATITzw/s1600/IMG_7490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZWEIi8n6TOI/TerZJO4dpeI/AAAAAAAAB44/s9hyrATITzw/s320/IMG_7490.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The 'Bomber' is rather hard to hold on, but dates back to before WWII and is the oldest ride in the park. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Nqqx4wt67eU/TerZMUjZ1MI/AAAAAAAAB48/SXUXXxmtRCA/s1600/IMG_7502.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Nqqx4wt67eU/TerZMUjZ1MI/AAAAAAAAB48/SXUXXxmtRCA/s320/IMG_7502.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Bumper cars were fun and Craig did a 'pinch hit' for me so I could regain my stomach after a super spin ride! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jkImwRiCNMs/TerZQDLeH5I/AAAAAAAAB5A/umiSoQQNbsw/s1600/IMG_7510.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jkImwRiCNMs/TerZQDLeH5I/AAAAAAAAB5A/umiSoQQNbsw/s320/IMG_7510.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> 25 cents to play...unheard of these days and kids had a riot playing eachother in Bingo to fill the holes with the ball.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aVeAW6tg2jc/TerZTo9Ir0I/AAAAAAAAB5E/SP5srNB3r0A/s1600/IMG_7529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aVeAW6tg2jc/TerZTo9Ir0I/AAAAAAAAB5E/SP5srNB3r0A/s320/IMG_7529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Lucky for Ryann, she's big enough to ride almost all of the big rides and small enough to still hang back with Jaxon. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UUylinTQ0Oo/TerZXZhYXXI/AAAAAAAAB5I/fjS3IPC3lr0/s1600/IMG_7531.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UUylinTQ0Oo/TerZXZhYXXI/AAAAAAAAB5I/fjS3IPC3lr0/s320/IMG_7531.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M26Zkh7oCFM/TerZa22QzDI/AAAAAAAAB5M/L1094xW8bLk/s1600/IMG_7534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M26Zkh7oCFM/TerZa22QzDI/AAAAAAAAB5M/L1094xW8bLk/s320/IMG_7534.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q0b_JcvjKHo/TerZe0WnvrI/AAAAAAAAB5U/KETNnuGuwhY/s1600/IMG_7543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q0b_JcvjKHo/TerZe0WnvrI/AAAAAAAAB5U/KETNnuGuwhY/s320/IMG_7543.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The kids LOVED Sylvia. She was a street performer that kept hanging out with us all night. She rode the rides, played skee ball with us and made us laugh! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_xkKHOYFhes/TerZihuVQ-I/AAAAAAAAB5Y/lFCMxS3QJSs/s1600/IMG_7551.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_xkKHOYFhes/TerZihuVQ-I/AAAAAAAAB5Y/lFCMxS3QJSs/s320/IMG_7551.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> After about 10 times on the ride I realized that Jaxon didn't need mommy to go with him anymore. They proceeded to go another 20 times till the park closed!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FsXYqRK97Ls/TerZl9evolI/AAAAAAAAB5c/tegA8Gf6BtU/s1600/IMG_7471.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FsXYqRK97Ls/TerZl9evolI/AAAAAAAAB5c/tegA8Gf6BtU/s320/IMG_7471.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Prior to our stay in Sylvan Beach, we were able to see many interesting locks. Each one is so very different than the next. This one is Little Falls which is the largest lift up in the entire canal and surrounded by beautiful stone walls on the opposite side.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GNV3szCAXHo/TerZootVADI/AAAAAAAAB5g/1DUBsdrryfM/s1600/IMG_7415.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GNV3szCAXHo/TerZootVADI/AAAAAAAAB5g/1DUBsdrryfM/s320/IMG_7415.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> All of the bridges are less than 20 feet. This one has the lock behind it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0Spkl_P_P-U/TerZsoADClI/AAAAAAAAB5k/k269yf1Q0Mk/s1600/IMG_7424.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0Spkl_P_P-U/TerZsoADClI/AAAAAAAAB5k/k269yf1Q0Mk/s320/IMG_7424.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> We stayed at lock wall 20 which had free 50 amp power, a floating dock and made for a great layover as the 40 knot winds blew down the canal for a few days. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kWfZPVNCRLo/TerZxSk0wKI/AAAAAAAAB5s/S96X7cnSZs8/s1600/IMG_7456.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kWfZPVNCRLo/TerZxSk0wKI/AAAAAAAAB5s/S96X7cnSZs8/s320/IMG_7456.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> Great electronic charts as the arrow with pink line following states where we are currently. The blue is the canal.....so apparently we are driving the boat on land at this present time!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gd8wSfCTCCI/TerZ1cO2U5I/AAAAAAAAB5w/jeeryMtzvWY/s1600/IMG_7423.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gd8wSfCTCCI/TerZ1cO2U5I/AAAAAAAAB5w/jeeryMtzvWY/s320/IMG_7423.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>After a very long stay at the amusement park, Jaxon made a great little bed next to his toys for a quick nap the next day as we drove over Oneida Lake and onto the Oswego Canal. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BhjV7MI7DiQ/TerZ46jM3RI/AAAAAAAAB50/bZqjvYMtrxk/s1600/IMG_7559.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BhjV7MI7DiQ/TerZ46jM3RI/AAAAAAAAB50/bZqjvYMtrxk/s320/IMG_7559.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>We are currently staying in Minetto at yet another free dock with power next to the town. They encourage transients to bring income to their towns. Sure enough we stocked up on favorable quarts of Stewarts ice cream, eggs, milk, etc.<br />
<br />
</div>Parrent Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14096024725430067991noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605915790391064139.post-28139974050866438642011-06-01T04:48:00.000-07:002011-06-01T04:48:44.474-07:00Erie Canal, New York<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">The Erie Canal is a series of locks that transits you from the Hudson River to many different destinations. We are forced into the Oswego Canal which leads to Lake Ontario route due to a 15 foot bridge clearance that we can't make. Everyone starts at the Hudson, but there are other by-ways you can go including Buffalo, Seneca and Cayuga or Champlain. Our journey will take us through a total of 31 locks.<br />
As always in my blog...let me explain by showing you with photos how this happens. When you approach a lock the doors are usually closed and you call the 'Lockmaster' on VHF channel 13 and request a 'lock through.' They all have lock numbers near the top too...this is #7.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SsEp6vvk9Pg/TeWjBBALSgI/AAAAAAAAB2I/XGEsbjcog7E/s1600/IMG_7336.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SsEp6vvk9Pg/TeWjBBALSgI/AAAAAAAAB2I/XGEsbjcog7E/s320/IMG_7336.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The large doors open and you make your way into the lock chamber. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9nL16icz2JY/TeWjEHsN9_I/AAAAAAAAB2M/93t2gTrB6Zo/s1600/IMG_7295.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9nL16icz2JY/TeWjEHsN9_I/AAAAAAAAB2M/93t2gTrB6Zo/s320/IMG_7295.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Once inside the captain positions you alongside the lock wall. The locks aren't real wide so you need to be very accurate when driving in.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XQwXW_ThuzA/TeWjIcN-ZWI/AAAAAAAAB2Q/Sd1FVf2Vi_s/s1600/IMG_7260.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XQwXW_ThuzA/TeWjIcN-ZWI/AAAAAAAAB2Q/Sd1FVf2Vi_s/s320/IMG_7260.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> Crew (with rubber gloves and dock pole in hand) either grab the lines that hang off the walls, or tie a midship to the steel rod provided. The dock pole helps with grabbing lines and fending off debris when entering. Gloves are for touching the slimy lines and better grip!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qg9XS3BmhFE/TeWjOJO91ZI/AAAAAAAAB2U/aZjl7nS2-aw/s1600/IMG_7290.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qg9XS3BmhFE/TeWjOJO91ZI/AAAAAAAAB2U/aZjl7nS2-aw/s320/IMG_7290.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Captain usually stays close to the helm, but can grab lines when needed. You know Craig always in his bathing suit ready for anything. Not a good time for our bow thruster to be broken, but he keeps the boat in control even with the turbulent waters and currents he contends with. You can experience a 2-10 knot current force going into some of the locks. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-545b7bxEKS8/TeWk30QyvKI/AAAAAAAAB38/6SRmZVHvw70/s1600/IMG_7365.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-545b7bxEKS8/TeWk30QyvKI/AAAAAAAAB38/6SRmZVHvw70/s320/IMG_7365.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> Morgan was an essential part of the crew and filled in when ever and where ever needed.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-000UeoZx4CY/TeWk7VIUfFI/AAAAAAAAB4A/EpOY05b066c/s1600/IMG_7358.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-000UeoZx4CY/TeWk7VIUfFI/AAAAAAAAB4A/EpOY05b066c/s320/IMG_7358.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The Lockmasters seem to all be middle aged men with blue shirts, medium builds, hat and sunglasses, big smiles, helpful and nice. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5kRFkXzBXoM/TeWjQ1oyMHI/AAAAAAAAB2Y/zoJr5874eLM/s1600/IMG_7372.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5kRFkXzBXoM/TeWjQ1oyMHI/AAAAAAAAB2Y/zoJr5874eLM/s320/IMG_7372.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Once the lockmaster fills the lock chamber with water....up, up, up we go! Each lock is a different height, size, etc. Some locks take you up to the very top with only a few feet to spare and made it feel like we could float over the edge. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8Obrp6jbnFo/TeWjV--cv6I/AAAAAAAAB2c/nTlAascJV38/s1600/IMG_7262.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8Obrp6jbnFo/TeWjV--cv6I/AAAAAAAAB2c/nTlAascJV38/s320/IMG_7262.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Then the doors open and we safely make our way out.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W86pbTrCeQ0/TeWlHiy0S6I/AAAAAAAAB4E/iJC094Lz418/s1600/IMG_7366.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W86pbTrCeQ0/TeWlHiy0S6I/AAAAAAAAB4E/iJC094Lz418/s320/IMG_7366.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The whole thing usually takes around 30 minutes from start to finish. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4UZ_N0K_C0Q/TeWjZYRU1MI/AAAAAAAAB2g/Mn5t2kXLyHY/s1600/IMG_7308.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4UZ_N0K_C0Q/TeWjZYRU1MI/AAAAAAAAB2g/Mn5t2kXLyHY/s320/IMG_7308.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> Each lock there is a dam. So interesting to see that we are truly traveling uphill. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--BhiyVPiXSM/TeWjeIWkMfI/AAAAAAAAB2o/tZoVPTI2wLA/s1600/IMG_7344.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--BhiyVPiXSM/TeWjeIWkMfI/AAAAAAAAB2o/tZoVPTI2wLA/s320/IMG_7344.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Security gates are set up in certain areas near the locks to stop water if needed. The boat pictured here is an 80 foot Hatteras, so you can see how very large this gate really is.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4TMQ8azjRSE/TeWjjhI0BBI/AAAAAAAAB2s/SWa4XRt18GU/s1600/IMG_7312.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4TMQ8azjRSE/TeWjjhI0BBI/AAAAAAAAB2s/SWa4XRt18GU/s320/IMG_7312.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Cute little tug boat behind the larger one. These are some of the ships that keep the mighty Erie flowing.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FdQkcqJaYE4/TeWjwPakBPI/AAAAAAAAB2w/78v-e3rZ1IA/s1600/IMG_7323.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FdQkcqJaYE4/TeWjwPakBPI/AAAAAAAAB2w/78v-e3rZ1IA/s320/IMG_7323.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>My new friend, Cheryl, ran all the way up to the second lock wall to wave goodbye to us. We met in Waterford and she's so sweet and thoughtful. The day before we left she brought me a rose when I wasn't feeling well. She's just a gem and I'm going to miss her and Gabrielle her dog. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VV9ANzXMpEQ/TeWj0l5GwcI/AAAAAAAAB20/h0VNUqqkBIQ/s1600/IMG_7278.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VV9ANzXMpEQ/TeWj0l5GwcI/AAAAAAAAB20/h0VNUqqkBIQ/s320/IMG_7278.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> Goodbye sharks, alligators and jellyfish....hello turtles and snakes. This one went through the lock with us.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K8MKLNtOqXc/TeWj3ZLWC6I/AAAAAAAAB24/w11tBkmwttY/s1600/IMG_7300.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K8MKLNtOqXc/TeWj3ZLWC6I/AAAAAAAAB24/w11tBkmwttY/s320/IMG_7300.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>This is one of the many low bridges we went under. Some are very narrow and have debris alongside. Luckily, no worries about depths here....yet.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3noepkKBacY/TeWj7Zh9z0I/AAAAAAAAB28/btZuLXX1CT0/s1600/IMG_7351.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3noepkKBacY/TeWj7Zh9z0I/AAAAAAAAB28/btZuLXX1CT0/s320/IMG_7351.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Beautiful huge home on the shore.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZVeN25eWuAo/TeWj_oZP-EI/AAAAAAAAB3A/uNYXO5EDcb8/s1600/IMG_7350.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZVeN25eWuAo/TeWj_oZP-EI/AAAAAAAAB3A/uNYXO5EDcb8/s320/IMG_7350.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> Ruins of the original canal that was built back in 1825.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OQyIV_t9K2I/TeWkC9hrUII/AAAAAAAAB3E/o9nSQOwwctI/s1600/IMG_7380.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OQyIV_t9K2I/TeWkC9hrUII/AAAAAAAAB3E/o9nSQOwwctI/s320/IMG_7380.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Trains, trains everywhere again. As I type this there is one going by...loud and fast! New York is one of the first states that we've seen trains being used constantly.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xhX5C2qg41o/TeWkGXFuhiI/AAAAAAAAB3M/4ciRu0FJA7k/s1600/IMG_7368.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xhX5C2qg41o/TeWkGXFuhiI/AAAAAAAAB3M/4ciRu0FJA7k/s320/IMG_7368.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Strange place to build a smoke stack. It's right in the middle of a parking lot. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AAjAjNTY8P4/TeWkJgo2RgI/AAAAAAAAB3Q/sIIra_EkvUQ/s1600/IMG_7378.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AAjAjNTY8P4/TeWkJgo2RgI/AAAAAAAAB3Q/sIIra_EkvUQ/s320/IMG_7378.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> Not exaggerating, 20+ semi trucks drove by us in the course of one day and everyone of them honked their horn and waved out the window. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2j7HC5F1tDs/TeWkNNDMEbI/AAAAAAAAB3U/k3-UUDzZBik/s1600/IMG_7384.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2j7HC5F1tDs/TeWkNNDMEbI/AAAAAAAAB3U/k3-UUDzZBik/s320/IMG_7384.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Your not always by the road. In fact most of the time the surroundings are very serene, beautiful and quiet. Mountainous areas from the Adirondacks and green trees that look like we're back in Michigan again. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZOemdP4ANLo/TeWkQflIBZI/AAAAAAAAB3Y/u2kJgC77t8U/s1600/IMG_7382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZOemdP4ANLo/TeWkQflIBZI/AAAAAAAAB3Y/u2kJgC77t8U/s320/IMG_7382.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> This is the view Craig had of me all day. We make a great team and had fun. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-efS7zIOM3Vg/TeWkU8qfteI/AAAAAAAAB3c/YSANnlZXleQ/s1600/IMG_7270.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-efS7zIOM3Vg/TeWkU8qfteI/AAAAAAAAB3c/YSANnlZXleQ/s320/IMG_7270.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> After a scorcher hot day of over 90 degrees we tied up to a free wall in Canajoharie with power. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iS8zDljNH0U/TeWkYzo4_-I/AAAAAAAAB3g/C1ezwbdoZjc/s1600/IMG_7401.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iS8zDljNH0U/TeWkYzo4_-I/AAAAAAAAB3g/C1ezwbdoZjc/s320/IMG_7401.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The kids ran and ran and ran in the grass. This is where the Beech Nut plant is (see sign upper left) and they make Lifesavers, gum and babyfood here. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gEX6h23in5I/TeWkdv4N3YI/AAAAAAAAB3k/dQlKoi4wp84/s1600/IMG_7391.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gEX6h23in5I/TeWkdv4N3YI/AAAAAAAAB3k/dQlKoi4wp84/s320/IMG_7391.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Morgan seized the opportunity to find more driftwood before sunset. Pictured behind her is lock number 14. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fIJovG4O1Vs/TeWkgiPxJ0I/AAAAAAAAB3s/bnawXIkdD2U/s1600/IMG_7393.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fIJovG4O1Vs/TeWkgiPxJ0I/AAAAAAAAB3s/bnawXIkdD2U/s320/IMG_7393.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> I spoke with many local folks who pointed us in the direction to town to have ice cream. It was a great way to cool off after a long day and made for a good chance to stretch our legs. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UNsarhbZoBY/TeWkk_9AUKI/AAAAAAAAB30/L38jZQLpZFI/s1600/IMG_7403.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UNsarhbZoBY/TeWkk_9AUKI/AAAAAAAAB30/L38jZQLpZFI/s320/IMG_7403.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Although we're not even halfway through our Erie Canal experience, I wanted to post some of these fun pictures. I hardly took even one photo all day. Craig and Morgan did a great job and I have hundreds of photos and a dead battery after it all...love it!!<br />
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Back to Waterford as I forgot to post these photos. Pictured here from the bridge above as are still waiting for the Erie Canal to fully open. Portions still have flood advisorys and high waters to deal with. People getting antsy move forward to the bottleneck of boats waiting to lock through at various points. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hpG-DiXmRrk/TeYhGCW6ImI/AAAAAAAAB4I/vFAtu8DQQeI/s1600/IMG_7242.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hpG-DiXmRrk/TeYhGCW6ImI/AAAAAAAAB4I/vFAtu8DQQeI/s320/IMG_7242.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>On Peebles Island by 1942 this building was the worlds largest manufacturer of shirts. In 1972 NY State purchased it to house any historical items that need to be refurbished including artwork, jewelry, furniture, automobiles, etc. are sent to this location. One morning we had a nice conversation with a local police officer that said the inventory is priceless.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9CCiDW1MW4k/TeYhJlUderI/AAAAAAAAB4M/wrejsM2jtCU/s1600/IMG_7251.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9CCiDW1MW4k/TeYhJlUderI/AAAAAAAAB4M/wrejsM2jtCU/s320/IMG_7251.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Jaxon took this photo at the laundry mat. His prospective of something interesting to photograph. Multiple days with temperatures over 90 degrees. We played a lot of ball too. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jjHeSHf5Yh8/TeYhNifA06I/AAAAAAAAB4Q/DFg10YyOAo8/s1600/IMG_7237.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jjHeSHf5Yh8/TeYhNifA06I/AAAAAAAAB4Q/DFg10YyOAo8/s320/IMG_7237.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Every once in awhile Ryann will move out to the couch to sleep for the night. When we have power the kids like the fan on....except Ryann doesn't like the noise. We truly believe it's so she can stay up later. Evenings still hold temps around 80 degrees. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sGnQH3ZdKRs/TeYhVTOSLxI/AAAAAAAAB4Y/O1Jdy5ys-oA/s1600/IMG_7258.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sGnQH3ZdKRs/TeYhVTOSLxI/AAAAAAAAB4Y/O1Jdy5ys-oA/s320/IMG_7258.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>More Erie Canal adventures to be had today! <br />
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</div>Parrent Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14096024725430067991noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605915790391064139.post-87809411347862463882011-05-29T07:53:00.000-07:002011-05-29T07:53:44.742-07:00Waterford, New York<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Waterford is a great town that has a lot to offer. We've enjoyed riding bikes, the many parks, the people and of course free full hook-up. Our time has extended here due to the Erie Canal not being fully open. There has been a lot of boats passing through Lock 2 next to our boat, but are now all stacked up near the closed lock. A man working at the Welcome Center and the Lockmaster stated we better stay put as boats are rafted three deep on lock walls with no amenities. It may open today, but with the holiday weekend, temperatures reaching 90 degrees and a sailing regatta further up where they close the river....I think we'll let the mob pass thru for a day! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OvEszFRbLJE/TeJMTJvX7-I/AAAAAAAAB0s/Pab6bWEqDKM/s1600/IMG_7205.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OvEszFRbLJE/TeJMTJvX7-I/AAAAAAAAB0s/Pab6bWEqDKM/s320/IMG_7205.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> There was a Memorial Day parade that was fun to see.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ebKnaM23pw0/TeJMaCBMqdI/AAAAAAAAB0w/QxokuxWeNoo/s1600/IMG_7201.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ebKnaM23pw0/TeJMaCBMqdI/AAAAAAAAB0w/QxokuxWeNoo/s320/IMG_7201.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> 126 foot 1901 vessel just made it under the bridge. Notice the man on a ladder on the topside. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WO5JYPn1sRY/TeJMhTkQs2I/AAAAAAAAB00/xLDzsubPt_8/s1600/IMG_7183.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WO5JYPn1sRY/TeJMhTkQs2I/AAAAAAAAB00/xLDzsubPt_8/s320/IMG_7183.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> We ran up to see him locking through and found out they just underwent a $10 million restoration and the owner was captaining the boat (unheard of).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n9Q58V_ea5M/TeJMopkCANI/AAAAAAAAB08/275KrVbC1tA/s1600/IMG_7186.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n9Q58V_ea5M/TeJMopkCANI/AAAAAAAAB08/275KrVbC1tA/s320/IMG_7186.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> A view of the old Erie Canal that we kayaked by in last post.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--qQ57-7BMf8/TeJMwVRNlKI/AAAAAAAAB1A/gNB8X8h68cM/s1600/IMG_7191.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--qQ57-7BMf8/TeJMwVRNlKI/AAAAAAAAB1A/gNB8X8h68cM/s320/IMG_7191.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> David and Trish aboard Sovereignty came over after we BBQ'd a great dinner. David has lived on his 27 foot boat for 27 years! He once lived in our home town of Grand Rapids, Michigan and managed the Boat U.S. store. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v4v4mp_1X7E/TeJM5VctslI/AAAAAAAAB1E/aI1wq1s0LMk/s1600/IMG_7220.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v4v4mp_1X7E/TeJM5VctslI/AAAAAAAAB1E/aI1wq1s0LMk/s320/IMG_7220.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> David and Trish brought us a watermelon and Ryann was so excited! We made banana bread for them and have really enjoyed their company.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vG5tDFAm-Gg/TeJM_jg0LiI/AAAAAAAAB1I/mDjYKaU9DEY/s1600/IMG_7208.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vG5tDFAm-Gg/TeJM_jg0LiI/AAAAAAAAB1I/mDjYKaU9DEY/s320/IMG_7208.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> This was the only picture of the squirt gun fights where Ryann wasn't running away from Jaxon....he puts up a great battle! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ubM_hCb54Io/TeJNKpgHLWI/AAAAAAAAB1Q/NZeMMyf5yW8/s1600/IMG_7210.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ubM_hCb54Io/TeJNKpgHLWI/AAAAAAAAB1Q/NZeMMyf5yW8/s320/IMG_7210.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Boys jumping from the bridge with their big tennis shoes on....see some of them still on the bridge and some in the water. Looked dangerous and fun at the same time.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8gBzvLLyxls/TeJNQwi3HFI/AAAAAAAAB1U/a5L4IKUPrWg/s1600/IMG_7217.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8gBzvLLyxls/TeJNQwi3HFI/AAAAAAAAB1U/a5L4IKUPrWg/s320/IMG_7217.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> David taught Morgan how to make a Turk Head nautical bracelet or thump pad/coaster. He was very detailed as it's not easy to do. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zAIhwQq9EtE/TeJNY0DFj8I/AAAAAAAAB1Y/fIg-GK-skXo/s1600/IMG_7221.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zAIhwQq9EtE/TeJNY0DFj8I/AAAAAAAAB1Y/fIg-GK-skXo/s320/IMG_7221.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The girls sat on the lawn drawing with a cold drink in the shade after a hot day. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ljwhhqwxvkg/TeJNfZ4AMgI/AAAAAAAAB1c/NPUF6rJTcpQ/s1600/IMG_7206.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ljwhhqwxvkg/TeJNfZ4AMgI/AAAAAAAAB1c/NPUF6rJTcpQ/s320/IMG_7206.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> These boys waved and smiled at the girls on the grass....then were escorted out by the police for biking in a prohibited area. I think Craig had something to do with this.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lOxDQGtMcEY/TeJNjtLaoyI/AAAAAAAAB1g/i0j9thkNgVU/s1600/IMG_7207.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lOxDQGtMcEY/TeJNjtLaoyI/AAAAAAAAB1g/i0j9thkNgVU/s320/IMG_7207.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Our new friends that we've gotten to know during our stay here. Bill (far left) and Barb aboard SunCast a 32' s/v have lived aboard for over 10 years and just came from Cuba. Terry and Cindy (lower left) aboard Freyja a 42' s/v have lived aboard for 3 years are heading back to the WI/MN area to try the 'landlover' life again. They have lived in Australia and Japan among 37 other places in their life and had some great stories. Nelson aboard 'Lost Navigator' on right is a 36' trawler built 100% out of wood by Nelson over 9 years to construct. It is bright orange and very cool. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_v48qK3bODE/TeJNq8wOuII/AAAAAAAAB1k/_kohVjEUAvA/s1600/IMG_7228.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_v48qK3bODE/TeJNq8wOuII/AAAAAAAAB1k/_kohVjEUAvA/s320/IMG_7228.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> From left: David, Barb and Trish...as mentioned earlier. We all enjoyed talking on the aft deck once the hot sun went down....good stories and friends were made. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d0LwdO2U2RE/TeJN0XvLsCI/AAAAAAAAB1s/ondCl7laZ84/s1600/IMG_7229.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d0LwdO2U2RE/TeJN0XvLsCI/AAAAAAAAB1s/ondCl7laZ84/s320/IMG_7229.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Bill brought over his conch for the kids to try. He gave them some good pointers too.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xOsxS72Jspc/TeJN7TBWxlI/AAAAAAAAB1w/Xe0ZIOtkdYQ/s1600/IMG_7227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xOsxS72Jspc/TeJN7TBWxlI/AAAAAAAAB1w/Xe0ZIOtkdYQ/s320/IMG_7227.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Jaxon gave it all he had!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vL9ILDhHAj8/TeJOC725CbI/AAAAAAAAB10/hpCWzy7q96s/s1600/IMG_7225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vL9ILDhHAj8/TeJOC725CbI/AAAAAAAAB10/hpCWzy7q96s/s320/IMG_7225.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> David didn't believe that Jaxon's blue anchor bed was large enough to fit an adult. He tried it out and concurred! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EUymDD-BC-s/TeJOKbbqHjI/AAAAAAAAB14/BtgoIUTYODA/s1600/IMG_7231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EUymDD-BC-s/TeJOKbbqHjI/AAAAAAAAB14/BtgoIUTYODA/s320/IMG_7231.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The parks were nice and the kids were able to meet other children too.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0jW6M3ZeeqI/TeJOU2f6xDI/AAAAAAAAB18/4-0kTda_kvw/s1600/IMG_7197.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0jW6M3ZeeqI/TeJOU2f6xDI/AAAAAAAAB18/4-0kTda_kvw/s320/IMG_7197.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>A new addition to the 'Negotiator' as we are currently displaying our crab pot balls on the port and starboard aft deck top. Like we didn't already look like 'liveaboards' already!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fyyX_iyN1BU/TeJOanWECrI/AAAAAAAAB2A/QCal5D6nHu8/s1600/IMG_7200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fyyX_iyN1BU/TeJOanWECrI/AAAAAAAAB2A/QCal5D6nHu8/s320/IMG_7200.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
</div>Parrent Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14096024725430067991noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605915790391064139.post-52587762258755681352011-05-26T07:05:00.000-07:002011-05-26T07:05:17.205-07:00Hudson River<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Our drive up the Hudson River was beautiful and one of our favorite stretches of water, even though it was rainy and overcast most of the way. This waterfall along the shoreline was so picturesque near the home. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1h2--DAZn-I/Td24alcS4aI/AAAAAAAAByc/EMi6QxuEkbM/s1600/IMG_7115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1h2--DAZn-I/Td24alcS4aI/AAAAAAAAByc/EMi6QxuEkbM/s320/IMG_7115.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The lush green trees of the Catskill mountainous hillside was breathtaking. The majority of the river was lined with railroad tracks and trains passing through all day long. Look closely at bottom of photo. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o-WaxTCnCO4/Td28FLP_kNI/AAAAAAAAByg/5ceva3ysAGo/s1600/IMG_7106.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o-WaxTCnCO4/Td28FLP_kNI/AAAAAAAAByg/5ceva3ysAGo/s320/IMG_7106.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>A plane on the shoreline near a home and you wonder how he got there....<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eNSP_DSkA3g/Td28c2lpnII/AAAAAAAAByk/erVG_bR6Dt8/s1600/IMG_7108.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eNSP_DSkA3g/Td28c2lpnII/AAAAAAAAByk/erVG_bR6Dt8/s320/IMG_7108.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> There was interesting debris along the way including a few tires and lot of driftwood. The current pushes you at sometimes a few knots at a time. It's always favorable to take a ride and travel with it, but the time of day and direction your heading play a factor in it all. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gnnaQuCebwk/Td29XfqxwMI/AAAAAAAAByo/_uTQc2l9k8Y/s1600/IMG_7094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gnnaQuCebwk/Td29XfqxwMI/AAAAAAAAByo/_uTQc2l9k8Y/s320/IMG_7094.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>West Point College was so impressive to see from the water. We would travel miles to only see an occasional home and then you see this!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DogxpxdwIos/Td3AnUbKahI/AAAAAAAAByw/1AO1eLgg51Q/s1600/IMG_7120.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DogxpxdwIos/Td3AnUbKahI/AAAAAAAAByw/1AO1eLgg51Q/s320/IMG_7120.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> A castle in the distance looked very grand sitting so high. I can't imagine the view up there. The Vanderbilt and FDR homes also line the shore.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_kN5EGtmL_s/Td3BnBYb0UI/AAAAAAAABy0/UiHPq-Ylk-U/s1600/IMG_7117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_kN5EGtmL_s/Td3BnBYb0UI/AAAAAAAABy0/UiHPq-Ylk-U/s320/IMG_7117.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Pollepel Island shows the remains of the Bannerman Castle. You can tour the area with a ferry boat and portions of it collapsed a few years ago. When you see the photos of what it use to look like its sad to see the deterioration. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kgec6QgU_vQ/Td3B7A5NCHI/AAAAAAAABy4/hpUW_cBcasY/s1600/IMG_7133.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kgec6QgU_vQ/Td3B7A5NCHI/AAAAAAAABy4/hpUW_cBcasY/s320/IMG_7133.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>We had a great anchorage in Esopus Creek one night. It was a very narrow inlet with a cute lighthouse at the entrance. It was a calm night as many tall trees above swayed in the breeze with wind and rain, we were so protected and had a cozy night grilling on the aft deck.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KBFOOrDdlig/Td3B_75tkXI/AAAAAAAABy8/9PLoKgYmZ0Q/s1600/IMG_7144.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KBFOOrDdlig/Td3B_75tkXI/AAAAAAAABy8/9PLoKgYmZ0Q/s320/IMG_7144.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The Doris Moran and other tugs frequent the waters daily.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3X12GLp3fRs/Td3CEq7PY3I/AAAAAAAABzA/hEqaq8Pe4TE/s1600/IMG_7152.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3X12GLp3fRs/Td3CEq7PY3I/AAAAAAAABzA/hEqaq8Pe4TE/s320/IMG_7152.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> A very popular place to have your mast stepped. Many of our boating friends use this shipyard for the task. This 126 foot long vessel was built in 1901 and just underwent a major remodel. More photos to come.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HT_7nz95XMY/Td3CK3LpcDI/AAAAAAAABzE/qP1PhNAGY4k/s1600/IMG_7153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HT_7nz95XMY/Td3CK3LpcDI/AAAAAAAABzE/qP1PhNAGY4k/s320/IMG_7153.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Downtown Albany a U-Haul building had a truck on the rooftop. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kdG2yFNUdsY/Td3CTr-kq5I/AAAAAAAABzI/WZ8xioNSKBY/s1600/IMG_7154.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kdG2yFNUdsY/Td3CTr-kq5I/AAAAAAAABzI/WZ8xioNSKBY/s320/IMG_7154.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Lock One, known as the Troy or Federal Lock was our first on the Erie Canal. It was a very narrow inlet with three very large trees in the water. The wind was blowing strong and our bow thruster is still not functioning. Our captain took it in stride, crew secured the lines and used dock poles to fend off debris. We were so happy to officially be in fresh water again. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eBZRLvHN11c/Td3CYAyXHrI/AAAAAAAABzM/FWOQH9yHAMo/s1600/IMG_7158.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eBZRLvHN11c/Td3CYAyXHrI/AAAAAAAABzM/FWOQH9yHAMo/s320/IMG_7158.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The Erie Canal will take us to Lake Ontario. This stretch feels like our last leg of the trip. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h0a24W7coZs/Td3EovefLgI/AAAAAAAABzU/A_7Cc8LHMHs/s1600/IMG_7160.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h0a24W7coZs/Td3EovefLgI/AAAAAAAABzU/A_7Cc8LHMHs/s320/IMG_7160.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The Waterford Welcome Center offers floating docks with free water and power which is virtually unheard of! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3dROZzmnf4/Td3EynnyncI/AAAAAAAABzY/V1grcW89I-Y/s1600/DSCF1297.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3dROZzmnf4/Td3EynnyncI/AAAAAAAABzY/V1grcW89I-Y/s320/DSCF1297.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>We spent a fun evening with the family aboard 'Messenger' of Scott and Lisa and three teenage children, Elizabeth, Aiden and Reg. It's an instant connection when meeting other families that live parallel lives. They had to leave the next morning and will have finished their journey by the end of the month at their homeport in Waterford, Canada. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jnsSG5y7gB8/Td3FOXYez_I/AAAAAAAABzc/3IHH6cfYdcg/s1600/IMG_7166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jnsSG5y7gB8/Td3FOXYez_I/AAAAAAAABzc/3IHH6cfYdcg/s320/IMG_7166.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> A cruise ship passed by en-route loaded with passengers seeking an Erie Canal experience. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w3OI99hDk1g/Td3FS0LHx-I/AAAAAAAABzg/XZAJtpofezg/s1600/IMG_7169.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w3OI99hDk1g/Td3FS0LHx-I/AAAAAAAABzg/XZAJtpofezg/s320/IMG_7169.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> This man rode his bike from LA, California in 50 days and will catch a plane in Boston to head back to Korea. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8D3ooz4dyiE/Td3FZXnX-mI/AAAAAAAABzk/HQQVkqnGFzo/s1600/IMG_7171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8D3ooz4dyiE/Td3FZXnX-mI/AAAAAAAABzk/HQQVkqnGFzo/s320/IMG_7171.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> 'Onrust' is a 52' yacht project taken on by volunteers over the past few years to reconstruct one like New York's first ship and decked sailing vessel in 1614 that was the first American yacht and first ship to be built in NY. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nS0XaWw-xZs/Td3FerA7MvI/AAAAAAAABzo/3fSOhhPpCnk/s1600/IMG_7165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nS0XaWw-xZs/Td3FerA7MvI/AAAAAAAABzo/3fSOhhPpCnk/s320/IMG_7165.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Hannaford's grocery store made for a huge provision stop for us. Customer service walks you to the parking lot (with the device in her hand) to unlock the wheels so you can take the cart back to the boat. Every Saturday they come to gather the carts. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EAR2cY0r6Ck/Td3Fk5y5KYI/AAAAAAAABzs/TRgE4r_AXqk/s1600/IMG_7176.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EAR2cY0r6Ck/Td3Fk5y5KYI/AAAAAAAABzs/TRgE4r_AXqk/s320/IMG_7176.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> We walked nearly a mile home and crossed this bridge. It made for a quick and easy way to stock up without backpacking or biking and great prices and produce too!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HFpBTrEE3sc/Td3Fs4ZPD_I/AAAAAAAABz0/0k2LL16NSNc/s1600/IMG_7177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HFpBTrEE3sc/Td3Fs4ZPD_I/AAAAAAAABz0/0k2LL16NSNc/s320/IMG_7177.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> Kayaking one evening as Jaxon takes over the paddling!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6Hv19hAsBX4/Td3F0fbnZaI/AAAAAAAABz4/rNmyrI_AxYg/s1600/DSCF1294.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6Hv19hAsBX4/Td3F0fbnZaI/AAAAAAAABz4/rNmyrI_AxYg/s320/DSCF1294.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> We made it all the way to the waterfalls. There was a group of over 30 other kayakers that joined us for the evening as they gather every Tuesday to paddle and gather at the bar afterwards. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pD5_HCGzmzo/Td3GAfYMnRI/AAAAAAAABz8/qtZEwIRDjgc/s1600/DSCF1286.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pD5_HCGzmzo/Td3GAfYMnRI/AAAAAAAABz8/qtZEwIRDjgc/s320/DSCF1286.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The building in this photo is owned by a dress designer for over 20 years. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5mrnUcPCUho/Td3GO7fMZQI/AAAAAAAAB0A/ryCVNnzuoyI/s1600/DSCF1290.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5mrnUcPCUho/Td3GO7fMZQI/AAAAAAAAB0A/ryCVNnzuoyI/s320/DSCF1290.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Lock 2 in Waterford is a series of 5 locks in a row that takes you up 180 feet. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WcAYGrovBwM/Td3GqWVgMdI/AAAAAAAAB0E/wYMOraqViWM/s1600/DSCF1299.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WcAYGrovBwM/Td3GqWVgMdI/AAAAAAAAB0E/wYMOraqViWM/s320/DSCF1299.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Right next to the lock is the old lock that was built in 1817. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uRPXL-pzPYc/Td3G6NaGY-I/AAAAAAAAB0M/7JKqnCaLbk8/s1600/DSCF1301.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uRPXL-pzPYc/Td3G6NaGY-I/AAAAAAAAB0M/7JKqnCaLbk8/s320/DSCF1301.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
</div>Parrent Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14096024725430067991noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605915790391064139.post-48823107800978834642011-05-21T20:19:00.000-07:002011-05-21T20:19:40.378-07:00Atlantic Ocean<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">We finally said goodbye to the beautiful Atlantic Ocean beaches. We made the most of our rainy, cool, windy, foggy days at Beach Haven. It was the perfect time to regroup mentally and take a break from cruising. We were able to provision at the nearby market and relax without studying the weather every moment of the day and the constant demands of cruising. We always take each day in stride, but this gave us an opportunity to just slow down for awhile. <br />
There's no 'slowin down' for Jaxon as he runs circles around us daily!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pUGoLTezJr4/TdhgCUTnmII/AAAAAAAABwY/3YQevmll7xE/s1600/IMG_6918.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pUGoLTezJr4/TdhgCUTnmII/AAAAAAAABwY/3YQevmll7xE/s320/IMG_6918.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>One more lobster(ish) to play with.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KoldEsFVuWM/TdhgH-CvDxI/AAAAAAAABwc/Qo79J7NxZfY/s1600/IMG_6920.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KoldEsFVuWM/TdhgH-CvDxI/AAAAAAAABwc/Qo79J7NxZfY/s320/IMG_6920.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The rainy days brought on a lot of creativity with great projects and games. Morgan decided to build her own puppet. She found the wood and proceeded to saw it into shape.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZkFX3isG91g/TdhgKA0qM9I/AAAAAAAABwg/EpcljjjZ2EA/s1600/IMG_6923.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZkFX3isG91g/TdhgKA0qM9I/AAAAAAAABwg/EpcljjjZ2EA/s320/IMG_6923.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> She sewed the fabric together....<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qZfQuQmZTUI/TdhgNViMu8I/AAAAAAAABwk/lQrToXJFVMg/s1600/IMG_6928.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qZfQuQmZTUI/TdhgNViMu8I/AAAAAAAABwk/lQrToXJFVMg/s320/IMG_6928.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> ...and painted the parts. The finished project has some minor work to be done and final picture will come soon. She has started her own website where she wants to sell her crafts......more to come!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-g8VPsQh-Ap8/TdhgPyDKrhI/AAAAAAAABwo/WPWLFoaOYNk/s1600/IMG_6927.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-g8VPsQh-Ap8/TdhgPyDKrhI/AAAAAAAABwo/WPWLFoaOYNk/s320/IMG_6927.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The rain just kept coming down.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6g3Kb9DZeho/TdhgSgcBU5I/AAAAAAAABws/CgKneTUtwEI/s1600/IMG_6926.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6g3Kb9DZeho/TdhgSgcBU5I/AAAAAAAABws/CgKneTUtwEI/s320/IMG_6926.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> We made friends with Brittany who worked at the arcade. The girls got new Webkinz from her and named them Brittany! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aqpqGTC4rW0/TdhgV3u1wAI/AAAAAAAABw0/fzZ_CAR3C9M/s1600/IMG_6937.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aqpqGTC4rW0/TdhgV3u1wAI/AAAAAAAABw0/fzZ_CAR3C9M/s320/IMG_6937.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>We had the pleasure of buddy boating with Martyn and Allison aboard 'Last Chance' from Canada. We left the marina together and headed up to an anchorage near the Manasquan Inlet in the Meteloking River. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CnT3CShq6UI/TdhgXm0i9dI/AAAAAAAABw4/Lm6kZotiTR8/s1600/IMG_6941.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CnT3CShq6UI/TdhgXm0i9dI/AAAAAAAABw4/Lm6kZotiTR8/s320/IMG_6941.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> There was a big thunderstorm right before our arrival, but we were happy to have calm water, no wind and a delicious meal. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yjfxiPWxmaM/TdhgaBe0fOI/AAAAAAAABw8/pMwzpf4JGUA/s1600/IMG_6948.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yjfxiPWxmaM/TdhgaBe0fOI/AAAAAAAABw8/pMwzpf4JGUA/s320/IMG_6948.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> With sun and rain came a huge rainbow!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H6hekHpMTm0/TdhgcAnZx-I/AAAAAAAABxA/WafjG2645aQ/s1600/IMG_6950.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H6hekHpMTm0/TdhgcAnZx-I/AAAAAAAABxA/WafjG2645aQ/s320/IMG_6950.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> We went ashore to a little beach area with a park for the kids to run and play.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_DAArFBPd4Q/Tdhgei2iN4I/AAAAAAAABxE/aRxcTiZMs5k/s1600/IMG_6954.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_DAArFBPd4Q/Tdhgei2iN4I/AAAAAAAABxE/aRxcTiZMs5k/s320/IMG_6954.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The next morning the kids knew we were in for a long day. They hadn't played their Nintendos in so long and it made for a fun way to pass some time. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3uXUfFJxpbQ/Tdhgh_NBAEI/AAAAAAAABxI/vHE3TMFplcQ/s1600/IMG_6965.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3uXUfFJxpbQ/Tdhgh_NBAEI/AAAAAAAABxI/vHE3TMFplcQ/s320/IMG_6965.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The homes along the Point Pleasant Canal and waters before the inlet were full of large homes.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PwU67lAxXa4/Tdhgk4NMPAI/AAAAAAAABxM/P3GwtQXyX0c/s1600/IMG_6966.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PwU67lAxXa4/Tdhgk4NMPAI/AAAAAAAABxM/P3GwtQXyX0c/s320/IMG_6966.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The Manasquan Inlet was lined with odd shaped concrete.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pQiCMkAyjyQ/TdhgnwCGrhI/AAAAAAAABxU/CkrByD1EBRM/s1600/IMG_6973.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pQiCMkAyjyQ/TdhgnwCGrhI/AAAAAAAABxU/CkrByD1EBRM/s320/IMG_6973.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>We were able to see first hand the 64 foot scalloped boat that had overturned in the inlet (see previous posting). There was a towboat that monitors it 24/7 until it's moved. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L60Dq4RJpGg/Tdhgqk4FRuI/AAAAAAAABxY/UNAanun_B8E/s1600/IMG_6977.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L60Dq4RJpGg/Tdhgqk4FRuI/AAAAAAAABxY/UNAanun_B8E/s320/IMG_6977.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The water was calm and filled with fishing boats. It was nice to have 'Last Chance' in tow and roll over the large waves so slowly. We kicked up the speed to 14 mph and created a huge wake. Our friends aboard Dragonfly said it perfectly of this experience: uuuuuuuuuupppppppp....ddddoooooowwwwwwnnnnn<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c6WmYaYaTBQ/TdhgtvJeEWI/AAAAAAAABxc/17YWLwpwqRI/s1600/IMG_6994.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c6WmYaYaTBQ/TdhgtvJeEWI/AAAAAAAABxc/17YWLwpwqRI/s320/IMG_6994.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> We made our way through 26 miles of Atlantic Ocean waters and around Sandy Hook, New Jersey in short time. We could see the New York skyline in the distance and made our way another 18 miles to the entrance of the Hudson River. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j1LxFVsxDT4/Tdhgvy8tPkI/AAAAAAAABxg/xv1RvvqSe8k/s1600/IMG_7020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j1LxFVsxDT4/Tdhgvy8tPkI/AAAAAAAABxg/xv1RvvqSe8k/s320/IMG_7020.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> It was amazing to see the Statue of Liberty from the water. We were in awe and couldn't take our eyes off her.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qj0FBeiWA34/Tdhgyg49M9I/AAAAAAAABxk/qOCxQBrEKo8/s1600/IMG_7022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qj0FBeiWA34/Tdhgyg49M9I/AAAAAAAABxk/qOCxQBrEKo8/s320/IMG_7022.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> She was just as we pictured her...but better. There were boats abound and waves were rough, but everyone was just staring at such a wonderful landmark. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VB_Vz2P9VHM/Tdhg0RBllfI/AAAAAAAABxo/FcQj_LE8hm4/s1600/IMG_7017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VB_Vz2P9VHM/Tdhg0RBllfI/AAAAAAAABxo/FcQj_LE8hm4/s320/IMG_7017.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Our friends aboard Last Chance took a photo of the Negotiator next to her too...photo to come!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SeGhaxdd6FM/Tdhg2wPL_gI/AAAAAAAABxs/t7DC4z2Y1GQ/s1600/IMG_7027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SeGhaxdd6FM/Tdhg2wPL_gI/AAAAAAAABxs/t7DC4z2Y1GQ/s320/IMG_7027.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>This very young couple came all the way from Denmark on their sailboat! They stopped and asked us to photograph them and email the photo. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fOGy1FAUcrE/TdiANoeILbI/AAAAAAAAByY/P91oM53lkms/s1600/IMG_7038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fOGy1FAUcrE/TdiANoeILbI/AAAAAAAAByY/P91oM53lkms/s320/IMG_7038.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
The Colgate clock was huge!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_v5iu45H9vQ/Tdhg4xykqgI/AAAAAAAABxw/AX1j03VB8HY/s1600/IMG_7050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_v5iu45H9vQ/Tdhg4xykqgI/AAAAAAAABxw/AX1j03VB8HY/s320/IMG_7050.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> To Empire State Building in the skyline!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6amEoMRvM5w/Tdhg7f5iNnI/AAAAAAAABx4/QeGMUHy2CpI/s1600/IMG_7055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6amEoMRvM5w/Tdhg7f5iNnI/AAAAAAAABx4/QeGMUHy2CpI/s320/IMG_7055.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> We can spot a true Lightship now where ever we go.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k2e40Gh0-jo/Tdhg9cSPSqI/AAAAAAAABx8/fJeha7MUOT8/s1600/IMG_7057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k2e40Gh0-jo/Tdhg9cSPSqI/AAAAAAAABx8/fJeha7MUOT8/s320/IMG_7057.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The police boat came right up next to us quickly but changed his mind and headed toward the air craft carrier Intrepid nearby. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Hak9JHqhx0I/Tdhg_wiDY7I/AAAAAAAAByA/R6AiwjjOtJc/s1600/IMG_7063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Hak9JHqhx0I/Tdhg_wiDY7I/AAAAAAAAByA/R6AiwjjOtJc/s320/IMG_7063.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Next to the aircraft carrier was an impressive submarine that had the ability to launch a plane from the topside....look closely.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p0KBlwXR8HU/TdhhIGQ8IxI/AAAAAAAAByE/8HQKRW23Czo/s1600/IMG_7066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p0KBlwXR8HU/TdhhIGQ8IxI/AAAAAAAAByE/8HQKRW23Czo/s320/IMG_7066.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The George Washington Bridge was the first bridge we came across since the rest were all tunnels under the water. It was such a change of scenery that we hadn't seen in so long. Notice the lush green hillsides all around. There were parks, cars and trains that ran along the river too. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r0mg-2_uyTQ/TdhhLTfewZI/AAAAAAAAByI/l-_qr8rWkPI/s1600/IMG_7069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r0mg-2_uyTQ/TdhhLTfewZI/AAAAAAAAByI/l-_qr8rWkPI/s320/IMG_7069.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The inclement weather was in our foreseeable future again as we approached a mooring field. Just as we cleated the last line the dark skis came closer and after a day of 79 degrees and sun we felt our first rain storms....great timing! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m1qgWifgzg4/TdhhNVzKIZI/AAAAAAAAByM/b0o1cJ7SmlY/s1600/IMG_7081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m1qgWifgzg4/TdhhNVzKIZI/AAAAAAAAByM/b0o1cJ7SmlY/s320/IMG_7081.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>After a long successful day, Craig spent the evening in the generator compartment. In the end we realized that the generator filled up with water after we went aground in NJ. When the towboat operator 'dredged' under us, the water was forced up into the generator. After a talk with Mark, our brother in law, with some valuable advice, Craig got it all working again. Good thing we had extra parts including oil, filters, plugs, etc.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pK7QuI9KX1I/TdhhQbDt0mI/AAAAAAAAByQ/W-Nd1f6SzhA/s1600/IMG_7088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pK7QuI9KX1I/TdhhQbDt0mI/AAAAAAAAByQ/W-Nd1f6SzhA/s320/IMG_7088.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>We are excited to be in the Hudson River now. The smell of fresh water all around us and the beautiful landscape. The Erie Canal is still closed, but scheduled to open sometime this week. It's a new chapter in our trip....we've come so far! It is our last leg of the adventure and makes us want to slow down even more. </div>Parrent Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14096024725430067991noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605915790391064139.post-1736326070535601602011-05-17T06:45:00.000-07:002011-05-17T06:45:20.515-07:00Long Beach Island<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Beach Haven is located on Long Beach Island that is comprised of many towns down the coast with the ICW on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other. The locals refer to it as LBI and say it's a patch of heaven. <br />
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Across the street from our marina is probably the best Maritime Museum that we've seen this entire trip. The private owner lives in the upper level and has a great view of the water. She's a certified diver and has found some of the artifacts displayed in the museum. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kbxx0SuqfnQ/TdA33furFdI/AAAAAAAABts/lQ4-pgoFNaY/s1600/IMG_6870.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kbxx0SuqfnQ/TdA33furFdI/AAAAAAAABts/lQ4-pgoFNaY/s320/IMG_6870.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> It is fairly new, free and even has a library to borrow books. There's a large stock of free CD's that feature shows of many marine topics of shipwrecks, sharks and pirates too. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qu7sYIX4WfU/TdA3-mIZTCI/AAAAAAAABtw/AJ5xhcEDEUM/s1600/IMG_6859.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qu7sYIX4WfU/TdA3-mIZTCI/AAAAAAAABtw/AJ5xhcEDEUM/s320/IMG_6859.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Each week people come to donate new items and speakers give presentations. There are computer stations with wi-fi, and a database with over 7,200 maritime losses all in New Jersey. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QJMJqRrcSgY/TdA4FAmUOHI/AAAAAAAABt0/tYhAx_fwttk/s1600/IMG_6856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QJMJqRrcSgY/TdA4FAmUOHI/AAAAAAAABt0/tYhAx_fwttk/s320/IMG_6856.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Morgan collects postcards of each port we go to and their walls were full of them. It reminded me of my Dad's collection of license plates on his garage walls. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K8RWuaVUrf8/TdA4Mhq9ilI/AAAAAAAABt4/zBpnpuPv8gw/s1600/IMG_6871.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K8RWuaVUrf8/TdA4Mhq9ilI/AAAAAAAABt4/zBpnpuPv8gw/s320/IMG_6871.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>There was an entire room dedicated to the Morro Castle. It was a cruise line from 1932 that took people from New York to Havanna, Cuba. It was 20 nautical miles out to sea off the NJ coast when it was believed to be set on fire from a disgruntled employee. It was towed into shore and grounded here near the beach as onlookers watched in horror. Many people died that day. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jsqvw0bONfc/TdA4QdeBRzI/AAAAAAAABt8/_pcV2zz8CXA/s1600/IMG_6876.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jsqvw0bONfc/TdA4QdeBRzI/AAAAAAAABt8/_pcV2zz8CXA/s320/IMG_6876.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>This photo was taken next to the sailboat in my last posting. It overlooks an amusement park with water and roller coaster rides.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6jG41pRUTik/TdA4S7bGiZI/AAAAAAAABuA/S4jhZz0xvWM/s1600/IMG_6880.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6jG41pRUTik/TdA4S7bGiZI/AAAAAAAABuA/S4jhZz0xvWM/s320/IMG_6880.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The shops were quaint, but it is still pretty early in the season.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Jzeg9_uNDg/TdA4VKk3d1I/AAAAAAAABuE/gkODMm4lACk/s1600/IMG_6879.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Jzeg9_uNDg/TdA4VKk3d1I/AAAAAAAABuE/gkODMm4lACk/s320/IMG_6879.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MHzam0HpRBw/TdA4XyA4t3I/AAAAAAAABuI/vodUFWgUmC0/s1600/IMG_6881.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MHzam0HpRBw/TdA4XyA4t3I/AAAAAAAABuI/vodUFWgUmC0/s320/IMG_6881.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> My sister, Michelle, and I went to Las Vegas and our favorite slot machine was 'Red, White and Blue.' Of course the arcade had one just like it! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gqPfaMBot78/TdA4a0B7u_I/AAAAAAAABuU/7_0rDjec85c/s1600/IMG_6878.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gqPfaMBot78/TdA4a0B7u_I/AAAAAAAABuU/7_0rDjec85c/s320/IMG_6878.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Two men were fixing a plumbing line under our dock this week and borrowed our kayak to make the job a bit easier. They were very gracious and came back later with a bag full of fudge. It was delicious!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XxRV9eTHxyM/TdA4eLl4HRI/AAAAAAAABuY/cJlwcEfIP6c/s1600/IMG_6855.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XxRV9eTHxyM/TdA4eLl4HRI/AAAAAAAABuY/cJlwcEfIP6c/s320/IMG_6855.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> We're getting to know the staff at the marina and it was mentioned that Craig was an interior woodworker prior to his sabbatical. Sure enough they asked him to help out with a few projects at the marina. He gathered his tools and realized he forget a 'square'......so he borrowed Jaxon's! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ElR2jX3i5bw/TdA4gcs8l_I/AAAAAAAABuc/TgKVhORMj6I/s1600/IMG_6888.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ElR2jX3i5bw/TdA4gcs8l_I/AAAAAAAABuc/TgKVhORMj6I/s320/IMG_6888.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> The kids and I were left with rainy day activities that included sewing, crafts, cleaning and cooking.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MnNeBse-AhA/TdA4iy3ZgPI/AAAAAAAABug/3FUWHd9DnxY/s1600/IMG_6891.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MnNeBse-AhA/TdA4iy3ZgPI/AAAAAAAABug/3FUWHd9DnxY/s320/IMG_6891.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Jaxon made meatballs for dinner and was my little buddy the entire day. This is his second pumpkin pie and he does the whole thing....except clean up!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dhi5D8oFxps/TdA4lZKYLcI/AAAAAAAABuk/MoDIworQC9Q/s1600/IMG_6890.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dhi5D8oFxps/TdA4lZKYLcI/AAAAAAAABuk/MoDIworQC9Q/s320/IMG_6890.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Ryann loved playing Club Penguin with her cousin Elizabeth. They were able to enter into rooms, dress up, challenge another player and work as a team. They laughed, sang and really had fun. I've been playing 'Words with Friends' on the iPad with my sister, brother-in-law Rob, my dad, cousin Kelli and friend Megan. It's just like Scrabble, free and a great way to connect with friends on your own time. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7xCVbD1fsmY/TdBAV5L5C_I/AAAAAAAABus/ApnDW-lNMHw/s1600/IMG_6884.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7xCVbD1fsmY/TdBAV5L5C_I/AAAAAAAABus/ApnDW-lNMHw/s320/IMG_6884.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The kids met an 8 year old girl, Anna, last night as I visited with her mom. Craig ended up working all day and the owner of the marina gave the kids Klondike ice cream bars! As we headed back to the boat the winds were picking up and there was a coastal flood advisory in the area. Cars were being moved from the parking lot and water was almost over the dock. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sZNUusT0oV4/TdJ3Ljjdw0I/AAAAAAAABvk/GY4gDb4VFnE/s1600/IMG_6893.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sZNUusT0oV4/TdJ3Ljjdw0I/AAAAAAAABvk/GY4gDb4VFnE/s320/IMG_6893.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The public library was was built in 1924 and the director, Jean, said they're trying to keep the same look and feel from that era. They still use the old card system for checking out books too.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lLzJmYlSZos/TdJ3YUOGGCI/AAAAAAAABvo/TpgIlCy6RJI/s1600/IMG_6902.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lLzJmYlSZos/TdJ3YUOGGCI/AAAAAAAABvo/TpgIlCy6RJI/s320/IMG_6902.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>The kids loved reading new books and when we left, Jean, gave them all a half dozen books each. She claimed that many locals donate books each day and they just simply don't have room for it all. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NhDFzvkO74E/TdJ3ldcYGQI/AAAAAAAABvs/byHJXc-Hjn8/s1600/IMG_6901.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NhDFzvkO74E/TdJ3ldcYGQI/AAAAAAAABvs/byHJXc-Hjn8/s320/IMG_6901.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Ashley's Playground as the sign states over the trellis is in the church parking lot and next to a community garden that had over a dozen plots in the center of town. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SRbu_JMYAdQ/TdJ30xEedeI/AAAAAAAABvw/lt9u2rFnLWE/s1600/IMG_6909.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SRbu_JMYAdQ/TdJ30xEedeI/AAAAAAAABvw/lt9u2rFnLWE/s320/IMG_6909.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Ryann's really been loving the bike rides everyday!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mCZ6tzYn79Y/TdJ4AGrAZcI/AAAAAAAABv0/R86LDTScmWQ/s1600/IMG_6914.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mCZ6tzYn79Y/TdJ4AGrAZcI/AAAAAAAABv0/R86LDTScmWQ/s320/IMG_6914.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The small craft advisory has not been lifted in over seven days and will continue throughout the week. The fog is very thick too. We officially feel like 'liveaboards' and not cruisers. Hoping for seas under 6 foot by the weekend. If it were all ICW no problem, but heading into the ocean changes everything. The Erie Canal is still closed, so taking this time to regroup has been beneficial.<br />
Morgan just lost her 15th tooth and the new one is already coming in! </div>Parrent Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14096024725430067991noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605915790391064139.post-1885142939073731092011-05-13T11:11:00.000-07:002011-05-13T11:11:26.523-07:00Beach Haven, New Jersey<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style>
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<div class="MsoNormal"><span> Beach Haven Yacht Club has been a great stop for us! They have the best fuel price around, friendly staff, laundry and are only a few blocks away from a great market (with Boar's Head meat :-), the beach, parks, museum, arcade, shopping, etc. They have the most reasonable price in all of Beach Haven too! You can't beat the great sunsets! </span></div><span></span> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kjyzj9oiaUc/Tc1qnzWssJI/AAAAAAAABsw/CQnNKcm_owQ/s1600/IMG_6835.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kjyzj9oiaUc/Tc1qnzWssJI/AAAAAAAABsw/CQnNKcm_owQ/s320/IMG_6835.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style>
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</style> <![endif]--></div><div class="MsoNormal">It’s a sunny day as we prepare for our journey north.<span> </span>From here we go 45 more miles on the ICW then venture out into the Atlantic Ocean for a 26 mile stretch to Sandy Hook, NJ and from there into the Hudson River.<span> </span>Made a big grocery run, laundry, gas, water, etc. and just as we started loading bikes into the boat the dockmaster informed us that the Manasquan Inlet was closed.<span> </span>There was a 64 foot scallop boat that was unable to control his vessel after its hydraulic hose broke, and they lost their clutch and steering and began drifting toward the rocks on Wed. The three men aboard were able to get off the boat with help from the Coast Guard, but it is overturned and blocking the inlet now. Photo from www.app.com</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H5iKZPRjTpY/Tc10Gsh0c-I/AAAAAAAABto/wzooDKB8oEc/s1600/boat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="234" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H5iKZPRjTpY/Tc10Gsh0c-I/AAAAAAAABto/wzooDKB8oEc/s320/boat.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal">The Manasquan Inlet is very popular as it’s the most reliable for a marked channel inlet on the NJ coast.<span> </span>We’ve received very strong advice from many locals and TowBoat not to risk the dangers of the other inlet nearby, Barnegat and warned of hazards in Little Egg Harbor Inlet (which is backtracking anyhow).<span> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt;">We have decided to stay here for a couple more days and wait out more bad weather storms for the weekend and hoping they can clear the inlet by then. I guess Friday the 13<sup>th</sup> wasn’t our lucky day to travel after all.</span><span> </span><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal">A fishermen on the dock was filleting his catch of the day and gave us some striped bass to try. It was delicious, but Ryann and Jaxon didn’t enjoy watching him go from alive to the dinner table. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-22WewWuC-1M/Tc1qxcvi27I/AAAAAAAABs0/wyPGUrBP5D0/s1600/IMG_6831.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-22WewWuC-1M/Tc1qxcvi27I/AAAAAAAABs0/wyPGUrBP5D0/s320/IMG_6831.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt;">This inclement weather has made a small craft advisory and hazardous waters in effect for the past few days.<span> </span>The forecast calls for another storm over the weekend that might linger on through the first part of the week....</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N3KyEvhG5SQ/Tc1q75wqzHI/AAAAAAAABs4/H2bOUrhMI34/s1600/IMG_6841.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N3KyEvhG5SQ/Tc1q75wqzHI/AAAAAAAABs4/H2bOUrhMI34/s320/IMG_6841.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal">This sailboat is set in the middle of many local shops. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NvsTvNYRtCo/Tc1rHIHtgUI/AAAAAAAABs8/G7mL67u5ce4/s1600/IMG_6811.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NvsTvNYRtCo/Tc1rHIHtgUI/AAAAAAAABs8/G7mL67u5ce4/s320/IMG_6811.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style>
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<div class="MsoNormal">The area here is quite pretty, clean and we’re really enjoying our stay.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jfldT0htBqI/Tc1rRzUfXlI/AAAAAAAABtA/91ogOaFqRtg/s1600/IMG_6849.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jfldT0htBqI/Tc1rRzUfXlI/AAAAAAAABtA/91ogOaFqRtg/s320/IMG_6849.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style>
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<div class="MsoNormal">My parents have a few bottle trees at their home in Michigan. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KkoDYDjoflM/Tc1red-TA1I/AAAAAAAABtI/Z9HSsBBCux0/s1600/IMG_6848.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KkoDYDjoflM/Tc1red-TA1I/AAAAAAAABtI/Z9HSsBBCux0/s320/IMG_6848.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> <span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt;">Man vs. Food is from the Travel Channel and Adam Richland is a man that goes around the nation to popular restaurants to try new foods or take on their ‘food challenge.’<span> </span>‘Chicken or the Egg’ is a local favorite that was featured on the show for the Ludicrous Wing Challenge where you eat 12 super spicy chicken wings in a certain time frame. I think Craig would be a good contender!</span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal">The local arcade in town called Fantasyland is truly a kids casino!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8OsT1Z83cwQ/Tc1r0l-U6kI/AAAAAAAABtQ/NJQEvjK4Nj8/s1600/IMG_6837.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8OsT1Z83cwQ/Tc1r0l-U6kI/AAAAAAAABtQ/NJQEvjK4Nj8/s320/IMG_6837.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style>
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<div class="MsoNormal">We played Wheel of Fortune (see game on right) and won enough tickets so the kids could get good prizes. Jaxon loves his new Transformer and it made for some great laughs and fun times.<span> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p62cfYfV3Bc/Tc1sCf_OwXI/AAAAAAAABtU/4buzcb6_xUM/s1600/IMG_6838.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p62cfYfV3Bc/Tc1sCf_OwXI/AAAAAAAABtU/4buzcb6_xUM/s320/IMG_6838.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Storm clouds cover the sky with the sun trying to peer out. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uCp3Kd95C7Q/Tc1sKT09DcI/AAAAAAAABtY/3GzrOqWEUI0/s1600/IMG_6832.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uCp3Kd95C7Q/Tc1sKT09DcI/AAAAAAAABtY/3GzrOqWEUI0/s320/IMG_6832.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style>
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<div class="MsoNormal">Provisioning is always more enjoyable when the bikes carry the load.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AZvn3g96WxU/Tc1sVe22plI/AAAAAAAABtc/wIRYp-tBpCs/s1600/IMG_6853.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AZvn3g96WxU/Tc1sVe22plI/AAAAAAAABtc/wIRYp-tBpCs/s320/IMG_6853.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style>
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<div class="MsoNormal">My nieces name is Dalilah, just like this sport fish boat!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I8fc0lOARog/Tc1sdnP6taI/AAAAAAAABtk/dPTOfOrC-Zo/s1600/IMG_6854.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I8fc0lOARog/Tc1sdnP6taI/AAAAAAAABtk/dPTOfOrC-Zo/s320/IMG_6854.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
We've been 'stuck' many times on the east coast, but this is a good port to be in and we'll make the most of our stay here. Hoping now for a good weather window as we talk to locals and watch the weather sites.</div>Parrent Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14096024725430067991noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605915790391064139.post-77590930521084605742011-05-10T17:54:00.000-07:002011-05-10T17:54:10.640-07:00New Jersey<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Weather seems to be a constant factor on our east coast travels. We wait for good travel days and it makes a big difference. We did try to venture out earlier this week only to be hit with 4-6 foot waves....so we turned back and enjoyed a day at the dock. Someone once told me.....wait for good weather and then leave the next day as it'll be even better! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JsubBP6gabQ/TcdH43-40eI/AAAAAAAABqQ/k-6iDKhdFlU/s1600/IMG_6667.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JsubBP6gabQ/TcdH43-40eI/AAAAAAAABqQ/k-6iDKhdFlU/s320/IMG_6667.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Our last leg of the Chesapeake Bay was uneventful and we entered into the C&D canal. The anchorage in Chesapeake City was full by the afternoon and you can see our boat in the far back of this photo docked at the free wall. Later that night there were a total of ten boats anchored out and most left with us at 6:00 am the next morning. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yWESGI0NGY8/TcdH7_WR-oI/AAAAAAAABqU/sOz0fL_USZ0/s1600/IMG_6674.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yWESGI0NGY8/TcdH7_WR-oI/AAAAAAAABqU/sOz0fL_USZ0/s320/IMG_6674.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>In the middle of two large waterways!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dXI5YJz8Qys/TcdH_pTDODI/AAAAAAAABqY/ZY5yvrGKnRo/s1600/IMG_6693.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dXI5YJz8Qys/TcdH_pTDODI/AAAAAAAABqY/ZY5yvrGKnRo/s320/IMG_6693.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>In Chesapeake City there is a museum that explains how the Delaware and Chesapeake Bay were connected many years ago. There were two locks built in the early 1800's and this is the original pump house that would pump water into the canal. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--ZqJdLS2c0U/TcdID2g2pYI/AAAAAAAABqc/9HaN9LzsYEE/s1600/IMG_6680.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--ZqJdLS2c0U/TcdID2g2pYI/AAAAAAAABqc/9HaN9LzsYEE/s320/IMG_6680.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>They claim its the largest water wheel around. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xgt64tL5Rl8/TcdIHkOzHzI/AAAAAAAABqg/ae9i7Lf24E8/s1600/IMG_6682.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xgt64tL5Rl8/TcdIHkOzHzI/AAAAAAAABqg/ae9i7Lf24E8/s320/IMG_6682.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6vKFm5fXuZM/TcdILFWmxHI/AAAAAAAABqk/k7-GZuSK0WM/s1600/IMG_6688.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6vKFm5fXuZM/TcdILFWmxHI/AAAAAAAABqk/k7-GZuSK0WM/s320/IMG_6688.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Morgan found a small boat called 'Paddle to the Sea' where a school put together a boat and floated it down the river hoping anyone that found it on the shore would put it back into the water to continue it's journey. This particular one was put in near Plymouth, Pennsylvania. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iNgq6or5i0Y/TcdIPJaDgLI/AAAAAAAABqw/_v-jbN7lXi0/s1600/IMG_6697.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iNgq6or5i0Y/TcdIPJaDgLI/AAAAAAAABqw/_v-jbN7lXi0/s320/IMG_6697.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Chesapeake City, Maryland was a quaint town with historic buildings and interesting shops lining the streets. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JB914-HfxYM/TcdITGhlrSI/AAAAAAAABq0/oTfsvVW3zck/s1600/IMG_6699.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JB914-HfxYM/TcdITGhlrSI/AAAAAAAABq0/oTfsvVW3zck/s320/IMG_6699.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>We decided to put together our own boat to sail down the river! We found a piece of driftwood, carved our info into the boat, Morgan sewed a sail and we let it go with the other boat from Chesapeake City, Maryland. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZHwdgGvgmzs/TcdIXUILYuI/AAAAAAAABq4/vdxeJRd82so/s1600/IMG_6712.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZHwdgGvgmzs/TcdIXUILYuI/AAAAAAAABq4/vdxeJRd82so/s320/IMG_6712.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>We hope it makes it around the loop...haha!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K0n4I3c_0fU/TcdIjlumPVI/AAAAAAAABq8/pIzubJVDB_0/s1600/IMG_6715.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K0n4I3c_0fU/TcdIjlumPVI/AAAAAAAABq8/pIzubJVDB_0/s320/IMG_6715.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Sunrise on the morning of our Delaware Bay crossing. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e2ojF48uxZo/TcdIlmk0lPI/AAAAAAAABrA/Ykidrxr9g2Y/s1600/IMG_6730.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e2ojF48uxZo/TcdIlmk0lPI/AAAAAAAABrA/Ykidrxr9g2Y/s320/IMG_6730.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TdgRpqixK98/TcdIsTceHVI/AAAAAAAABrI/pZNRwHPWarA/s1600/IMG_6735.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TdgRpqixK98/TcdIsTceHVI/AAAAAAAABrI/pZNRwHPWarA/s320/IMG_6735.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>We traveled near the shipping canal all day and saw a lot of freighters along the way. This particular one raised an enormous wake under the bow as it cut through the water. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lwchU2hE5dE/TcdIxGdMtZI/AAAAAAAABrM/NYKv27Bejzk/s1600/IMG_6736.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lwchU2hE5dE/TcdIxGdMtZI/AAAAAAAABrM/NYKv27Bejzk/s320/IMG_6736.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>This lighthouse was in the middle of the Delaware Bay. There was a loud long horn that sounded every 30 seconds to warn vessels of the shoaling in that area. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z_cInekFRLA/TcdI4gLzrnI/AAAAAAAABrQ/ZX2507o_szE/s1600/IMG_6744.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z_cInekFRLA/TcdI4gLzrnI/AAAAAAAABrQ/ZX2507o_szE/s320/IMG_6744.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Waiting for the good crossing day allowed Captain Craig to take a short power nap on the bow of the boat. We had great weather and calm seas the entire day! The Delaware Bay is known for being quite treacherous in areas. We were very fortunate to have such a great day to travel. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-175IJK84-j8/TcdJBvJ_i3I/AAAAAAAABrU/w3JKyg5xi6E/s1600/IMG_6747.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-175IJK84-j8/TcdJBvJ_i3I/AAAAAAAABrU/w3JKyg5xi6E/s320/IMG_6747.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>We were happy to see the New Jersey shore as we entered into the west inlet. Loopers be aware that you should stick to the portside of the channel when entering. Skipper Bob's claims to stay away from the ferry's, but locals will warn you of shallow waters on your starboard side. <br />
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New Jersey has proved to be the most challenging navigable waters yet. My advice to all loopers, travel the ICW during high tide only. The waters are rather skinny in so many areas and the anchorages don't seem to hold a lot of depth with a 5 foot tidal drop in most areas. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M7U5IptVEUg/TcdJQckBhfI/AAAAAAAABrY/BraFB4YkYgo/s1600/IMG_6748.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M7U5IptVEUg/TcdJQckBhfI/AAAAAAAABrY/BraFB4YkYgo/s320/IMG_6748.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>As we came into Cape May, New Jersey the winds started to pick up. Our first anchorage founded us in too shallow of water so we pressed forward to a nearby marina. Two miles south of the marina we grounded the boat IN THE CHANNEL!!! Every boat that stopped said it wasn't our fault and that NJ does not maintain their ICW. Loopers DO NOT cruise the ICW unless you are in a high tide!! We are literally 50 feet from a buoy in this photo as TowBoat pulled us out. When you are cautioned to HUG the buoy or FAVOR it...don't take it lightly as you'd be better off hitting it!!! The irony here is that Craig looked at me during this last stretch and commented on it was puzzling that no one else was traveling the waterway at this time. Once towed out, we watched an actual boat from Sea Tow being hauled that had run aground and had a crabpot re-rod embedded in his shift. <br />
Loopers FYI - Mile Marker 386A (still keep the buoy on your starboard side just stick close to it). <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Povex2SeKDA/TcdJcWtA3CI/AAAAAAAABrc/hlP5IZA1d4o/s1600/IMG_6762.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Povex2SeKDA/TcdJcWtA3CI/AAAAAAAABrc/hlP5IZA1d4o/s320/IMG_6762.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Once into a safe harbor in Avalon, NJ we watched a storm pass through to the south. Robert from the TowBoat company reminded me so much of our brother-in-law, Mark, who owns many car towing businesses in the Grand Rapids, Michigan area. He was very professional and a great guy just like Mark! Morgan drew a picture of his boat while he 'dredged' under our boat for quite some time. He actually caught up with us on the waterway the next day and continued to offer great advice!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wQ5pwaeUTv4/TcdJfhBSYYI/AAAAAAAABrg/aL9mnl_S4wU/s1600/IMG_6765.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wQ5pwaeUTv4/TcdJfhBSYYI/AAAAAAAABrg/aL9mnl_S4wU/s320/IMG_6765.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The next morning we traveled through NJ ICW wandering around their hairpin turns and marshy areas lifting a ton of bridges and hoping for deeper waters. This picture from the stern shows the community in Ventnor City built around the ICW and a small lift bridge in the middle. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ODIW6iLuQx8/TcdJm4X2pwI/AAAAAAAABrk/_YVUjnrzNfQ/s1600/IMG_6775.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ODIW6iLuQx8/TcdJm4X2pwI/AAAAAAAABrk/_YVUjnrzNfQ/s320/IMG_6775.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>It's one thing to lift your boat from the salt water, but we've never seen the keel out of water too! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TTQYs-Thczg/TcdJz_UYonI/AAAAAAAABrs/XGDltx1Rhw0/s1600/IMG_6776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TTQYs-Thczg/TcdJz_UYonI/AAAAAAAABrs/XGDltx1Rhw0/s320/IMG_6776.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Atlantic City was going to be our destination, but was strongly advised not to stop there due to the high crime rate in the area. It was great to see all of the casinos lining the skyline. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-43Tt1iJXP9Q/TcdJ2ynJ7aI/AAAAAAAABrw/DzNT5VTbow0/s1600/IMG_6777.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-43Tt1iJXP9Q/TcdJ2ynJ7aI/AAAAAAAABrw/DzNT5VTbow0/s320/IMG_6777.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>We lifted a dozen bridges or so in such a short period of time. They were all very narrow. This one was at 20 feet and Craig claims we can clear 17 and 1/2. It seemed close, but not close enough to ask for a lift. There are heavy fines if you ask for a lift when it's not needed! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QCcKQtQYCmg/TcdJ5oYhk2I/AAAAAAAABr0/rzXWVhyoeDA/s1600/IMG_6778.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QCcKQtQYCmg/TcdJ5oYhk2I/AAAAAAAABr0/rzXWVhyoeDA/s320/IMG_6778.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Very fun to see these up close!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fqVyFJs5zTY/TcdJ8E80VEI/AAAAAAAABr4/sRENciFNWs8/s1600/IMG_6779.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fqVyFJs5zTY/TcdJ8E80VEI/AAAAAAAABr4/sRENciFNWs8/s320/IMG_6779.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>We were happy to get into Beach Haven, New Jersey on Long Island. Once settled we toured the town and Ryann loved the phone booth! "Do people really use these" she said to me! It's hard to imagine people not having cell phones to her. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DGiY7YEyGCw/TcdKD3MWZxI/AAAAAAAABr8/xiTEe7rBQD0/s1600/IMG_6780.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DGiY7YEyGCw/TcdKD3MWZxI/AAAAAAAABr8/xiTEe7rBQD0/s320/IMG_6780.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>We enjoyed playing Putt Putt Golf on this hot day! It was a perfect way to spend Mother's Day! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KLuEEfYfy_Y/TcdKO-ePKNI/AAAAAAAABsA/3cUGIp9J0Xs/s1600/IMG_6787.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KLuEEfYfy_Y/TcdKO-ePKNI/AAAAAAAABsA/3cUGIp9J0Xs/s320/IMG_6787.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Long Island, NJ has a great beach that we loved walking and playing on!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h0BocsOUKS4/TcdKR-QBooI/AAAAAAAABsE/sJtbAjhJ4Us/s1600/IMG_6791.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h0BocsOUKS4/TcdKR-QBooI/AAAAAAAABsE/sJtbAjhJ4Us/s320/IMG_6791.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>'Boat bruises' is the only way to explain Ryann's bruise on her head. It happens to all of us daily. She was in her bed almost asleep when she turned too close to a side railing in her bed. She remembered doing it, but went right back to sleep after the bumping. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-11ItiUNcUDA/TcdKZDLnIxI/AAAAAAAABsI/AodWzR_lxxI/s1600/IMG_6793.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-11ItiUNcUDA/TcdKZDLnIxI/AAAAAAAABsI/AodWzR_lxxI/s320/IMG_6793.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>We watched another beautiful sunset at the park and have had a lot of fun here over the past few days. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xKyLi7jFEWw/TcdKk6MXfoI/AAAAAAAABsQ/QqP29aM_VBg/s1600/IMG_6801.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xKyLi7jFEWw/TcdKk6MXfoI/AAAAAAAABsQ/QqP29aM_VBg/s320/IMG_6801.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Ryann is the proud new owner of her own bike now! It's even her favorite color, PINK! I am now perfectly situated between my two guys, Jaxon and Craig where I can so conveniently take photos all the time! Luck will have it, the bike was sitting roadside for trash pick-up as the rear brakes were stuck so we removed them. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pMGmKKEvJ5Y/TciqpsDWi5I/AAAAAAAABsY/HcTFCgBF_sE/s1600/IMG_6805.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pMGmKKEvJ5Y/TciqpsDWi5I/AAAAAAAABsY/HcTFCgBF_sE/s320/IMG_6805.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Jaxon was the big winner at the 'kids casino' a.k.a. local arcade in town. They had slot games set up exactly like you would see at the casinos in Las Vegas except your winnings were in tickets, not coins. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cRTNK1EWkbk/TciqrynS0WI/AAAAAAAABsc/_97mhORDdfI/s1600/IMG_6810.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cRTNK1EWkbk/TciqrynS0WI/AAAAAAAABsc/_97mhORDdfI/s320/IMG_6810.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> A jetty at Long Island Beach was a great place to watch the sunset each night.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-omzEUxiaKMg/Tciqu1bvi8I/AAAAAAAABsg/2DMaMgoZNXM/s1600/IMG_6814.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-omzEUxiaKMg/Tciqu1bvi8I/AAAAAAAABsg/2DMaMgoZNXM/s320/IMG_6814.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> A live horseshoe crab came up for a short visit. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DJ1d2lKFvs4/TciqxUen8SI/AAAAAAAABsk/64z_Z2z4brU/s1600/IMG_6823.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DJ1d2lKFvs4/TciqxUen8SI/AAAAAAAABsk/64z_Z2z4brU/s320/IMG_6823.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> A little game of 'slow ride' to see who would cross the finish line last without touching the ground.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XIo4bOHiIx8/Tciq0CCBBII/AAAAAAAABso/-2XPGjcn8ME/s1600/IMG_6828.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XIo4bOHiIx8/Tciq0CCBBII/AAAAAAAABso/-2XPGjcn8ME/s320/IMG_6828.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Prior to leaving for this journey I told Craig that I couldn't wait to see the many different sunsets each night...I have not been let down at all!!! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c2hGeUSWPJg/TcdKrnG5xZI/AAAAAAAABsU/uqiNbd7pyQE/s1600/IMG_6802.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c2hGeUSWPJg/TcdKrnG5xZI/AAAAAAAABsU/uqiNbd7pyQE/s320/IMG_6802.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>If you have time, PLEASE take a look at our friends, Pete and Anna's blogspot www.blueyondergreatloop.blogspot.com. There's an awesome video posted that sums up the trip and really touches on the experience of doing the great loop. We love it and miss them so much. We were even in the video!</div>Parrent Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14096024725430067991noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605915790391064139.post-70774122330903955672011-05-03T18:58:00.000-07:002011-05-03T18:58:11.184-07:00Chesapeake Bay<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">A lighthouse pictured here in the Chesapeake Bay marking a bad shoaling area. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1iWB47buncE/TcCffaJDSII/AAAAAAAABoc/r5iZw_smFRI/s1600/IMG_6576.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1iWB47buncE/TcCffaJDSII/AAAAAAAABoc/r5iZw_smFRI/s320/IMG_6576.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The Annapolis harbor was having a sailing regatta and there were hundreds upon hundreds of sailboats everywhere. The marinas and surrounding areas were all booked and it was a maze just get to through them. Craig left me at the helm for 5 minutes (which I confess I don't captain the boat much) and low and behold I have three instances of weaving a bit to miss a sailboat under 'sail'...which means he ALWAYS has the right away when using his sails. Craig came up laughing at me wondering what I was doing! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tIhX52uvl1I/TcCfhK6dKnI/AAAAAAAABog/1bavZDyjVUg/s1600/IMG_6577.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tIhX52uvl1I/TcCfhK6dKnI/AAAAAAAABog/1bavZDyjVUg/s320/IMG_6577.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>We've realized on this trip that you just can't possibly do EVERYTHING on this trip the first time around. Craig and I will probably do another Great Loop adventure when we retire (we are not technically retired right now..haha). The Chesapeake Bay is FULL of potential fun ports and tons of fun things to do! We can see why people spend the summers just hanging around here and end up living or storing their boats in the area. It truly is fun and interesting. <br />
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These past few weeks we're getting the impression that the kids want to do what normal kids do. We've steered away from the big cities and touristy areas and stuck more to the eastern end of the bay. Each port is at minimum 6-20 miles on average off of the middle of the bay. We will come back someday to do diligence to the area. We are ready to venture north and continue the journey now.<br />
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With that being said they have delayed the opening of the Erie Canal Lock System due to the record high water levels in the area. They have not officially announced the actual opening, but you don't want to be the first ones to enter the canal due to high levels of debris either. We're still over 400 miles away, but it's good to plan ahead. <br />
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The kids enjoyed doing normal fun kid stuff...like jumping off the swings!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kRX9ULm7urc/TcCfj5XRQOI/AAAAAAAABok/R7X0JNw0y7I/s1600/IMG_6592.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kRX9ULm7urc/TcCfj5XRQOI/AAAAAAAABok/R7X0JNw0y7I/s320/IMG_6592.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> Being goofy and laughing a lot!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MAJwmdxQt9g/TcCfmfWbFDI/AAAAAAAABoo/TQhyJMxllc0/s1600/IMG_6593.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MAJwmdxQt9g/TcCfmfWbFDI/AAAAAAAABoo/TQhyJMxllc0/s320/IMG_6593.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>There was a motorcycle rally right next to our boat that was a lot of fun. There were almost 2,000 motorcycles in attendance. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nzfYh86LlKY/TcCfojqChYI/AAAAAAAABos/ZRX1U7atZIw/s1600/IMG_6609.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nzfYh86LlKY/TcCfojqChYI/AAAAAAAABos/ZRX1U7atZIw/s320/IMG_6609.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Great view from our aft deck, but I took the picture too early in the day before they all arrived. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eYXxJQFgCHE/TcCfrSXXciI/AAAAAAAABow/90qV-LyLmJA/s1600/IMG_6610.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eYXxJQFgCHE/TcCfrSXXciI/AAAAAAAABow/90qV-LyLmJA/s320/IMG_6610.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> My parents are big car collectors and I've been attending car shows my entire life. They've always been drawn to the truly unique ones like a Messerschmidt, Isetta, Dominos Pizza Delivery Car, American LaFrance Fire Engine, Mayberry police car, etc. So Dad, what is this??? <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F6IUGirZjx4/TcCfub6V_8I/AAAAAAAABo0/F5CHl2vIm80/s1600/IMG_6604.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F6IUGirZjx4/TcCfub6V_8I/AAAAAAAABo0/F5CHl2vIm80/s320/IMG_6604.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Funny to see the 'Negotiator' docked so close to the action (see boat on right). <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6SbVnJ7cB1c/TcCfw43nK5I/AAAAAAAABo4/L32mXUNuWoU/s1600/IMG_6600.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6SbVnJ7cB1c/TcCfw43nK5I/AAAAAAAABo4/L32mXUNuWoU/s320/IMG_6600.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Ryann Rachel turned 8 this week!! She was very excited, although her birthday wish was to be on top of the Statue of Liberty on her big day. We plan to celebrate again when we reach her in New York. <br />
This is one huge bagel. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HVGMaBFzKQE/TcCfzNUFZvI/AAAAAAAABpA/AfmvrDzbzVE/s1600/IMG_6614.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HVGMaBFzKQE/TcCfzNUFZvI/AAAAAAAABpA/AfmvrDzbzVE/s320/IMG_6614.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> She wanted to make her own cake and it was delicious. We had a fun day doing everything she wanted to do and celebrating all day long. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FCA_p9Kgv0Y/TcCf23Bo3_I/AAAAAAAABpE/EA88YUMVcZU/s1600/IMG_6617.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FCA_p9Kgv0Y/TcCf23Bo3_I/AAAAAAAABpE/EA88YUMVcZU/s320/IMG_6617.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> She seems to already be looking and acting older. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J9uyKQLNujA/TcCf6z2bONI/AAAAAAAABpI/7zfGL-ny1MM/s1600/IMG_6616.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J9uyKQLNujA/TcCf6z2bONI/AAAAAAAABpI/7zfGL-ny1MM/s320/IMG_6616.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Making their own fun at the laundromat is easy. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0qJ3A8NGXfQ/TcCf-M7GMWI/AAAAAAAABpM/0-YftIRGygo/s1600/IMG_6626.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0qJ3A8NGXfQ/TcCf-M7GMWI/AAAAAAAABpM/0-YftIRGygo/s320/IMG_6626.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Skooters were a hit in the big parking lot next to the boat. They used a whole bucket of chalk to make roads, homes, restaurants, grocery and gas station. If only it were that easy to get groceries and around town!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8M1z6YEVyzE/TcCgHTdd7qI/AAAAAAAABpU/LG4zi5GqED0/s1600/IMG_6632.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8M1z6YEVyzE/TcCgHTdd7qI/AAAAAAAABpU/LG4zi5GqED0/s320/IMG_6632.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Ryann met a beautiful Chesapeake Bay Retriever. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-buPs747hW_c/TcCgK4eF8KI/AAAAAAAABpY/TqUaE3I8COw/s1600/IMG_6633.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-buPs747hW_c/TcCgK4eF8KI/AAAAAAAABpY/TqUaE3I8COw/s320/IMG_6633.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> Ryann was so full of energy all day long!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KeRdEkZuXLs/TcCgQ8EuOTI/AAAAAAAABpc/n5HpJPTsAKE/s1600/IMG_6634.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KeRdEkZuXLs/TcCgQ8EuOTI/AAAAAAAABpc/n5HpJPTsAKE/s320/IMG_6634.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The Chesapeake is known for their watermen at sea. It's the way many people have made a living for so long. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-azwb_y0kS4c/TcCgXXkDRTI/AAAAAAAABpg/sK2glVbmrQo/s1600/IMG_6637.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-azwb_y0kS4c/TcCgXXkDRTI/AAAAAAAABpg/sK2glVbmrQo/s320/IMG_6637.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> This old railway system has been used for a long time as the owners were from the 4th generation and their son was taking over the business soon. They actually put boats on this rail system to bring them out of the water.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cWenQTvJQlk/TcCge1YVSII/AAAAAAAABpk/smSfK3boYTA/s1600/IMG_6639.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cWenQTvJQlk/TcCge1YVSII/AAAAAAAABpk/smSfK3boYTA/s320/IMG_6639.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Once a boat was out of the water you could move tracks to get it where you wanted to go.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fglxv5NmK0Q/TcCgh3jbMOI/AAAAAAAABpo/H94kTREjdso/s1600/IMG_6638.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fglxv5NmK0Q/TcCgh3jbMOI/AAAAAAAABpo/H94kTREjdso/s320/IMG_6638.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> First community pool of the whole trip and it was black water!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fe5WziejqTo/TcCgqjRfyII/AAAAAAAABpw/EV_SLonqQSU/s1600/IMG_6640.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fe5WziejqTo/TcCgqjRfyII/AAAAAAAABpw/EV_SLonqQSU/s320/IMG_6640.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The Chesapeake doesn't seem to calm down much in the way of winds. It's warm and sunny out, but when in the wind it feels cooler. We have had some terrible winds here and at the dock we're taking it all on the beam, which is very uncomfortable and we've been off the boat a lot because of it. The bottom side of the boat was physically out of the water rocking for quite some time. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hb7wHim1x3Q/TcCg3UOA5fI/AAAAAAAABp0/wOcL1DyzzWE/s1600/IMG_6644.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hb7wHim1x3Q/TcCg3UOA5fI/AAAAAAAABp0/wOcL1DyzzWE/s320/IMG_6644.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The driftwood looks like a fish. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FncjvhunRcQ/TcChAGV1KII/AAAAAAAABp8/wssEaGtjenU/s1600/IMG_6646.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FncjvhunRcQ/TcChAGV1KII/AAAAAAAABp8/wssEaGtjenU/s320/IMG_6646.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The playground of Jaxons dreams!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NCYfLXTj1gU/TcChG_EgpDI/AAAAAAAABqA/udOMUNYTg3s/s1600/IMG_6647.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NCYfLXTj1gU/TcChG_EgpDI/AAAAAAAABqA/udOMUNYTg3s/s320/IMG_6647.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Morgan with her new bike and Jaxon in his new seat! Now we have a great place to put laundry too. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DpcmL9mkpKU/TcChMPuB7mI/AAAAAAAABqE/OyOG-YaORYM/s1600/IMG_6658.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DpcmL9mkpKU/TcChMPuB7mI/AAAAAAAABqE/OyOG-YaORYM/s320/IMG_6658.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>We plugged into a bad power surge and blew our battery charger out. It made a loud pop noise and thankfully didn't start a fire as it was all burnt out. So glad we had a surge protector for the Wii, stereo and DVD player. Luckily there was a West Marine in the area so we waited for a new one and will head out of port in the morning. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XYAHmuRjJUo/TcChRReSEII/AAAAAAAABqM/bH-jkKf9GjU/s1600/IMG_6660.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XYAHmuRjJUo/TcChRReSEII/AAAAAAAABqM/bH-jkKf9GjU/s320/IMG_6660.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>We're expecting 15-20 knot winds with gusts even higher, but at some point you just need to endure the good with the bad. We've been rocking and rolling in the harbor for a few days and are ready to move on. </div>Parrent Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14096024725430067991noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6605915790391064139.post-81800740867943805532011-05-01T07:42:00.000-07:002011-05-01T07:43:27.492-07:00Tangier Island, Virginia<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Our visit to Tangier Island, Virginia was just what we needed! It was relaxing, quiet, remote and historic little town that made for a great layover while the severe weather made it's way through the east coast this week. We loved our time spent here and enjoyed the people we met and fun things we encountered. <br />
Pictured here is Parks Marina, the only marina in Tangier. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cWc-d_uh-0g/TbtkvuqKJFI/AAAAAAAABlM/XoVKMkV15nQ/s1600/IMG_6536.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cWc-d_uh-0g/TbtkvuqKJFI/AAAAAAAABlM/XoVKMkV15nQ/s320/IMG_6536.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The owner, Milton Parks (80 yrs old) is an expert helmsman, retired watermen and dockmaster greeted us with a big smile and and helpful hand in the strong winds. We enjoyed many interesting conversations with him through the week. He's a wise man that is a bit hard of hearing, but made us laugh constantly! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mxzVjAJGJhc/TbtkyeO3BzI/AAAAAAAABlQ/WufO47dm3sE/s1600/IMG_6490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mxzVjAJGJhc/TbtkyeO3BzI/AAAAAAAABlQ/WufO47dm3sE/s320/IMG_6490.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The kids were enamored with 30...YES 30, cats that roamed the marina along with Duppy the dog. Miltons wife had the kids inside to see the 6 newborn kittens that just arrived! Mr. Parks is planning to take several of them off the island very soon. There were hundreds of cats on the small island roaming everywhere. Word has it that a vet with five helpers (cat gatherers) will be coming to the island next week to spade and neuter ALL of them over a course of a week. They'll clip an ear to mark which ones have been done. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KtPFoqXibyA/Tbtk5DXl_sI/AAAAAAAABlU/dFB2NwFizeU/s1600/IMG_6451.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KtPFoqXibyA/Tbtk5DXl_sI/AAAAAAAABlU/dFB2NwFizeU/s320/IMG_6451.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The narrow streets and quaint buildings date back hundreds of years and 4 family names are profound throughout the community: Parks, Pruitt, Dise and Crockett. Pictured here is the only grocery store on the island, Daly's. It was fairly well stocked and closes at 5:00 pm each day. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4CjUCvTzuTM/Tbtk-cWPR-I/AAAAAAAABlY/V3si-WfvuS8/s1600/IMG_6458.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4CjUCvTzuTM/Tbtk-cWPR-I/AAAAAAAABlY/V3si-WfvuS8/s320/IMG_6458.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Tangier is about <span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt;">4 ft above sea level, and about 9 acres of shoreline erode into the Chesapeake each year. This new $1.3 million health center is right next to the cemetery in the heart of the town. Right behind the cemetery is the playground and school that holds K-12 grades and accounts for about 68 students total.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-guy2sd22C4Y/TbtlA7G1HNI/AAAAAAAABlc/60s-bOX2TRY/s1600/IMG_6462.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-guy2sd22C4Y/TbtlA7G1HNI/AAAAAAAABlc/60s-bOX2TRY/s320/IMG_6462.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>With around 510 residents, the people remain very close to eachother. Helping with daily activities to gathering each night in town socially. There are no bars, banks/ATM's or crime in this town. This photo is of a local bed and breakfast (one of two on the island). Of the 700+ visitors the ferry boat brings each day in the summer time, only about 50 choose to stay overnight). <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--IVtemGX4C4/TbtlC-hWXrI/AAAAAAAABlg/sHC89zAQrqI/s1600/IMG_6466.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--IVtemGX4C4/TbtlC-hWXrI/AAAAAAAABlg/sHC89zAQrqI/s320/IMG_6466.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> It's a simple town. One of our top five favorite stops on our Great Loop voyage. The local "Tangierman" were all such wonderful kind people. They all seem so happy here in their own little world that many never want to leave. Tourism is their main source of income now and the town is well known for delicious seafood at places like the Chesapeake Bay Restaurant. Often during the summer it's not uncommon to find over 100 privately owned planes come to eat there. On the honor system the planes/helicopters are asked for a $10 parking fee in a small box as they exit the airport and walk into town. There was a history museum that wasn't open when we were there. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4NzjRkk24ao/TbtlFUUSNYI/AAAAAAAABlk/CLYOimcOPiQ/s1600/IMG_6467.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4NzjRkk24ao/TbtlFUUSNYI/AAAAAAAABlk/CLYOimcOPiQ/s320/IMG_6467.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> <span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt;">One policemen and his patrol car. There's also one marine patrol for the island. There are maybe 10 cars on the island and the rest walk, bike, scooter or use a golf cart. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-APUpxjn1-t4/TbtlIt0pIXI/AAAAAAAABlo/vbiwjwmKqdQ/s1600/IMG_6470.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-APUpxjn1-t4/TbtlIt0pIXI/AAAAAAAABlo/vbiwjwmKqdQ/s320/IMG_6470.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The islanders bury the deceased in their yards, so most homes have family graves out front or in back. Just to see the kids playing in their front lawn next to the burial plots was very interesting. There was a boy named Jaxon that was the same age and spelling as our Jaxon. He was Mr. Parks great grandson too. Everyone seems to be related one way or another around here.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4ALhuHxtirA/TbtlM8vh_VI/AAAAAAAABlw/97xbhwby-fc/s1600/IMG_6471.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4ALhuHxtirA/TbtlM8vh_VI/AAAAAAAABlw/97xbhwby-fc/s320/IMG_6471.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The kids met a sweet little local girl named Taylor, 11. Ryann interrogated her for awhile and realized that she was just a normal kid that held a similar life to hers. However, she spoke with <span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt;">a British-sounding accent with a relic dialect to it as everyone on the island did. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KNLhPxx_SFY/TbtlQIFTc6I/AAAAAAAABl0/kwjdOO9r_oI/s1600/IMG_6465.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KNLhPxx_SFY/TbtlQIFTc6I/AAAAAAAABl0/kwjdOO9r_oI/s320/IMG_6465.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Taylor liked treasure hunting just like the girls and they found a knife, fishing pole, engine (pictured on right), bottles, etc. within no time. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Wc6G3U30tO4/TbtlTGQ8nKI/AAAAAAAABl4/z8LiwfpZdDA/s1600/IMG_6474.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Wc6G3U30tO4/TbtlTGQ8nKI/AAAAAAAABl4/z8LiwfpZdDA/s320/IMG_6474.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>This boat has the transom cut off the back (but kept it near the dock for use when needed). The boat is used for many different types of fishing. For hundreds of years the only livelihood was being a watermen. Today only 35 or so boats are left fishing the bay from Tangier. Many locals have resorted to working off the island on tug boats, tour boats, etc. from New York to Louisiana. Most are one month on and one month off. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TcOz22_jnDg/TbtlYytih4I/AAAAAAAABl8/0Ity_ve2kkA/s1600/IMG_6483.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TcOz22_jnDg/TbtlYytih4I/AAAAAAAABl8/0Ity_ve2kkA/s320/IMG_6483.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>This is a fairly common site. Actually, they suffer from lot's of flooding from high tides and winds in the area. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y6ACZzGX4YU/TbtlfA0J29I/AAAAAAAABmI/3EgS0AYoHVk/s1600/IMG_6487.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y6ACZzGX4YU/TbtlfA0J29I/AAAAAAAABmI/3EgS0AYoHVk/s320/IMG_6487.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>As we rode the bikes around the island we located the trash removal site. They burn everything possible and what can't be burned is put into large dumpsters and a private contractor comes to pick them up. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cM1TDkhj9OM/TbtlmPVdt8I/AAAAAAAABmQ/23Kupe3L_QM/s1600/IMG_6501.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cM1TDkhj9OM/TbtlmPVdt8I/AAAAAAAABmQ/23Kupe3L_QM/s320/IMG_6501.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Many old burned boats were sadly left here to rot away.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NbFQquMYofw/TbtluIqrF0I/AAAAAAAABmU/RL_In8Wm1_M/s1600/IMG_6499.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NbFQquMYofw/TbtluIqrF0I/AAAAAAAABmU/RL_In8Wm1_M/s320/IMG_6499.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Even a section with old wrecked abandoned golf carts.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--PjBvRJZnGI/Tbtlxye8vrI/AAAAAAAABmY/yIn_-HY1woI/s1600/IMG_6502.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--PjBvRJZnGI/Tbtlxye8vrI/AAAAAAAABmY/yIn_-HY1woI/s320/IMG_6502.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Fun can be had anywhere! The dumpster I mentioned is behind them and not sure why the mattress was still out. We found a great bike for Morgan that had a bent back rim and troubled gear system. Engineer Peter ripped out the gears, aligned wheels and gave Morgan the bike fix she's been wanting. It's a bit too tall for Ryann, but the girls have missed their bikes so much. We love having the tandem bikes so we all stay together on busy streets. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gdTFHFmQc2Y/Tbtl6HLpgqI/AAAAAAAABmc/dApugO-baxE/s1600/IMG_6506.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gdTFHFmQc2Y/Tbtl6HLpgqI/AAAAAAAABmc/dApugO-baxE/s320/IMG_6506.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>A scooter underwater!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3kx3HTb_ocw/Tb1w1lzRwrI/AAAAAAAABoY/toGTkjEOCGo/s1600/IMG_6505.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3kx3HTb_ocw/Tb1w1lzRwrI/AAAAAAAABoY/toGTkjEOCGo/s320/IMG_6505.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Each day Mr. Parks tries to take one load of trash to the dump on his golf cart. Duppy went for a fun ride too. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eKfFD4IBe_8/TbtmAefpYWI/AAAAAAAABmg/zeGv0SQNv5o/s1600/IMG_6497.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eKfFD4IBe_8/TbtmAefpYWI/AAAAAAAABmg/zeGv0SQNv5o/s320/IMG_6497.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt;">Tangier Island amounts to less than 700 acres, but only about 80 acres are high enough to live on. The beaches were beautiful and this peninsula went out for over a mile. This view is of the protected water and on the other side.....see below </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7x15qPeKjl0/TbtmHO6m7kI/AAAAAAAABms/lwdLj-nW4j4/s1600/IMG_6516.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7x15qPeKjl0/TbtmHO6m7kI/AAAAAAAABms/lwdLj-nW4j4/s320/IMG_6516.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>...the waves were crashing from the high winds. Our stay lasted longer than anticipated due to the high winds. We check the weather often and only look at wind speed and direction. During our stay we didn't have much in the way of cell or internet tower, so my sister, Michelle would text me the conditions each day as waited for it to dissipate.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-47jF71jrUCs/TbtmPeaNYDI/AAAAAAAABm4/Y-neyyXhT4Q/s1600/IMG_6511.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-47jF71jrUCs/TbtmPeaNYDI/AAAAAAAABm4/Y-neyyXhT4Q/s320/IMG_6511.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Getting creative with surroundings. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GpFqJJ_HAVI/Tbtmbx2O-rI/AAAAAAAABm8/sy5jUzXvqGk/s1600/IMG_6525.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GpFqJJ_HAVI/Tbtmbx2O-rI/AAAAAAAABm8/sy5jUzXvqGk/s320/IMG_6525.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Near the tip of the Hook, rusty pipes sticking out of the water are all that's left of the Taka-Cola cherry soda plant. Its well water became contaminated, and the beverage gave dysentery to unlucky customers. It was shut down in the late 1800's. The beach pictured here has actually shifted to the other side of the old pipes over the past 8 months. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aKYebKeEeaI/TbtmldvKt9I/AAAAAAAABnA/VkFLvPbo2ko/s1600/IMG_6527.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aKYebKeEeaI/TbtmldvKt9I/AAAAAAAABnA/VkFLvPbo2ko/s320/IMG_6527.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>We were ecstatic to find a Taka-Cola bottle washed up on the shore! To find something from over a hundred years ago felt like finding a buried treasure. The timing and chances of finding something like this way pure luck. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7mKnokppZ90/Tbtmsq_C3lI/AAAAAAAABnE/pX5mXz4KHDE/s1600/IMG_6524.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7mKnokppZ90/Tbtmsq_C3lI/AAAAAAAABnE/pX5mXz4KHDE/s320/IMG_6524.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The only other people on the beach were Loni and Carol Moore who were both born and raised on the island. They told us of the story of the Taka-Cola plant and they too were so excited about the bottle. We continued to find many more after that and you wonder why it washed up while we were standing there. Literally 10 minutes after we looked it would appear out of nowhere....great timing! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iIbyOW4QWj8/Tbtmz_XhpWI/AAAAAAAABnI/Z7jnm_8GI6w/s1600/IMG_6526.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iIbyOW4QWj8/Tbtmz_XhpWI/AAAAAAAABnI/Z7jnm_8GI6w/s320/IMG_6526.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>But mmmooooooooommmmmmmm...this one was lonely and shaking and I really really want to help him. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jH8lVpcD61k/TbtnBBJ1crI/AAAAAAAABnc/DITe3D4mc5w/s1600/IMG_6538.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jH8lVpcD61k/TbtnBBJ1crI/AAAAAAAABnc/DITe3D4mc5w/s320/IMG_6538.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>A view from the dinghy as we traveled out of the harbor to explore the area at a different perspective. You can see the many crab shacks, docks and Mail Harbor off to the left where tour boats and mail/grocery boat come each day. There's a very pretty church at the center of town as well (see the steeple?). The island is split in half with this channel. It was dredged out years ago and used to make a higher ground for the airport. There are hundreds of crab shacks and half of them are one the other side and only accessible by boat. <br />
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Our friend, Loni who had been a waterman his entire life (and recently taken a break) contracts his boat to the Chesapeake Bay Foundation (that he works for) and is in charge of managing 26 boats in the area. During our stay kids were brought in many days to the college which is located on an island just east of Tangier. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DqPM2VaVSx0/TbtnOGc-m4I/AAAAAAAABng/WMJywb2s0mY/s1600/IMG_6539.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DqPM2VaVSx0/TbtnOGc-m4I/AAAAAAAABng/WMJywb2s0mY/s320/IMG_6539.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>We ventured north of the island on the favorable wind side to the "Uppards" where people lived many many years ago. There were remnants of houses from years ago, but were mostly washed away and taken over by marshy land. The home in front of Ryann is actually up-side-down. Loni and Carol often travels to the Uppards in exploration of the old town. It's all slowly washing into the bay and she's trying to raise awareness of their growing problem. She has personally found three skeletal human remains from the graves washing in and once brought two baskets full of dishes and pottery from the area. You can go to the Readers Digest website and "cheer" for Tangier Island to help raise money for a new breakwall. There are also 6 facebook sites too. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ONeiDKr86iI/TbtnWvr3SpI/AAAAAAAABnk/wM4c87K93-8/s1600/IMG_6546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ONeiDKr86iI/TbtnWvr3SpI/AAAAAAAABnk/wM4c87K93-8/s320/IMG_6546.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>This photo is for our friend Paul Morrissey who sold John Deere tractors for many years. Happy Birthday Paul!! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1Ebg4-w0L5o/Tbtnd4UseLI/AAAAAAAABno/V00W3iv1zkQ/s1600/IMG_6545.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1Ebg4-w0L5o/Tbtnd4UseLI/AAAAAAAABno/V00W3iv1zkQ/s320/IMG_6545.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>We had a tornado watch one evening and winds that exceeded 50 mph. I use to love storms, but feel a bit more vulnerable on the boat. The house in this photo is the Parks and is the only brick home on the entire island. We made it through the storm without a problem and left early the next morning to head north with winds of 10-15 mph. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RvUM3p-DnT0/TbtniRbvIDI/AAAAAAAABns/vjwEwn_h_7k/s1600/IMG_6551.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RvUM3p-DnT0/TbtniRbvIDI/AAAAAAAABns/vjwEwn_h_7k/s320/IMG_6551.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>During the storms Craig went up to the helm for a birds eye view and was startled to see a cat finding safe harbor is his chair. If you love cats, you'd love it here! This particular cat just sat staring at the boat waiting for an invitation to board. They all became very close to the kids. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rA68webJKcw/TbtnofvLimI/AAAAAAAABnw/bCb1MdFL07c/s1600/IMG_6477.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rA68webJKcw/TbtnofvLimI/AAAAAAAABnw/bCb1MdFL07c/s320/IMG_6477.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The only playground was always filled with kids. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ynJPFLFAvDo/Tbtnzacbe-I/AAAAAAAABn8/zOQAzCne1gQ/s1600/IMG_6560.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ynJPFLFAvDo/Tbtnzacbe-I/AAAAAAAABn8/zOQAzCne1gQ/s320/IMG_6560.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Jaxon made a friend named Chandler. He was such a sweet boy at 7 years old he was able to roam the entire island without parental guidance. We saw kids even younger on their own with no parents to be found. Supposedly everyone watches out for each other and the locals are like a big family. Chandler kept coming up to me saying how much fun Jaxon was and where does he live and when can we play again. He left at one point to go to the store to buy a drink and wanted to buy Jaxon one too!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P8NQc8ksDiM/Tbtn6kl9RfI/AAAAAAAABoA/rSB5nJOiFhQ/s1600/IMG_6561.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P8NQc8ksDiM/Tbtn6kl9RfI/AAAAAAAABoA/rSB5nJOiFhQ/s320/IMG_6561.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Anna Parks is Mr. Parks mother and the Parks family has lived on the island for centuries. This is the boat that he used for crabbing for over 30 years. He's brought in over a million crabs on this boat over the years. He is said to be the best diesel mechanic on the island too. Now each morning he moves it over to his many slips and uses it dredge the slips out. Notice the ability to captain the boat from the mid stern area.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pvjl040GYfo/TbtoDlYF_nI/AAAAAAAABoE/9Y3OOBHQu2s/s1600/IMG_6534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pvjl040GYfo/TbtoDlYF_nI/AAAAAAAABoE/9Y3OOBHQu2s/s320/IMG_6534.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Sunset over the crab boats that stirred the harbors all day long.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3R57H5dG0CY/TbtoKv4-4wI/AAAAAAAABoI/iQXuOC7THS8/s1600/IMG_6480.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3R57H5dG0CY/TbtoKv4-4wI/AAAAAAAABoI/iQXuOC7THS8/s320/IMG_6480.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>This freighter and a large yacht both didn't want to alter their course and it seemed to be deceivingly close.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-scKzjeVnWmM/TbtoWXxJraI/AAAAAAAABoM/9MABPHBLSks/s1600/IMG_6567.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-scKzjeVnWmM/TbtoWXxJraI/AAAAAAAABoM/9MABPHBLSks/s320/IMG_6567.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>We traveled the entire day over to the western shore of the Chesapeake and once we arrived it was rather cool outside. The kids played "Just Dance" on the Wii for some great exercise. They went through almost all of the songs and were sweating and laughing the whole time. For those of you that aren't familiar with this video game you have to dance just like the person on the screen. Whomever is the most accurate gets more points and the one with the most points wins! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i2Y4eJQn-Vo/TbtoeG8ibcI/AAAAAAAABoQ/iTW7eHTRpd4/s1600/IMG_6568.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i2Y4eJQn-Vo/TbtoeG8ibcI/AAAAAAAABoQ/iTW7eHTRpd4/s320/IMG_6568.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Happy Birthday to my sister Michelle...I miss you so much.</div>Parrent Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14096024725430067991noreply@blogger.com6