2024-10-18
So, the goal for the day was to make it to Joe Wheeler, but we had to get through the Wilson and Wheeler locks. Stuga (John and Deanna) took the lead for our flotilla, which included Stuga, Ti Amo, Cool Beans, Blue Tortuga, and Loop Dawg. They did a great job, and we got through the Wilson auxiliary chambers. We approached the Wheeler lock about two hours later, and the lockmaster reported that we had to wait 1–4 hours. We anchored in Bluewater Creek, and Dan deployed the dinghy and brought Liam to shore. Sadly, the dock he tied up to was in disrepair, so he had to carefully carry Liam to shore. It was a beautiful day again, so we just hung out and waited. We finally made it through and arrived at Joe Wheeler State Park Marina. We located our slip assignment and lined up like WTF!—it was going to be a tight squeeze next to Knot Again, but Dan backed right in with no problem, and we docked with assistance from Michelle and Randall on Happy Giraffe. We had a great slip location—right near the lodge and easy access to a beautiful park. Once we got settled, Dan called the lodge to try to get a ride to town to get his new meds. He finally got a ride from the park’s wildlife guide. Dan really enjoyed all the things the guide pointed out. Dan got his meds and got me some Bama Bud Light suitcases — bonus — we have a niece attending ‘Bama! On his way back to the boat, Dan picked up some packages from the lodge, including the small thermal printer that he had ordered. He started it up and printed a few copies of the schedule of events—they were sea scrolls!
196 nights to go
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