Was awakened after three hours of sleep, around 2 am, and compelled to move my tent to slightly higher ground.  No rain fallen, but it obviously had some effect upstream of me.  As soon as it was light enough, around … Continue reading →

Made a leisurely morning exploration of Hannibal.  I am in the midst of reading Twain’s “Life on the Mississippi” and am able to glimpse some comparisons between his time and mine.  I contemplated the wharf area, long stretches of the … Continue reading →

Engaged with the local inhabitants of Alexandria last night in a Euchre tournament, held in a smoke-filled ramshackle purple tavern right on the water.  I did not perform well. This establishment, though 8 to 10 feet off the ground, was … Continue reading →

A very late start today–finishing the repair to my fins, doing laundry, and visiting the historic Ft. Madison.  A very early establishment, perhaps the first on the upper Mississippi, after the Louisiana Purchase.  Its aim was to make a safe … Continue reading →

Made way early, shortly at 6 am, as I was informed that foul weather lay in store for the latter part of the day.  The heavy rains, 2 to 3 times the monthly average at this point, have swollen the … Continue reading →

Arose early and made 10 miles before the heat of the day struck.  It was still, clear, and hot and I want for the memory of the last day I was free of rain! What a treat! I find that … Continue reading →

Ah what a relief to be back on the water making progress downstream!  My parts arrived, delivered overnight to a confectionary in the village of East Davenport; owned by four generations of Italians; they graciously agreed to let me give … Continue reading →

Remained in camp at Fisherman’s Corner, doing battle with my desire to make further progress down the river.  Having just spent Friday in repose, I do not feel the particular desire to repeat.  But I am still ahead of schedule, … Continue reading →

The day began excessively muggy, not a breath of wind, with dense white haze obscuring all.  As I approached Lock 14, I radioed to make contact and was informed that only the alternate lock was available for my use.  Thus … Continue reading →

Heavy drizzle to start the day, which persisted well into the afternoon, leaving me drenched, but not cold.  The bargain I offered–for a day of rain, but free of wind–must have been agreeable to the powers that be, and I … Continue reading →