Turkey Day

Can U believe it, its almost Thanksgiving! I talked with Mandi and her kids this morning, and boy do we miss each other. They are all doing fine. Baby Isaac is growing like he should, according to the latest sonogram. We have had a really busy couple of weeks, with everyone calling here at the last minute to get their range or whatever fixed. Happens this way every holiday. So Todd and Gary have been working long hours. Me too.
Gary and I got one more of the 3 hedge trees taken down last Saturday, which leaves 1 to go. Boy these are hard to do, since we don't want to hit something while dropping them. This last one was a trick. Garys' chainsaw got stuck in the tree, with the tree more than 2/3 way cut thru. We had it tied to the truck bumper with a rope to try to help aim the way it was to fall, so we would miss their fences and pool. So I ran home in the golf cart to get a hammer and wedge, that Gary wanted. After trying to get the saw out his way, he finially took me up on my idea of my elec chainsaw, and the sledge hammer. When I got back again, it finished burning up my start switch, and still didn't free Gary's saw. Next, I got in the truck to pull easy and see how "tippy" it was. Gary pulled down on the rope, trying to put "bounce" pressure on the rope, and instead it came off the truck! Oh good golly, did that tree wobble back and forth, before standing back up straight! We were both holding our breath, and thought we just bought Darryl a new pool. God was helping us tho, as I had just held hands with Gary before we started, praying everything would go smooth, with no damage or injury. He kept that tree up there, till we could get that rope back on the truck. I pulled all the slack out of it, and then pulled a little more, and some more, and finally it started rocking towards me in my rear view mirror, so I just gunned it, and pulled it on over. Chainsaw fell free, unharmed. We were so relieved the tree fell exactly where we had planned. Spent the rest of the day cutting it up.
Sunday was Thanksoffering Sunday at church, so the whole day was full, and we got our first turkey meal of the holiday. It was great.
Had the neighbors over for spagetti last nite, and tomorrow I will have their boys all day.
I did groceries today, so I am ready to relax for the holidays. Going to Todd's for the day Thursday, and see our 2 oldest grandboys.
Where is this yr going? Its almost Christmas! Have a great season of thanks with your loved ones.
Luv, BJ

Back from Mexico

Ok Ok, we are back, but I refuse to return mentally. I am just going thru the motions, of going thru the emails, mail, papers, suitcases, etc. Life goes on, but call me "Peter Pan', CAUSE i WON'T COME BACK AND GROW UP. Going to retain my vacation mode as long as possible.
Don't know if I will be getting Christmas cards out this yr, or doing the letter that I need to do, that goes in the cards. Might not have the annual Christmas Party we host each yr for the 100's, and might not put up much Christmas decorations. That might take some doing to accomplish any one of the items listed, and in order to accomplish them I'd have to come back mentally. Today I say noway, so by next week we will see how I feel.
Gosh while we were gone, one of our darling church members and friends died, and we missed the funeral too. Also our sister-in-law broke her hip and had surgery, and our sweet granddaughter Sadie Grace fell and broke her collar bone. Gary broke a toe, and Mercy (Gary's sister) is doing better after her fall that broke her neck vertebrae. My brother will be having surgery Dec 3 to resection his colon. Man, when it rains it pours.
Speaking of pouring, when we arrived in Mexico, hurricane Ida was still there, and delivering alot of rain for a couple days. But you know us, it was fun to play in the surf on the kayaks, even in the rain. I mean, come on, wet is wet, right ?
We did some snorkeling on a 45' catamaran, and Gary got to pilot the boat on the return trip. They were amazed he returned them to their mooring mark exactly on the money. But since he is so good at GPS, he felt it was nothing. Had lots of fun with those guys, and for lunch they feed us all steak and lobster on the grill. Yummy.
The rooms were great, the beach was wonderful, the help was great, and the food was good. Lots of good friends, since 44 of us traveled down there together. Of course we always make alot of new friends also on each of these trips.
Came back home to semi cold today, 40's and windy and heavy overcast. Tomorrow possible snow. Go figure. But it is that time of yr.
As everyone knows, I love rain, and it rained at least once a day every day we were in Mexico, but just short rains the last 5 days. We loved it!
I'll include pics, and more details as I think of them. Remember, I am in vacation mentality right now, and wouldn't want to strain something trying to remember all we did this past week.
God was so good to provide this trip for us, and our safety in travel and while there.
Luv BJ & Gary

Headed out again

Just letting everyoneknow, that watches this blog, that we are at it again.
Yep, we are leaving town early this friday morning. And I do mean early! We have to be at the airport at 5:45 AM! Haven't figured out how early before that I nned to get up to get ready. Wow, I haven't been up at that early since.... Man, I don't remember since when. So this will mean early to bed?
We will be headed to Mexico by airplane. Planes, boats(not trains), and automobiles! hahaha
Of course we will be going by way of Memphis from Wichita, before we fly to Cancun Mexico. Then we board a bus to the Grand Oasis Resort. If this is anything like the other resorts that we have been to, it will be superb! We will be traveling with "Bob's Bunch". Senor Bob does a bang up job getting these trips together. So 40 of us will have a wonderful restful week, with a few adventures mixed in. These places have all the wonderful food inclusive, all the drinks, and usually alot of activities all day, nitelife, as well as hot tubs and pools, and the ocean water and the sand. Might get to parasail again! Might do boogie boards, or sailboats, snorkling, etc. We'll see.
Did lots of office work and laundry today, and unloaded the wood we cut saturday, and downloaded all the pics we took on the Michigan trip.. Mulched the oak leaves today, so it doesn't look too bad tonite. Done with supper and dishes, and thought I'd blog here, before CSI, and then hitting the hay. I love a good day!
Started gathering "stuff" for the trip today. More of that kind of activity tomorrow.
Mandi called, and her sonogram today showed little Isaac's heart beat is improving, praise God. She will have her next appointment in 2 weeks. Keep praying for him.
Well that's enough today, so goodnight.
Luv BJ

wow, its been a week since posting!

Sorry, Life has been a blurr since the last sat am post. Wow, has it been that long?
Our day at Klackles last saturday, was fun, full, and so many activities. Corn maze, dirt bikes, rides on tractor pulled trains to the orchard to pick apples, pumpkins, and for fun. Lots to eat, zip line, as well as lots of apples to eat.
The kids just fell into bed, when we got back late. So did we, after our showers of course.
Sunday....we got up early, and got all the last minute things loaded, and went in to say good bye to the kids. Figured if we left early today, when they would have church to turn around and focus on, might make our leaving easier. Played one last card game of 3's with the boys and Sadie.
It was still a truly sad moment in time. Loving each other, and having to be apart is no fun. But the idea of having something to focus on soon after our departure, did help, but we weren't there to witness it.
Our trip back was great. Sunny, and got warmer and warmer, the furthur south we came. 70's is sure better than 40's.
Stopped in Des Moines and got to visit with Aunt Helen. what a sweet lady.
Got home 1:30 am, and showered, and fell into bed.
Monday.... Todd showed up for work at 8:10am, and we just rolled over and went back to sleep. At 9, Gary intercomed down to the office, and ask if Todd needed him today, and got an immediate yes. So out we rolled, and the day began. Still in vacation mode.
We learned life went on, even tho we stepped out of our lives for a month, but it didn't stop or wait for us. Todd did a great job keeping up with the business, and some of our duties here at home. He became a great pilot in this past month. He piled "stuff" all over the place here in the office. I looked thru the piles, and decided they can wait. Still in vacation mode. After Gary got home, we unloaded the boat. Wow! My house looked like it exploded with all the stuff everwhere, but there is always tomorrow to put it away. I am still in the vacation mode. Went to bed early.
Tuesday....did laundry, laundry, laundry, put some stuff in the rooms they belong, or actually put some stuff away. Slowly, I am making progress at this, but I am still in the vacation mode. Went to get groceries, so we will have bread, and milk etc now.
Wednesday...put away some of the final things still out. Handling some stuff in the office. Gary got the algea eater fish in from the pond to the sun room, so they might live thru the winter. Only the smallest didn't make it, but the 3 biggest, about 1 foot long each, are now inside, and learning to live in a much smaller area. The coi, and goldfish will be fine in the pond all winter. Still need to bring in some of my plants before they freeze. The ones I left out when we left got frosted while we were gone, so I just need to cut off the dead and move the pots in. maybe tomorrow, since I am still in vacation mode.
Went to church for dinner and choir. Good to have so many smiling faces greet us. Still in vacation mode.
Thurday.... Doing office stuff, and hanging out. Still in vacation mode. Talked to my grandbabies up north, and doing this blog entry. Still in vacation mode, and each day I have been calling folks on the landline to touch base since we are back now. Fot 2 more weeks anyway. Then we are headed to Mexico for a week of swimming and fun in the sun. Still in vacation mode.
Tonite is survivor! and of course I am Still in vacation mode.
Luv BJ

fri, sat

Getting around, headed to Cales football game this am. Also loading bikes, and balls, cause we are headed to an all church event this afternoon and evening at Klackles. It was/is an apple orchard, that the owners have added so much in the way of events, rides, mazes, bike trails, inflatables, etc. this will be a long full day.
Yesterday we didn't get to do the home school museums in Muskegan, due to the midwife hearing an irregular and slow heartbeat in the baby thur evening. So Mandi went in for a medical sonogram to check out our new baby coming. Mandi is 23 weeks, and the baby is a boy, and so far the test showed nothing wrong. So Monday she will go for a 2nd level sonogram which will show more in depth stuff, and find out why, and how to make the rate faater and regular.
Pray for Isaac Smith Corliss, because if they are not able to correct this, he might not be well and normal, if he makes it to birth. God is in control, and can fix all problems.
Yesterday we went for a walk to see the neighborhood, and then to check all the woods around their house. Fixed a couple swings that needed repair, and the girls raked (played) in the leaves.
Went to Brann's for steak last nite, and then played cards till nite.
Pics latter.
BJ

Thursday

OK, I found the previous days posting in the drafts area, because Their internet is wacked sometimes, and so I finished it, and posted.
Now for thursday, Gary got up at 10:30, and then they got started on the basement again. Yesterday they got all the studs up, and nailed to the concrete walls. Today is sheet rock day.
Also last nite both Gary and Mandi could hardly move due to how tired they were
I am taking care of kiddos again, and today playing referee. Cale and Cosette just flint off each other. Also doing laundry again for them too.
Last nite we went to church for a good meal and their classes. Gary and I came back after, showered and hit the hay early.
I am going to check and see how they are doing and see if I can help.
The box of flooring came, so maybe tonite before survivor we can finish.
Tomorrow is Muskegan field day, and we will go do 4 museums for the kids home school stuff.
Then saturday is Klackles and football for Cale.
Headed home sunday early.
Luv BJ

mon, tue, & wed

Sorry, I haven't posted, but we've been busy and having fun.

Monday... Mandi went to the chiropractor monday morning, and Gary and played games with the kids. When she came back, we decided to have lunch, and then Gary and Mandi went to work on the floor again. Finished the kitchen, hall, and most the laundry room, but ran out of tiles. She got on the phone, found some to be shipped, so she can finish probably after we leave sunday, and the tiles come.

The kids and I played games till we were cross eyed.

Tuesday... Got up early so Mandi could go to her bible study, and we took the kids and went out to accomplish a whole list of stops. 1. return (exchange) Malac's new high top shoes, for a new pair. His tore along the sole about 3 " long. Not good for a growing boy, and future skate boarding champ. 2. Went to a pawn shop to look for a guitar case for the boys electric guitar. Found the perfect case for the electric guitar for the boys. No Capo found here tho. (for those who don't know what a Capo is, like me, its the clamp the guitarist puts on the handle of the guitar to change the key) 3. Went to Walmart and got long sleeve jersies that Malac wanted for under his favorite t-shirts. Got him a hoodie also. And of course Cale found a couple shirts also, and the girls each found one shirt. I got the jewelry rings, so I can finish the necklaces I brought for Mandi and the girls. 4. Went to the music store and found the Capo. 5. Went to the bike shop, and found the wheels Malac needed for his skateboard. 6. Called Mandi and met up for a wonderful mexican lunch at El Arriano's.
Came home and regrouped. Gary and Malac fixed the wheels on the skateboard, and Mandi took the final tally of items needed from the lumber yard.
Gary and Mandi headed to the lumber yard to gety what is needed to finish off a bed room for the boys to move down there before the baby comes. The kids and I carded and gamed ourselves to death.
Luv BJ

a full praise sunday

Started out going to church with Mandi & the kids. Nice to be in church again, singing praise to God. Then to s.s. class, home for lunch, and games with the kids.
Got down to freezing last nite, so the heater ran alot.
Sunny but cold today. this afternoon we went to their sunday school class party at Gail & Dale's. What a wonderful time was had by all. And what a way to end the day with them playing their wonderful pipe organ and piano, and some of singing to hymns, and old songs together.
Came home and now Cale and Gary are playing the piano together, and Malac is playing his electric guitar with them to the tune of Heart and Soul. How fun!
Pics another time,
Luv BJ

saturdays adventures

Today started out sunny, compared to the total rain yesterday.
Headed to Cales football game with a lite wind and 41 degrees.
Wore alot of layers, and enjoyed watching the boys play their game.
Cale scored the final score, by receiving a pass and ran right up our side, 3/4 the field, and scored! He was so excited, he ran off the field high 5ing everyone with a hand.
Will include pics next time, since I don't do pics on here.
Came back and regrouped, then went to a civil war re-enactment. Very cool with all the props, guns, cannons, actors in costumes, tents, and buildings. Even had a mill that pressed and made cider. So of course we had to have some of that, and tonite with the rain started again, and the north wind and cloudy, cold temps its really tasty heated.
Gary biked back from there, against the wind, and cold front and rain towards the end of 20 miles, then called and had Mandi come get him for the last 3. He was so cold.
Having chicken noodle soup for supper whenever Mark comes home now. He has the boys with him, and the girls and I have been playing cards.
More tomorrow, after church.
Luv BJ

Places by road

Manistee, Fish town in Lealand, sand doons. movies of fish going upstream

Back to Mandi & Marks with the boat

The kids brought the truck & trailor to us monday, and we went sailing for the afternoon, and then pulled her out of the water. Got ready to roll, and had dinner at the nearest pub, with wonderful food, and went to White Hall Best western for the nite.
Spent the next 2 days traveling all up the coast to every port we were going to hit by boat. Man was it good to do it sooooo fast, compared to one the water, since the weather turned so rainy and cold. Lots of white caps, so we made the best decision. Stayed in Manistee Inn the 2nd nite, and ate at the Local fish house. Very good. Nice to have a warm bed, since the weather thru a wild storm at us during the nite.
Made it back last nite at 10:30pm.
We will tell ya more about the trip and ports as time allows. Tonite isn't it. We are with the grandkids, and they keep us very busy. Today we went skating, and played games all afternoon. Tonite is Survivor together.
Gary is playing games yet with the kids.
Luv BJ

Still traveling north

First, did I mention that Miss Kitty is back? Gary just couldn't let it go, and kept looking, and voila! He found her, washed her, dried her, and hung her up to dry. The lost has been found.

After pulling the boat, and getting her ready to tow around, we went into montique for supper, then went to the Best Western for the kids to stay. It was already 48 degrees, so when they offered us to stay in one of the beds, we decided to take them up on it, so we can have a shower, and a warm bed. It started raining during the nite, and so it was a good call to switch plans.

Today, we are traveling in our truck, towing the boat, with Mark and Mandi and the kids following us, and we headed north.

I am tired, so I will write more tomorrow.

Luv BJ & Gary

The adventure continues

Our adventure will still continue. The main difference is we will be traveling on land in the boat, instead of water in the boat. Mark and Mandi and the kiddos came to White Hall Marina where we were today, and we all went sailing out on Lake Michigan. We could see the front coming in as we were returning. As predicted, another storm is to hit tomorrow, and it will be just like the first one we hit they say. So we decided to cut our losses, and put the boat on the trailor, and just go to the little towns and marinas we would have struggled to get to by water.
The Lake was mostly calm today, and the kids had a great time climbing all over the boat. Only one casualty, Sadie lost her KC chiefs stocking hat in the lake. At least we still have Sadie.
We are tired tonite, so I will blog tomorrow.
Luv Bj & Gary

Making Lemonade

Ok, still here at White Lake due to a weather front, and big water out on Michigan Lake.

Very overcast here, windy, spits every now and then, and 50's degrees all day. Some of the wind gusts have gotten our attention!

Walked to town for lunch after sleeping in till 10:30 this am.

Ate at the Harbor View Grill again, and boy was the food good. Only one slight problem....

When they brought our food, and Gary gave me his brocohli, we both dug in to pork roast, mashed potatoes, and veggies. Gary stopped me just as I was putting a fork full in my mouth, and said "you don't think there is mushrooms in this gravey do ya?" When we ask, it does!!!!!

Saved by Gary bless his heart. They remade mine without gravey and we ate in peace.

Came back to the boat and studied maps a while, and then watched Benjamin Button. That was pretty good, out of the ordinary. I then made supper, we ate, and then took a walk for the fresh air, and get rid of the trash also.

Upon returning to our boat I tried to find our Miss Kittie. We looked everywhere. Miss Kittie has been with us on every sail since 2002. We walked the docks, looked in the water, checked the waters edge all around, looked in the boat, all to no avail. Heavy sigh. Now we are wondering if someone came by the boat, and wanted Miss Kittie for themselves. Anyway, she is gone. Dang! Gary even said he really liked her. Guess I'll have to go find another Kittie flag to fly when we get home.

Praying for less wind tomorrow, and less swells, so we can sail on.

We sure have alot of swans here. They are beautiful! When they go to take off to fly, they sure make a loud thunder sound with their wings, as they run on top of the water with their feet till they lift off.

Headed to bed,

Nite Nite,

BJ & Gary

Made it to White Lake

It was sunny when we left Muskegan Lake, light winds, and a brisk 50's. As we were going out the channel, things began to change. Dark clouds rolled in and winds picked up a little, and the light rain started. We continue, and the swells stayed 1 to 5, with the occasional 8' swell happening. They were far apart so we got to surf them today.The rain continued the rest of the trip today.
The Milwakee Clipper was just pulling out as we left the yacht club. Look at the pic. This hauls people and cars across the lake, and back.
Once we turned into White Lake, we just kept going and going, way back in here till we found the towns of White Hall & Montague. We docked at the town docks, and they only charge 26. per nite. We walked to town, just a couple blocks up hill to the Harbor Side restraunt, and both chose the shrimp dinner. Wonderful food.
As we came in to this dock, we had to scare away alot of seagulls. They think they own these docks. As I was jumping ashore to catch us, I had to jump the poop piles. We hosed the dock off, and are sometimes having to chase birds away yet.
The whole east shoreline of the lake appears to be sand dunes. Some small hills and some tall, but all sandy so far. The water is emerald green. The fish finder doesn't find many fish out on Lake Michigan, but in these inner lakes they are plentiful.
No tv, but we do have computer and phone service. So we will watch a movie or play cards.

Gary will ad the pics now.

Luv BJ

This big grey boat is called the Milwaukee Clipper. It used to do the route across the lake daily with passengers and cars. There is a new one now, but this old one has volunteers trying to refurbish it for sleeping rooms, dinners, shows etc.

The red building is one of the lighthouses at the entrance to Grand Haven.

The old grain mill and train are being refurbished at Grand Haven as an attraction.

And the last pic was as we entered here at Muskegan Lake. This is by far the biggest lake off of Lake Michigan to date. There are at least 5 yacht clubs that we saw in here, before choosing this one.

It rained all evening yesterday, and all morning today, so we slept till noon. Might as well!

This evening its raining off and on since 4pm. The gusts of wind haven't let up, and when the weather channel says 8' to 10' swells, and us to keep our eyes open for water spouts, and for small boaters to rest and not go out, we are listening.

We sure wish we could sail on, so maybe tomorrow will be better. Weather predicts 4' to 6' swells in the morning with 10 to 20 mph winds, so it sounds like Cheney to us. hahaha

In answer to Mandi's comment about the ice cream, YES, we did sample the Blue Moon and Bubblegum Ice Creams. They were good, and glad we tried them.

Had the bar across the road make our pizza tonite. It was very good also.
Walked around again this afternoon, and also got to watch CSI and Survivor on the computer. Boy this digital tv stuff ain't what it used to be. 8:30pm and we are going to watch a dvd movie, and go to bed.

Hope all is well with you all.

God is good all the time.

Luv BJ & Gary

muskegan harbor

Ok, since the last post, from Jan house Monday nite, from Pigeon Bay, yesterday (wed) we finially got to get out of there. The waves looked better, 1' tp 5' , but as we motored along north, the wind built and soon we had 8' to 10' swells. but they were nicer waves than the other day. Those swirly waves sunday from the storm were awful. these were ok, with some space between each one. Made it to Grand Haven and stayed at the City Yacht club last nite. Met some nice folks who gave us the key to the bathhouse, and even offered us their car! The Grand River goes right thru town, so we didn't need the car, just walked the 3 blocks and had a wonderful burger and fried for supper.

Got pretty cold last nite, upper 40's, but we stayed warm and tosty in the boat. Got up early for us, 8:40, and got around and left. Headed north. The wind was slight, and the lake was like glass. Tried to sail, but had to use the motor most the day with the sails. Made it to Muskegan Harbor, and went to the Great Lakes Yacht club. $40. per nite, but they will let us stay another nite for free if the weather demands it.

The weather is supposed to go south tonite. Rain, and storms tonite, and tomorrow. So if we have to stay here, we made the arrangement for that, and then we went 1 block to find something to eat. Had yummy sloppy joes, and then got ice cream cones for dessert as we explored the 8 shops and businesses.

Happy October folks. Luv and miss you all, but we're having a blast

Luv BJ

In the twilight zone again

Thank You Mandi for posting the last entry for us. That way folks know what is happening with us, when we don't get to blog for a day or 2.
Like now, we are caught in the first big storm of the season. 50 to 60 mph wind, lots of rain, and buckets of rain. its in the upper 50's, so its not that its cold, just a lot of horizontal rain.
We left Holland's Yacht club basin marina at 9 am ish. Headed north, and the 1' swells very soon became 3, 4, 5' . I threw up, and was fine. Then was Gary, 4 rounds worth. Pretty miserable. So we turned in at Pigeon Cove, and got permission to use a dock. Free.
The sun was shinning, and the water was getting rougher by the minute, so we are waiting it out, thank you very much. Still being tied to the dock, and having all the ropes we can find, lashing everthing down. But its still rough bouncing off the bouys all this time.
So we watched a movie yesterday pm, and slept in till noon today, then watched another movie.
We barely have a phone tower, no email, so I can't blog right now. Can only get 1 tv channel.
The very nice couple at this dock, Jan & Felicia, came by tonite, to get us to come to their home for chili and pie. Wonderful folks.
This is where we will be till weather breaks and the 14 to 18 foot swells go back down.
Luv BJ

Ahhhh, wet again!

Got to bed after our showers and blog last nite, and just after getting on board to sleep, it started pouring. God knows I love rain, and boy did it rain, for a couple hours or less. Makes for such good sleeping listening to the "dripage". Then the kiddos woke us up at 8:30am on the button again. I know it was on the button because I had an alarm set so we wouldn't oversleep and be late to Cale's football game. And right at 8:30, there were my buddies climbing aboard. All of them, and boy does that fill up the cabin. Love those kids.

At the football game, Cale is so cute, and boy did he have fun, smiling alot, and did a great job of being everywhere. He almost scored this week, but the other team was very good also. Unfortunatly his team lost 3 to 1. Last week he scored 2 touchdowns. This is flag football so no one gets clobbered.

After the game, went back to the house and had lunch. Then got the boat ready to roll again @2:30. Headed to Holland to figure out where to launch. Ended up at Yacht Basin Marina, on Lake Macataw. Mandi & family showed up just as Malac, Gary, and I got finished rigging. All of us got on the boat and went for a sail before dusk hit. Nice breeze, and the skies were partly cloudy, but it was nice with a jacket. Came back and tied up at b16, which we were assigned to by the marina, and went into town for a great steak dinner at Brann's. Mandi left from there and headed home with the kids since it was past 8:30pm. Mark rode back with us, and dropped us off at the boat and is now driving back home. an hour back home.

Got our showers, and are getting settled for the nite. Hope the yacht club settles down soon, since its blasting music and the folks look like they are party hardies.

More tomorrow.
Luv BJ

we'll be sailing tomorrow

Due to predicted weather changes coming for monday, with rain and 40 mph winds, we are pushing up the launch by 24 hrs, to tomorrow (sat) after lunch. In the morning we have Cales football game to go to first.
Today Mandi and I got to garage sale, and had a great time. Found some wonderful bargins we couldn't live without, Malac got some cute shirts, and other goodies too. The girls were so good.
We played more cards this afternoon, until Gary & I decided to get the supplies we needed, and I did the laundry so we can leave tomorrow.
Watched survivor tonite on the computer. They need to get a clue about Russell!
Earlier tonite we had the Schwan delivery truck driver stop, and he ask about the boat and what we are doing. Funny.
Well had my shower, and headed to bed.
Luv, BJ

2 days to set sail.

Just a note, it would be nice if some of the followers would identify yourselves. Some are obvious and others are not. Just reply in comments please. Gary

Was having so much fun last nite due to the neighborhood picnic Mandi & Mark thru, so I am having to due the post this morning for yesterday. Sorry.

Yesterday, again the kids came to get us about 8:30 am. And the fun begins. Lots of games.

Then we got to go to Reeds Lake for our picnic with Mark. Picked up Wendy's, and they miesses up the order several ways. Mandi caught 2 mistakes, but missed the fact they goofed on Cales cheeseburger, and gave him nuggets. He was NOT a happy camper.

Afterwards we played football, and threw the new fisbieball around. It was sunny and cool, so we stayed more than an hour. Then we toured Grand Rapids checking out the Art Contest pieces. Then picked up a part for Mandi's dryer at !st Source here in town. Gary was happy to use his "Appliance Guy" number for a hugh discount. Today they will put it on so she doesn't need to run the loads 2 times to dry the cloths.

Mandi and I will take some of the kids with us and we are going garage ssling. (She is sitting with 2 other kids today.) The rest of the kids will stay with grandpa. The boys and grandpa just went on a 2 1/2 mile bike ride. Our party last nite was a hit. About !/2 the neighborhood came, and we BBQ's hotdogs. Some brought dessert. and other things. Missed Survivor, but I will watch it on line last nite.

More later.

Luv BJ

and the fun continues......

Had another great nite of sleep, no wind, about upper 60's, not much traffic noise around here. Both of us heard something bang into the boat about 3 am, and decided it must have been a deer run into the boat in the moonless, foggy nite. funny.
Anyway we again had our early morning wake up from the kids, only this time, it was both girls and Cale. Waved to Mark with the kids as he left for work, and went in to start the day of cards and games with the kids.In between cards and such, I got out the foam sun visors I brought, and all the jewels, and foam cut outs, so we could decorate each ones visors. We made alot of things with all the supplies, and we will still have more fun with that stuff tomorrow, and the next day.
We were going to do a picnic with Mark for lunch today, but it turned all drizzly, so we ate the picnic we had packed here, and he had hot dogs.
Then Gary & Mandi got busy on the dinning room floor, laying all the tile squares. Got about 70% done, before we had to leave and go to their church for dinner and all their classes tonite. On the way we stopped at Payless shoes and bought each grandkid a new pair of shoes for growing feet.
We came home, and Gary decided to hit the project again. Got it done except for the edge pieces that have to be cut. The kids will be here soon.
Talked sailing and Lake Michigan with a couple of men at church, named Todd & Nate. They have done some sailing and knew about different aspects of the lake.
Have a great day,
BJ

Another fun day

Hi all. Hope all is well with you. We are having a blast, Gary and the boys rode 9 1/2 miles on the bikes this afternoon. Gary rode in, and then the boys drug in. One could hardly drag to the couch with very sweaty hair all spiked out, and the other just sorta sat on the bike where he stopped. Pretty funny, since they kept saying during the ride, just go further Grandpa, just a little more, etc. And Gary said, but your not thinking about the whole other half of the ride back. And they said, oh... right. And the whole return trip was mostly up hill.

For lunch we took Mandi and the kids to Steak & Shake. Everyone got shakes on top of lunch so we were very full. But it was good.

I really cleaned around here today while Mandi went to bible study. bost. Mandi is in the process of replacing the dining room floor. When I say in the middle I MEAN MDDLE. I started the laundry and in between we played games. The more I did around here, the kids got with the program without too much prompting from me, and cleaned their rooms too. She was very surprised when she came home.

I started putting the screened room and shade cover on the boat, and Gary came out to help me, bless his heart. Makes our living space much bigger, and safer from the skeeters. He spent most the day making the email group list so I can do the prayer chain for RCC. Right now I am still having trouble sending them from this laptop, so bless his heart Todd is doing it from home for me.

Babysat with the kids tonite, and Mandi & Mark had a date. We got Papa Murphy pizza, and played cards with the kids. Had baths and teeth brushed and in bed before Their folks came home. Us also.

Sending some pics of the boat. And calling it a nite. Sadie woke us up this morning, wonder who will be the rooster tomorrow.

Nite all,

Luv, BJ & Gary

on the road again

We got on the r oad about 8 sunday am. Drove all day,chasing the rain clouds all the way. But never quit catching them. After dark we started seeing the lake effects of fog, and patchy misty conditions. and at midnite, we decided we had 2 hrs to go, so we stopped at Benton Harbor, in a dark parking lot. Remembering their time was now 1am, I changed my watch to the correct time, and closed my eyes. Just then the rain started. Nice to go to sleep listening to the rain.
Yesterday we drove thru Des Moines to see Gary's 90 yr old Aunt. She said she doesn't drive anymore, so after church she is always home. Wel, guess what. She wasn't home yesterday at 3pm. So we left a note, to let her know we tried, but still haven't had a call from her.
Man, some of the roads in Iowa, and Illinois, and Indianna we so terribly rough. Lots and lots of fields of corn, and soy beans. Probably will really change in 4 weeks before our return trip, after they harvest their fields.
Woke up to light rain, and car horns honking as the workers for the law firm locked their cars to go to work. It was 7 am so time to hit the road, and finish the trip. Arrived at 10 am. Mandi had said to call when we were getting close this afternoon, and they were really surpised we arrived so early. I had just dug out the phone to call her, when Gary said never mind, they see us already. When I looked up, the kids were all bouncing in the front window. Its so good to see, hold, and interact with all of them again. The kids are stuck like glue. I had to beg for them to get off of me, so I can finish this blog. They were really hindering my typing, and I don't need any help with my mis-typings. But I am loving it! :)
Mandi and I are taking Sadie (3yr) with us, and we are going to get milk at the farm. The other 3 will be staying to keep grandpa out of trouble. hahaha
Wonder how church went today? Can't take the sound tech out of the boy. Wonder how the choir did with my favorite song today? I hummed or sang my way up here, with the radio, and am kinda horse now.
More later on..... Its still sprinkling and misty.... at 70 + degrees.
Luv BJ & Gary

last day.. tons to do

Ok, time has finially dragged by, and I have one day left to complete the rest of that list (I mentioned it before). Really am right on target, and have a really full day ahead of me, and actually don't have the time to be on here, but hey! whats 5 minutes, right? I won't take time to play Majong or Farkle, and I mean it, really I do, but I can hear the games calling to me, no, I will be strong! I'll just think about the grankiddos and that will keep me on track. Went to the Heights HS football game last nite, and they won big. 55 to 21 over NW. Butt is still sore from sitting on those bleachers. How about getting well padded theater seating? I vote yes. Did they ask me? Anyway, it was great to watch the half time show since I have 2 grandsons in the marching band. It was great. A real THRILLER! (thats the name of the song they did) It was very good, especially the whole band zombie dance in the middle of it.
Well have the boat in the drive so I can load it. Lots to do in here too.
Be writing from the road next (probably).
Enjoy...... cause I am going to!
Luv BJ & Gary

Still gathering

We are getting so excited to leave on the trip, but lots still happening here at RCC (church) that GAry is needed for yet. Personally I am just packing, gathering from all over the house the stuff we need, and laundry, got my nails done for the last time before I leave, etc. Thank You for spoiling me so much Marnie, I love being able to get my nails at my home/office, so I can still answer phone calls and schedule the customers. My feet feel so good right now since my foot massage, you have miracle hands. Luv you.
Mandi called and is getting so excited for us to come. Got to talk to her 2 girls also, and they already had counted on the calander I sent, and told me it was 4 days now till I get there! Gary was here and ask about Mandi's Daddy-Do project list, so she gave it to him, and he said he could get those things done in a day. Good! he will have time to play also. Had lunch, and now to accomplish some other things on the list, and change the laundry.
Please sign in as a watcher, so we know who is laughing at our antics. We also want to encourage anyone that wants to, to post on this blog also, as we love to have those touches from home. You are our life, where ever you are. Long distance or close. We love you all.
Mandi says one of the older guys at her church has an ear ful for us about the different ports on the Lake, so we are anxious to talk to him when we get there.
Survivor starts tonite, so those of us that love this show, will have another adventure of sorts to follow :)
Luv BJ

Counting down the days

Tuesday Sept 15th. Its hard shutting down your life here for a month, but it is going to be so much fun. Dr.'s appointments for both of us this week, lots of church duties to handle little details for the conference happening this weekend. Tons of errands to gather everything we "think" we might need. Today I spent taking care of most of the gathering of "misc stuff" we will be needing. My house looks like a mess has exploded inside it, but after its all gathered, then I can "pack" it where it goes.
Funny thing happens to me, whenever I am "going away" somewhere. As I am packing, suddenly I find all these things around here to fix, sew, mend, clean, or chg litebulbs for. Guess this is a good thing, cause when I come home, the house is clean, and everything is in fine working order. hahaha
Lots of office work to stomp down also, so Todd can handle it when we are gone. He's great at repairing, but doesn't know the office end of things. So I'll just do all the bills I can, sign extra checks, and after that he just piles it for me to do when I return. Ugh!
Later in the week is where alot of my list has to happen. Like lawn work, call the paper & trash etc, so for now I am feeling pretty good today. Hope I haven't forgotten to put something on the list, cause that is what I am operating off of.
Time to go to dinner, more later.

Getting ready for our Michigan Lake adventure

Actually, we leave Sept 20, Sunday am early (we hope), and head to Mandi & Marks in Caladonia Michigan. We will live aboard in their driveway for a week, while we do projects for her, and play with the grandkidos. Then we will take the boat over to Holland Michigan and dip her in Lake Michigan. Planning to sail up the east coast of the lake, and back down for a couple weeks or so. Then back to Mandi's for another visit, before we return somewhere around Oct 20th (or so).
Gary has been modifying several things on the boat getting ready for our next adventure on Lake Michigan. Some of those ideas came from me, but he is so good to make my ideas a reality for our use. I still have a couple of projects going myself, like making tight fitted sheets to fit the V birth, so they can't get so bunched up. Also adding some velcro sewed onto the cabinet cover, since some of the snaps pulled off, and this stays better. Just have a problem with the glue not holding the velcro onto the material when we stuck the velcro on. Where there is a will there is a way. :)
Today we had 4.25" of rain, so I didn't feel like dragging all the stuff out in the rain to get anything done in the boat today. Maybe tomorrow. Did inside "stuff" aiming towards our target date to leave. I did call the kiddos and Mandi, and spent the morning listening to all they had to say about their camping trip this past weekend. Sadie the (3 yr old) is so cute trying to be patient for when we are coming. She starts the call with "Hi, Grandma, are you coming today? Tomorrow? etc" I mailed them a calander page, with the dates of september on it, and told them how to mark off the days as they pass, so they can "see" how many days are left. Cosette says its 12. So I'm going with that. :)
Will try to keep these entries of our trip preps current.
Luv, Gary & BJ

Lesson learned

Lessons learned. 1. Check out anchoring area. Was anchored in 8 foot of water but wondered over into 3 feet and was aground hard by morning.
2. Have both center board and rudders up when anchoring so that when or if you go a ground the boat will set is bottom on the sand and not break a board.
3. Listen to the advice of locals.
4. Have plenty of supplies because there are not many places to get supplies.
5. Take plenty of gas. It would have been more comfortable to have 24 gal instead of just 18.
6.The only trouble we had on the trip was going aground, so a shovel would have helped instead of bare hands, large spoon and cereal bowl to dig with.
7.I do have a 18 hp Nissan motor that performed perfectly, maybe a 25 would have been better. 8.Spring may not be the best time for this trip because of the spring rains and snow melt up north.
9. It would have been fun to have others go on the same trip with us.
10. I would do it again.
450 miles in a sail boat is a long ways.

True our goal was 1500 miles, but we had a blast and that is what matters. We are high on life right now, and looking foward to our next adventure.

Some last shots

Here are some shot of the last days on the river.

The goose followed us for about a mile on the river and kept flying at the boat.

Here is Washburns retirement place with the over look from the sign toward the lake.

The dock where the boat is here is much different than when we went down the river. On the way down the river the boat was level with the dock and the short docks were not even visible, big drop of about 5 feet. We are in Branson for the night.

The last lock we entered was like the twilight Zone. When the gates closed we waited and waited to be raised 42 feet. Some bath tub.

off the river

In Jasper Ak. having lunch. Headed to Branson to see the Noah show. Have a surprise for Warshurn's. Try to post pic later. Thanks to Don and Marilyn for all the help while we were here. This was a real great adventure.

gary and bj

Past Toad Suck Ferry

Had a good day today. Motor-sailed most of the day. Current of the river is about 5.5 mph due to the rain yesterday. Can make from 3.5 mph with motor to about 5.5 mph with the motor and sail and the same rpm of the motor. Hope for good winds tomorrow because there is no gas from here on. gps cor. n 35 06.444 w 92 32.816. Destination is the starting point in the next two days. Made 35 miles today. 60 left.
In God we trust.
Gary and BJ

Rain day

It has been raining all day long with no let up. Stayed put for the day and hope to travel tomorrow. Thanks Rick and Vic for the up date on the Nortons.
Just trying to stay warm and dry. Have not left the cabin all day. Just having fun with my Honey. Happy Easter to all.
Happy BD to Cale again.
In God we trust.
Gary and BJ

north of little rock

We are now north of Little rock. We are trying to get up stream as much as possible to avoid more storms that may be here tomorrow.

Tomorrow is Easter. We will worship Him tomorrow for He has risen and has grace for all.

Happy birthday to Cale. He is nine tomorrow.

This is one of the barges that has delayed our progress from day to day. Waited 1.5 hours today for this barge to clear the lock. Then after he cleared the lock he went a ground just past the dam and lock. This is the one that said "I'm the tug".

Gary

Survived the tornadoes

4/11/09

That storm front, that marched across Arkansas, thursday nite, was pretty awesome. We got anchored as best we could, off to the side of the river, and double & triple tied lines on sails and anything we could find to tie everything down. Then we removed all glass and breakable stuff from up top, like the solar charger, and lantern, and instruments. I mentioned at the last minute that I was worried about the 2 front windows over our bed, and whether they could stand up with the hail, and Gary said oh yeah, well lets tie the seat cushion preservers on them, and I grabbed the duct tape. Naturally, we did both, and it did work, cause the windows were saved during the hail we did get. Also got heavy rain with the hail for about 10 minutes, and lots of heavy wind, but no tornadoes. Boy was it noisy in there! God spared us!

Yesterday was still so windy, we decided to take a day off, and save the battering, and extra gas consumption of going upstream to water and wind both. Watched DVD's all day. Sorry we were in a bad cell phone area, so no calls, and no blog.

This morning we got up to sunshine and light winds, so we headed out to Little Rock, about 15 miles. As I was getting the inside ready to travel, and Gary was doing the outside, I ask once why he was moving all that stuff on the back, with no answer at the time. latter he told me he had a snake back there by the motor on the boat, and after that one left, he checked to make sure he didn't have any friends with him. Euuuwwww

Another funny thing happened at the first lock today. We were waiting for this monster tug & barge rig to get thru the lock coming our way, so then we could go thru. And when this happens we have to doodle around on the land side water, inside arm of the lock, instead of out in the spillway and damn water. So we doodled for 1 1/2 hr, and then a voice on the radio called "that little sailboat" and told us to just scoot on in the lock cause the tug was coming out. And Gary replied "ok, as soon as the tug gets out of there"(thinking it was the lock master). And then the voice boomed "I AM THE TUG! We laughed so hard, our sides hurt. First it reminded me what it must feel like if God to spoke to us, and next I thought about that joke with the captain telling the light up ahead to bear off his course. And the light saying no you bear off, and then the ship captain saying "I am so & so, and I comand you to choose another course." And the light coming back with, "THIS IS THE LIGHTHOUSE, AND ADVISE YOU TO CHANGE YOUR COURSE!"

Ok, enough for me, this was my first time to enter. Gary finially trusted me.. hahaha

He will add the picutre of the windows with the cushions taped on.

love to all, and its ok to comment on these blogs. Love to hear from home Vickii.

Back at Captains Mikes marina

What a character he is. Some great stories. Stayed at n34 12.743 w 91 48.597 for you gps buffs.
Now at at miles 71. Weather has been very windy and come cold so stayed put for a day instead of only making 2 mph up stream. No phones or tv so watched some dvd's. Weather today is very nice, sailed a lot today up steam. The last two days have been great weather. Yesterday we had a head wind all day so motored a lot. River curent is not as great today. Still have about 200 miles to travel upstream. The destination has change for the great adventure but the adventure is going on and changes from day to day.
Tomorrow is going to be rainy and storms. Maximun per day is 30 to 40 miles, weather permitting and of we don,t sleep in too long. Out challenge daily is to find gas. If you run out it would be curtains
Thanks for keeping track of on the trip.
In God we Trust
Gary and BJ

Hit the Mississippi today

We hit the Miss. today. Very rough water. We even shot over a dam today because the water is so high just before getting on the Mississippi. All advice is not to go down because the water keeps rising and we don't know if we can motor back up. But we did go out on the Miss. and went up stream from the White river. Every thing is fine here. Saw a live armadilla tonight in the park, and a live snake on the ledge where we are tied up. Will start back up stream tomorrow, but it will be slow going because of the high water.

long time no hear from

Hello all.wed and thrus. went trough Little Rock, had train tressles and bridges that had to be raised. Several locks. Coast guard came after us thinking we were in destress. We said no just too low a bridge. met some very nice people with good advice and good stories, Particular Captain Mike.

Answer to Jim W. Had to use hands, large spoon, and ceral bowl, and then in the last hour a fisherman came with a shovel and let us use it.

If we dont blog daily it is because we cant get towers. We are fine, having a blast on our own Survivor Trip. Thursday was thunder storms and rain. Doing some sailing with motoring most days. Tonight we are 14 miles from the Mississippi.

Due to flooding on the Miss. we have to decide whether to keep going or not. Our plan is to go on atleast to Vicksburg and then we may have to return.

Great day today

Had a good day today. Stormed and rained last night. Got ready to leave this morning and waited 3 hours at Toad Suck Ferry for the lock through for just a 3 ft. drop.I could have shot the dam for that much.

At Murry Lock and dam the wait was 45 min. That was a 11 ft drop. Staying at a park on the West side of little rock tonight.

This is what we woke up to the morning befor last. From 8 to 1 we tryed to get off the sand. River droped more than our achor depth. I must have doug out a ton of sand by hand. Finally got the idea of diging a hole dip enough for the motor to be in the water and used it as a dredge to remove the sand that I could not get to by hand.

crazy day

Got up and we were fully beached. River went down 3 -4 feet and we were high and dry. Dug out in 4 hours. It was a trick. motor problems later, got fixed. Lost 50 dollar hat over board but retrived. At anchor now waiting for rain may be. We are at Toad Such Lock will go through in the morning. Tired tonight after all the work. 14 miles today. Head wind, not able to sail.
Tomorrow has got to be a better day.

two locks

Left Dardanell in high winds this morning that lassted for about 5 miles. went through the lock and the weather has been super, like we are now in the Twilight zone. perfect day, did two locks today and will do Toad Suck Ferry lock in the morning. At anchor tonight at mile mark 169, still above Little Rock. One lock droped us 30 feet and the other 9 feet. Watch the bass tournment, we might be caught on the espn helicopter camera today.

The real thing

We are in the water. 40 degrees, high wind, some rain. Don was just the greatest help here today in riging the boat and launching.

The weather will break tomorrow and we will leave in the am.

We think Guess who is Clyde.

Inside the boat is warm. The 1000 people got rained out and went home, what wusses?

Hail, Hail, the gangs all here.

There is a saying I heard somewhere--Through rain, snow, sleet, and hell, I mean hail---things must get through. We made it to Russelville through all of these happenings. We are safe. When we left Wichita it was 28, and here it is 68 with a tornado maybe on the way, what else could happen. But we are having fun now. We will battle 200 bass fisherman in the morning for launch priviledges and another 1000 spectators here for displays of fishing equipment and fish. This there biggest tournament of the fishing year. Good supper at the lighthouse rest.
In God we trust,
Gary and BJ

who are you all

It is great to have followers, but some of you I don't know. It would be nice to know who is following. Who is lakwomn. and the other "jaktjughuqqjew9u". I have no idea. We are still on schedule despite the weather.

Interior, 1st mate waiting on the Captain

Wouldn't you know we are about ready to go sailing and they are predicting snow. I think the weather man must be taking some good drugs.

This is our route for 2009

river trip soon

The boat is almost ready, the days are drawing near. Goal to leave by the 27 of March