Finding my inner drive

Standing in his boat, sending a text message.  Now that takes real balance...and a level of bravery that most cannot grasp. 

The early bird gets the worm. At 0430 this morning, fish were striking everywhere - minnows jumping as high as 2 feet out of the water to avoid being eaten. If I were fishing, looks to me that early morning would be the best time.

As I paddled through the backwaters from Prairie du Chien, WI, I found the main channel by following "Where the Wild Rice Flows". Entered the river at mile marker 632 at 0845.

If I am to make it to St Louis by 4th July some daily routine changes will be necessary. I Have been blessed with the ability to find my inner next level.  I may want to start paddling even earlier in the morning. Will need to make 30 miles per day through a couple dammed  large pools each day. (I have always call dammed waters lakes). There are 17 dams remaining between here and Altona, Really looking forward to Paddling where the Mighty Mississippi flows freely to the Gulf of Mexico.

I am now paddling more alone than with the crew. To reach the Gulf of Mexico, I must set my own pace and not hold back.  I must continue on, even if it means others are left behind. I do believe it is possible for all of us to finish at the Gulf of Mexico the same day, for the fast waters of the lower Mississippi will make it much easier to stay on schedule.

Breaking camp after a coffee break