May the River be With You

It was a relatively peaceful night to be camping in the woods. Made the best of last night's fast exit and found protection from an incoming storm.  To the folks we met on the river, and those whose property we stayed on last night, “We thank you for your support!”

With temperatures soaring, we left early and paddled fast as we could muster.  We hoped to reach Greenville in time to go to Church with John and Sam Keen. The extreme heat slowed our progress substantially.  We even made our own passage through to the flooded point leading to Lake Ferguson. Thankfully, we reached the US Coast Guard Station at noon, just before the heat became unbearable.  John Keen was able to meet me at the station ramp. While there, we met the fine folks on duty and enjoyed every minute of their company.

Made a rare discovery today. Found an Army Corps of Engineering survey stake. Hope the property owners find the bandana I left to identify its location.

Having shade in my boat took high priority throughout the planning stages. I researched high and low for the most effective lightweight and strong cockpit shade options out there. Settled on the umbrella I am currently using. It was wind tunnel tested and has a  high UV protection, both features that made it the best option for my boat. Truthfully, it works great, but bogs me down little in winds blowing upstream over 5 MPH.  It’s a  lifesaver in hot conditions with no wind.

I want to thank the Jazz Persuasion Band who played at Lillo’s Restaurant in Greenville last night.  Their generous donation to help fight Juvenile Diabetes was an awesome surprise! With support like this, we most certainly will reach our fundraising goal. Let's all speak for these children who so often have no voice being heard by society.

Will be paddling out from Greenville at 0500 tomorrow morning. Want to thank all the fine folks in Greenville for their support and hospitality. As John Ruskey would say "May the River be with You", especially the Keens, and God bless you and your family.