We Left Grafton early along with our 'barge mate" from Beardstown, Southern Belle. The weather was cloudy and humid. When we arrived we stopped for fuel and a pump out but were told they were out of fuel until 2pm, unless we wanted the last 200 gallons in the tank. We took a pass and just did the pump out. Our lap top has been running hot so we rented a car and took it over to a mall in St. Louis to the Apple store. While they were looking at the computer we went out and did some re-provisioning. They said the computer was operating correctly but needed a new battery. We felt like we had stepped out of role as a boater and back into the real world. Not used to all that traffic.
We ran a few more errands on the way back to the marina. As long as we had a car we asked Kerm and Chris if they wanted to go with us to local legend in Alton, called Fast Eddies. In addition to drinks they have peel and eat shrimp for .29 each as well as 1/2 lb hamburgers for .99, we had a great evening.
Took Chris to the grocery store Tuesday morning and picked up some parts for the boat before returning the car. After lunch John installed a coolant recovery system for the generator and a hose bib connected to the water system, while Mary caught up on the laundry. Then we gave the boat a good cleaning. After all the chores were done we relaxed in the hot tub before dinner. We were in bed fairly early as we planned to leave at first light again in the morning, provided their was no fog.
We have spent the past month settling into our new home, refining what to store where and then remembering where we put it. Ross, from Oddysea who we met in Frankfort suggested some wireless headsets which we ordered and picked up when we were in Chicago. They have worked out great and have eliminated a lot of the stress in pulling into locks and docking. We have meet many other Loopers along the way, may travel with them for a few days and then meet up again hundreds of mile further south. Every one is very friendly and helpful. That truly has been the best part so far.
Some trip statistics as to date: Since leaving Mackinaw we have traveled on the waters of one great lake, one large bay, 3 river systems, gone 812 statute miles, used 389 gallons of diesel, we have had 3 pump outs and filled our water tanks 3 times. We have traveled through 8 locks and passed numerous tows and tugs. Spent 3 nights at free docks and the remainder at marinas.
Here are a few pics:
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| Leaving Grafton |
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| Grafton Light |
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| Spirit of Peoria a long way from home. |
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| Finally something other than flat ground! |
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| Tow under the Alton Bridge |
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| Sunset at Alton. |
John and Mary
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