Pickensville, MS to Demopolis, AL: Christmas On The River

Wednesday, December 4
After a wonderful Thanksgiving with family and friends, we returned via Atalanta, GA to Dream Chaser at Pirate's Cove about 1 pm.  After unloading luggage, we took our last trip in the marina courtesy van to the Down Yonder Restaurant for late lunch and then to the nearby Tom Bevill Visitor Center.

The welcome center was named after Tom Bevill, one of Alabama’s senators that pushed the development of the waterway.  Located just above the Bevill Lock and dam, this 3.2 million dollar antebellum designed mansion stands prominently above the tree line.  Designed from the 1830-1860 Greek Revival residences, this stunning huge white structure has a grand curved staircase; detailed woodwork; black marble and white Alabama marble; crystal chandeliers; reproduced paintings; and furniture from the period.  Christmas decorations were being hung inside as we entered which added to the majesty of the interior.  After visiting the exhibits upstairs, we headed outside towards the river.  Mary is drawn to this period and these plantation homes, and she fell in love with this building’s awesome beauty.  Oh, to have lived during this period of history (minus the wars, slavery, and epidemics)!  Adorned with decorations for the holidays, we could imagine hosting wonderful parties and celebrations for family and friends!
As we walked from the mansion, a gentlemen from the second floor balcony waved and called, "Ya all come back, now!".

At the waterfront is the U.S. Snagboat Montgomery, a fully restored 178 ft. steam-powered stern wheel-propelled snagboat, built in 1925.  This stern wheeler, operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers, cleared snags and obstructions from the rivers until 1982.  She is a National Historic Landmark and operates as a museum ship.

Thursday, December 5
After a great night’s sleep, we rolled out of bed about 6:30 am. and were thrilled to find temps in the high 60’s rather than the 20’s back home.  Donning shorts, T-shirts, and tennies, we headed out for a quick two mile walk.  Nothing was stirring in Pirate's Cove Marina and RV park (even the watch dog was absent or asleep). The woods however were noisy with birds and a startled deer.
About 8 am, we called the Bevill Lock and were informed that a tow with barges was headed north and was nearing the lock.  With an hour to kill, we prepped the boat, made some phone calls, wrapped things up at the marina office, and grilled some chicken for lunch.

At 9 am, we dropped lines and motored down river passed the Tom Bevill Visitor Center.
We entered the Bevill Lock and Dam, secured the boat lines, and sat back to enjoy the beautiful sunny day.  We happily locked through with Seaduction, a classy 52 ft. Carver,  and Summer Cabin, a roomy 52 ft. Navigator, both from the Lake Michigan area on their way to Florida.  Both boats had higher speed capacities and were eager to be in Florida, so with a wave, they passed on ahead.

Starboard at MM300.6, was the site of Memphis, a huge community establish in1841 (once had eight general stores, a post office, school, fine hotel, and two saloons).  However, the bypassing of the railroad and dwindling river traffic led to its demise, and 135 years later there is no sign of the town.

Steve has a new “toy” for the boat- a remote control handset for the auto pilot.  Rather than having to reach out and set courses on the navigational screen by hand, he can now sit in his captain’s chair and use a remote-never touching the screen!

At this point, we entered the section of waterway that is part of the natural river containing shorelines and high bluffs.  With the beauty of the area, the 75’ temp, and the humming of the motors, Steve captained the boat while Mary curled up and took a nice long nap!

About 1:30 pm, Steve called the lock master at Heflin Lock and Dam (MM266) for information on locking. We were hoping that we wouldn’t hear the dreaded words (that a prior looper was told) “Hang around behind the bridge, and count the pigeons!” In other words, there are barges ahead of you-Don’t Bother Me!  Luckily, we were given the green light, and the lock gates were open and waiting.  How lucky can ya get?! 

About 3 pm around MM265, Dream Chaser pulled off the channel, motored up the river that looped out just below the Heflin Dam, and dropped the anchor.  Wonderful spot to spend the night!
It was a quiet evening dining on grilled chicken salad, planning for tomorrow’s adventure, and watching the TV program, “Sound of Music”, with Carrie Underwood.  Great music!

Friday, December 6
Fog encompassed the river when we awoke at 6:45 am to a 52 degree morning.  After eggs and toast, we pulled the anchor off the rocky bottom (with no hangups-hallelujah!), and wove our way back to the main channel to begin out 50 mile trek to Demopolis, AL.  Motoring south, we watched TV reports of Nelson Mandela’s passing.  It was no surprise, as he had been declining in health when we visited South Africa last July.  “The Long Walk to Freedom”,  Mr. Mandela’s autobiography, is well written and gives insight into his life and the country’s struggles.  We’ll see if the movie is as powerful.

       “I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. 
        The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear."
                                                     Nelson Mandela

The fog lifted slightly, but the rain fell on and off throughout the morning.  Limited picture taking today due to fog and rain.

At MM 248.8, we saw the spectacular white cliffs of Epes, AL.  These stunning cliffs are part of the Selma Chalk formations which were deposited about the same time as England’s white cliffs of Dover. Really quite impressive!

At 1 pm we motored into Demopolis/Kingfisher Bay Marina (MM216) and secured Dream Chaser in her slip.  The marina is in a growth stage:  relocating the marina to a better location, excavating for a new harbor, building condos, and creating an RV park.  We were docked in the new part of the marina and we were very impressed with the layout and facilities.  When completed, this marina may develop into one of the best destinations on the waterway. 

History…
Demopolis was founded in 1817 by a small group of French pioneers determined to cultivate grape vines and olive trees.  Many of these settlers were from wealthy military families who were used to the luxurious courts of Paris.  Stories were told about the women doing their chores in brocaded gowns and satin slippers and the men in hats and capes. When the plan didn’t pan out, the French settlement had to be moved and some returned to Paris.  American settlers purchased the land and laid out the town on a grid pattern planned after Philadelphia. Following the demise of cotton production, raising beef cattle and catfish have became popular. We find that Demopolis has many well-preserved plantation mansions, historic sites, and beautiful parks.  The town is located atop White Bluff and lies within Webb’s Bend at the confluence of the Tombigbee and Black Warrior Rivers (MM217).

Soon after we docked, we discovered that Demopolis has one big celebration a year called “Christmas on the River” during THIS first weekend of December.  Hurrah! This is the 42nd year of “Christmas on the River” with activities all weekend:  tree lighting, concerts, plays, Christmas parade, Fair in the Square, mansion tours, 5K Jingle Bell Run/Walk, BBQ cook-off, evening gala, river dance, and nautical parade & fireworks display.  We are off to discover…

At 5pm, we jumped in the courtesy car and headed to a Christmas tour of Gaineswood, a Greek Revival mansion, built by Nathan Whitfield.  Amazingly, the building began as a two room dog-run cabin, was added on multiple times, and was completed in 1861.  The 480 acre estate was named after George Gaines, Whitfield’s friend, who was instrumental in encouraging the French exiles to establish their Vine and Olive Colony which later became Demopolis.  We enjoyed the beautifully decorated home and the narration by ladies dressed in period costumes.

After the tour, we grabbed provisions and headed to the Alabama State BBQ Championship Bar-B-Que Cook-Off.   OH, WHAT AN EXPERIENCE! 

The venue was outside and with wrist bracelets for $5 each, we walked from one party tent to the next eating BBQ everything (including pork butt), potato salad, baked beans, collard greens, chili, chips, and drinking sweet tea!
The history of Southern BBQ is worth mentioning...way back when... 
Pigs were a popular low maintenance meat source and every part of the animal would be used.  People would set the pigs loose and catch them when needed.  When the animals were slaughtered, it became a time of celebration with neighbors and friends gathering together.  The traditional Southern BBQ grew out of these gatherings.
We had a fabulous time at the BBQ Championships and along the way, we met some very interesting people- friendly down home guys!

       
        The gentleman above is the head BBQ chef from the event tent sponsored by Air Gas. 
        We indulged in great BBQ, potato salad, baked beans, sweet tea, and great conversation
        while it poured outside the tent.  Loved his Apron!

 Kickin' Butt Bar-B-Que from Linden, AL has won the cook-off the last two years. The head chef, treated us to BBQ ribs & chicken, collard greens, baked beans, and chili.  Can't even begin to describe how the taste buds were tantalized by this BBQ!   Delicious!
When we were too full to eat more, our new friend gave us containers of collard greens, chili, and a rack of ribs to take with us!  Steve was in "pig heaven"!
Kickin' Butt Bar-B-Que is definitely a winner in our book!

                                                    
















Love those yummy collard greens!

In spite of the occasional downpour and mucky ground that kept trying to suck our shoes off, the cook-off was so much fun!!!
Outside, it is 39’, but Dream Chaser is toasty warm and our tummies are full!

Saturday, December 7
It's a nippy morning, very overcast with 30's outside, and no rain in the forecast!
In downtown Demopolis, the "Christmas on the River" activities are continuing.  We missed the 5K Jingle Bell Run, but we watched the Christmas parade (along with thousands of adults and kids) as it snaked through downtown .  John Deere was one of the sponsors, so...

With a steaming cup of hot chocolate warming our hands, we walked through the decorated town square full of  art and craft tents.  Hundreds of items were for sale, but we enjoyed people watching more.  We followed our noses to the "food block" where vendors were selling anything and everything that was sweet or deep fried.  We just couldn't pass up alligator on a stick!

At 6 pm, we hopped in the marina golf cart and found a great spot to watch the "Christmas on the River" nautical parade.  While we cuddled to keep warm, fireworks exploded over the water and boats pulled dazzling lit Christmas displays up and down the river. 

Amory Lock and Dam to Pickensville, MS

We are just finishing the second section of the Tenn-Tom called the “Canal Section” which is 52 miles long from Mile 418.9 to Mile 366.3 and beginning the final section called the "River".

Saturday, November 23,
At  5:30 am, with nine hours of sleep, and before the sun is up, we are ready for the day's adventure.
Our 6:30 am call to the lock master at Amory Lock and Dam (M371.1) informed us that we had 15 minutes to set the cabin, pull anchor, and be at the entrance to the lock.  It was another “get moving fast morning”.  Dream Chaser headed out of the anchorage without problem, but Trust Me was hung up on a stump in the side channel and needed time to work it’s way loose.  The channel into the anchorage was about seven ft deep, but in places in came up to five ft.  Out boat has a draft of four ft with the depth indicator 2 feet below the boat.  When you see those shallow depths, all the senses go on alert!  So exciting!  Trust Me finally removed itself from the stump and joined us in the Amory Lock. We tied up and locked through together!

The final section of the Tenn-Tom waterway is called the “River” and follows the old Tombigbee River.  It is a 149 mile section from Amory Lock (M366.3) to the Black Warrior River (M217) with five locks.  While we motored this section, we noticed that the waterway appeared more swampy and wild.  We began to see markers (white Hilex bottles) floating in the main channel of the river which indicated fish traps.

About 11 am, we split from Trust Me, a mile before the Aberdeen Lock and Dam at M357.5 and motored 1/2 mile through an eerie channel towards Aberdeen Marina.  Skeletons of trees spread out on both sides of our path as we wound our way to the marina to fill Dream Chaser’s diesel tanks.

Aberdeen Marina had a great price on diesel ($3.51 per gallon) and a little store with all the normal convenience store supplies including giant dill pickles and boiled peanuts!  We filled Dream Chaser with diesel (GULP, GULP, GULP…), but passed on the pickles and peanuts.

A close call…
After calling the Aberdeen lock master from the marina, we were informed that it would be a two hour wait at the lock.  DARN!  We could see from our AIS that a tow with 12 barges was coming up the waterway to the lock, and the lock master was waiting for it.  However, the tow was about three miles away and moving at 2 1/2 mph, so we would easily have time to lock through if we left right away.  Trust Me had made it through the lock, earlier, and was down stream aware that the tow was slowing down to a crawl.  Mike on Trust Me had been monitoring our marine radio conversation with the lock master and was aware of our dilemma, so Mike called the Aberdeen lock master, and informed him of the tow’s slow pace.  This prompted the lock master to call the tow, and the tow captain confirmed that he was delayed.  We were given the OK to lock through and raced to the lock.  YEAH!
No two to three hour wait!  
We celebrated with peppermint mocha coffee and pumpkin bread!


History…
The town of Aberdeen flourished before 1850 when cotton was king and slavery aided the economy. It became an important river town when steamboats coming up from Mobile provided lavish services for passengers and brought exotic goods to the interior.  When the railroads came in 1850’s, maintenance of the river was lacking and the town declined.  Today, Aberdeen is noted for its picturesque tree-lined streets, quaint shops, antebellum homes, and genuine Southern hospitality.   

At 1 pm, we entered John C. Stennis Lock at M334.7.  The lock gates were open and the lock master was waiting on us.  Come to find out,  Trust Me was already inside the lock and had waited for us to arrive!
      
From M 313.5  for almost three miles, we motor in a zigzag pattern following the waterway from Alabama to Mississippi, and were drawn back to Alabama at M310.8.
           
About 4:30 pm, Dream Chaser pulled into Pirate’s Cove Marina in Pickensville, AL.  No "Ahoy!" rang out, but a swaggering buccaneer appeared to help with dock lines. "Aye", we appeared to be the only transients boaters at the marina, but no Jolly Rogers were flying on the other boats, so we were relieved!  A fellow boater had said that the area reminded him of the movie Deliverance.  Lesson #1, never  say anything on the marine radio that you don't want the world to know, because some of the marinas monitor the channels!  After securing the boat, hooking up the electrical, and visiting the marina office, we borrowed the courtesy van and headed to town slowly due to problems with the suspension.  Pickensville is a small laid back, backwater kind of quaint.  It was established in 1820 and named for the Civil War General Andrew Pickens.  Although considered a confederate town, the locals cared for both union and confederate wounded soldiers.  It was a booming riverport town until the railroads became established.

The restaurant that was suggested (perhaps the only restaurant) was a BBQ restaurant, Down Yonder, which was “dawn yanda a piece”.  Pictured to the left, the establishment was rather unique with friendly servers, tasty food, and hundreds of dollar bills pinned to the walls and ceilings.  We chatted with the locals and dined on catfish, ribs, turnip greens, baked beans, and hush puppies.  YUM!

As we dropped off the vans keys and walked to the boat, BLIMEY!, the marina's dog barked like he wanted us for supper.  Thankfully he was behind a strong chain link enclosure! Upon closer examination, we found that it was just a noisy beagle.  We didn't need to batten down the hatches, because no storm was expected, but the evening temps in Pickensville were in the mid 20’s.  BRRRRRRR! No Problem!  With the heat on in Dream Chaser,  we were toasty warm and cozy.


Sunday, November 24
Pirate’s Cove was so quiet and peaceful that we slept until 7:30 am.  With the sun streaming through the windows and clear blue skies overhead, we ate breakfast and planned our day.
About 10:30 am using the marina courtesy van, we headed to First Baptist Church in Pickensville.  We were warmly welcomed by the pastor, his wife, their daughter, and dozens of the parishioners.  Great music, great message, great people!  A reminder to be thankful for all God has given us!

“Shout to the Lord, all the earth, let us sing
Power and majesty, Praise to the King,
Mountains bow down and the seas will roar,
At the sound of your name.”

After catching a ride to the Columbus regional airport, we rented a car and took off to explore the area.  Our afternoon started with a fabulous lunch (catfish) at Veranda in Starkville which is a university town.  We spent the rest of the day exploring Columbus, West Point, and Aliceville. 

History and a bit about the area…
The town of Columbus, MS, previously called Possum Town,  has a rich heritage and lots of Southern charm. Even before Columbus native Tennessee Williams wrote “A Streetcar Named Desire”, the town was recognized for its kindness to strangers.  During the Civil War, The residents of Columbus cared for over 3,000 wounded soldiers and took them into their homes.  Shortly after the war, a group of Columbus women honored the war dead from both armies with bouquets of fresh flowers. It is said that this gesture gave fuel to the national holiday, Decoration Day or Memorial Day.  Columbus, MS is remembered as the city “where flowers healed a nation”.
The home of Tennessee Williams is now used as the Welcome Center for the town of Columbus which is pictured below.



















Waverly Mansion, pictured below, is one of the most photographed antebellum homes in the South and is located near Columbus  Built in the 1840's, the building is a Greek Revival home and is a National Historical Landmark.  It is unusual due to the self-supporting curved stairway and octagonal cupola.  During plantation days, it was a massive self sustaining farm which produced massive amounts of cotton.  Confederate commander Nathan Bedford Forrest visited often and used the cupola as a look-out post. This plantation was the site of the first national bird dog field trial.  It is said to be haunted by a number of ghosts that roam in the house.  Currently, it is the home of the Snow family, but open to the public for tours. When we visited this mansion- perhaps it was my imagination, but for a minute I thought I heard music and saw men in frock coats and women in beautiful satin and lace dresses with hoop skirts sitting on the porch sipping mint juleps.  Did you see them?

On our way back to the marina, we swung bay Aliceville, a small neighboring town.  For two years during WWII,  this area had a prisoner of war camp set up to hold 6,000 German prisoners who were brought in by railroad.  As we drove through town, we noticed an interesting storm shelter near a school.  It is picture below.

About 8:30 pm, Greg, our Minnesota friend who refers to himself as “2nd bilge rat 4th class Fall”, stopped for an overnight on his way to visit family in New Orleans.  Greg was our second captain during our crossing of Lake Superior and Lake Michigan.  After catching up on all the lastest news, we called it a night.

Monday, November 25
We woke at 6:45 am to overcast skies.  After securing the boat, we headed towards the Columbus Regional Airport.  With flight schedule changes, we had four hours before our flight was to depart, so decided to drive to West Point.  West Point was the site of an important Civil War battle and a major military post.  First stop was Mossy Oaks, a hunting shop, in West Point.  It's obviously a popular business, because wherever we went people were wearing camouflage clothing.  Old downtown had cute shops along the main street, and we chose the Ritz Cafe, a Southern soul restaurant, for lunch.  Stepping into the Ritz will take you back in time to the days of classic movies. Memorabilia covered the walls and sound tracks played while we dined.  The blue plate special was chicken or pork with creamed spinach, black eyed peas, sweet tator fries, sauteed veggies, and fried okra with corn bread.
Good ole Southern food!
Point of interest-Very few women's restrooms have men lining the walls!  These three guys drew my attention!

Ahhh, those famous blue eyes!
Screen legend, superstar, heart throb,
and founder of a charitable food product
company.  Did you know that he was
a bit embarrassed when in the late 1990's
his salad dressing grossed more than his
movies!?

Who could resist Elvis?
The American singer, musician, and actor was the
King of Rock and Roll!
Actually, his family was poor, and he was born in a two-room shotgun house in Tupelo, MS not far from West Point, MS.  He had a twin brother who died at birth, and Elvis remained an only child.

Roy Rogers, King of the Cowboys, starred in musical westerns when I was a kid, WOW!  The popular actor and singer was loved for his good-guy image.  Do you remember his horse, Trigger, and his dog, Bullet?  Those were the days!








Steve said that "ladies" were in the men's restroom, but I can't put those pictures in this blog!

As we drove through these neighboring towns, we noticed that we saw churches everywhere.  One corner in West Point had churches on three of the four corners.  Actually, we didn't notice any bars!

Howlin' Wolf, Chester Arthur Burnett, was born near West Point.  He was a well know 1950's Chicago Blues performer  (singer, guitarist, and Harmonica player). 

We visited the Duke Pecan Co., a pecan shelling factory where most of the pecans come from eastern Georgia.  However, we were informed that they do custom cracking of local's nuts also!!!  :)

Off to the airport for the 2:30 pm flight through Atlanta.  We were eager to spend time with family and friends and be home for Thanksgiving. 

Starting down the Tenn-Tom Waterway

Instead of following the Mississippi River down to New Orleans and then crossing the gulf to Florida, we will be following the Tenn-Tom (Tennessee Tombigbee) Waterway to Mobile, AL and then cross the gulf.  This route is most often chosen by AGLCA loopers due to the swift currents and lack of facilities on the Mississippi River. The map below shows the routes and various side trips, but the Tenn-Tom Waterway which this blog refers to is highlighted in purple.

The Tenn-Tom Waterway is a 234 mile stretch of water, which connects the Tennessee River at Pickwick Lake with the Tombigbee River at Demopolis, AL.  From there, we follow the Black Warrior-Tombigbee Waterway, a 217 mile stretch, to Mobile, AL. We will experience a series of locks and dams, lakes, rivers, and man-made channels.  The total drop for this last segment of the trip to the gulf is 341 ft. with 10 locks and a distance of 453 miles.

Congress authorized the waterway in 1946 with both Presidents Johnson and Nixon supporting the funding.  Construction began in 1972, and it became the biggest civil works project ever undertaken by the US Corps of Engineers.  In 1977, President Carter attempted to stop construction which resulted in effective public outcry. Completed in 1985 at the cost of over $2 billion, more earth (150 million cubic yards of rock) was moved than was moved in the construction of the Panama Canal.  The benefits of this project were jobs, electricity, and a water route south from the Ohio, Cumberland, and Tennessee Rivers to the Gulf of Mexico.

Thursday, November 21
Wednesday night we docked Dream Chaser at Grand Harbor Marina.

Mary was up at 5:00 am, before sunrise, prepping the vegetable soup, baking apple crisp, finishing laundry, and organizing the galley.  Although we have a generator on Dream Chaser, we make every effort to use shore power whenever possible.  Steve took a quick trip into Savannah to Lowes for project supplies.  He plans to turn the lower helm chair into a slider in order to sit closer to the navigational equipment.  With so much cold weather, we find ourselves navigating from the lower helm more often.  After another phone call to KVH regarding an ongoing TV reception problem (since August) and some messing with the receiver, we secured the cabin and untied the lines.

At 10:30 am, we said good-bye to Grand Harbor, pulled out of the marina, and pointed Dream Chaser down river on the Tenn-Tom Waterway.  We have started a new leg of the journey and within a few miles, we entered into the state of Mississippi.  Along the first six miles of the waterway, we enjoyed the beauty of the area with tree lined shores, areas of pretty homes, inviting camp sites, and numerous birds.  Pictured below is the barge we had just passed on a wide point in the waterway.  You want to stay out of their way!

With partly cloudy skies, temps in the high 50’s, and a brisk wind, we viewed the world around us from the upper helm.  Fresh apple crisp and hot steaming coffee hit the spot.

There are three sections of the waterway.
The first section of the Tenn-Tom is called the “Divide Cut” from Pickwick Lake to Yellow Creek (M443.7) The waterway was cut through land here to a depth of up to 175 ft. for nearly 25 miles, and it opens into the headwaters of Bay Springs Lake. The beginning of the waterway is pictured below:  a fairly straight channel, lined along the sides with rip-rap rock, and a variety of trees scattered along the banks.



The picture below shows one of many man-made, cement stream entrances to the channel designed to reduce soil erosion.

We are thrilled with our new electronics!  When we are underway, we use our on-board Garmin Navigational System, Active Captain and numerous apps on the I-Pad, and keep our marine radios on.

The picture above shows the lower helm navigational screen in split screen.  On the left is a close up of the navigational channel for a quarter of a mile.  You can see the boat shape following the navigational line and the shore lines.  On the right, is a picture of the next five miles which shows any oncoming vessels, bridges, or potential problems.  On the far right edge of the screen, there is a list which shows our MPH, water depth, GPS heading, estimated distance to auto pilot destination, and arrival time to auto pilot destination.  At night, the screen is set at 20 ft to check our movement while anchored. The screen is set to 30 miles for weather radar, etc.  It is quite amazing!  There is so much more information and various screens that can be chosen, but these are the screens we normally use.

Our AIS (Automatic Identification System) in our Garmin Navigation System informed us that the pleasure craft motoring ahead of us was called Trust Me.  AIS tells us the type of vessel including the name, speed, direction it is traveling, approximate dimensions, distance away, exact position, and a few other things we haven’t figured out yet.  We use AIS often, especially when meeting or passing barges.  When using the marine radio, we address the captains of the towboats by name, and AIS gives us quick information, unlike binoculars where the information is limited.  (Binoculars are used frequently for reading signs and clarifying channels markers.) The most recent information via other boaters is called “Active Captain”.  This is an app we have on our I-Pad which gives up to date information on anchorages, marinas, obstacles in the river, and some local attractions laid out in map mode.  Quite amazing!  We use it in conjunction with our other electronics. 
After lunch of homemade vegetable soup and chicken salad pitas, Steve set the autopilot to 11 miles down river and took a nap.  Yes, Mary was at the helm but didn’t need to do anything but observe the process and watch the river for obstacles.

With the sunshine reflecting off the lake, the Tenn-Tom channel flared out as Dream Chaser entered Bay Springs Lake.   What a pretty area!  If the day had been warmer, we may have had the opportunity to see alligators which start appearing at about this point in the waterway.  No Alligators today, but we did enjoy the beautiful tree-lined shores while we sipped on tea and indulged in a slice of a Tiramisu roll.

After five hours of motoring, we found an anchorage with Trust Me, a 49’ De Fever, at East Cotton Springs in the southern part of Bay Springs Lake.  Mike and Jan are the owners of this beautiful De Fever, from Missouri, and are on their way to Florida.  We love Dream Chaser, but we fantasized about what it would be like to have seven extra feet of boat length! (But, we know it is too big a boat for doing the loop.)

Our first attempt to set the anchor wasn’t effective, but the second drop worked like a charm.  Steve had figured in the wind direction which was blowing briskly from the south.  It was predicted to die down later in the evening and change to the southwest.  This was a perfect spot for the night!

With our anchor alarm set and darkness wrapping around Dream Chaser, we settled in with only the splattering of the rain outside.  After dining on grilled rib eye steak, sweet potatoes, and tiramisu dessert, we watched a movie, read a little, and called it a night.  As our navigational lights shone above us, we snuggled under our down comforter for a wonderful night’s rest.

Friday, November 22
Rain kept a constant rhythm during the night and continued throughout the morning.  After a quick breakfast of eggs, we pulled the anchor at about 8 am and followed Mike and Jan on Trust Me, down the waterway to the Whitten Lock and Dam. This was our first lock on the Tenn-Tom with the greatest drop of 84 ft.  All the following locks have an average drop of 30 ft. Montgomery Lock followed about six miles later and then the Rankin Lock.  Due to the rainy day, Mary made good use of her rain suit as she set the fenders and tied off in the locks.  Steve navigated from the lower helm due to the rain and cool temps.

Below is an interesting view from the bow of Dream Chaser looking over the lock wall to the channel below.  A SLOW barge is in the middle of the channel below.

Steaming hot coffee (with a new peppermint mocha creamer) and pumpkin bread were a welcomed mid-morning reward.

Today, our progress along the waterway has been slowed due to THAT slow tow and barge ahead of us going southbound at only 6 miles mph.  The channel is too narrow for passing and tows get priority at the locks.  Darn!
Hot, homemade vegetable soup and crackers were on the menu for lunch.  A nice treat on such a cloudy, gloomy day.  It was a quick trip through the Rankin Lock, Fulton Lock, and Wilkins Lock, but slow moving on the channel due to the THAT barge again.

Amory Lock was directly in front of us, but with darkness falling soon, the decision was made that there wasn't time to lock through Amory Lock, yet today.  Seeking anchorage, Dream Chaser was first to motor off to the east into a bay area.  Buoys marked the side channel, but the water depth dropped to six feet in places, so we moved slowly.  Dream Chaser finally positioned itself in the small bay, and dropped anchor.  Trust Me followed part way into the channel, but due to their deeper draft and not wanting to chance getting stuck, dropped anchor in the side channel before they entered the bay.  In the fall, darkness comes early, and boater's midnight is 9 pm.
It had been a long day, so with navigational lights on and dinner completed, we called it a night.

We wish you all a very Blessed Thanksgiving!  We give thanks to God for family, friends, and the many blessings we have received!

Back on Dream Chaser, Back tracking to Pickwick Lake.

 The map shows our journey from Chattanooga to Pickwick Lake.


Saturday, November 16, 2013
Steve and I are back on Dream Chaser following the Tennessee River back to Pickwick Lake. Tomorrow morning, we will begin back tracking- locking through Chicamauga Lock, Nickajack Lock, Guntersville Lock, Wheeler Lock, and Wilson Lock.   From Pickwick Lake,  we will head down the Tenn-Tom Waterway.
We have had a wonderful time in the Chattanooga area and are sad to leave, but Florida is calling.  Dream Chaser has been very happy at Shady Grove Landing Marina. We are grateful for our neighboring boat friend, Len, who watched the boat and assisted us with so many things.  To Len and his little dog, Captain:  You have shown us true Southern Hospitality-Thank You!

Sunday, November 17th
Our day began with cloudy, misty skies and temperatures in the low 60's.   Our usual morning routine of prepping before departure went smoothly and everything appeared shipshape.
At 9:15 am and with Len's help, we dropped the dock lines and bid farewell to Shady Grove Marina.
Back in the upper helm, we settle in with mugs of hot coffee and slices of pumpkin cheesecake loaf bread. Dream Chaser headed into a brisk wind and motored down river into the small waves.
As the morning progressed, the fog moved in and out with patches of fog so thick that the captain used radar to make our way.  Although motoring through fog is fascinating, it is spooky when huge cement barge tie-offs along the sides of the river loom at us through the fog.  The mist is almost mystical, but we are very relieved when it finally clears.
Our dockage for the night is at Shell Mound Recreational site, a RV park with a lovely picnic area.
We have the dock all to ourselves and this amazing view!

Monday, November 18th
We woke up to a brilliant sun bringing the trees alive with rich fall colors.
We dropped the boat lines at 7:03 am and arrived at the Nickajack Lock and Dam ten minutes later.
Without a waiting period, the lock master sounded the horn and gave us the green light to enter the lock chamber.

 

 

Mary tied the line to the floating bollard.

We waited as we were lowered to the river level beyond the lock wall.

At 8:30 am, we motored into Alabama.

We passed under the Interstate 24 bridge which has the longest bridge span on the Tennessee River.

 

As we passed by this scene, we observed the sunken boat in front of a large, beautiful house and wondered what the story was behind it.  I've become a true boat lover and this scene makes me sad.

The sunshine was so wonderful and the leaves were lit up like a patchwork quilt.

 

Steve double checked the route.

 

                                     Mary was eager to get to the next dockage- It's that-a-way!

At 3:35 pm, we arrived at Alred Marina in Guntersville, AL (east of the Guntersville Lock and Dam), filled Dream Chaser with diesel, and slipped into our dock space. It feels like home since we were docked here only a few weeks before on our way to Chattanooga, TN.
After securing Dream Chaser, we jumped in the courtesy car and drove to town for provisions and to check out some downtown shops.  When we returned to the boat, Steve took a stroll on the docks and struck up a conversation with a fellow Minnesotan, Greg, from Pequot Lakes who winters here on his boat at the marina. Greg happens to be a boat repair guy with his expertise in fiberglass repair.   Yeah!  Dream Chaser is needing some minor fiberglass work, and Greg volunteered to answer any of Steve's questions.  Our list of things that need to be done on the boat is getting shorter.
You would be surprised to know that there are large numbers of people who live on their boats year round.  The residences are of all sizes and types-from buildings on barges to houseboats and  cruisers.  We heard people this morning walking on the docks from there boats on their way to work.
Tonight's dinner consisted of grilled rib eye,  sweet potatoes, and sauteed zucchini followed by a Hallmark movie and Monday Night Football!  Doesn't get any better than this. :)

Tuesday, November 19
After a restful night, we are up at 6:33 am and enjoying the sun lighting up our back deck.  Temps are at 37 with a promised high of 57,  so we have turned on the heat and are happy to see the sun!
Before leaving for a lock, we always call the lock master for lock information. After calling the Guntersville Lock, we still had no idea as to the wait time at the lock.  The lock master merely said first come first serve.  He must not have had his morning coffee because the southern hospitality was definitely missing!  Every lock master we have conversed with on our journey, so far,  has been helpful and informative-until now.
Steve did his routine check of fluid levels and then proceeded to clean the four water intakes for engine, generator and heating/ AC -due to milfoil in the river. All looked good!
At 7:07 am, we tossed off the lines and climbed to the upper helm.  With the sun peaking over the tree tops and birds flocking overhead, we motored out of the harbor with steaming cups of coffee  (with a splash of peppermint mocha creamer!) and apple cinnamon oatmeal (my boat-meal crock pot recipe) in front of us.
The winds increased and blew through the upper helm, so we added a few more layers of clothing.  The peak for the fall colors is past, but we still see deep golds, copper browns, and touches of yellow here and there. The picture below shows our view from the upper helm.

                              This picture below shows our view from the lower helm.

Below, this is our view from the salon (sitting area) in Dream Chaser.  We enjoy these large windows
for viewing all around the boat.

 On our arrival at the Guntersville Lock at 8:10 am, immediately, we saw barges in the lock-locking up river.  DARN! Steve called the lock master several times when we reached the arrival point in front of the locks, but no answer.  So, we drifted around upstream from the lock for two hours.  We used the time to finish projects, watch  a Rick Steves travel show in Paris on TV, and enjoy coffee and scones.  Finally, when the barges cleared the lock, we received an OK to enter. The lock master knew there would be a wait due to the barge traffic, but apparently chose not to tell us when we called earlier.  We could have had a leisure breakfast and taken a nice walk before leaving the marina, if we had known about the wait time.  Also, with two hours less for motoring today, we hope we can still get to Wheeler State Park to dock before dark!
Our lunch of home made chicken and rice soup with crackers tasted really good on this cold fall day.

We were motoring across Wheeler Lake when night fell and the sunset was amazing!

The sunset started by painting the brown trees along the shore a brilliant orange.

These pictures were taken in an area on the river between Decatur and Florence, AL.

We made it to Joe Wheeler State Park Marina about 6:15 pm with heavy darkness wrapped around us.  We had not planned on arriving in darkness, but due to our hold up at the Guntersville Lock and how quickly darkness falls at this time of year,  we were now dependent on electronics.  We were grateful for radar and the ability of the Garmin to retrace our path to Joe Wheeler State Park Resort.  Dream Chaser motored for an hour feeling her way through the darkness.  We were eager to see the lights of the Joe Wheeler Resort just east of the Wheeler Lock and Dam.  Mary was challenged with setting the fenders for dockage in the dark.  Steve was driving from the lower helm and as we arrived at the resort, edged into the boat slip without difficulty.  Only after the dock lines were secured, did we realize that the power from our slip was being used by a neighboring large yacht.  Darn!  So, we moved Dream Chaser out and over several slips, secured her, and found available power.  Yeah!  We are cold and tired, but happy to be docked.
After we registered in the lodge office, we enjoyed a delicious warm catfish dinner at the resort lodge.
With services at the marinas at a minimum due to the cold weather, we need to get to Florida!

Wednesday, November 20
Our morning began with temps in the 40's, a sunny sky, hot coffee, and steaming oatmeal.
At 7:45 am, we dropped the lines and pulled out of Joe Wheeler State Park Marina.
It was a beautiful day for locking through both Joe Wheeler and Wilson Lock and Dams and, we had minimal entry wait times.  Time to just tie up and relax!

Lunch of BBQ ribs and salad was in the upper helm with temps in the low 60's.  It was about a month ago that we were motoring the opposite direction towards Chattanooga, so much of our view is familiar.  As we motored along today, we saw several groupings of pelicans-hundreds of pelicans!

We were docked at Grand Harbor Marina by 4 pm.  After securing the lines, Steve worked on boat "stuff" and Mary took the courtesy car into Savannah, TN and purchased things on "the list".   Grand Harbor Marina, unlike many of the marinas, still has water and pump-outs available, so we will be sure to take advantage of those services before we head down the Tenn-Tom Waterway.
We had a late dinner at the Broken Spoke Restaurant in Counce, TN and were treated to an evening of music (Blues, Country, and Folk) by recording artists Lisa Lambert and Reba Russell. 

On our return to Dream Chaser, we popped in a load of laundry, watched a bit of local news, and called it a night under the full moon.

FYI...
We took on a second captain prior to Thanksgiving.  He seems nervous- I think he's running from something!