Not In Kansas Anymore!

On Tuesday, we left the Erie Canal after 9 locks in one day. As we motored into the town of Waterford after leaving the last lock on the Erie they were playing “Stars and Stripes Forever”. It seemed so appropriate since July 9th would have been my mom’s 89th birthday. She loved a good march. FYI, Warren Concert Band is playing on Belle Isle August 4th.

We are currently at Castleton Boat Club. They offer a DIY gin pole for $50. I assumed incorrectly other sailors would be working with Eric while I spent the day knitting. The members can not help because of insurance restrictions and no other transient boats were around. Eric is always optimistic about what I can do. I ran the crane and at one point man handled the mast. It’s the first time I’ve had a piece of the action and I kept saying I owe Tim Sarns big time.

The Erie Canal was an interesting body of water full of small towns and history. The Remington company (known for firearms, razors, and typewriters) was located in Illion. We stayed on their terminal wall which was a Rv Park and Marina. The marina was just a sea wall but bonus points for having a Dairy Queen. Our friend Eli suggested we stop at his favorite restaurant “Russo’s” in his hometown of Amsterdam. We had a great Italian dinner and stayed on the terminal wall for free. It’s been fun on the Canal but time to start sailing.

We’ve been gone 23 days. I managed to catch every line in the locks and not do any major damage to “Thistle”. Everyday is different and I have enjoyed the challenge so far. I still miss family and friends. Sadly, my cousin Pete passed away suddenly last week. I regret I couldn’t attend his funeral today. I hope his family finds peace and we send our prayers.

Book review. 5 stars top rating.

Unfortunately, I’ve read a lot of three star books lately.

Blessings. Ann Quilan 5

Fly Away. Kristin Hannah. 3. (Too sad)

Stephanie Plum Series by Janet Evanovich number 20 and 21 Rating 3

Cute characters, the mom keeps making homemade chocolate cake and I long for a piece from my favorite baker Anne.

Unlucky 13. James Patterson women’s murder club series. 3

Eli’s recommends Russo in Amsterdam

Mast up in Castleton, N Y

Out of Erie Canal

Downtown Albany, N Y

Pedestrian walk way

Off tomorrow, hopefully under sail.