Captain's Log

Pix

2005-12-20T15:46:00.000-05:00

Slideshow | Print at Home | Order Prints | Save to: My Yahoo! Photos or My Computer

Click a photo to view a larger version on Yahoo! Photos. See links above for more options.

IBIS 1

This was the best pix on the trip-an ibis about to strike - taken at Higel Park, Venice, Fl.

The larger versions of these photos will be available until March 20, 2006 (90 days)

Share your pictures with PhotoMail from Yahoo! Mail. Learn More Go to Yahoo! Photos

Correction-Sea Knight Summary

2005-11-18T15:49:00.000-05:00

Typo-should read 3.0 mpg !!

Trip Summary-Sea Knight 2005

2005-11-18T11:13:00.000-05:00

4996 statute miles

1672 gallons

635 hours

2.6 gal/hr

7.9mph

3.0mph

Not Bad!

3 cheers to Camano!

Tom & Gerry Clare

"SeaKnight"

Camano 31

www.TomClare.com

Fernandina Beach, Fl.

2005-11-15T20:59:00.000-05:00

HOME AGAIN!- Arrived at the Yacht Basin after a fantastic cruising day, at !:15PM. A great trip encompassing 5,000 miles. Celebrated with the Sperry's and Ted Holmes and 2 Korbels. Will summarize the trip in a couple of days after we get settled in at home.

TTFN

St. Augustine, Fl.

2005-11-14T20:27:00.000-05:00

With 2 days to go , we get our first non-hurricane rain day in 6 months -light showers off and on send us up and down from the flybridge. Docked at Muni.-nice dinner at O.C. White's. Tomorrow on to home, hopefully.

TTFN

Daytona, Fl.

2005-11-13T21:29:00.000-05:00

Great cruising day-not as windy as predicted. Docked at Daytona Marina and Boatworks-fabulous dinner at Chart House. 2 days to go.

TTFN

Cocoa, Fl.-Whitley Bay Marina

2005-11-12T20:55:00.000-05:00

Windy day, especially docking. Marvelous pizza again at Ossorio's. Hopefully Daytona tomorrow. Channel fever is growing.

TTFN

Vero Beach, Fl.

2005-11-11T19:41:00.000-05:00

Another nice cruising day-docked at the city marina-nice facility. Early dinner at the Riverview Cafe and watched a great sunset with a great dinner. Getting close to home-looks like next Tuesday.

TTFN

Stuart, Fl.-Southpoint anchorage

2005-11-10T19:58:00.000-05:00

Long day-foggy AM-85 miles to Stuart where we met up with Tom's best friend, John Quinn. Early celebration of joint birthdays-good time; lots of old memories.

TTFN

Ortona, Fl.-Turkey Creek

2005-11-09T20:34:00.000-05:00

Made it to Mark and Joyce's(Winnie the Pooh) dock here yesterday. Lovely dinner cooked by Joyce last night and lay day and prescriptions today-nice dinner at Don's Steakhouse this evevning-delicious Delmonico steaks. Thanks Mark and Joyce for the hospitality!!

Due back at Fdna. next Tuesday.

TTFN

Cape Coral, Fl.- C.C. Yacht Basin

2005-11-07T17:59:00.000-05:00

Nice cruising day-dolphins galore-dinner on board.

TTFN

Venice, Fl,-Higel Park

2005-11-06T19:23:00.000-05:00

Free public dock-nice day, but hot-went outside to avoid ICW delays. Dinner at Crow's nest with sailboaters Dennis and Celia here at the dock. Great meal and pleasant night.

TTFN

Clearwater Bch.-Day 2

2005-11-05T21:04:00.000-05:00

Correction on yesterday-"Sea Robin", not "Sea Raven" on the crossing.

Lots of naps and long sleep last night and we are mostly recovered. Trolleyed the beach today and nice lunch overlooking John's Pass. Mi-T-Mo down from Tarpon and anchored just in front of the marina-joined us for happy hour and dinner at Cooter's. Early to bed tonight and headed for Venice AM

TTFN

Cleawater Beach, Fl.

2005-11-04T11:19:00.000-05:00

Well we made the overnight crossing last night-arrived here in at Clearwater Muni after 21 hour sojourn in company with "Mi-T-Mo", a 65' Higgins Tug and "Sea Raven", a 49' Albin. Crossing wx was mostly poor, with varying seas and lots of wind. The ADmiral and Lucy held up OK-Lucy for 22 hours. It's nap time for now, so:

TTFN

Carrabelle - Moorings

2005-11-01T10:20:00.000-05:00

Very nice wx ashore-a couple of boats went out yesterday, but came back because of rough seas. One boat left this AM and has not turned back-reported 2-4' in the Gulf.

Looks like a good window might not be available 'till Friday-will probably do the overnight crossing with a couple of other slowpokes.

Facilities and personnel here at the Moorings are top notch-transient lounge with computer-pool table-poker table-cable tv -dvd & vcr etc.

6 boat couples went to Michael's, an excellent restaurant in town-marina shuttled all of us.

TTFN

Carrabelle, Fl.-Moorings

2005-10-30T20:50:00.000-05:00

Friday we docked at the White City Dock-free-dog friendly-no power. 5:00AM the first of 100 fish tourney boats showed up and chaos for the next 2 hours.

Saturday we docked at Scipio Creek Marina in Apalachicola. Short tri, another cool morning, but a beautiful fall day. Nice lunch and dinner ashore.

Crossed Aalach Bay this AM-rough trip-4-5 footers, but on the nose mostly. Gerry and Lucy not happy about the seas. Looks like we will be here for a day or more, awaiting a good wx window.

TTFN

Southport, Fl.-Gano dock

2005-10-27T21:48:00.000-04:00

Nice cruising day starting with the best shower in 9,000 miles of cruising at Baytowne Marina. On to Rich and Mary Gano's dock and out to dinner with them and Richs' charming 89 yr old mom. Got word that the Okechobee Waterway was closed from Wilma-hopefully will be open when we get there.

TTFN

Sandestin, Fl.-Baytowne Marina Resort

2005-10-26T21:08:00.000-04:00

A cold, cold cruising day with highlights that made it all wonderful. First, as we crossed Pensacola Bay, we got to watch the Blue Angels practicing-awesome as always. Second, as we approached this Marina, we watched about 10 dolphins surfing in our wake. Third, this location is first class-we had a marvelous dinner at one of their many restaurants-Hammerheads-great food and great band. On to Panama City in the AM.

TTFN

Pensacola, Fl.-Home of Naval Aviation

2005-10-25T22:00:00.000-04:00

-And birthplace of Mike Clare. Arrived here at Palafox Pier Marina, just now starting to recover from last years' hurricane Ivan. We were met by Bob Austin, who gave us a nice tour of the area and this evening he and his lovely wife Marie had us to dinner at their home at Perdido Bay. Thanks again guys!

TTFN

Lulu's-2

2005-10-24T20:55:00.000-04:00

High winds have us trapped here for a 2nd day. Quiet day and dinner on the beach at Bahama Bob's-great pecan grouper.

Hope to make Pensacola tomorrow.

TTFN

Gulf Shores, Al.-Homeport Marina(home of Lulu's)

2005-10-23T18:14:00.000-04:00

Decided to leave Mobile Bay with a good wx window-predicted to be rough for the next couple of days. Easy passage to here. Nice lunch at Lulu's, a popular restaurant on the waterway, owned by Jimmy Buffet's sister, Lucy. Looks like we will have no effects of Wilma, but a solid cold front tonight, so we may stay here tomorrow so as not to cross Pensacola Bay in rough seas. We'll see in the AM.

TTFN

Fairhope, Al.

2005-10-21T22:20:00.000-04:00

Completed a 6 day trip from Columbus, down the TennTom to Fairhope uneventfully. One night at Demopolis Marina and anchorages at Sumpter Landing, Bashi Creek, Sunflower Cutoff, and Big Briar Creek. Anchored across the river from the USCG Cutter Ouchita at Bashi Creek-said hello and they kindly offered any assistance or provisions we might need.

We will stay here for the weekend, watching Wilma anxiously.

Lovely happy hour and dinner with Mona and Ted Ferguson, Camano reps in Mobile, at Brandons Restaurant- fabulous prime rib.

TTFN

Fairhope, Al.-Eastern Shore Marina

2005-10-20T22:51:00.000-04:00

Arrived here this afternoon, after many days without cell phone coverage to post a log. Tired tonight-will post more on the lower Tenn Tom trip tomorrow. All is well as we watch to see what Wilma is going to do-will be here for the weekend,nunless it comes north thru the Gulf and forces us back up the TennTom.

TTFN

Columbus,Ms.

2005-10-14T10:06:00.000-04:00

Monday we left Florence for Bear Creek, Al. and the dock and home of Betty and Gerry Oliver,who were along side us on "Pogo" at the Rendezvous. Betty fixed us a great chicken casserole dinner and breakfast the next morning. Thanks again, guys!

Tuesday we dock at Grand Harbor Marina in Conce, Tn. and wash and clean-badly needed.

Wednesday we buddy boat down the Tenn-Tom with Mi-T-Mo, a 62' converted World War 11 Army tug. We tie up to them at night on the outside of the lower lock wall at the Fulton Lock.,in Mississippi.

Thursday we dock at Columbus Marina with Mi-T-Mo, in the midst of a 107 boat bass tourney, with boats tied everywhere for weigh-in. Dinner in town for prime rib and steak at Harveys', our favorite from our trip up in June.

Today we wake at 6:00 AM to all 107 bass boats hovering around awaiting the 6:45 start. Lots of CO in the air. We'll provision again today ad probably leave for Demopolis-2 day trip, most likely.

TTFN

Florence-Mystic Harbor Marina

2005-10-09T11:55:00.000-04:00

Did some local sightseeing yesterday, including Hellen Keller's home-Ivy Green- in Tuscumbia. Had a wonderful visit and dinner with Joan and Fred Meyers at George's Restaurant across the River somewhere.

Shuttled "Picobello's car to Aqua Harbor this AM, and a little more sightseeing in store for this afternoon.

TTFN

Florence, Al.

2005-10-08T08:28:00.000-04:00

Well, the Loop Rendezvous was a great success-had a wonderful time-met many new friends and great boating people in general. Interesting lectures, good Happy Hours and dinners. Ron and Eva, the founders of the AGLCA do a terrific job. Gerry organized a Hurricane Relief Fund for the shrimpers of Bayou LaBatre,in South Al. She raised $3,600.00, thanks to the generosity of many of the boaters, most who had given already to charities of their own. Thanks to Sonny Middletown of Dog River Marina, who told us of their plight.

We're on our way home now, slowly but hope to get back for Thanksgiving, Wx. permitting.

TTFN

JW

2005-10-01T18:37:00.000-04:00

We're here for 10 days or more for the AGLCA(Americas Great Loop Cruisers Assoc.) which officially stars on Monday-expecting 60 some boats and 200 some people-quite a few have arrived early-Big Happy Hour last night and a bigger pot luck dinner tonight-Gerry has made a delicious paella. Reports for the next few days will probably be sporadic-cell coverage is very spotty.

TTFN

Rogersville, Al.-Joe Wheeler State Park(JW)

2005-09-27T22:42:00.000-04:00

Arrived here this PM on a beautiful cruising day-tomorrow a cold front will bring real Fall to this picturesque marina-HOORAY! Docked next to Lola Marie and met at our slip by Bob from Marabob who shared Happy Hour and dinner in the Lodge, with us.
TTFN

Huntsville, Al.3-4

2005-09-27T02:38:00.000-04:00

Sunday AM we reprovisioned and then delightful brunch at Lucianno's again. The afternoon was spent watching the weather radars and listening to the tornado warning sirens as the remnants of Rita were stirring up some very strong thunderstorms throughout the area. We prepared to dash to the restroom buker here, but we were spared any serious events. Meanwhile we listened to the Jags beat the Jets , in overtime. on satelite radio.

Monday was a total do nothing day as we waited for the wx to clear before heading to Joe Wheeler, our next stop.

TTFN

Huntsville,Al.1-3

2005-09-24T19:54:00.000-04:00

Arrived Thursday PM at Ditto Landing Marina-uneventful trip, locked down without delay between 2 tows-lucky. Friday we picked up our Enterprise rental and headed for the Space and Rocket Museum and 2 excellent IMAX movies: "Fighter Pilot" and "Space Station". Great museum and Capt. Tom relived his Navy pilot training with the in the 4G force accelerator-not quite as easy as when 22 yrs. old.

Friday PM we toured downtown Huntsville. Upon returning to the boat, Lola Marie was snuggled(1 foot) next to us. We enjoyed Happy Hour and met their

daughter Sandy and husband Klaus. Dinner at a very nice Italian restaurant-Lucianno's-recommended by our Enterprise agent.

Today we drove to Decatur and cruised the pretty historic residential area. Lunch at a JEM-Lagniappe's(lan-yap)-, with great Pannini sandwiches and coffees and baked goods, hosted by Jenny Ross and owner Shelly Ross, her daughter. Jenny is the youngest 75 year old lady we have ever met. Upon return to Huntsville, we did some more sightseeing of beautiful residential areas. Dinner on board.

TTFN

Guntersville,Al.-Alred Marina

2005-09-21T20:55:00.000-04:00

Short trip to Alred on Monday-nice marina, a/c restrooms, showers, and laundry. Also cranky but workable courtesy car. Did a little sightseeing today and welcomed old friends on Lola Marie in the afternoon. Dinner out 2 nights in a row-disappointing, expensive dinner tonight at LaLuna Bistro. Good catfish at Top of the River, last night.

TTFN

GoosePond-5

2005-09-19T23:11:00.000-04:00

Welcomed "Cinderella" with Marge and Gordon to the Marina. Another great dinner hosted for the four of us by Peggy and Louis Letson-curried chicken again-WOW!-Good-Thanks again guys. Hope to see them in Amelia one of these days.

TTFN

GoosePond-3

2005-09-18T22:32:00.000-04:00

Quiet day-courtesy car to Wallyworld to reprovision-Jaguar game on Sirius satelite radio(tough loss)-PapaJohn for dinner on board.
TTFN

GoosePond-3

2005-09-17T21:33:00.000-04:00

Started as another quiet day but Capt. Tom went out with Tow Boat US in the PM to tow in a broken down houseboat-lots of fun. Denny and Carol stopped by on their way from a BBQ fest in Decatur. Dinner on board and lots of football on the TV for the Capt.

TTFN

Goosepond-2

2005-09-16T23:05:00.000-04:00

Slow day in port. Louis took Capt. to doctor for sore shoulder-Gerry did a large batch of laundry. Took Louis and Peggy to a great Mexican dinner-Buena Vista-in Scottsboro. A good time was had by all.

TTFN

Goosepond Colony -Scottsboro, Al.

2005-09-15T21:51:00.000-04:00

Nice day-beat the rainshowers to Alabama. Locked down with Marabob and Happy Hour on the boat with Louis Letson. Dinner at "The Docks"-excellent!

TTFN

Shellmound Rec. Area-Nickajack Dam

2005-09-14T20:41:00.000-04:00

Nice lunch with Denny and Carol, back from celebrating their 40th anniversary at Brasstown Valley. On the road again-free dock here. Marabob around the corner-will lock down with him in theAM. Cruised thru the Tenn. River Grand Canyon section again-awesome. Registered 135' depth at one point.

TTFN

Chattanooga-2

2005-09-13T18:20:00.000-04:00

3 star day: breakfast at Panera, lunch/dinner at 212 Market St.(fabulous) and happy hour/supper at the Tortilla Factory where Jamyia, the bartender actually carded Gerry. A few Margarittas and Tacos and we crawled back to the boat. Will be an early night, tonight.

TTFN

Chattanooga Landing

2005-09-12T15:19:00.000-04:00

Sunday:

Breakfast at Harrison State Park with Bob from Marabob. Capt. grilled filet mignon on the boat for dinner-Yummy!

Monday:

On to Chatt.with Marabob. Did the 2 aquariums and the Imax in the afternoon(Wild Safari in 3D). Good stuff. Off to Big River Grill tonight for dinner-Bob's treating-nice!

TTFN

Island Cove

2005-09-10T21:05:00.000-04:00

Lazy day-margarita happy hour on the dock. Helped Carol and Denny celebrate their 40th anniversary at Sydney's.
TTFN

Island Cove, Tn.

2005-09-09T22:46:00.000-04:00

Thursday:

Cruised up the Hiwassee River in the AM and then to Island Cove Marina for the weekend. Great spagetti diner on Temptress with Carol and chef Denny and Bob Lindley visiting from across the river, where his 48' Hatteras is docked. Agreed to dinghy over in AM and do a CG vessel safety exam on "Hallelujah"

Friday:

Did the exam in the AM and then a drive into Chattanooga for a wine restocking. Hosted Bob from Megabob, Joyce and Mark from Winnie the Pooh,and Carol and Denny for Happy Hour and then a great pot roast dinner for all except C & D. Sorry guys-not enough room on our little trawler.

TTFN.

Hiwassee River at anchor

2005-09-08T08:15:00.000-04:00

Wednesday

WOW day. Beautiful wx again. We passed 11 antique boats on their way north to Knoxville. We were told there was supposed to be 30 or so-don't know where the others are. As we approached ou anchorage for the night, just inside the mouth of this river, there was our old friends on Lola Marie-loopers on their way upriver. We decided to anchor out just outside the embayment to catch more breeze. Just then, here comes the NanSea, friends we met and got tipsy with in Panama City. So SeaKnight hosted our first 6 man happy hour on our huge bridge. Unfortunately the first mate,for the first time on the trip had only made one tray of ice, so the hour was only that.

TTFN

Ten Mile, Tn.

2005-09-06T20:58:00.000-04:00

Another gorgeous day- cruised up the beautiful Clinch River and then on to Euchee Marina and a wonderful dinner at the Lighthouse Restaurant here.

TTFN

Little Emory River,Tn.-At Anchor

2005-09-06T06:42:00.000-04:00

Finally underway again, starting a long, slow trip homeward, more painfully aware of hurricane season as ever before. We're headed for Joe Wheeler State Park for the Loop Rendezvous, the first week in October. Wx. conditions are great this week-85/60-so we headed for this anchorage yeaterday. Had to put on long johns this AM. Enjoyed a visit and dinner at Clahouns with Denny and Carol Saturdayand a trip to the Knoxville Zoo on Sunday, followed by a fabulous brunch/dinner at Carrabba's.

FTLM 2/3

2005-09-01T21:23:00.000-04:00

Little to report-nice wx., lots of reading ,waiting for the end of labor day weekend to start back downriver.

TTFN

FTLM-2

2005-08-30T21:09:00.000-04:00

Spent the day watching the passage of Katrina thru East Tenn. Not a lot of rain-30 knot winds with occasional gusts to 40. All here safe and sound-looks like early fall and very nice wx to arrive for at least the next week. Our thoughts and prayers for friends and all on the Gulf Coast; hoping to hear good news soon from those we know.

TTFN

FTLM-1

2005-08-29T20:49:00.000-04:00

Hunkered down back on the boat, for remains of Katrina ,late tonight and tomorrow.

TTFN

Weekend Report

2005-08-29T14:49:00.000-04:00

Saturday: Toured Ashville with Stan and Mary-yuppie/artsie type town with lots of activity. Stan/s famous spagetti dinner was well received.

Sunday: On to the world famous Grove Park Inn in Ashville for a belated anniversary celebration. What a beautiful, historic Inn. Wonderful dinner and nightcap in the great hall which is flanked on both sides by huge fireplaces. Allin all a fun, relaxing weekend away from the boat and the River. Lucy is in good hands with Mark and Joyce on Winnie the Pooh.

TTFN

Hendersonville, NC.

2005-08-26T21:17:00.000-04:00

Visiting with Fernandina friends, Stan and Mary Miller at their Summer retreat in Hville. Nice dinner out and car show on Main St.

TTFN

FTLM-13/14

2005-08-25T20:31:00.000-04:00

2 quiet days-nothing to report-lots of reading in port! Tomorrow into the Smokies to visit with the Millers!

TTFN

FTLM-12

2005-08-23T21:16:00.000-04:00

Another quiet day-Tues. nt. at the movies on Moby Duck-"My Blue Heaven", starring Stave Martin.

TTFN

FTLM-11

2005-08-22T21:40:00.000-04:00

Another quiet day-humidity and temps starting to receed-hopefully Fall is on the way. Pizza dinner at Little Joe's with Winnie's crew.

TTFN

FTLM-10

2005-08-21T21:38:00.000-04:00

Quiet day again-food shopping; the Capt. went to the walk-in clinic for lower back pain-muscle relaxer prescribed. Dinner-chicken curry- on Winne with Bob from Marabob. Great dinner-thanks Joyce and Mark. Cold front was expected thru tonight but looks like may be delayed.

TTFN

FTLM-9

2005-08-20T22:27:00.000-04:00

This morning we drove to Oak Ridge, the "secret city" of world war II, home to most of the research and developement of the atom bomb. The farmers market was lively and then we toured the American Museum of Energy and Science, which displayed the history of the Oak Ridge part in the developement of atomic energy science, plus lots of fun hands on displays, especially for kids like us.

Dinner on the boat-pot roast, a Gerry speciality.

TTFN

FTLM-8

2005-08-19T22:50:00.000-04:00

Fun day-toured the countryside with Joyce-Sweetwater Cheese Farm, Mayfield Ice Cream Visitors Center, and lunch at the Hunters Bakery and Cafe in Sweetwater. Happy hour on "Irish Ayes", Mike and Pat Sullivans' 44' Gulfstar, with Joyce and Mark. The Sullivans are hoping to start the Loop next Fall. Dinner at Sullivans(no connection) with all 6 of us. Thanks for the hospitality,guys!

TTFN

FTLM-7

2005-08-18T21:44:00.000-04:00

Another quiet day-Capt. read another book-2 in 2 days. Lovely evening though at a dinner party at Gail and Gary's new home in Tellico Village. They recently retired from cruising on "Evolution", a 36' Krogen Manatee. Also in attendance were Joyce and Mark from Winnie and Sally and Jim who just arrived here on Moby Duck-they too have bought a home at Tellico Village and expect to close later this month. Nice party, Gail and Gary-many thanks!!

TTFN

FTLM-6

2005-08-17T20:29:00.000-04:00

Another lazy day-lots of reading. The area is becoming innundated with cruisers all of a sudden. In addition to Winnie and Marabob and us, we have 2 if by Sea, a 33 Silverton; Moby Duck, a 36 Krogen Manatee; and Fet-Esch, a 53 Sea Ranger. Let the party begin!!!

TTFN

FTLM- 4/5

2005-08-16T21:57:00.000-04:00

Monday took a leisurly day cruise up the Little Tenn. River/Tellico Lake. Beautiful scenery at the base of the Smoky Mts., 25 miles upriver. Passed historic Ft Loudon on the way. Turkey dinner on board, back at the marina.

Today , quiet at the marina-borrowed the courtesy car to have lobster roll lunch at the "Buttercup Tea Room" (no kidding). Capt. Tom and 32 women, but a delicious meal. Mark and Joyce came over for "Tuesday Night at the Movies" featuring Robert Preston (you remember him, maybe) in "Rehearsal for Murder" with Lynn Redgrave. Some of the audience liked it-others not.

TTFN

FTLM-3

2005-08-14T20:53:00.000-04:00

Celebrated our 18th anniversary with a nice brunch at the Cranberry Hollow Tea Room. Then toured TellicoVillage-hosted Mark and Joyce from "Winnie" for a short happy hour-and finally a delightful pizza dinner at Ron and Eve Stob's. Ron and Eva are the founders of the AGLCA and authors of one of the most entertaining and informative cruising books-"Honey, I Want To Buy a Boat".

TTFN

FTLM-2

2005-08-12T21:37:00.000-04:00

P/U Enterprise rental for the weekend and did reprovisioning and meds at Wallworld. Did some local sightseeing and then met with Pat and Mike Sullivan for happy hour and dinner. Pat and Mike own "Irish Ayes", a 44' Gulfstar and are planning to start the loop next year after Mikes' 2nd retirement. Mike is on the 'Circle of friends" list and contributes to the trawler list occasionally. We look forward to seeing them again up here or in Fl. when they are on the loop.

TTFN

Lenoir City-Ft. Louden Marina(FTLM)-1 Returned here

2005-08-11T20:48:00.000-04:00

Returned here from Knoxville on a nice wx. day. Will stay based here for the rest of the month-Enterprise cars on weekend specials- a few days cruising on the Little Tenn. River- and then to Ashville and Hendersonville towards the end of the month to visit the Millers(friends from home) and celebrate our anniversary(18th) at the Grove Park Inn.We're in the slow down mode-next schedule is the AGLCA rendezvous at Joe Wheeler Park in October- 325 miles down river.

TTFN

Knoxville-2

2005-08-10T20:56:00.000-04:00

Sightseeing and wine and dine day. Started out at the Blount House Museum-the original house circa 1793-the home of the first Senator and Governor of Tenn. and also a signer of the Constitution. Next to the East Tenn. History Museum, home to a beautifully restored trolley. Later to the Wed. Farmers Market in Market Square(not much) but a nice wine and cheese happy hour at "OOdles" in the Square. Dinner at the Riverside Tavern above the marina.

TTFN

Knoxville, Tn.-1

2005-08-09T21:15:00.000-04:00

Wx improving, so we head to Volunteer Landing Marina in Knoxville. On the way we log the 3000 mile mark of the trip. A fabulous lunch at the Riverside Tavern and we take the free trolleys for a circuit trip of the downtown and UT(Univ. of Tenn) districts. Dinner on board-quiet night!

TTFN

Lenoir City-5

2005-08-08T21:06:00.000-04:00

Miserable, rainy, morning, so we elected to extend our Enterprise weekend rental and do part of Knoxville by car and stay at the marina another day. Unfortunately the art museum was closed, but a nice lunch downtown. Wx cleared somewhat in the PM and we welcomed "Winnie the Pooh" with Mark and Joyce to the dock. Nice Happy Hour on the Pooh and dinner at Calhoun's at the marina. Hopefully back to cruising tomorrow.
TTFN

Lenoir City 3-4

2005-08-07T20:00:00.000-04:00

Saturday:

Drove to the Smokies to tour Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg-what a mess-bumper to bumper traffic for miles and GLITZ and GAUDY prevails. Lesson-don't go on a weekend in the Summer. Didn't even try to stop and park-impossible, but we did have a nice lunch outside of Gburg. Dinner on board to recoup from the experience.

Sunday:

Drove back up to the Smokies to visit Cades Cove, a thoroughly pleasant experience depite light rainfall all day. We have certainly been lucky with wx as we rarely have seen any on the water-only lots of heat. Cades Cove is a former 19th century colony in a beautiful valley on the East slopes of the Smokies. It is now preserved as a park, with a 7 mile driveing loop. Also a live blacksmith shop and a working grist mill.

Back to cruising-Knoxville-tomorrow, wx permitting.

TTFN

Lenoir City, Tn.:1-2

2005-08-05T20:59:00.000-04:00

Thursday:

Another long day with a lunch stop at the Kingston Downtown Dock(free) and our first lunch at a Sonic Drive-in(you can walk in also). Good Hamburgers. On to Ft. Loudon Marina and dinner on the boat. We'll probably operate from here as a base for the rest of the month One of the nicest marinas we have stayed at. A/C heads, showers, and laundromat very close by.Also very Lucy friendly..

Friday:

P/U by Enterprise for weekend special car rental($9.95/day)-did all our reprovisioning and visited a couple of wineries. Tn. wine is not all it's cracked up to be!!

Happy hour on the boat with Gary Corn and Gail Eades, former Krogen Manatee liveaboards, who have sold the boat and become domesticated in nearby Tellico Village. We have known them as cruisers for 4 years. They took us for a nice dinner at the Tellico Yacht Club. Capt. Tom had to tuck in his shirt-Ouch! Tellico is a beautiful place, though and they love their new life after many years of living aboard. Sightseeing on the schedule tomorrow..

TTFN

Ten Mile, Tn.

2005-08-03T20:05:00.000-04:00

Long day to Euchee Marina-great wx day though. Dinner at the marina restaurant with Bob and Chris(niece) from "Marabob", a Pilgrim 40-one of Tom's all time favorite boats. Vert tired-early bedtime!

TTFN

Harrison-4

2005-08-02T21:28:00.000-04:00

Longest layover so far- quiet day- Capt. washed boat- needed it. Nice grilled chicken on "Temptress" with Denny and Carol. Back to cruising tomorrow!

TTFN

Harrison-3

2005-08-01T21:02:00.000-04:00

Great day with Denny and Carol-car trip to the Occoee Whitewater Center and then to Chigger Ridge to see our old cabin in Mineral Bluff, Ga.-for sale again, 2 1/2 times what we bought it for a few years ago. Lunch in beautiful downtown Blue Ridge, Ga. and great dinner on board- Gerry's famous paella, with Denny and Carol.

TTFN

Harrison-2

2005-07-31T20:56:00.000-04:00

Dinghy ride to breakfast w. Denny and Carol at the state park restaurant. Shopping at Wallworld and dinner at Sydney's on the River at the marina. Gerry had eagerly awaited their renowned prime rib(her favorite food) only to find they no longer serve it on Sundays. Oh well!-maybe on the way back.

TTFN

Harrison, Tn.-1

2005-07-30T21:20:00.000-04:00

Short trip up the Chicamauga lock to Island Cove Marina, where friends Denny and Carol are camped for a while. Docked on the Freedom dock-PARTY DOCK- where we were invited and participated in a fabulous fried turkey dinner. These folks know how to throw a dock party.

TTFN

Chattanooga-3

2005-07-29T20:59:00.000-04:00

Not quite so hot today. Spent the AM in the picturesque "Bluff View" area.

Toured the beautiful Hunter Museum and Mansion. Fabulous lunch at Tony's

Pasta Cafe. Afternoon movie-"Wedding Crashers"-lots of fun flick. There are

now 4 AGLCA member boats on the Chatt. dock: Mamacita, Pogo, 2 if by C, and

us.All of us are River cruising and not presently on the Loop. Unfortunately

the floating docks are under repair and we are on the fixed concrete

dock-not ideal for boats-vulnerable to wakes and high water, which rises

every afternoon. Lucy likes it though, as there is grass right next to the boat. Heading upriver again, tomorrow.
TTFN

Chattanooga-2

2005-07-28T20:18:00.000-04:00

Sightseeing with Denny and Carol:Lookout Mt. Battlefield; incline railway(steepest in the world);Chatt Choo Choo; railroad museum. Great lunch at Southside Grill and small supper.Tired!!
TTFN

Chattanooga, Tn.-1

2005-07-27T22:12:00.000-04:00

Another HOT day. Passed through the"Grand Canyon" of the Tenn. River between Hales Bar and Chatt. Met Denny and Carol Gustafson on the dock and lunched with them. At Happy Hour, Don and Ann Moon arrived at the boat. They are fellow 34 Pilot Mainshippers and native Chattonnogans(hope that's allright). We walked up to the art district and had a delightful dinner and coffee/dessert at a little bakery/cafe. Was a great pleasure meeting them and we look foward to seeing them on our return or in Fernandina one of these days. The city is vibrant and full of children splashing in all the public water facilities. We will pass on the Aquariums until our return-too crowded and full of kids. It,s late,so:

TTFN

Guild, Tn.:7-26

2005-07-27T22:03:00.000-04:00

Left the Letson dock reluctantly after being invited to stay another day to participate in a yard party. Thanks for the offer, Peggy!! Another long , HOT day to Hales Bar Marina. Only excitement was passing about 70 jet skiers who were going downriver in a huge group. Looked like fun. Chattanooga tomorrow and hopefully a little break in the heat.

Scottsboro-2

2005-07-25T23:00:00.000-04:00

Great day in wonderful No. Alabama-Letsons gave us the local tour-downtown-realestate- and the fabulous airport baggage store. This store sells merchandise from unclaimed airline baggage-the store is so big and extensive, it includes a museum and cafeteria. Nice luncheon and Capt. Tom toured Goose Pond Marina and Louis' 40 ft. Mainship. The day was topped off with a terrific curried chicken dinner prepared by master wok chef Louis and fresh salad by "princess" Peggy. Promises of more of the same on our return trip,down the Tenn.CAN'T WAIT!! Thanks guys. Pix of chef Louis will be featured on the photo gallery soon. Too late now; past bedtime.

TTFN

Scottsboro, Al.

2005-07-24T22:02:00.000-04:00

Long day on the water today-3 hr. wait at Guntersville lock, after an hour in fog. Fortunately a little breeze, so it was cooler than on land(-99 with heat index of 110+) We finally made it to Roseberry Creek and the dock/home of Louis and Peggy Letson. Louis is the co-originater of the Great Loop "Circle of Friends", a list of boaters who will meet and greet and help out other boaters when they are in their respective home areas. He is also a Mainshipper and we met 4 yrs ago at the Yahoo Group Winter Rendezvous in St. Augustine.Had a nice ,long happy hour with them and will stay tomorrow for the local tour.

TTFN

Huntsville, Al.

2005-07-23T20:28:00.000-04:00

On to Ditto Landing Marina-no shade-it's friggin HOT,HOT, HOT!!! No shade in sight-big Hatteras came in at 6PM and blew the power on the dock in the middle of Gerry cooking dinner-86 degrees in the cabin-16K Btu's can't keep up. Got power back a little later after Gerry had a cold dinner-fortunately Capt. Tom's was on the gas stove and hot. Forecast for tomorrow is 99 degrees and index above 110. Oh well!

TTFN

Athens, Al.

2005-07-22T20:00:00.000-04:00

On to Bay Hill Marina today-repots from wx bureau say hottest weekend of year-heat index 105. Luckily a covered slip here-a little cooler. Two locks today, including Wilson- the highest single lift lock in U.S., East of the Rockies.-93 feet. Passed the "rocketship", Delta Marina on Wheeler Lake, headed for Cape Canaveral(see photo section). Maybe the most unusual sight we have seen on this trip, on the water.

TTFN

Florence, Al.-2

2005-07-21T21:41:00.000-04:00

Contiues extremely hot. Successful dentist episode-not too much pain. Holed up in the boat for the hot PM.-dinner at the Marina cafe-very good. On upriver tomorrow.

TTFN

Florence, Al.

2005-07-20T20:58:00.000-04:00

Left Aqua early and crossed the intersection of Al.,Tn., and Ms. The boat was actually in 3 states at one time-how many can make that claim?? That was the most excitement for the day though-another very HOT day. Docked at Mystic Harbor-another marina with new owners this year(Defeated Creek also). Finally met up with another cruiser-Don and wife on "Travelling Man", a 39' Krogen trawler. Went to dinner with Don at Ricatonni's, the local hotspot in town.-good Italian and very popular. AM dentist appointment for the Capt.

TTFN

Tues.:7-19; Iuka, Ms.

2005-07-20T16:36:00.000-04:00

Short hop today to Aqua Harbor Marina. Fuel filter change and groceries. Heavy thunderstorm in the early PM but we were safely tucked away by then. Dinner out- celebrated a closing for Gerry. On to Florence, Al.tomorrow and a dentist appointment for the Capt. on Thurs. thanks to "Trip Assist" from Boat U.S.-didn't think about them in Nashville when Gerry had her ear infection. Might have saved her a long Emergency Room wait.

Pickwick Dam, Tn.

2005-07-18T20:05:00.000-04:00

Beautiful day on the water today-one of the best all Summer, so far-partly sunny, breezy and crysal clear. Cleared Pickwick lock without delay and docked at the Pickwick Landing State Park Marina-a beautiful spot with a wonderful buffet dinner-best catfish so far! Captain Tom lost part of a tooth and is looking for a dentist in Florence, Al.- should be there in a couple of days. No pain yet, though.

TTFN

Sunday:7-17; Clifton Tn.

2005-07-18T16:10:00.000-04:00

Finally some sun-first time in a week. On to Clifton Marina and dinner on board. Clifton's claim to fame is the home of T.S. Stribling, Pulitzer Prize winner for "The Store" and the Jack Nicklaus designed Ross Creek Landing, Bear Trace golf course.
TTFN

New Johnsonville-3

2005-07-16T21:36:00.000-04:00

Decided to stay another day-marginal wx forecast. Courtesy car to Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park.In case your not civil war buffs(I'm not), N.B.F. was one of the most resourceful Confederate generals. A cavalry leader, he was responsible for sinking 33 Union vessels, 6 million dollars in supplies and captured 150 Union soldiers at Johnsonville. It was the first defeat of a naval force by a cavalry force in military history. His generalship led Sherman to say,"That devil Forrest must be hunted down, even if it costs 10,000 men and bankrupts the Federal Treasury." The top of the park is Pilot Knob, the highest pt. West Tn. with a great 180 degree view of the river.

TTFN

test

2005-07-16T09:37:00.000-04:00

Slideshow | Print at Home | Order Prints | Save to: My Yahoo! Photos or My Computer

Click a photo to view a larger version on Yahoo! Photos. See links above for more options.

SK 001

The larger versions of these photos will be available until October 14, 2005 (90 days)

Share your pictures with PhotoMail from Yahoo! Mail. Learn More Go to Yahoo! Photos

New Johnsonville-2

2005-07-15T22:29:00.000-04:00

Quiet day in port. Lucy now has a close Summer cropping. Quick Wallyworld run-lunch at Mike's Pizza Buffet and dinner at the Marina Cafe again. Wx should start clearing tomorrow, hopefully.

TTFN

New Johnsonville, Tn.-1

2005-07-14T22:09:00.000-04:00

On to one of our favorite stops-exactly 1 month ago- Pebble Isle Marina. Owners Randy and Tammy are gracious hosts. Renewed all our prescriptions and made appointment for Lucy to be groomed tomorrow-can't wait as she is shedding all over the boat. Nice dinner at the dockhouse restaurant. Sunshine for a while today-first time in a few days-but good cruising wx.-overcast and cooler.

TTFN

Buchanan, Tn.

2005-07-13T21:13:00.000-04:00

Finally departed Green Turtle-gray, misty day-ran from down below most of the time. Sun finally came out here at Paris Landing State Park, but we got caught in a good shower, walking Lucy. Dinner on board and onward and upward(up river) tomorrow.
TTFN

Grand Rivers, Ky.-3

2005-07-12T22:05:00.000-04:00

More rain-all day(Dennis is still in the area). Took courtesy car to Paducah where we toured the National Quilters Museum which has some awesome quilts on display-one took almost 10,000 hours to complete. Followed by a fabulous lunch at Whalers Catch in downtown Paducah. Evening was spent with old Mainship acquaintances Dennis Saltsam and Debbie Hinton. Got the grand tour of the area and a pleasant dinner. Thanks guys!

TTFN

Grand Rivers, Ky.-2

2005-07-11T21:18:00.000-04:00

Rain, rain and more rain today-not too much wind though. Forecasting for 2 more days of rain. Actually this area really needs the rain-its' been semi-drought in this area for a couple of months. We'll stay another day or two. Another nice dinner at Patti's though.

TTFN

Grand Rivers, Ky.-1

2005-07-10T21:36:00.000-04:00

Quick, early departure from Bumpus Mills after disposing of hundreds of Mayflies, draped allover the boat-UGH! Now back at Green Turtle Bay Marina where we'll wait out the rains and winds from Dennis, which should start tonight after midnight. Most of the storm effects should be over by Wednesday and we'll star our trek upriver on the Tennessee to Knoxville, 650 miles away by water.

TTFN

Bumpus Mills, Tn. (Sat. 7-9)

2005-07-10T15:17:00.000-04:00

Yup!-Zip Code, 37028.-next to Tobaccoport. Long day-went thru Cheatham lock without delay at 7:30 AM an dno good halfway point to Green Turtle Bay, so 8 1/2 hrs later we pulled into this tiny marina-a/c available to cool down our salon, which was 99 degrees when we plugged in. Thank heavens for air conditioning-it's now 2 hours later and the salon is down to 89 already-it's very hot outside and we have a lot of glass on the other side of our curtains.

Ashland City, Tn.

2005-07-08T22:05:00.000-04:00

Short day today due to 4 hr. projected delay at the Cheatham lock-so we stopped early at Riverview Restaurant and Marina, best known for its catfish dinner-which Gerry had. Good!

TTFN

Nashville Again-2

2005-07-07T23:11:00.000-04:00

Gerry feeling a little better-nice breakfast in the Batman Tower lobby(Chic Filet) and then on to the Frist Museum with a couple of wonderful exhibits. Afternoon beer and later dinner at Mulligan's Irish Pub and in the evening a waterfront concert featuring the Neville Brothers. We listened from the boat at the dock just a few yards from the concert barge. Late night for us-it's already after 10 PM so:

TTFN

Nashville Again-Day 1

2005-07-06T22:14:00.000-04:00

Early lock down at Old Hickory-easy this time.Gerry has an inner ear infection-apparently from her swim in the river last week-spent most of the afternoon in the emergency room. Dinner with Ann & Bob Levine at the German restaurant across the river-Gerst's- not great, but pleasant company and after dinner a ride to the liquor store to replenish Tom's port and our wine locker. Hoping Gerry is feeling better and we'll do some sightseeing-museums and such. Found a couple of nice Cafes with free WiFi. Downloaded some high res photos for the Islander magazine, only to find E-mail rejected due to inadequate mailbox at the Islander-Duh!

TTFN

Cumberland Old Hickory Yacht Club-Hendersonville, Tn.

2005-07-05T22:56:00.000-04:00

Thanks to these nice folks,we were able to tie up to their dock next to the Lock to Nashville(Old Hickory), so we can wait here in the AM in comfort 'till the lock is ready-not like the 4 hour wait on the river on the way up.Friendly people on the dock- thanks Niles and Mary Jane and Rick and the Davenports for making us feel at home. Even had cable TV for a change.

TTFN

Photo Link

2005-07-05T10:24:00.000-04:00

http://tomclare.com/2005/gallery/

or just hit the "photos" link on the side of the page.

Independence Day

2005-07-04T22:22:00.000-04:00

Happy 4th to all. We started with another terrific brunch (filet and eggs-pancakes) at the Gallatin Marina restaurant. Thanks to chef Mike and Donna, the gracious owners. Relaxed the rest of the day with chef Gerry's famous Cincinnati chile (very American). Tom played with the new laptop all day and got most programs working. Please note the photo link now goes to a new photo program-hope you like it-let me know in the guestbook.

TTFN

Gallatin

2005-07-03T21:39:00.000-04:00

Short trip back to Gallatin Marina(Gallatin, Tn.-suburb of Nashville, Aaron). Great brunch and many people on the dock-3 tours of our Camano to interested folks who had never seen one. Toured 2 fabulous houseboats: Jill and Ray's who we met last week here and "Faux Pas", built by hand on an old steel barge by Gary and Barbara Tyler. Will try for pix tomorrow-we're here for a couple of days. New laptop at Wallyworld today, so I'll have fun trying to transfer programs and such from old to new.
TTFN