Shout-out from Alabama

To Family and Friends:  Now that have traveled over 1,000 miles and we are taking a (forced) break, we have time to reflect on how we appreciate y'all (we are in Alabama!) and the send-off you gave us.  Dennis Sr and Jr, thanks for your advice and thanks for all the parts from your private marine store - I'm still making improvements with them - the external speaker really helps me hear the barge captains, even if I can't understand what the hell they're saying.   Kevin and Patty, Earl and Misty, it's wonderful to have you with us; your comments on the blog keep us connected.  Van, we want you to know that we are still enjoying your canned goods;  the other night I made stuffed mushrooms smothered in your spaghetti sauce, DELICIOUS (I'll text you my recipe - it's a George Forman special).  Jan and Brian, all the other loopers know exactly who we are and where we're from thanks to the big banner on the back of the boat.  Greg and Eileen, the wine was delicious with grilled salmon, especially after a long, long looper day fraught with Mississippi River dangers. Cindy, we always enjoy looking at your driftwood art - it sits in a prominent spot in our salon, reminding us of our home port. Thank you Rachel for looking after us (it's more than just the mail).  Thanks again Dennis Jr - Miss Hattie wouldn't be moving w/o your expertise and thanks for keeping the  house dusted (and a few other small things, like removing the 3/4 ton of leaves).  Gary, the marriage savers are still saving - we couldn't coordinate the anchoring tasks w/o them - first mate at the helm keeping us in place against the current while the captain drops the hook
.  Gretchen and Gavin, keep those pics coming of you-ins and the kids, and we hope you're sharing our blog with Rowan.

We're staying safe. We'll keep in touch.

Here's to You All

Yours truly,
800-Dock Vagabonds
Captn Bob and First Mate Lenore