Joe Wheeler, after the Rendezvous

Some of the second group to leave after the fog lifted

It was foggy and cool early this morning as 16 boats departed Joe Wheeler after the finish of the Rendezvous – what a pretty sight as the long string of boats went out into the mist that was lifting around 9 am.   We have had a great time here, socializing and learning from other boaters.  There were approximately 100 Loopers here, and 120 people who came just to learn about the loop, think about what kind of boat to buy and talk to the people who are actually doing it.  

On two afternoons there was a “Looper Crawl” where many people open their boat and you can walk through the various sizes and models, and consult with people about the features that make each boat unique.  There is a little serious buying and selling, and a lot of curious looking around.  At the end of the day, everyone is sure that they have the perfect boat for themselves, and they are probably right.

Yesterday evening there was a final dinner and some awards – such as the “Oldest Looper”.  That would be Hank, who is accompanying his daughter and son-in-law and has been aboard for several months.  Hank is 90 and a veteran of WWII, Korea and Vietnam.  He had his picture taken with about 25 women and loved every minute of it.  He is returning to his home in Chattanooga this week.

Sharing stories with friends

Pleasant conversation

Adequate seating

The Flotilla Crew – the people from the 4 boats who have traveled together with us since Peoria, Ill, came to our boat for a late night party.  Today Lori and Bill will head home to San Diego for 3 months, and by Christmas we will lose Chuck and Sue from Blue Moon, and Al and Charli, from Always 5 O’clock as they complete the loop and return to home ports.  So it was a last chance to laugh and tell stories about all the experiences we shared. 

Chuck and Sue have a dog, Maggie, as well as a cat and a parrot on board.  Lots of folks bring their pets and have the added chores of finding a place to go for a walk on land about twice a day.   Most of us had temporary live-aboards when we caught Asian Carp on the Illinois River.  Sue had to sweep one out of the back of their boat and took a lot of teasing – so she got a fierce looking “Bad to the Bone” T-shirt with a picture of a fish skeleton on it.  It looks really fun on this sweet attractive blonde from Alabama.

More stories to come on the next legs of the Loop.