Joe Wheeler

Sara and Natalie departed this afternoon, after a relaxing morning with pancakes for breakfast.  We spent some time sitting in the sun near the pool and walking around the Joe Wheeler lodge and resort.   It was great to have time to visit individually with these young adults whom we have known so well all their lives.

Our Dock

Over the day most of the last Looper boats came into Joe Wheeler.  At least 15 arrived yesterday, and another 15-20 came today.  Most every slip is filled and the lodge is getting ready for the gatherings, classes, exhibitions and parties that we will take part in this week.   The docks are lined with interesting boats, each one bearing an AGLCA burgee.  The bright fresh burgees (flags) are on boats like ours that haven’t been on the loop very long.  Boats that are almost home and have been out for a year or more in the sun and spray are wearing faded and slightly tattered flags as a badge of honor.  Once the loop is completed, the boat and crew earn a gold burgee.

Reunion tied at the dock with other Loopers

Boats chosen to do the Loop tend to be 34-46 feet long, although there is a complete variety of sizes and shapes.  At the end of our dock is a catamaran, next to a Nordic Tug, and boats that are being furbished share slips with 50’ yachts with all the bells and whistles.  Each one lovingly selected to suit the needs and preferences (and pocketbooks) of the owners.   A couple that was here walking the docks to look at potential loop boats came aboard and visited with us about the various attributes of Reunion.   Everyone appreciates the wood interior and lines of Reunion, but some will go with bigger engines and faster speed.  We love her just the way she is.

This evening was the first Docktail party with most Loopers in attendance.  We have now met up with all the people we first met in Door County, and at the pizza party we attended in Chicago over labor day weekend.  

Lots of really great looking boats

Docktails at the pool start at 5:00