The fog rolled in and out and then in again while we were having breakfast. We have to wait for it to lift before heading south again. This river is non forgiving so anything but perfect weather and conditions is a must. The current, the barges, the underwater wingdams and weir dams that must be avoided. Too much to contemplate for taking chances. So we wait.
It doesn’t go to waste though. Scott lifts the hatch to look at the engines and drain the fuel filters. The generator is working up to par as well. We are ready to shove off and the fog has lifted. As we head south we see turbulence around the corners which are there due to wing dams and weir dams. Some are just below the surface while others are on the bottom. Our charts let us know which is which. It is so hot today. A whopping 93 degrees with 98 percent humidity and barely any breeze. A storm is brewing so everything is stable for now. We end up passing 4, yes 4 super huge barges with their tows set close together and pushing it. The turbulence and waves were so big that they crashed over the bow. We’ve been slimed! I really despise this river but at the same time it is magnificent. With it’s high sedementary rock cliffs, beautiful tree lined banks, (among the industry, that is) and blue skies.
We are setting our sights on the entrance to the Kaskaskia River entrance to stay at the lock there. The current is almost none and the waves will be minimal while at the lock.
Upon arriving we are set up on the wall of the outside of the lock. We can walk the boardwalk and use the dingy if we want. That’s it. It is still a government lock with regulations. Apparently there is water too but we haven’t found it yet. It is actually picturesque in it’s own way. But it is sooooo hot today. No air unless the gen goes on and we have to conserve our diesel for the next 250 miles with no stop.
