Merrickville (2013-07-15)

The lines were cast off at 0900 and we were finally on our way.  After more than two years of planning and dreaming, we had to keep asking ourselves if this really was happening.



A couple of the boaters from the marina decided to see us off with an impromptu water works ceremony.

Our departure water party

We had another bon voyage gift from another boater.  About a half hour out from the marina we noticed two express cruisers approaching from behind us.  One was a larger mid thirtyish foot Sundancer and the other slightly smaller.  We slowed down to give them a chance to do a slow pass, but they didn't slow down at all, and the larger boat nailed us with a major wake.  Then they proceeded to wake a couple kayakers right after us.  Sometimes I mourn for the human species... :-)

A little past noon we were getting ready to start in the Merrickville locks.  We briefly discussed pressing on but with the temperature at 32 and the humidex pushing 36 that idea was quickly voted down 2 to 0.  We had planned on stopping in Merrickville anyways, but we do want to make it to Trenton by the weekend.  These crazy hot days and the chance of thunderstorms later in the week won't help that plan.  But, we're cruisers now, so, as other cruisers say, plans are written in the sand at low tide... :-)

We did a little walking around and decided to reward our first day with a nice dinner out.

A nice dinner

followed by a nice dessert ice cream

We won't be able to do that very often, as eating out is a major budget breaker.  Honestly, it was as much to take advantage of their air conditioning.

Home for the night

All in all, it was a great day, even with the heat.  Tomorrow is supposed to be just as hot, so we'll see how long we last out there.  Oops.  I see the tide coming in. :-)