Training Log Archive: BillD

At last a clear day with sunshine. Trip through the eastern part of the Erie Canal over several days was under grey skies, in dark green, vine covered forests, tying up in out-of-town places for the evening. The cellular internet hookup through the ship's router was very intermittent and slow. The Oswego River/Canal was more scenic with nicely landscaped residences along the shores. Rough crossing of Lake Ontario at night in 2-3 foot seas in a shallow draft ship was a challenge for most of the passengers -- I loved it. Best sleep in years, reminiscent of my Navy days. Glad we got into the St Lawrence before the 25 knot winds and 3-5 foot swell on Lake O hit.

Best part of this cruise is the hired historian, Joe Whitehorn, a retired army archivist/history advisor. His lectures and conversations really make history of the Erie Canal and of the War of 1812 come alive. He can describe a battle like you and he are right there at the time, practically ducking the rounds and dodging bayonets. Terrific! And I hated (was bad at) history all through my academic years.

Not much exercise aboard this small ship in the Erie Canal. Just what my physical therapist says is what I need - rest the hip. Hope this works because I'd really like to be back in the woods hunting for lamp shapes.

Cold front final came to eastern NY. Temperatures way down from the 90s of last few days, but it's still raining and humid. We are tied up behind some DOT facility in the boonies near Amsterdam, NY, for the overnight. Darn. I had hoped to be in some small town with colorful lights and characters as subjects for nighttime street photography.

Some really interesting people on board, making for great conversation. But then there are the usual number of boors one finds in any group that strive to top everyone else's stories.

Relaxing and chilling ain't easy, but I'm getting there. Bad internet connection helps. Where's that paperback book I packed?

Aboard small ship Grande Mariner lying in Kingston NY this morning while many took the bus tour over to the FDR estate. Outisde is like being in a bowl of boiling milk. Did a VERY slow shuffle around this empty town hunting for artsy pics to take. May have a couple worth showing someday. Yesterday coming up the Hudson, passed in view of the USMA's hills where the 2012 meet was held. Also could see the Blue Mt. Reserve at Peekskill. This afternoon we'll be steaming up to Troy where the crew will lower the deck house and other upper deck paraphernalia so we can fit under bridges we'll encounter in the Eire Canal.

C • Cruise 5

With Charlie at Sessions, vetting control spots. Just about done. Went very slowly since the adductor has been really sore in the last few days (anything to do with my trying to move a 6 cu. yd. pile of wood chips?!). Charlie was nice enough not to complain on the snail's pace, and we took the opportunity to closely scrutinize some areas that have changed quite a bit since last mapped. Could not have asked for better weather.

Great day to be out on the course. Unfortunately the groin strain started complaining and I decided to bail after the sixth hole to ice down.