More from Mississippi…
After wrapping up writing the first part of this post, we checked the weather and realized we were in for some more thunderstorms. Julie and I took Willie for one last walk of the evening, and as we got back to the boat, we could feel the change in the air. By 10:00, it was booming out – big winds, rain, etc. Really, a great show. Since our dock was really well protected, we were very comfortable in the storm (it was just very loud and bright).
The next day… We get up really early again to get through the lock and have time to walk around a small town about 5 hours away. We shove off at 6:45, and this time, however, the lock-gods are with us. We make it through without a hitch. Has our luck in Mississippi finally turned? Turns out – no….
To get to this town (Columbus MS), we need to turn off the main channel into a smaller one. The guidebook warns that the water can get shallow at the junction – as low as 6 ft. Since we draw only 3 ½ feet, we’re cautious, but feel comfortable going in. Any guesses what happens next? You got it, as I’m driving in, I see the depth sounder go from 6’ to 2.5 ft in about 2 seconds…. Smack dab into a sandbar (more like a mudbar – if that’s really a ‘thing’). Either way, we’re stuck. We try our trusty anchor trick – no luck (we can spin the boat – but we’re not going anywhere). Ugh… Good thing we bought tow insurance. A call to TowBoat US and about an hour or so later, the towboat arrives. He tells us that he pulled a 56’ boat off this same spot a few days earlier. Not sure if we was telling me this to make me feel any better – but if he was, it worked. At least I’m not the only idiot to get stuck here. Fortunately, the getting unstuck process goes smoothly – and we’re on our way. Only 20 miles to Alabama (fingers crossed).
Note: As I hit send on this post, we’re at a comfortable anchorage in Alabama… sweet (temporary) home Alabama!
Hi Sally!!! Excited to read the posts!