Day 18

Well we docked in Smithville, Mississippi and found a very sad story. Turns out it was the town that got hit by a tornado 2 days before Joplin. The town of 800 was flattened and the owner of the Marina was buried under his house. His 76 year old wife injured seriously and remains in an assisted living unit recuperating. They had one son who is now trying to pick up the pieces. It was one of the most "rustic" marinas so far. Our plans to go to a restaurant changed and we had a leftover smorgasbord with the addition of some fresh, delicious, hamburger Mac-n-cheese. We ate on Mystique and ended with a high pressure game of R-L-C! The weather turned rainy so we went back and relaxed on the boat. We have found boaters to be very friendly and helpful. Always ready to share info. We are surprised at the number of people doing "the great American loop". And some are doing their 2nd time. One couple we met last night has been doing the river life for 5 years and loving it! It is a truly unique way to see the countryside. Today we plan on going thru 3 locks and traveling about 70 miles and ending at Pirates Cove in Pickensville, Alabama. One more state on the list. We are actually mapping out our food on board to get down to basics when we get to Destin. Can't believe we are counting down our days left! We hope to add pictures today so stay tuned.......