??? What Tucker found at the end of the Canal ???

Our destination today was Oswego, New York and the end of our Erie Canal trip. The distance was only about 60 miles so we slept in and had a leisurely breakfast on board. We departed at 8:15 and got to our first lock at 8:16 (we docked on the West side of lock 24). Dad and Dave decided that was too damn soon for lock tending and their contract clearly states they are permitted one hour at sea prior to any lock work. I told them to file a grievance with my labor relations girl (go to Hellen Wait). All of the locks went well until the last two when a nasty wind kicked up and was swirling. We fought to keep the 22 tons of "What Ever It Takes" from drifting around inside the lock chambers (if not for the courage of the fearless crew, the good ship would be lost). You have to be old enough to remember where that line came from. We arrived at the end of the locks and were very surprised at what Tucker had found...GOOD DOG !!!

 Dave with his morning coffee still in a good mood as he hadn't bumped his head yet (probably hit it 20 times a day).

Dad up and going, Tucker still trying to wake up.

OK, everybody awake and enjoying the morning sunshine.

Nearly every lock had an old mill adjacent. This one converted to a hotel.

As we traveled East the traffic got heavier and LARGER.

One of Tuckers favorite hangouts.

A lock opening so we could leave.

If you missed the lock you were in a world of hurt.

The back of the lock just before we could exit holding back 25 feet of water.

The front of the lock just before leaving. We dropped 25 feet in about two minutes ( a sinking feeling).

Dammit Dave, I told you to keep the green buoy on your right!!!

Approaching the LAST LOCK.

We entered the Oswego Harbor, Lake Ontario ahead.

Home for the night.

Tucker, Dave, Dad, and I.

The new crew arrives at 5:30 Mike, Rick, and Denny (my brothers).

Dinner out.


And finally what Tucker found at the end of the Canal...............

GOOD DOG !