We anchored last night in a small cove/creek called Okatuppa Creek with a small sail boat. Okatuppa is a name derived from the Choctaw and means water and fight. The Choctaws fought here with the Creek Indians from Alabama. Despite the interesting history the spot felt pretty swampy and buggy to me! No veranda time!
We left at first light and met a flotilla of 9 boats to go through the Coffeeville Lock. This will be our last lock on the river system until we get to the Hudson River in the late Spring. It was a little nerve wracking with 9 boats. We had to use the first starboard pin and release early to back No Agenda up as the gates opened for clearance. Captain Mike had it under control!
One funny statement a barge Captain said as the flotilla of 8-9 boats passed him: ” Gosh, someone must have left the gate open!! It reminded me of Grandma Josie when she walked into a family wedding reception, she said “I think every dog and its pups is here”!! The barge captains give us direction as to which side of the barge to pass them on, “one whistle or two whistles! The water is pretty skinny in spots and the depth can drop quickly when you move over to make room for the barge! Just went from 17 foot to 7 foot deep passing the barge “Chippewa” on the one whistle.
No Agenda is the first boat in the lock on starboard side.
Mike saw an alligator this morning!!! I missed it. I googled the spiritual meaning or symbolism of the alligator! Alligators are symbols of “wisdom and the protector and keeper of all knowledge. The ferocious beast signifies a new beginning, renewal and growth!
We have been seeing more eagles too! One eagle is perched high in the tree pictured. Eagles represent expansion, strength, a higher perspective, loyalty, vision and manifestation! They can show up when you have your sights on a goal, aspiration or challenge.
We are traveling 78 nautical miles today to our anchorage at the Tensas River Inlet. Hopefully it will be less swampy as I am planning on grilling steaks from Oberle Meats for dinner!! ( planning on Mike grilling steaks!) Tomorrow we will leave the river system behind, trade our gators for dolphins, and see the beautiful gulf shore beaches!!
Today is Reno’s 70th heavenly birthday! Sure miss him. I have a Maya Angelou quote that captures his spirit. “A great soul serves everyone all of the time. A great soul never dies. It brings us together again and again! Happy Birthday dear brother!