The last month here on the dock at Three Forks Marina, has seen lots of activity by the four boats planning for departure on October 18.We are down to two days, and preparations have been hectic. Robyn and I moved onto the Nest Monday afternoon. We had a list of things that had to be done prior to departure.

When we were here last weekend, my mom and dad came to the marina so we took the Nest out for a little run up the river. After tying up, I plugged in the shore power, but forgot to turn on the main breaker. Consequently, when we got back to the Nest seven days later, the first thing Robyn noticed was a foul smell aboard Robyn's Nest. Everything in the refrigerator was bad! Our first job was to empty and clean it out. I don’t know how long the fridge operated on the inverter, but it wasn’t as bad as you would think.

The next priorities were finishing the enclosure and rebuilding the forward head. I ran out of materials for the enclosure that I was sewing at home, so we had what I needed mailed to the marina. The enclosure is done with the exception of adding some snaps to secure it with, and some tabs to secure each panel when it is rolled up. The forward head has been giving us some problems for a few weeks, so Robyn and I are going to rebuild it as soon as it gets light enough outside to work on it.

As I sewed yesterday, Robyn finished stowing away the car-load of supplies. She really did a great job organizing everything that had to be put away. Robyn is an organization freak, and it pays off big when it comes to living on a boat. She says everything has to have a place, and if it doesn't, re-evaluate the need.

Today Robyn will finish applying the Poly Glow to the flybridge, I will figure out the last problem with the AIS, and we will purchase the final things we need on board. Pat and Cathy will arrive today and probably spend the afternoon stowing away their belongings.

After bringing Robyn's Nest to Three Forks Harbor in Muskogee, we have dedicated all our time to preparing her for the Great Loop. We have made many friends here, and as we prepared the Nest, a small flotilla began to form. First, Flint and Vicky aboard Dream Catcher, decided they wanted to join us. Then, Josh Barrett aboard ,Gabriella, decided he too would come along. Just three weeks ago, Kevin and Melinda Cahill aboard Milady, decided they would go as far as Pass Christian, Mississippi also. Kevin is from Pass Christian, so they have decided to take their boat to a new marina there. It's funny how things work out – the first boat in was the first boat out. Unfortunately Dream Catcher will be staying behind for another month due to a family issue. Fortunately, they will meet us in Bay Saint Louis after the holidays. Then, just last night, I got a text from Josh, telling me he was going to delay his departure so he can get his boat more prepared. So, as it stands now, the last boat to join us, is the only other one left going. So, Kevin and Melinda, no backing out! You are committed!

Friday night the marina and the Muskogee Chamber of Commerce are hosting a Bon Voyage party for us. The local newspaper is sending a reporter to interview us and do an article on Three Forks Harbor and how it relates to us Loopers. The Arkansas river is typically not part of the loop, but I have to say, it certainly makes a very nice side trip for those that are starting the loop below the confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers. That would also apply to anyone cruising the lower Mississippi River.

Well the sun is beginning to peak its head out, so I better get to work. Our next post will be somewhere down the Arkansas river.