I don't really ahve the time to get the big boat ready, so I pulled
the little one out. I'd rather have the 23'r up and going, but too
much stuff to prep for the time allotted. Like not only checking the
baot out, but also I really need to get some new trailer tires because
the old 6 ply jobs are weather cracked really bad, and I'm not really
sure of the validity of the bearings, and go over and replace the
trailer lights.

So I need to pull all that stuff,and at this venture, my time is
really critical. besides, I want to pull the dented bow rail off
because it took a beating when an empty oil drum hit it from a 10 foot
drop. (my fault-GRRRRR!)

I want to replace the railing with cleats, and I need to fix the stern
nav. light, and add some comfort features. Good part time work when I
have the time, but now isn't it.

So I dig the little 18'r out and de-winterizing it 3.0 GM is a snap.
Put some water plugs in the manifold, tighten the hose clamps, put a
battery in it and muff it. all good to go with exception of a fresh
cleaning. Tonight I got it fired up and ran it at a high idle and
made sure the temp guage was looking good, and plenty of water coming
out the righ places in the back ed. Then sprayed the pig tail
connector to the trailer, plugged it in, and checked all lights (new
two years ago) all is going great. I've already done the wheel
bearings last spring. looked for leakage, jacked up the axle and
checked for lash on the rims. good to go, and installed the drain
plug in the stern so It's not forgotten. (been there!)

Whew!

Anyhow, this weekend my band is doing a local gig at the Clay Co.
park, on the 4th from 3-5. I'm going to tow the boat over to the park,
then immediately afterwards, The Mrs and I will head for Lake Carlyle
and do some laps around the place. Maybe chase some ducks. and explore
some coves, beach the boat on a nice sand bar. do some wading, maybe
eat a burger. Somebody's always grilling and handing them out.

Then about dusk, head for the south west end of the lake and enjoy the
fireworks. For a small community, they REALLY have a great display.
Then because the ramp docks are always loaded for a long time, we'll
probably cruise the lake and take it easy till the congestion calms
down. I don't know if the weather will be overcast or not, but last
year there was a great clear sky, calm water and a 3/4 full moon. just
lovely.

Turn the radio on to 88.7 fm WSIUE (S. IL University- Edwardsville)
and listen to the soft jazz (Diana Krall type) while spotlighting
around the lake.

Come to think about it, I just might give my wife's great nephew a
call and see if he would like to meet us out there and splash around a
bit. He hasn't been on a boat in ages.

Anyhow,I know that situations can change with no given notice, but
that's the plan for now.