May 19 – Waterford, NY

Waterford Canal Welcome Center

"True humility is not thinking less of yourself; it is thinking of yourself less.” —C.S. Lewis

Today was the day...the Erie Canal opened for it’s 193rd year. This year marks the beginning of their Bicentennial Celebration. After a little entertainment and many speeches from state and canal dignitaries the boat horns were blown and the locks were officially opened. Most of the boats on the dock and even more boats that moved up the Hudson came through today. I’m glad we decided to wait a few days.

We've said it many times before, the people in Waterford are the most friendly and giving than anywhere else we've visited. This past week we've met a lot of nice people, two that really stand out are Chris and Gina. They both work on tugs on the Erie Canal. Last night they invited us over for dinner...what a treat. Good food, lots of great history on the canal and great fellowship…we had a fantastic time.

The view from our flybridge

The lieutenant governor, Kathy Hochul, officially opened the canal

The first group of boats ready to be lifted up

At the top of the lock...the water was raised 35'

Letting the water out so the next group of boats can go in

The doors opening up to let the next boats go in

Our Canadian friends moving into the locks...they were in the second group to lock up

Our new friends Gina and Chris