Day 78 Mississippi River
As Kelly was walking out the door to work in the morning, I jumped off the couch, remembering that we needed a picture before she left.
Once gone I retreated back to the couch for a few more ZZZs. The plan for today was to get back on the river and put a few miles between Memphis and me. Before I had remembered that Kelly lived in Memphis, a fellow named Bill had reached out to me on Facebook, offering to put me up or help in anyway once I got to town. I stayed in loose contact with him throughout my stay, and now it was time to cash in on his offer. After a quick call the plan was set. Bill would meet me at Kelly's and shuttle me to the river.
Sometime around Noon Bill pulled up in his sons classic green Land Rover Defender. We loaded up the gear into the whip and strapped down my canoe to the roof rack.
Wanting to grab a few postcards from Memphis to send off before I left, Bill took me to the Peabody Hotel, famous for the ducks that inhabit the fountain in the lobby of the upscale hotel. As I walked into the gift store I passed the ducks, floating and playing in the water as if no one was there, living the four star life.
Next was a food stop. The Arcade, a 50s style diner that Elvis was known to frequent, was Bills choice. A great bacon cheese burger and strawberry milkshake hit the spot.
With those two items down, Bill and I headed back to Mud Island, where I had originally been picked up. On a chilly, cloudy day Bill helped me to load the boat. Before leaving he gave me a few tips and resources to look into as I paddle the Delta.
By the time I hit the water it was near 2:30pm. At 2:45pm I made a call into one of my South Dakota classrooms, video chatting with the kids while floating under the iconic Memphis "M" bridge. Once done with the call I was able to get a few miles in before the setting sun forced me off the water.
Another great day and a great stay in Memphis, Tennessee. It was great to reconnect with Kelly, great to meet Bill, and good to be back on the water.