Days 2 & 3 on our way to Nashville

These pelicans were everywhere! Simply magical, I LOVE these guys!

On our 2nd day we traveled 70 miles to Clarksville, TN. We made it in a little over 7 hours, which was impressive considering we were traveling upstream, against the current. Yippee! The ride was gorgeous, the Cumberland River is very serene, almost tranquil compared to the Mississippi. We basically had the river to ourselves with the occasional pontoon boat, fishing boat and only 4 Tows. We came under the railroad bridge in Clarksville with views of a town much like any suburb in Illinois. This was the largest town we have seen since we left Peoria, on the Illinois River, a month ago. It was a bit exciting to see fast food and lots of cars. The plan was to stay 2 nights since we have time to kill before our reservation in downtown Nashville. Yay!

We spent our time walking and walking and walking. Most of the town was a good mile or two away and since we have legs we decided to trek it. Very happy we did as we enjoyed Mexican food, burgers and fried chicken. We got a little culture at the museum in town, from a Greek woman selling produce and a visit to the local pawn shop (Ben scored some tools too!). We learned Crocket does not like walking along busy roads, the poor guy walked over 2 miles with his tail tucked so we dropped him off at the boat while we went back out to sight-see some more. I didn't feel guilty stuffing my face with unhealthy food and adult beverages with all the walking we did. I figure since my 'skinny' shorts still fit...I'm good (for now)! All of Ben's shorts are falling off him (seems he is good too!)...time for some shopping! We have been getting quite a bit of exercise since we began this trip, without a car we either walk or take our bikes everywhere and with Crocket we can't be lazy!

So far the side trip to Nashville is going supurb! We have one more stop before we arrive in downtown Nashville...I'm pretty excited since this will be my first visit to "Nash-Vegas" as Ben calls it. Two more boat rides and we will be there!! woo woo!

One of the larger tows we saw along the ride

Fort Donelson National Battlefield, one of three Confederate forts the Union captured, opening the Tennessee River and the Cumberland River to control by the Union Navy. 

The trees are starting to change colors.

Crocket needing a little love while underway

Coming into Clarksville...this is the most retail we have seen along the rivers 

Clarksville Marina, we could not fit under the covered slips

Temperatures went down to 46 at night, the morning fog was beautiful

A member of our cruising club recommended this yummy burger stop

Museum and a sexy man!

Cute downtown 

Vanilla beer...delicious! Blackhorse Brewery 

Cheers to the captain for getting us here and drinking with me!