Marla and I got back late last night after picking up Jonah from Dauphin Island in the Gulf of Mexico south of Mobile. We arrived on Friday just in time to see the guys come barreling across Mobile Bay with their sail up, the tailwind shoving them through the waves and past the puzzled looks and turned heads from boats leaving the bay. They skidded onto the sand at East End beach just past Fort Gaines, hopped into the surf, and their journey was complete. The Saulters joined us cheering and congratulating the boys, hugging them each and trying to capture this enormous moment with cameras.
I suspect most of the parents, like me, have been insufferable lately. At the slightest opportunity when someone asks a casual question about the trip I launch into details, stats, and glowing reports of their success. I've checked the Spot updates endlessly, tracking their constant progress to completion of this dream. We were confident in these men before the trip started, but also aware of how easily weather, sickness, navigation issues, or a dozen other challenges could derail plans at any time. Job, Luke, and Jonah were blessed and fortunate. They were also well prepared. They handled challenges calmly and made wise decisions. They engaged easily with supportive family and friends as well as strangers they met along the way. They took care of each other with love.
We are immensely thankful for all the support and love these guys had from family, friends, and strangers. The countless hours of planning and support from the Dooleys and Saulters gave the team a huge head start. Trip advice from John Guider, paddling gear and technique from Phil Meyer, support from Fisherdale Marina, amazing river kindness from Stefan and the Foremans, and the list goes on.
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