Changing colors

Well, we have gone from the colors of the ocean via deep blue, light blue and dolphins to "creamed coffee" and green borders of the river and GATORS!
Yep, as we were cruising down the mobile river, past downtown Mobile AL about 30 NM, I was preparing lunch and looking out the galley window and what did I see....a big ass gator laying on the banks of the river. After we passed, he dove in. I was continuously checking our dinghy to see if we had an unwelcomed passenger.
When we departed, Ed was pretty tense as he was trying to remember everything that Captain Larry had told him about the engine and all the systems. Friends Barry and Vince were a great blessing to assist. Lisa; mean time just prepared meals, piloted the boat off the dock and up river as well as stopped occasionally to clean up. No worries.
So, this evening, we have dropped anchor in a little bayou and as I look up river, there's these little tents along the shore. I wonder; are they making moonshine or what?
I did get to request my first bridge opening to a "swingbridge master". "Bridgemaster, this is motor vessel Great Mates, when is your next opening?" After about 6 minutes, he opened the bridge so we could pass through. COOL!
Tomorrow, we will journey thru some locks. Whewhoo; that will be so cool!
As for this evening; we have all had enough wine and food to sleep well.
God's peace, Lisa