Woke up around 10:30 and was on the river about 12:30. I felt a little hungover from my all-nighter and didnt really get into a groove at all today with paddling. I did take the best photo ever though, of anything you’ve ever seen. Sarcasm.
THE Evansville, Indiana skyline…complete with barge cameo.
I still put up a solid 20 miles and made it all the way to Henderson, KY. Nearing Henderson this guy pulls up on a jet ski and we start chatting it up about my trip…daily occurence. But he pulls a fast one and offers me a place to stay–so tonight I got a hot shower, great flat iron steak, and real bed. No strings attached. Just a good dude who wanted to help me out.
I don’t need a hotel. I have river friends.
Hoosiers talk about Hoosier Hospitality. Not once has anyone from Indiana offered to help me out. Not that I need it, its just that the only ones who offer are from KY.
Even when I was in Tell City, IN about to walk a few miles back to the river, a guy from Lewisport, KY was the one who offered to take me back. I haven’t been to a place in a long time where you can leave bikes unlocked on a busy street, open your house to a passerby, or just meetup with some rando’s and make a friend instantly.
Bennie Mouser, you’re a good man. And though you wouldn’t let me repay you and buy your meal, I’ll certainly pass it on to the next person like you asked.
Saw this on my way back to the dock and couldn’t help but smile.
nahum martin
Jul 11, 2014 -
Sold cable in Henderson for a month or two.
Zach
Jul 11, 2014 -
its a pretty cool little community. Surprised at how clean and good for small business it was. You dig it?
nahum martin
Jul 15, 2014 -
Yeah. It was cool enough. Couldn’t imagine living there though…
Brittany Howey
Jul 11, 2014 -
Hey Zach!
I love reading your blog while I’m up all night lol. It is so exciting and something I would never ever be brave or independent enough to do. I always think as a read your stories that I don’t just stop and talk to people around me anymore. I am guilty of living in my own little world with my head buried in my phone or a book or whatever it is I’m caught up in and I’m really missing out on seeing what’s happening around me. (Not that anyone in Marion would be doing anything this awesome though, but maaaaaybe I could talk to someone random once in a while.) Anyway I’m rambling from lack of sleep, stay safe and good luck!
Brittany
Zach
Jul 11, 2014 -
Britt! so glad to hear from you! I’ve seen a few pics of your daughter. she is gorgeous, definitely worth some sleepless nights. Thank you much for following me here. I’ll be on the Mississippi in less than a week and can hardly believe it. Been a lot of fun and a lot of grit. and yes, you should definitely start talking to strangers. 🙂
Nana
Jul 11, 2014 -
I got a very nice post from Benny. There are some really nice people out there. I’m sorry so far, that none of them have been Hoosiers. I know they’re out there. Perhaps it’s just timing….. Stay strong and safe!!! And enjoy.
Love you, Nana.
Zach
Jul 11, 2014 -
yup, bennies just a good dude. steak dinner and warm bed, wanted nothing in return. A true practicing christian.
Marianne
Jul 11, 2014 -
It was fun meeting you as you paddled into Henderson and also getting to see you briefly at On Deck! You couldn’t have been more fortunate than to have met Bennie…he is truly one of the nicest men I have ever known!! Now that you know where he lives, we will expect you back in our town soon!
Zach
Jul 15, 2014 -
Marianne,you are so sweet. I cant tell you how sorry I am that you were waiting for me at that dock for so long! i owe you a drink or three for sure. if I’m back in henderson you’ll have to take me up on it.
Bennie Mouser
Jul 12, 2014 -
Zach……Glad We Meet…..Always Welcome At Our Home.
Just So You Know, You Were My Adventure For The Day. And Yes, Nothing Like River Friends..Paddle Well My Friend.
Gathering A Resource For You As Soon As He Returns My Call. He’s Been Down The Mississippi Several Times And Understands The River. I’ll Get You His Phone# And Email So You May Communicate If There’s A Need
I Have Always Wondered “Why Not” ……Never Understood “Can’t”
Live In The Precious Moment, That’s All That God Promised On This Earth, In This Time.
#Seeyouontheotherside
Zach
Jul 15, 2014 -
Bennie, you’re the man! thank you for dave’s contact info and a night off the river. i will hit him up tomorrow when I get into paducah. Much respect and thanks from a weary traveler. your friend, Zach.
Nikki Mitchell
Jul 12, 2014 -
Love the Lewis and Clark sign. Just what you needed to see 🙂 Muchos besos my son
Caroline Mouser
Jul 16, 2014 -
Hey Zach! Im Bennie Mouser’s daughter. He has told me all about you and your trip! Im so glad to hear that you enjoyed Hendo. I just wanted to wish you a rad adventure down the Ohio 🙂
Blessings,
Caroline Mouser
Zach
Jul 16, 2014 -
Hey Caroline! thanks for the well wishes. the trip has been precisely awesome thus far. Hendo is a neat little community and you’re lucky to find yourself growing up there. I’d have never seen the place though had your dad not invited me over. He’s a real solid dude, your father is. Take care and hope to see you on the water some day.