Perfect ride...not so perfect ride

Look at this sunset. What a perfect night for a cruise. The weather couldn’t have been any better..just right. Not hot, not cold, just perfect. This picture was taken from the top of the deck of the Pittsburgh Clipper. 

We arrived at Station Square in the heart of Pittsburgh after a longer than normal bus ride because we got stuck in a traffic jam on route 80. We had to be there by seven. The boat does not wait for anyone. We were really sweating it as we sat still moving only a few feet every minute. 

We had two of the greatest tour guides who tried to keep us relaxed and happy as we moved so slow. This “horse race” game helped us keep our spirits up. 

We pulled in to the Clipper parking lot at six minutes to seven and quickly boarded. Whew! Made it. We were led onto the downstairs portion of the boat to have our buffet dinner. After eating we climbed the stairs to the top deck. 

As we traveled to the dam and lock we chatted and listened to the DJ play upbeat music. 

Here we are entering the lock which would lower us into the other part of the river. The dam helps control the flow of water into Pittsburgh. It was quite an experience to go through this lock. The gates were closed behind us and water pumped out as we gradually lowered. After we went through we turned right around and went back through and headed home. 

This is the back of the ship with the lock closed behind us. 

On the way back we passed the outlines of the skyscrapers in Pittsburgh. It is a beautiful city. 

We climbed back onto the bus at ten o’clock for the four hour ride home. I was very tired to say the least and slept in till ten thirty and went back to sleep till three thirty. Finally I think I am caught up on my rest. It was a fantastic experience. I would love to do it again someday.