[Gwyn]

I was already excited about this, but it just got better. The coolest real steam paddlewheeler on the river makes LaCrosse its home port.

http://www.JuliaBelle.com

It's so cool, John Hartford even wrote a song about it. It's so cool, it was the subject of my first ever scrapbook layout, when the boys and I did a little walk on tour of the boat. I've always wanted to do a cruise on this one, but they are pricey.

Well, the steamboat company offered to be a corporate sponsor for our storytelling festival in exchange for having some of us tell on a couple of their dinner cruises. So myself and two of the others are telling this September. I was already thrilled about that.

Today I get an email that the captain wants us all to tour the boat to become familiar with it. We are guests on a brunch cruise the week before!

Really, I don't need to be familiarized. I've told on a similar boat at the Iowa Storytelling Festival last year. I'm at this point in my storytelling that I hardly do freebies anymore, because, well, they treat you in accordance with what you're paid, I've discovered. But this one was too much to resist, and with them becoming sponsors, I felt it was a fair trade. At this point, I think I'm getting the better end of the deal!

Of course, my camera will be along for the ride both trips!

[Betsy]

Cool! Sounds like a lot of fun!

[varanda]

I love listening to stories, what a great calling you have found! Looking forward to seeing your LO of this event!

Have a great time, sounds like a winning deal for everyone!

[faithfulscrapper]

How exciting! Cant wait to hear about it and see your pictures.

[Jadedolphin]

Wish I was there, that boat looks brilliant! Someone orb me there!! please!

[ScrappingForever]

Gwyn, what a great time that will be! For you and the listeners! Can't wait to hear how it goes!

[rixmom]

What a fantastic opportunity! I'd love to go along with you.

Very cool Gwyn!

[JEB]

That's really cool! Enjoy yourself and get lots of pics!