Confederate Revenge

OK, I know the Union won the war between the states. After all Pam & I are from Galena, Illinois, the hometown of General U.S. Grant. But....as of the recent passing of the 150th anniversary of the start of the war the Confederates are still inflicting pain on us Yankees. How you ask? Well here you go.

I've mentioned in earlier posts the northern migration of boats from all over the northeast, Midwest, and even Canada. The revenge on these traveller's comes in the form of the noseeums that infest the migratory route of all us Yanks. Just when you think it's safe to step outside the cabin you're attacked by these nearly invisible biting insects. Ouch! They not only bite but the bite itches for days afterward. One boater describes them as "flying teeth". We battled these critters from Florida to the Chesapeake limiting our time outside to the bare minimum.

I'm convinced it was a last ditch effort by the Confederacy to leave a lasting memory of their efforts to secede from the Union. Not one of the locals complain about these little critters. In fact they almost deny their existence!

Not the best picture, but they are elusive!

Further revenge comes in the form of the above pictured repellent that is sold at various outlets along the ICW. I'm pretty sure it's just Avon Skin So Soft, re-bottled, marked up in price, and sold to chumps like us as we pass through.
Now that we're beyond the Confederate States we'll start gearing up for the mosquito's. I can't wait! At least you can hear and see them.