Life is a journey and like other journeys, the river doesn't always lead where you expect it to. Chip started this journey six years ago...some people baked bread, other people started painting or working out, Chip took a deep dive into the Mississippi River (in literature, history, and memoir,) Mark Twain and the importance of the river to American culture.

The further this NorthernSon floated down river in his mind, the more he wanted to make the figurative journey a literal one. He began sketching rafts, pouring over river maps and researching (cultural history, music etc.) The journey began to take shape in his mind.

Next came loads and loads of pallets, crates and salvaged lumber. He spent hours in the barn breaking down and categorizing his loot. Scouring Craig's List free produced a bounty of 55 gallon drums (barrels). After researching alternatives, he felt this was the best free method to keep him above water.

He sailed away from Morris Knolls in June of 2025, and raft constructing became his new full time job. In the last year, he has framed the deck, strapped on 24 barrels, spent the winter indoors fabricating the sections of the shelter, and then in spring he began whitewashing, assembling the shelter from the components stored in the barn, and adding the details such as a composting toilet, interior lights, refrigeration, marine radio and custom screens to keep those Mississippi mosquitoes out!

In early March, he hit an unexpected bend in the river when he broke a rib, working on the raft, of course. This was a strong current pushing him in the wrong direction. He shifted course from a modular raft that would need to be broken down in NJ and reassembled in Hannibal, MO to a plan to ship the raft whole, or mostly whole. This is when our biggest unanticipated expense anchored us and kept us from floating with ease: the rigging companies on both ends of the load and a private shipping company to drive the raft (as a wide load) all the way to Missouri, it was like running aground on a sandbar. (See today's pictures)

But, we have persevered, paddling, borrowing and adjusting as needed with lots of help. We have had some amazingly generous colleagues at MK who have donated their time to assist in raft construction, and who have donate essential items, like an electric bike! The bike will enable Chip to restock groceries and do laundry in between floating days. Thank you anonymous MK volunteers and donors!!!

Well, today he finally left to begin the literal journey of his dream on the NorthernSon2026. He and the raft should arrive in Hannibal, MO late on May 28th. He will then spend a few days reassembling the sleeping loft and setting up everything that was packed inside for shipping (solar panels, motors and more). The goal is June 3rd-5th departure.

As avid river paddlers for years now, the one thing that we can say for sure is that you never float down the same river twice. There will still be surprises around every bend, we are sure, but now it is time for Chip to kick back, let the current take control and enjoy the ride.

Thank you to all who have already contributed in one way or another. This dream wouldn't have been realized without you. If you can afford to add just a little more, we won't forget it and we surely would appreciate it. Your contributions will ensure smooth sailing over the next three months and will help Chip to focus on the research for the eventual book that will follow.

Follow Chip on Instagram @NorthernSon2026 and soon he will be livestreaming on Youtube @NorthernSonNJ