Cell Phones on the River

Welcome to "Backwater Backwash", a random and incomprehensible collection of thoughts, observances and experiences in no particular order, so that it makes absolutely no sense at all.

Recently, I have been dubbed the "Make-Do" girl. I resemble that remark... What this refers to is the fact that I try my best to save money and find multiple uses for things. I have also been called "Ms. McGyver". I manufacture and modify things all the time. Sometimes, out of necessity...

Sometimes, just for fun. I may write a book......

While on a recent trip down the Current River in Missouri, I discovered (never said I was quick!) that my cell phone would not get service where we were. And I promised Joe and my boys that I would call every evening!

During that week, we found a working pay phone at a spot on the river. My hubbie's phone was off right then, so I couldn't call him. I couldn't even leave a message since I was calling collect. A day or so later, we found another ranger station, but the pay phone there was not working. Then, at a spot that we stopped at to camp for the night, I happened to find a TV cable right where I was setting up my tent. The rusty cogs started creaking.

With the aid of two willing participants, we attempted an experiment. A rock was put into a small bag, which was tied to a rope. This was then thrown over a tall tree limb. Amazingly, no one had to be treated for a concussion. The cable was then tied to the rope and hoisted up. I found a twisty tie, and after stripping the plastic off of it, I attatched the cable to my cell phone antenna. We waited with bated breath.........well, I'm pretty sure MY breath smelled like bait...

Anyway, it was a good try. It might have worked, too, if we were higher up or something. Of course, the statement, "I knew it wouldn't work" was uttered. But, it COULD have. I would have been mad at myself if I didn't at least try. And I swear I saw a single bar flicker for just a moment.... but it could have just been wishful thinking. You never know......

Sometimes, crazy experiments actually work. Just look at the wheel. I'm sure they all thought Grog was nuts. You just have to try.

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SYOTR!
Cecilia Gill