Despite cool weather and rain earlier this year, the Illinois River is in peak condition according to experienced boaters David and Carol Abbey.

"The river has some debris in it," Dave Abbey said. "But it's been good for boating so far this year."

The Abbeys own an older houseboat that they remodeled and now have in good running condition. They used to own a small cabin cruiser.

"This has a lot more room," Carol Abbey said. "We can sleep on the boat and still have plenty of room to make breakfast too. It's just a lot nicer."

The Abbeys are members of Starved Rock Yacht Club near Starved Rock State Park in Illinois. The club participates in several outings throughout the year.

In addition to the houseboat, the Abbeys also own a jet ski.

The jet ski has been quite popular with their children, grandchildren and friends.

"I have to get me one of these," said their son, David D. Abbey, after taking the jet ski out for a run recently. "We could have a blast with one of these."