On Wednesday, June 1, we planned to leave Dowry Creek Marina in Bellhaven, NC at first light to travel 84 miles to Coinjock; the forecast for the 15 miles across Albemarle Sound was good with light winds from the northeast. This was our view from the flybridge -- dense smoke from the fires in NC combined with fog! By 8:25 AM, we were underway and crossed our fingers that the smoke wouldn't be dense further north and the winds would remain calm. Fortunately, all worked out and we arrived at Coinjock in time for cocktails and the 32 oz. prime rib dinner at the marina's restaurant. It is a bargain as it provides three meals for us and some sharing with Alex.

On June 2, we arrived at Tidewater Yacht Service in Portsmouth for several days of relaxation, staring at the skyline in Norfolk as shown, and watching boat traffic entering and leaving the ICW. We also stared at several mega-yachts that docked at the marina and were amazed when one took on fuel -- 9,000 gallons -- which took an entire morning. We think that was the one that had a crew of 12 on board!

On Monday, June 6, we arrived at Dozier's Regatta Point Marina in Deltaville and docked in a covered shed with a view of the marina office and boaters' lounge. Jim scheduled appointments with marine fabricators and canvas people to discuss replacing the bimini top and enclosure with a hardtop and new enclosure. After much analysis, calculating, and rehashing, he decided to go ahead with this project. The month was spent socializing with friends and other boaters who either stopped as transients or are slip holders. We participated in cookouts in the picnic area, wine & cheese parties on the Veranda, the $5 breakfast every Sunday on the Veranda, and have had some great dinners out.

On June 29, the fabricator arrived and made a wood jig as the model for the hardtop. Now we wait for the installation sometime in July....

We couldn't leave this out....this guy comes to visit almost every day and provides much entertainment for Alex who watches him from the windows on the starboard side.