Lazy Sunday

As you can see by my picture it's still cold, we seem to be under a weather black cloud. Tom thought the picture made me look like and old salt actually I was wet and cold and hoping for a hot shower and food. After leaving Port Charles we crossed to Norfolk for our last look at the Chesapeake. So as to not disappoint us the wind waves and heavy traffic picked up. The port of Norfolk is a mix of naval vessels, tugs, barges, high speed power boats, and a few cruising sailboats. We had no problems it, just requires a sharp lookout and nerves of steel. Because all the guide books recommended it we took the Dismal Swamp route. It is a beautiful spot and waking up at anchor with the owls hooting and the birds singing seemed just right. After that we cruised all day towards Pafquotanke river and  Elisabeth City. In Elisabeth city they love cruisers so they let you tie up almost anywhere. We tied up to the city park next to some benches and no one even questioned us even though the the sign said no tie ups. At this point we lost George to the lure of looking at his new boat. Hopefully he will rejoin us next week. A local recommended that we get across the Albemarle sound as it was supposed to get windy which equates to large confused waves in shallow water, point well taken. The next body of water was the Alligator river. It is a spooky sort of place with all sorts of stumps sticking up along the edge, which if let your mind go there you could imagine all sorts of creatures lurking. We ended up anchoring near a bridge and did not see any alligators or many other animals. We did manage to catch a small stump but Tom and I subdued it and did a catch and release. Later  the next day we did see some eagles and some really small deer. The trip on the Neuse River and Pamlico Sound was pretty easy, we managed to get some good sailing and good speed which means we did not have to dock in the dark.
Oriental, what a welcome sight,  the dock master directed us to a perfect slip, close to the showers, laundry, and the Bean coffee shop. I love this place, I am going to see if I can convince Karen to check it as a potential retirement place. Everyone waves, people will stop and offer you a ride. Very friendly...
Tom found an anchor winch for a good price at the consignment shop so pulling up 100 plus feet of chain could get better. All the clothes are clean I have made two trips to the Bean, Tom tidyed up the boat maybe a nap would be in order or maybe get some pictures. The temp has got all the way up from 48 to 58 still windy and damp but a start in the right direction..