We left our great anchorage at St Michaels early Monday morning and headed back across the Bay to the Rhode River. Wouldn’t you know we found another great spot! This reminded us a lot of the lake. There were several boats there with kids bobbing around and having a ball. In fact, we decided to get in too. After the initial shock! – it wasn’t so bad. HA! The water here is not as salty as it is farther south. But it’s cold! What a great Memorial Day. We had boat drinks – listened to boat songs and even grilled hamburgers for dinner. When we were ready for bed, there were only about a half dozen boats left. Everyone else, I guess, had to go back to work. Hmmmm…….
The next morning, we headed on in to Annapolis. It was smart to anchor out last night. That way we will get to Annapolis early and be able to spend more time in the slip. Especially because the slip will cost us nearly $100 a night! I keep trying to tell Mike that we saved money by spending the last SEVEN nights on anchor. Well, you know how he is!
We got to Annapolis about 10:00 a.m. and easily found the City Dock. We had called a couple other Marinas, but they were full. The City Dock is first come, first serve so we weren’t sure what we’d find. But I guess, since it’s the day after a long weekend, we had pretty much our choice. The City Dock is right in downtown Annapolis. The Naval Academy is right here along with several restaurants and shops. There is a waterway that runs right thru the middle that is called “Ego Alley”. Every night it’s more like a street that is the main cruise. High dollar boats drive up and down just cruising. It’s very impressive. There is a small area to turn around and you should see the large sail boats make the turnaround!
We spent our first day here taking care of things such as laundry, trip to West Marine, groceries, pump out. It was so hot! It felt so good to be able to plug in and turn the air conditioning on max! We took a city bus to the store. That was an experience. After Mike shopped at West Marine and I did the grocery shopping at the Giant, we decided it would be much easier to call a cab. The cab driver was a really nice guy. He was shocked when we told him we were from Joplin. His church is sending two busloads of volunteers to Joplin. One is coming this week with chainsaws and the other one next week with supplies and carpentry experience. Isn’t that something?
Later we did a little sightseeing and walked over to Pusser’s Landing for dinner.
BTW, one of the reasons Mike went to West Marine was to pick up the kit to fix the head. Guess what, it had fixed itself! We think maybe it was a low battery. Anyway, we still have a kit to fix it if we ever need to. I love it when things fix themselves!
This morning we had breakfast out on the sundeck while it was still cool. There were lots of runners and walkers. The area around here is really pretty. NautiNell overlooks a park that overlooks the Spa River. It’s really nice. Mike decided he needed another fix of West Marine. I decided that I’d do a little shopping on my own. There are so many neat shops around here – but some are a little pricey.
Anyway, I found me a boat hat! You know, a big floppy straw hat. The funny thing is Mike came home with one too. Aren’t we a special pair. HA!!!!
We went for a long dinghy ride this afternoon. It’s so hot! In fact, Annapolis broke their record that was held since 1898 of 97 degrees. The heat index was 105. It’s not supposed to be this hot here. Isn’t the reason we’re going north is to avoid these temperatures??
We walked to a great little bar “Stan and Joes” for Happy Hour. The Harbormaster recommended it to us. Great drinks and great food. It started to pour down rain just as Happy Hour was ending. Wouldn’t you know it. We caught a ride home using the free electric cars that run this area. They’re sponsored by local restaurants. Great idea, huh.
The rain didn't last long. We sat out on NautiNell and watched the sailboat races. Yes, they have them here every Wednesday evening. Do you know how boring sailboat races are? We weren’t even sure when they were over. Sheeh!
Well, we plan to head north on to Baltimore tomorrow. Not sure where we are going to stay.
Will fill you in on that later.
Till then!
Admiral “C”
NautiNell
NautiNell in all her glory
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Spending Time at St Michaels
I want the people of Joplin to know that they are in the hearts and thoughts of people everywhere. Of course, NautiNell has the “Port of Joplin” on her stern. Every day, Mike and I are surprised by those that take the time to stop and tell us how sorry they are. They always tell us to pass their words on to those we know in our hometown. Mike and I always point out that Joplin is our home and we know that although, it may take a very long time, Joplin will become the great little town it was before May 22, 2011. God Bless you all.
Friday turned out to be rather an uneventful day. Mike did fix one of the heads though and the other one seemed to fix itself! We took a dinghy ride around the area. It’s very nice here and there are some very nice homes. I was told that this area is “old money”. Well, they do know how to spend it! Big homes, big boats……
We went over to El Sea and visited with them for a while. They are from Nashville TN and are both licensed captains. They have boated this area before and spent a lot of time on the Tennessee River and the Tenn-Tom. It was great talking to them. We soak up as much information as we can. They are staying until Sunday, I believe. We are either leaving Sunday or Monday. Haven’t decided yet.
Of course, when we got back to the boat, the head (the one that fixed itself) decided it wasn’t fixed after all. Mike needs to order a repair kit. We’ll order it at West Marine and pick it up in Annapolis when we get there. At least the other one is fixed! Between the heads and the generator, Mike is keeping busy. Actually too busy. Surely things will get better….. Right?
We enjoyed another sunset and watched the osprey. There’s a nest with a baby in it and he doesn’t like to be left for very one. He has become quite vocal. Mom comes back with food every few hours.
Saturday has been a great day so far. We’ve learned to relish the good days when there is nothing to fix because we know that it could change at any time.
The weather is beautiful here. They forecasted a slight chance of rain the last couple of days, but it hasn’t even been cloudy. This morning we took the dinghy back to town. We had planned to go to the farmers market, but didn’t get around early enough. Surprised? No, of course not. Anyway, we did get in town in time to have lunch at the Carpenter’s Saloon. Just in time to enjoy the “singing bartender”.A 300+ pound – openly gay man - singing "New York, New York". Even doing the high kicks! Quite a sight!
We walked on down to the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum. This museum consists of 15 buildings. There were several boats, both original and replicas. It was worth the time spent. If you are ever in this area, I would highly recommend this museum.
After the museum we walked back to the grocery store- more beer and Diet Pepsi! We spent the evening on the sundeck just kicking back. I must not forget the renaming ceremony! See my other post for info on that. It deserved a separate posting!
The kids across the bay were shooting off fireworks. That was fun to watch. Guess we’ll hang around here a few more days. No real reason to leave! The number of boats has grown to about 16. All are sailboats except three. This side is definitely less crowded than the other. We saw boats going in every direction on the other side. Some rafted up with a dozen or more having a ball. It reminded me of Lake of the Ozarks some. Of course, it is Memorial Weekend!
Sunday has been a very relaxing day. The weather is gorgeous. We have close to 20 boats anchored with us now. Most of them are sailboats. It’s really pretty to look over the bay and see all the boats. Many are decorated with flags (including us).
We plan to leave out early tomorrow morning to go back to the west side of the Bay. We are going to drop an anchor in Rhode River. This is only about 15 miles from Annapolis. On Tuesday, we will boat on in to Annapolis and stay at a dock a couple of days. By then, we will have anchored for seven days in a row! I’m looking forward to a little dock time. There’s laundry and grocery shopping to do. An Admiral’s work is never done.
Remember, the other day I said that we were watching the nest of the baby osprey. Well, guess who decided it was time to fly! It was so cool to seem him fly around and back to the nest. His parents weren’t even there to see it. By the time mom got there, junior was already tucked in his nest waiting on dinner. Kids!
I’ll talk more later. Till then!
Admiral “C”
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Gremlins Among Us................
For the past few weeks, Mike and I have been busy keeping up with every little thing that has gone wrong on NautiNell. Mike has been kept especially busy. He seems to go from project to project. Now we’re not really complaining, but we are making this observation. This afternoon, we realized that we never have performed the ceremony to rename this boat! When we bought this boat it was named Oceanic III. We felt that this name was a little too regal for us. We spent a lot of time trying to find the name that would be just the right fit. Thus, we declared and documented her as NautiNell. However, the most important thing that we forgot was to perform the renaming ceremony. If this ceremony is not conducted, bad luck can follow. After all, we don’t need any bad mojo!
According to legend, each and every vessel is recorded by name in the Ledger of the Deep and is known personally to Neptune, the god of the sea. The first thing we must do is purge its name from the Ledger of the Deep and from Neptune’s memory. We offer great libations to the mighty ruler and we pour some into the sea from east to west. (It helps if the captain drinks a little too, of course). We also are to drop something into the sea with the old name written on it. When the purging ceremony is complete we can then begin the renaming of the vessel.
This, of course, takes more alcohol and it is poured on the bow of the boat saving at least one glass for the captain. This is to show the sheer appreciation we have for the great ruler, Neptune. The next step is then to appease the gods of the winds. This helps assure fair winds and smooth seas. We do this by facing north and pouring a generous amount in a flute glass and flinging it to the North. We then do the same to the West, then the East and finally to the South. All the time asking for permission to use each god’s mighty powers to pursue lawful endeavors, whatever they may be.
FYI --
Wind gods
North - Great Boreas
West – Great Zephyrus
East – Great Eurus
South – Great Notus
Tonight we performed this ceremony. May it be written in the great Ledger of the Deep. And may it be known to the great god of Neptune this 28th day of May 2011.
Hopefully now all the gremlins will be cast off the NautiNell and it will be smooth motoring from now on. (Hey, we had to try it!)
Till Next Time!
Admiral “C”
Friday, May 27, 2011
St Michaels, MD
Again, I want to say that our hearts are with those affected by the Joplin tornado. They are our family and friends. Although we’re not there, you are constantly in our thoughts and prayers. Take care.
This morning (Thursday, May 26, 2011) we actually left about 8:00 a.m. We headed to St Michaels which is just north of Cambridge and still on the eastern shore of the Bay. It only took us about two hours to get here. We were on the Choptank River although it’s hard to tell any difference between the rivers and the actual Bay. It all looks like ocean to me! Anyway, it was a beautiful day and the waves were next to nothing. We had what is called a following sea most of the time.
We anchored out in a great area along with another boat or two on the south side of St Michaels. We read that this location is usually not as crowded as the northern side. Since Memorial Day weekend is coming up, we thought that would be a good idea. So far, we’re right. There are only about five boats here now. Three of them are sailboats. Another is a trawler – El Sea. They are also loopers and are from Tennessee. The loopers are everywhere!
After we settled in with the anchor, we decided to launch the dinghy and venture into town. It’s just a short ride in the dinghy over to a dinghy dock. Then it’s only a few blocks to the town. It’s a very quaint little town. It reminds me of Key West. Lots of old homes that have been renovated and well maintained. In fact, Dick Cheney and Don Rumsfeld both have homes here. – Haven’t seen them yet. We walked to a neat little place on the water called Foxy’s. We had a great lunch and then did a little sightseeing. We stopped at the Acme Grocery and then the Village Mart (a liquor store that has a meat counter). Again we almost bought too much to carry, but it was only about three blocks to the dinghy.
We watched a beautiful sunset while we cooked dinner. It was almost a perfect day. I say almost because just as we were thinking that everything was fine, both heads (toilets) decided not to work. It’s going to be an interesting evening. Mike will fix them in the morning, I’m sure. He seems to be able to fix everything so far. He’s just getting very tired of working! But that’s what it’s like having an older boat. Well, most of you know that – that’s what it’s like owning a boat period! They don’t call it BOAT for nothing! Bring On Another Thousand! Oh well, I’m not whining - well maybe just a little bit.
Till next time!
Admiral “C”
This morning (Thursday, May 26, 2011) we actually left about 8:00 a.m. We headed to St Michaels which is just north of Cambridge and still on the eastern shore of the Bay. It only took us about two hours to get here. We were on the Choptank River although it’s hard to tell any difference between the rivers and the actual Bay. It all looks like ocean to me! Anyway, it was a beautiful day and the waves were next to nothing. We had what is called a following sea most of the time.
We anchored out in a great area along with another boat or two on the south side of St Michaels. We read that this location is usually not as crowded as the northern side. Since Memorial Day weekend is coming up, we thought that would be a good idea. So far, we’re right. There are only about five boats here now. Three of them are sailboats. Another is a trawler – El Sea. They are also loopers and are from Tennessee. The loopers are everywhere!
After we settled in with the anchor, we decided to launch the dinghy and venture into town. It’s just a short ride in the dinghy over to a dinghy dock. Then it’s only a few blocks to the town. It’s a very quaint little town. It reminds me of Key West. Lots of old homes that have been renovated and well maintained. In fact, Dick Cheney and Don Rumsfeld both have homes here. – Haven’t seen them yet. We walked to a neat little place on the water called Foxy’s. We had a great lunch and then did a little sightseeing. We stopped at the Acme Grocery and then the Village Mart (a liquor store that has a meat counter). Again we almost bought too much to carry, but it was only about three blocks to the dinghy.
We watched a beautiful sunset while we cooked dinner. It was almost a perfect day. I say almost because just as we were thinking that everything was fine, both heads (toilets) decided not to work. It’s going to be an interesting evening. Mike will fix them in the morning, I’m sure. He seems to be able to fix everything so far. He’s just getting very tired of working! But that’s what it’s like having an older boat. Well, most of you know that – that’s what it’s like owning a boat period! They don’t call it BOAT for nothing! Bring On Another Thousand! Oh well, I’m not whining - well maybe just a little bit.
Till next time!
Admiral “C”
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Solomons Island to Cambridge
First – Before I post anything about our trip – I want to say that our hearts and our prayers are with all of Joplin. As most know, Joplin was hit by a massive tornado on Sunday May 22. Our family is okay. However, Mike and I have many friends that have lost their homes. We know several families that have lost a loved one. While there is massive destruction, Joplin will survive. Joplin will build back and be stronger than ever. While we may not be there, please know that we are definitely there in spirit.
On a much lighter side - Yesterday (May 24) we left Solomons Island, MD. We had been staying in the Solomons Harbor Marina since Friday evening. We had planned to only stay a day or so. However, since we were able to have cable we stayed a little longer. We were able to keep informed about the storm by watching CNN and the Weather Channel.
We had a really nice stay at Solomons. On Friday and Saturday nights there was a band at the Tiki Bar right off the stern of our boat. It turned out there were a few other loopers staying there as well. We visited with “Free to B”, Rock Chalk and Sweet Pea. We also ran into others at the neighborhood West Marine. It’s fun being able to catch up with the other loopers and hear their stories. I even got to eat pizza one night. Thanks Jim and Dale! Mike was out numbered!
Our neighbor, Tony, had a 43’ sailboat “Gypsy Crickett”. I finally was able to see the inside of a large sailboat. It was beautiful and had lots of space. More than I had imagined. Still think I prefer the trawler, but who knows…..! Tony had retired from the Navy and was currently being contracted by them. He’s a drone pilot. Mike kept telling him that he was an “oxymoron”. He was down for the week while his wife was in Arkansas. He and his dog “Wolfie” took the Gypsy Crickett out to go fishing by themselves. That seems like a lot of boat to take out by yourself.
One day Mike and I decided to walk to the store. It turned out to be a little farther that we anticipated. And a lot hotter! We also bought more than we should have since we were walking. We did make it back though - with Mike carrying a 30 pack on his shoulders! We’re going to get bicycles! SOON!!!
We took several dinghy rides around the marina. There are several marinas that really run into each other. Lots of boats! Too bad there wasn’t a store with dinghy access!! Did I mention we’re getting bikes soon!! Thought so.
We left Tuesday around noon. You know we really need to start getting out earlier! Anyway, we left around noon and had fair seas (no waves!). We took it slow and steady. We had decided to cross over to the eastern shore to Cambridge. We tied up to the city dock free of charge. We were able to contact a good friend we have there. Susie McDonald met us at the boat. We had a ball catching up on everything and even went out for Mexican. I hope she enjoyed it as much as we did.
We had originally planned to go north to Annapolis from Solomons. However we were told that it is Commencement Week and with it also being Memorial Weekend, be decided against it for now. Our plan B was to across to Cambridge, on to Oxford and St Michaels. This is all on the east side. Then later next week, we will cross back over and check out Annapolis. We’ll spend a few days in Annapolis then head to Baltimore. I want to spend some time there. All the guide books tell of lots of cool things to see and do there. After we leave Baltimore, we will head on up to Chesapeake City and the C&D Canal. The Canal will take us over to Delaware Bay. Everyone says that once we get on Delaware Bay, we just keep going. No good place to stop or will we want to. We’ll keep going until we get to Cape May – a good days trip. Then we’ll head up the Jersey Shore toward New York. I’m looking forward to Atlantic City. I may just have a little put back to give to the casinos there.
Well, we’re spending a real lazy day here in Cambridge. The weather is beautiful and the dock is free. Can’t beat that! We checked things out in the dinghy this morning. Must have worn us out, because we both took naps afterward.
Having steaks tonight on the grill that have been marinating. You have to do something to the steaks around here. They aren’t the best. Now if you want crabs, they’re everywhere! They even serve crab pizza! - No, didn’t try it.
Well, until next time.
Admiral “C”
On a much lighter side - Yesterday (May 24) we left Solomons Island, MD. We had been staying in the Solomons Harbor Marina since Friday evening. We had planned to only stay a day or so. However, since we were able to have cable we stayed a little longer. We were able to keep informed about the storm by watching CNN and the Weather Channel.
We had a really nice stay at Solomons. On Friday and Saturday nights there was a band at the Tiki Bar right off the stern of our boat. It turned out there were a few other loopers staying there as well. We visited with “Free to B”, Rock Chalk and Sweet Pea. We also ran into others at the neighborhood West Marine. It’s fun being able to catch up with the other loopers and hear their stories. I even got to eat pizza one night. Thanks Jim and Dale! Mike was out numbered!
Our neighbor, Tony, had a 43’ sailboat “Gypsy Crickett”. I finally was able to see the inside of a large sailboat. It was beautiful and had lots of space. More than I had imagined. Still think I prefer the trawler, but who knows…..! Tony had retired from the Navy and was currently being contracted by them. He’s a drone pilot. Mike kept telling him that he was an “oxymoron”. He was down for the week while his wife was in Arkansas. He and his dog “Wolfie” took the Gypsy Crickett out to go fishing by themselves. That seems like a lot of boat to take out by yourself.
One day Mike and I decided to walk to the store. It turned out to be a little farther that we anticipated. And a lot hotter! We also bought more than we should have since we were walking. We did make it back though - with Mike carrying a 30 pack on his shoulders! We’re going to get bicycles! SOON!!!
We took several dinghy rides around the marina. There are several marinas that really run into each other. Lots of boats! Too bad there wasn’t a store with dinghy access!! Did I mention we’re getting bikes soon!! Thought so.
We left Tuesday around noon. You know we really need to start getting out earlier! Anyway, we left around noon and had fair seas (no waves!). We took it slow and steady. We had decided to cross over to the eastern shore to Cambridge. We tied up to the city dock free of charge. We were able to contact a good friend we have there. Susie McDonald met us at the boat. We had a ball catching up on everything and even went out for Mexican. I hope she enjoyed it as much as we did.
We had originally planned to go north to Annapolis from Solomons. However we were told that it is Commencement Week and with it also being Memorial Weekend, be decided against it for now. Our plan B was to across to Cambridge, on to Oxford and St Michaels. This is all on the east side. Then later next week, we will cross back over and check out Annapolis. We’ll spend a few days in Annapolis then head to Baltimore. I want to spend some time there. All the guide books tell of lots of cool things to see and do there. After we leave Baltimore, we will head on up to Chesapeake City and the C&D Canal. The Canal will take us over to Delaware Bay. Everyone says that once we get on Delaware Bay, we just keep going. No good place to stop or will we want to. We’ll keep going until we get to Cape May – a good days trip. Then we’ll head up the Jersey Shore toward New York. I’m looking forward to Atlantic City. I may just have a little put back to give to the casinos there.
Well, we’re spending a real lazy day here in Cambridge. The weather is beautiful and the dock is free. Can’t beat that! We checked things out in the dinghy this morning. Must have worn us out, because we both took naps afterward.
Having steaks tonight on the grill that have been marinating. You have to do something to the steaks around here. They aren’t the best. Now if you want crabs, they’re everywhere! They even serve crab pizza! - No, didn’t try it.
Well, until next time.
Admiral “C”
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Finally on our way!
Finally - May 18, 2011 - The Nauti Nell has finally left to begin cruising the Great Loop. After what seems a lifetime of planning, working, saving and praying - we are finally on our way!
We left Waterside Marina about 1:00 p.m. We had planned to leave earlier (don't we always), but there were a couple of things Mike needed to do before we set out. I had plenty of laundry and other chores to do also, so I didn't mind. Anyway, those "Loopers" that had planned to leave - did so earlier so we were left to venture out on our own.
We passed back through the entrance that gives way to the great Naval Base. The size of some of the ships there are unbelievable! We had to venture across before we went out to meet up with Chandler from Signature Canvas-Makers. He was the one that repaired our eising glass. And what a great job he did! He had also made us some covers for some of the electronics on the flybridge. We needed to pick them up. It was an interesting test for Mike to pull up beside the dock and let me get the covers from Chandler. It was a very small dock and there was about a 3 knot current flowing. Mike did a good job and we were finally on our way out to the Bay.
As we ventured on the skies began to become quite ominous. It looked like we were about to experience our first storm while out in the Bay. Mike thought that we could out run it but that's pretty hard to do when you're only going about 10 mph! It was actually going in the opposite direction than we first thought. It circled around us and the skies grew dark. In fact, we saw a "tail" drop down out of the clouds for a few minutes and then go back up. Lucky for us it stayed up! We finally just slowed down to about 3-4 mph and waited and watched it move on. Of course, we were listening to NOAA the whole time!
Finally, we were able to move on and find a good spot to drop anchor. After all, that little storm wasn't going to cause us to waiver! HA! Well, we did find a beautiful spot in Mobjack Bay in the Southwest River. We toasted our day and had a great dinner. Yes, we had crabcakes once again! We thought this time we were going to be missed by the oncoming showers. However, we were very wrong! The storm came up fast and we had to ride it out. The storm had 40-50 mph winds and hail. NautiNell is tough and we rode it out safe and sound. However, NautiNell can sure make some strange noises during a storm. We are getting quite an experience early on!
We left early the next morning about 8:00 a.m. We wanted to make up some time that we lost yesterday. It was a beautiful morning. We really didn't have any problems and Nauti Nell is doing a great job. Most of the other loopers were staying at Doziers at Deltaville for a few days. We weren't really ready to stop there so we passed them by. We'll all catch up later. We thought we'd stop at Windmill Point at this neat Tiki Bar and have lunch. But our minds were changed when they said that it would cost us $10 to dock! Never mind that!
We did finally stop at Chesapeake Boat Basin in Indian Creek which is part of Fleets Bay. We're not far from Reedville where we had spent the first few weeks. We first stopped at the marina for provisions only to find that the nearest store was 1.8 miles away! In fact, it was in the town of Kilmarnock where we had bought our furniture - the town that has a Wal-Mart! We walked up hill to the store - all 1.8 miles! Finally found it and only bought what we thought we could carry back. As we were drudging back to the boat, a friendly local pulled over and offered us a ride back to the boat. He said that "we transients were easy to spot and thought we might like a ride". He was right! After we got everything put up, we decided to anchor out just a little ways away in the bay (still on Indian Creek). It had been a beautiful day, but it was starting to cloud up. We sat and watched the evening approach. We spotted something out in the water swimming across at a pretty good speed. It turned out to be a deer! I didn't know they could swim like that! Anyway, as soon as she touched land - off she went into the woods. We had a wonderful evening without any storms!
The next morning we set out about 7:30. We planned to make it to Solomons Island, MD where we would dock a few days. There is a lot to do in Solomons Island according to the cruising guides. We're also having a problem with the generator. It keeps shutting down after it runs a couple of hours or so. This way we can be plugged into power while Mike checks it out. It was a beautiful day and pretty much uneventful. The navy has a base at Solomons Island (Cedar Point). They were doing live target maneuvers this afternoon. Fighter jets flew over us along with several helicopters. It was quite a sight to see. Glad we weren't the target!! We arrived at Solomons Harbor Marina about 2:30. We're all set and having a bit of Happy Hour. There is even a live band playing at the Tiki Bar just across from our sundeck. Imagine that! I think it's going to be another great evening.
Till later!
Admiral "C"
p.s. As soon as I have a strong internet connection, I'll post some pictures.
We left Waterside Marina about 1:00 p.m. We had planned to leave earlier (don't we always), but there were a couple of things Mike needed to do before we set out. I had plenty of laundry and other chores to do also, so I didn't mind. Anyway, those "Loopers" that had planned to leave - did so earlier so we were left to venture out on our own.
We passed back through the entrance that gives way to the great Naval Base. The size of some of the ships there are unbelievable! We had to venture across before we went out to meet up with Chandler from Signature Canvas-Makers. He was the one that repaired our eising glass. And what a great job he did! He had also made us some covers for some of the electronics on the flybridge. We needed to pick them up. It was an interesting test for Mike to pull up beside the dock and let me get the covers from Chandler. It was a very small dock and there was about a 3 knot current flowing. Mike did a good job and we were finally on our way out to the Bay.
As we ventured on the skies began to become quite ominous. It looked like we were about to experience our first storm while out in the Bay. Mike thought that we could out run it but that's pretty hard to do when you're only going about 10 mph! It was actually going in the opposite direction than we first thought. It circled around us and the skies grew dark. In fact, we saw a "tail" drop down out of the clouds for a few minutes and then go back up. Lucky for us it stayed up! We finally just slowed down to about 3-4 mph and waited and watched it move on. Of course, we were listening to NOAA the whole time!
Finally, we were able to move on and find a good spot to drop anchor. After all, that little storm wasn't going to cause us to waiver! HA! Well, we did find a beautiful spot in Mobjack Bay in the Southwest River. We toasted our day and had a great dinner. Yes, we had crabcakes once again! We thought this time we were going to be missed by the oncoming showers. However, we were very wrong! The storm came up fast and we had to ride it out. The storm had 40-50 mph winds and hail. NautiNell is tough and we rode it out safe and sound. However, NautiNell can sure make some strange noises during a storm. We are getting quite an experience early on!
We left early the next morning about 8:00 a.m. We wanted to make up some time that we lost yesterday. It was a beautiful morning. We really didn't have any problems and Nauti Nell is doing a great job. Most of the other loopers were staying at Doziers at Deltaville for a few days. We weren't really ready to stop there so we passed them by. We'll all catch up later. We thought we'd stop at Windmill Point at this neat Tiki Bar and have lunch. But our minds were changed when they said that it would cost us $10 to dock! Never mind that!
We did finally stop at Chesapeake Boat Basin in Indian Creek which is part of Fleets Bay. We're not far from Reedville where we had spent the first few weeks. We first stopped at the marina for provisions only to find that the nearest store was 1.8 miles away! In fact, it was in the town of Kilmarnock where we had bought our furniture - the town that has a Wal-Mart! We walked up hill to the store - all 1.8 miles! Finally found it and only bought what we thought we could carry back. As we were drudging back to the boat, a friendly local pulled over and offered us a ride back to the boat. He said that "we transients were easy to spot and thought we might like a ride". He was right! After we got everything put up, we decided to anchor out just a little ways away in the bay (still on Indian Creek). It had been a beautiful day, but it was starting to cloud up. We sat and watched the evening approach. We spotted something out in the water swimming across at a pretty good speed. It turned out to be a deer! I didn't know they could swim like that! Anyway, as soon as she touched land - off she went into the woods. We had a wonderful evening without any storms!
The next morning we set out about 7:30. We planned to make it to Solomons Island, MD where we would dock a few days. There is a lot to do in Solomons Island according to the cruising guides. We're also having a problem with the generator. It keeps shutting down after it runs a couple of hours or so. This way we can be plugged into power while Mike checks it out. It was a beautiful day and pretty much uneventful. The navy has a base at Solomons Island (Cedar Point). They were doing live target maneuvers this afternoon. Fighter jets flew over us along with several helicopters. It was quite a sight to see. Glad we weren't the target!! We arrived at Solomons Harbor Marina about 2:30. We're all set and having a bit of Happy Hour. There is even a live band playing at the Tiki Bar just across from our sundeck. Imagine that! I think it's going to be another great evening.
Till later!
Admiral "C"
p.s. As soon as I have a strong internet connection, I'll post some pictures.
AGLCA Rendezvous - The
We had a wonderful time at the Spring Rendezvous. We met several people that I'm sure will be come good friends. It will be fun to visit with them along the way and share each others experiences. A shout-out to Jim and Dale of Sweet Pea. Sorry we were unable to connect up with you at Doziers. We'll surely see you in a few days!
Mike and I tried to be sponges and absorb all the information that was offered to us at the workshops. However, we are getting older now and let's just say - I hope we took good notes!
The area where we stayed was nice and very entertaining. From the dancing waters at the park to the "Pirate Ship" parked at our stern, there was always something to see. There was even a wedding on the Pirate Ship one afternoon. A couple of days ago, a huge boat pulled up along the Pier. It turned out to be owned by the US Government and was flying the Navy 4 Star flag. This means that a 4 Star Admiral was on board. It turned out that it was the 4 Star Admiral that is in charge of the US Fleet! We're not sure what was going on, but several gentlemen (from the middle east) along with some "security" and US Navy personnel went out for a cruise. Before they even pulled away, the gentlemen were being served wine, etc. Gifts were exchanged when they returned about an hour later. Like I said, there were alot of things going on around there!
Till next time!
Admiral "C"
Mike and I tried to be sponges and absorb all the information that was offered to us at the workshops. However, we are getting older now and let's just say - I hope we took good notes!
The area where we stayed was nice and very entertaining. From the dancing waters at the park to the "Pirate Ship" parked at our stern, there was always something to see. There was even a wedding on the Pirate Ship one afternoon. A couple of days ago, a huge boat pulled up along the Pier. It turned out to be owned by the US Government and was flying the Navy 4 Star flag. This means that a 4 Star Admiral was on board. It turned out that it was the 4 Star Admiral that is in charge of the US Fleet! We're not sure what was going on, but several gentlemen (from the middle east) along with some "security" and US Navy personnel went out for a cruise. Before they even pulled away, the gentlemen were being served wine, etc. Gifts were exchanged when they returned about an hour later. Like I said, there were alot of things going on around there!
Till next time!
Admiral "C"
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