11/10/15  Tuesday

We were in a blackout zone for more hours than was comfortable coming through the canal from Goose Creek where we spent the night at Mayo Seafood. Who knew, or expected, to be out of cell and internet range? And, I'd planned two phone meetings. Yikes!! Shannon got messages to and from us on the InReach she has loaned us for this trip. The device tracks our progress and position...when I remember to turn it on.

The night at Mayo was another opportunity...always opportunities. The scenery was of working water biz w/mosquitos (a few were after David's delicious flesh, they don't appreciate mine...which I do appreciate), fuel tanks, and really colorful outhouses.

Roughing it at Mayo Seafood dock

I squeaked onto this dock beautifully. Getting off was less graceful but effective.

Pink signifies the women's outhouse. Men's is green (?)

Crossing out of the canal and into the Bay River and then Neuse River was gentle, mostly. It rained. Grace leaked. Amelia slept. I set courses. David sometimes modified them even though they were fine enough. We passed the barge that steamed past us in the canal. I loved being in these two rivers. They are deeper (17'), wider than others in recent past. And I LOVE the flatness and tidal areas and tall grasses...the long view that is possible here. Because of all the rain showers there were several rainbow parts including one that "landed" in the water and "splashed" colorful light back into the atmosphere at the base. Too fleeting to get a photo to share. Beautiful vision.

Met this working shrimpboat in Bay River

We decided to check out Oriental from the water. We'd been there/here several times by land. And, there is a marine consignment store here!!! We arrived around 11 AM. WOW! What an early day AND there is cell/internet. David and I did a town walk-about and checked out the consignment store and purchased a replacement hatch to go over the galley stove. That space needs more light and it is one of the many leaks. Won't get to installing it until FL probably but...

Giant tree interrupts the walkway. Bay to right.

We are docked until Wednesday in front of the only/best coffee shop that seems to be a real gathering spot for locals and our boat is unique and beautiful so we've had some lovely conversations w/folks.

Oriental coffee and porch-sit

I have a board meeting tonight that I'm going to join by Skype. Here's hoping it works. Missing my theater peeps.