Wow. What do you say about a day like today when this is all so new? We got up at 0600 to have at least 11-12 hours to get to Norfolk (making up for not getting as far as we hoped yesterday). We set out predawn and the quiet and beauty of the presunrise solitude was something to behold. On a personal note, 'it' finally happened...I felt the feeling I was waiting to feel...this gift of an experience I am blessed and so grateful to have...a little nod to the dawn sky and a heartfelt thank you...
As soon as we could, Mark and Jon got both sails up. We expected wind from the west and nature did not disappoint. We needed to go 65 miles so we were thrilled for the wind as well as the pure joy of truly sailing. We were also ecstatic for our speed and distance to say the least!
We had another visit from our dolphin brothers but this was even more amazing...three of them were jumping and we saw them jump almost completely out of the water. Then another swam across and under our bow with Mark watching his shadow as he ducked under us. Just amazing and it was such an honor to share their Bay with them. Sorry they were too fast and too camera shy for me to get video.
Anyway, we sailed straight down the Bay in some heavy water which was rough but exciting especially as our speed increased to 8 knots--woohoo--then HOLY MOLY 9 knots!! For us who typically putt at 4-5 max, we felt like we were flying! At first my tummy didn't get the memo but it got in line pretty quick thank goodness.
We sailed into Hampton then motor sailed in the 7 knot range down to Norfolk...passing the NAS and proud imposing ships docked there. Good Lord Carriers are big! If you squint you may see the jet on the deck. God Bless our troops and veterans-I do love the military!!!!
We found a spot in Mark's preferred anchorage across from Town Point Park and Waterfront and next to the Naval Hospital. We were anchored by just after 1600!! So that was 65 nautical miles in about 9.5 hours averaging about 6.8 knots. Yeah, it was bad ass :-)
We enjoyed the fine ambiance and cuisine of the local Hooters (they had Rebel IPA) but sadly missed the waterfront wine festival. And no I did not 'make' Mark and Jon go to Hooters. The wine fest must have been good by the looks of one fella at the bar...or should I say face down on the bar. And I assure you that I, by no means, was judging...and some of you know why. LOL. I do love our city lights view tonight.
Tomorrow we start at ICW mile marker 0 bright and early...alarm set for 0630. Thanks so much for indulging me through this post; and on behalf of my Captain and fellow crew member, I hope I didn't leave anything out. XO Suzanne
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