S/V Stella Blue: Eastbound

We left Utah Tuesday headed to Annapolis for the U.S. Sailboat Show, one of the largest in the states. We have done hours of research during our sabbatical this summer and there are plenty of "things" Stella Blue could use before we cast off. The trip back east was great! When we have driven to Atlanta or NC in the past, it has usually been one of two routes, north or south depending on snow conditions. This time we stayed even further north and hit some places we'd never seen as well as about $30 in tolls we'd never seen.

Annapolis was everything we expected and much more. The show had so many exhibitors and a million and one things for boats - things you never thought you needed but could be talked into buying. One of the best parts was going on a Gunboat (70 ft catamaran) and an Oyster 655. Nothing can really describe them other than "WOW!". If only we could win one as a door prize.

After the show Saturday, we picked Kala up from Camp Bow Wow (dogs not allowed at the boat show) and left Annapolis headed for the Outer Banks. We arrived in Nags Head about 10pm, pitched a tent and camped right on the beach. Kala had never slept in a tent and like always she just figured out how it worked and everything fell into place. She is such a smart and sweet dog - a true adventurer. The next morning included waking up to a beautiful sunrise, followed by a visit to the Wright Brothers Memorial. It was pretty amazing to stand in the very place that changed the world forever and so glad we took the time to go. The last stop out of town was the Outer Banks Boarding Company to scope out the options for future surfing adventures.

It was only a 2 1/2 hour drive to New Bern that afternoon and we were excited to see Stella Blue after her battle with Hurricane Irene. Thanks to Bud, Dawn and Paul at Nortwest Creek Marina for their diligence. If you're in NC and looking for a safe haven, this is the place to be.

We are unpacking and making the boat a home again. It's more work than most people would expect and you have to be motivated to make it happen so we push through and know that once we raise the sails it will all be worth it.