Swamp Swamp

Since European Settlers in the 1700s referred to swamps as “dismals”, wouldn’t that suggest the Dismal Swamp is really just a Swamp Swamp? I say, yes, yes! But, we’ll get back to the story of the Great Swamp in a moment. First a beautiful sunset from Georgetown, where we anchored out with Treble.

From Georgetown we traveled to Myrtle Beach. Destination: Barefoot Beach Marina. You were right, Beverly and Bruce (SeaTrek), don’t waste your time or your taste buds at the marina restaurant.

Myrtle Beach

Looking for Real Estate in a Super Charged COVID market? Location is key. Celebrating Tiny Houses!

Wrightsville Beach, NC

Anchored out with Treble we were delighted with a spectacular sight – the end of the ILCA Atlantic Coast Regatta, 113 Lasers registered, plus all of the coaches and judges. Here’s to Gail, who is a former Certified Judge of that regatta.

Beaufort, NC

Welcome back to Beaufort – that’s No Bow in North Carolina, of course. With easy access from the Town Dock, this quaint little town is home to some of the very best fresh crab. We highly recommend walking off the beaten path to the Beaufort Grocery Co. When it opens at 5 pm there is a line, for a reason.

Belhaven, NC

Welcome aboard Jim and Susan Merritt. While the boys were doing yet another boat project, Susan and I got a private tour of the River Forest Manor, built in 1899. The dockmaster, Henry, is one of a handful of local residents who had the heart and vision to restore this gem into a magnificent wedding destination. The interior is stunning – check it out here: River Forest Manor

Elizabeth City, NC

Thanks to Gail Bernstein who encouraged us to progress on, we docked at the Mid Atlantic Christian University in Elizabeth City. The small dock located at the university was very accessible.

Trust me, you won’t find Sarah Palin here. This vibrant city is home to Ghost Harbor Brewing Company, and a growing number of trendy restaurants, romantic outdoor seating strung with Edison lights, all surrounded by exquisite historic buildings. REM – you would love the redevelopment!

Dismal Swamp, Visitors Center – giving thanks to George Washington

In 1728 William Byrd II named this coastal region the Dismal Swamp on a series of survey maps that established the boundaries of North Carolina and Virginia. Here’s a random factoid – although known as a scandalous philanderer, the well established lawyer and politician was admired for his early advocacy of small pox inoculation. Consider this a shout out to all of you who are now fully vaccinated!

In 1763 an opportunistic George Washington saw the potential for development. Originally more than one million acres, the canal section, connecting Elizabeth City, NC to Norfolk, VA was completed in 1805.

We docked at the Dismal Swamp Visitor’s Center, a familiar and fabulous stop. Ynot, there is another turtle bobble coming your way.

Be forewarned, the swamp has a plethora of snakes crawling around – Tyler will tell you definitively, “Grandpa doesn’t like snakes“.

Celebrating Memorial Day Weekend

It is with great respect that we remember those who fought to give us liberty and life, and we thank those that made the ultimate sacrifice for us. You shall never be forgotten.

Waterside, Norfolk VA – May 27 and 28

Norfolk, VA is home to the WORLD’s largest naval port. Fathom this military power: 75 naval ships, 134 aircraft, 14 piers and 11 aircraft hangars. The extremely active training center boasts 275 flights per day, the equivalent of one every six minutes.

Battleship Wisconsin – BB64

Is it just me, or does this look like a Pixar character? Comments encouraged!

More Pixar inspiration

Goodbye and thanks to Susan and Jim Merritt, Gold Loopers, who traveled with us from Belhaven, NC to Norfolk, VA. Looking forward to seeing you later this summer!

Milestones: May 28 – Happy Birthday to Scott Ginsburg and Miss Brennyn (5)

Congrats to Danielle, Sandra, Abbey and Leo – on the road.

Next stop: Windmill Point, VA. Roughly 8 miles north of Deltaville.