Magnolia departed Southport and transited the Cape Fear River under a fare current arriving Mile Hamock Bay at Camp Lejeune later in the afternoon.

We often are treated to an “air-show” in this anchorage. This time I am pretty sure this is a CH-53E Super Stallion.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sikorsky_CH-53E_Super_Stallion

Next was a stop Swansboro NC where Annettes cousin live. Always great to catch up.

Magnolia departed Swansboro and nice passage, across Bogue Sound, up Adams Creek, across the Neuse River to Oriental.

Arriving Oriental we were able to schedule our visit in the middle of a few rainy days. That did not slow us down from getting a couple of lifelines sized and mounted as well as some visiting.

We were able to bring some friends together all from the same town who did not know each other. Across from Annette is out friend Pat who was a distant work colleague and thankfully not such a distant mariner friend. Next the new owners of Magnolia-S. Yes we are at dinner with the new owners of our last vessel. Most would suggest very brave…but they really love her. A proud testament to how well we tried to take care of her if I ever knew one. Last but not least is Roger and Leslie from the Pentagon Sailing Club. Roger was one of our early sailing instructors! It was great to spend time together and maybe help make some new friendships.

Well time to head for Ocracoke!