Hanging Out In New Bern . . .

Wednesday, June 22 - Yes, we are still in New Bern, North Carolina.  Initially,  our cruising plan called for a short stay in New Bern before heading north.  But, as we have said many times, plans change.

On June 4, we received news that Carey's father, Jack, passed away suddenly.  Jack lived with Carey's sister in Atlanta, Georgia.  Jack was 84 years old and lived a full life.  We draw comfort in the knowledge that when Jack passed away, he was doing what he loved - sitting in the sun at Stacy's (Carey's sister) tennis match and chatting with her friends.  The friends walked away and just that fast Jack was gone. We made a trip to Atlanta for Jack's funeral which took place on June 11.  As always, funerals are a sad time, but we were fortunate to see our son and daughter-in-law, Paul and Kristina, and their kids for a few days.  And our younger son, Brian, flew in from Las Vegas.  We also saw 3 of Carey's cousins that we had not seen for years.  Since we retired and have been on the Loop, we were able to visit Jack often, including a two week visit last January - something that we were unable to do while we were working. 

After we returned to Tug LeeLoo, we decided to spend more time in New Bern.  As we have mentioned previously, New Bern is a lovely town.  Our plan was originally to spend time around Washington, DC, but we have been delayed and that would put us there around the 4th of July holiday.  Knowing that there would be no way to get a reservation at a marina close to Washington on the 4th, we decided to say in New Bern and spend the holiday here.  The life of a Looper - plans change constantly!  And, yes, the captain is ok with that!

                                       Tug LeeLoo Docked in New Bern Grand Marina.
                       Notice the cockpit sun shade, a nice feature to have in the south.
 
Since we will be in New Bern until after the 4th of July, we are working on Tug LeeLoo.  The new batteries were installed and the zincs in the engine and the generator have been replaced.  Captain Carey has been working diligently to learn and understand all the systems on Tug LeeLoo.  We have also spent some time on LeeLoo (who is still looking for a new owner).   Earlier this week, we took LeeLoo out on the Neuse River and it felt great to be back cruising on LeeLoo, even if only for a little while!   LeeLoo is for sale, but she will ALWAYS hold a special place in our hearts.

                                      LeeLoo Docked at New Bern Grand Marina

Next week we are renting a car and plan to drive to the outer banks of North Carolina to explore.  This will involve taking a car ferry which should be fun.  We will stay overnight in Nags Head and enjoy being tourists.  A little vacation for us!  Yes, we are retired and every day is like a vacation, but this will be something special and fun!

Below are various pictures taken in New Bern.  If you are ever looking for a vacation spot, this is a lovely place to visit!  New Bern residents are very welcoming.