OUT OF THE BAG

Our newly christened vessel gave us a ride back to Manteo Waterfront early this morning, all shiny and happy, her new stainless steel cockpit rail winking at us the whole way.

The depth meter wasn't working right, so we had some confusing moments, including a little kiss of sand. Chip felt it and immediately throttled down, so the plowing was minimal. We crept back into the channel and made it in without further incident.

We've kept the new name relatively secret in hopes of doing a big 'reveal' at the party on Sunday, but as we approached the Waterfront, we needed a hand tying up for a pump out.

"Manteo Marina, Manteo Marina, this is, uh, uh"

I may not be overly superstitious, but I didn't want to invoke an old name.

So I said it.

Carl, the dockmaster, radioed back, 

"Oooh, the cat's done outta the bag!"

LOL

Half out, I guess.