Fair Fairhope, AL

Fair Fairhope AL

Having previously visited this gem of the gulf coast, we couldn’t resist a day off for some power shopping – ok Julia wanted to do the shopping and Steve relented after relaxing with chores on the boat.

 

We had earned the day of rest and a couple nights with network TV in time to catch those ‘Noles in action after two extremely long (for us) days. Our second 70 mile day dropped us through the last stretch of the river boosted by a falling tide so we arrived in Fairhope well before dusk.

 

 

 

 

 

  On the dock to grab our ropes were Ozel and Maryann on Freya.  They had just returned to their boat in the neighboring slip with perfect timing to give us a helping hand.  This marina is strung along a creek on the east side of Mobile Bay. While they welcome loopers with great deals and low fuel prices, dock hands are few and far between.  Not only did we enjoy Ozel and Maryann’s help, it was fun to share experiences and plans as they closed their loop only a few weeks ahead of us after a trip split over two years. Yet again we realized how naturally compatible loopers are – in addition, both Steve and Ozel spent years in the oil industry, and both families lived overseas for long stretches. Needless to say, Ozel ad Maryann took many breaks from their chores (unloading their boat) to chat and help us pass the evening with yet another looper gathering.  In the afternoon  the local harbor hosts stopped by and helped us plan the anchorages going east toward home.– just a few more reminders that doing the Great Circle Loop is about the people!