Code 1 - Brightwork man to slip #11 -- STAT!!

Ok, so we missed the bad storms and tornadoes last night and this morning because we were a bit farther north than they were. Thank goodness. When the weather improved, we left the dock and had a wonderful ride with the wind and tide until we reached the Neuse River. Coming out of a small canal onto the Neuse, we were hit with 45 kt winds across our port side, slamming everything formerly on the port side over to the starboard side, people included. Gusts were even higher. We had a 3 mile carnival ride across the Neuse to reach the lovely town of Oriental, NC, reputed to be the sailing capital of the world. Think Mr. Toad of Disney fame. Then we had to dock this battleship. All hands on deck. The townspeople lined the shore to watch the show; everyone except the mortician -- he was preparing for what he considered to be the inevitable. Sorry to disappoint! With the able assistance of dockmaster Tom at Oriental Marina and Inn, and 4 or 5 other guys, we finally were able to dock the boat. Unfortunately, the anchor of a Grand Banks fell in love with our newly varnished toerail, keeping a piece of it as a momento. The bow pulpit is a bit the worst for wear as well. Not to worry, an emergency call went out to the best brightwork man in the area, Peter, and he was here before cocktail hour to make the repairs. He said it was his first EMERGENCY call ever!! No one was hurt and no serious damage was done so on we go. We'll be here again tomorrow because it is supposed to be even more windy -- is that possible?? All conditions considered, Captain and Crew did a great job today!