It sounded like a good idea

Today's high in New Bern was predicted to be mid-70's. So, on our way home from the gym this morning:

Me: "What would you like to do today, Babe?"
DJ: "I was thinking either go for a walk or kayaking. Something outside so we can take advantage of the weather. Why?"
Me: "Well, I have an idea, but I'm not sure you're gonna go for it."
DJ: "Your idea?"
Me: "Why don't we pack lunch and go down to Fort Macon. Walk along the beach and have ourselves a little picnic by the ocean."
DJ: "I'm game."

At Fort Macon, two hours later (just after twelve noon):

Me: "What is the temperature here?"
DJ: "54 degrees."
Me: And what was it before we came over the bridge to Atlantic Beach?"
DJ: "64 degrees."

Folks, ten minutes later we were walking along the beach trying not to get blown across the sound and into Beaufort. When we turned the corner and hit the Atlantic Ocean side of Fort Macon, we had a feeling that we needed a tether (like the kites in the picture above). No way we were staying on this beach for lunch. No worries. Just 40 minutes of walking by the water, taking in the waves and watching the fishing activity was therapeutic to the soul.

From there, we did drive to Beaufort (where the wind wasn't Nor'easter force) and had lunch while looking at all the luxury yachts in the harbor (what do these people do for a living?). We did enjoy a short walk outside of the historic area, all the while keeping our eyes on Carrot Island for the wild ponies. Eventually, we saw about six or seven just grazing at the shore line.

Oh! And the high in New Bern today? 74 degrees. Almost 20 degrees higher than the high at Fort Macon. Gotta remember that water/ocean cools the surrounding area.