South Carolina - Heat, Expensive Homes, Beaches, Swamp and Alligators
After miles and miles of monotonous travel through the Georgia marshland we were thankful for more interesting scenery in South Carolina.
We continued to monitor the weather diligently.  On July 17th we heard news that tropical storm Brett had formed in the Bahamas and was expected to strengthen and head our way.  News like this kept us worried and pushing hard northward. 
Now that the sails are finally attached we started motor-sailing to ease the boredom of the ride.
We enjoy watching the great number of dolphins that share the "ditch" with us but were quite surprised when we saw a large alligator swim across in front of us.  Yikes!!
We continue to go aground quite regularly in the shallow, silted waterway.  We're told dredging operations are at a stand-still due to financial problems the states are experiencing plus it's off season - not a priority.  Luckily, Barry is very good at getting Sea Star to slide her way through the shallows.
This has got to be a record hot summer!!  Heat advisories continue to be issued.  July 10th - 110 degrees - absolutely sweltering!!
At times we still find ourselves in the marsh, though here it's referred to as the "low lands" - that does sound better. 
We viewed hundreds of Osprey and turtles as we passed through the cypress swamp (National Wildlife Refuge).
Tropical storm Cindy formed just as we made our way into North Carolina.