The 2008 sailing season opened with a fine little excursion into Hampton Roads and over to Willoughby Bank on a southwest wind. Fighting a strong tidal current we moseyed around for a few hours dodging tugs in tow and the Port Said heavily leaden for parts unknown. The R&B held up true to form from masttop to rudder with a new mate at the helm outbound. Enjoyed the 75F temps. Dusted off the cobwebs from both hand and eye. Delighted to confirm that the depth finder works after all. Ran the working jib through several tacks--nothing significant to report. Gabriel purred along. Celebratory Skipjacks at Sunset Grill afterwards including a salad with Cathy's Kempsville lettuce. Ready for the big time.