Dauphin Island, AL

(1) The South is finally warming up! We are having a lovely couple days on the Island. The Mardi Gras Parade yesterday was festive, noisy, and just plain fun. Watching folks having their parties and cruising up and down the avenue was as much fun as the parade. People do it up to the max: campers, awnings, purple, yellow and green outfits with mighty silly hats, grills sending out yummy smells of sausage, steak and burgers grilling, decked out motorcycles (Harleys, natch),loud music, and general silliness. (2) I've been able to catch a couple spectacular sunrises and sunsets. I feel instantly spiritual at the cusps of the day. (3) We will be heading for Pensacola probably after church today - St. Francis Episcopal Church on the island. (4) We met some super friendly folks at the parade who have promised us a gala time next year with prize winning gumbo, grilled fish and oysters, and even a boat ride. Thanks to David and Jody for all the hospitality at the parade. And you should have seen their grandbaby girl dressed in a spectacular Mardi Gras outfit. Way too adorable.