Sun., 24 Feb 13

Checked weather and decided to schedule our departure for the south for next Saturday or Sunday due to weather considerations.

Update:

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles(http://www.flhsmv.gov/news/pdfs/PR021413.pdf) announced it will not enforce a new state law requiring all non-US residents, including Canadians, to carry a valid International Driver’s Permit (IDP) when driving their own vehicle or a rental vehicle in Florida, as the law is now under review.


The statement explained that the law may potentially conflict with an international treaty.

The Department understands the concerns of the international community and is working with its partners to ensure that visitors are not inconvenienced. Visit Florida, AAA, Canada Automobile Association and law enforcement agencies around the state are helping DHSMV get the message out that Florida’s doors and roadways are open as usual to all visitors. The Department will be working with the Florida Legislature in the coming months to ensure that the law reflects Florida’s rich history of welcoming our friends from around the world to the Sunshine State.


The blog will continue again once we depart.

Sat., 23, Feb 13

Slept in this morning. (9 a.m.)

Marty (the goalie) was player-of-the-game today. We did not make it to the 8 a.m. game that was out-of-town. We did get to congratulate him when we went to his place in the afternoon to connect with the internet. Our services were shut down for the 4 months we will be south.

Supper and a movie with our best friends tonight! We sure miss them when we are away - time to catch up this evening.

The blog will continue when we get on the road south - maybe in a week - as we wait for good weather.

Fri., 22 Feb 13

Hometime: We were greeted by snowbanks!

Spent the day getting meds (two months worth) for our return trip.

Busy taking care of business around town.

Charlotte got to watch our grandson Marty's goalie practice (5 - 6 p.m.) and then we were off to his house for a delightful pot roast supper at his house (our other daughter - Liz). Nothing is more important than family.

Thu., 21 Feb 13

We both woke a few moments before our 6 a.m. wake-up call rang. We toasted bagels and bread (both with jam) and had juice at the continental breakfast bar in the lobby. We each took a danish for the road. We were on our way by 6:30 a.m. It was good to get up early and on our way as a major storm front was coming our way accompanied by strong winds.

Luck was with us. We kept about an hour ahead of the storm all the way home. In Virginia we passed tankers de-icing the highway in anticipation of the freezing rain. Our danish along with Lay's chips and soft drinks packed in the car kept us going without a need to stop for lunch. It was I-81 all the way to Hwy 401 and home.

We only had a light "Lake-effect" snow (produced during cooler atmospheric conditions when cold winds move across long expanses of warmer lake water, providing energy and picking up water vapour, which freezes and is deposited on the leeward shores) near Syracuse, NY. There was no road accumulation; however, we were passed by cars (probably from the wet on I-90) that were covered in snow (one - a foot thick) and brown from road splatter.

We stopped at Adams, NY and filled with gas. We had supper at McD's next door. This is an easy access exit with both right at the northbound on and off ramps.

Next stop was the Duty Free before crossing into Canada. We arrived home about 8 p.m.

Our daughter, Kat, stopped in after work. She had stocked the refrigerator with a few necessities previously in the day.

Charlotte got to snuggle with the cats - Max and Jesse.

The blog will continued when we head back to Alabama. It may not be for a week as the weather predictions for the next week are not the best.

Wed., 20 Feb 13

We were up at 6  a.m. and instead of taking I-59 from Birmingham, AL as planned we kept on I-65 to Montgomery, AL then took I-85 to Atlanta, GA where we looped Atlanta on I-285 and continued on I-85 to Charlotte, NC. We looped Charlotte on I-485 to I-77 which connected us with I-81 just north of Fort Chiswell, VA. We continued on to Salem, VA. As predicted the weather was fine all the way north. Tomorrow would be different.

We stopped at a Super 8 for the night in Salem.The rates are sometimes half those at the same motel chain in a major center. Here the rate was $55 w/continental breakfast. We had supper at Applebee's a short distance away.

Tue., 19 Feb 13

We spent today getting ready for departure. We notified the RV Park about the departure and how to contact us. We also mentioned our departure to our park neighbours.

Lucky I did. When I told Jim about our route north he indicated I-59 may not have had the Northbound side resurfaced yet. This portion was a steady thump-thump-thump as the concrete section gaps were not smooth. Last year we watched the rear wheels of loaded transports lift completely of the road - continuously! I thought they had paved both sides - apparently not.

We reprogrammed the GPS just before setting off to bed a little earlier than usual. The weather report showed sunshine all the way tomorrow.

Mon., 18 Feb 13

A repeat of Sunday’s weather except for the stronger winds. Late afternoon saw clouds come in. This will lead to the expected rain on Tuesday.

Today, a little after 1 pm, we went to Camping World in Robertsdale, AL less than 15 minutes away. I picked up 3 short hoses. It is hard to find hoses for drinking water less than 10 feet long anywhere other than at Camping World. I also picked up hose washers. All these items are for future use.

Our lunch destination today was Manci’s Antique Club on Main St in Daphne, AL. As we approached we could see that numerous beads from the recent Mardi Gras parade were still on nearby porch roof tops.

In 1924 Frank Manci purchased an old wooden products warehouse and turned it into a gasoline station. When his son, Frank, took over in 1947. 20 years later he obtained a liquor license and started hanging bottles in the now full-fledged bar and grill. Among the items in this eclectic collection is a hockey goalie stick hanging from the ceiling above the bar. No, This is not sacrilege! The University of Alabama has 21 varsity sports teams. Both the male and female athletic teams are called the Crimson Tide. Their ice hockey team is known as the Frozen Tide! There is also the largest collection of Jim Beam decanters on display anywhere.

Another 20 years passed until Arthur’s son, Alex, took over and became known for their Seafood Po-Boys. Along with numerous local and regional awards, they were also featured on Guy Fieri’s Food Network program: Diners, Drive-ins and Dives.

Once again, Charlotte and I say; “Thank You, Guy!” having shared one of the show’s featured items – the Spider Sandwich which consists of Soft Shelled Crab (the whole crab) deep-fried and lovingly fitted into a French Roll along with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, onions and tartar sauce. Too good for words! How about .....mmmmmmm!

The huge size of the Spider Sandwich meant we only ate a small portion of the Monday Special: Spaghetti. We did have enough to know the meatballs and sauce were above the ordinary and we certainly will enjoy later in the RV.

Moriah, our waitress, was the epitome of southern hospitality. She grew up in Burlington, VT and we both got nostalgic about how good Ben and Jerry’s ice cream is – especially when eaten at the factory store. Thanks to Moriah, I am now armed with a few more tourist destinations worthy of a visit.

Everything is prepared fresh which means we had a short wait time. While waiting we were startled by an extremely loud “Clang”. Folks at the next table informed us that when someone in the “Ladies Room” moves the “Fig Leaf” covering the private area (It does warn not to move) on the male artwork, a loud shocking “Buzz” goes off in the washroom and an even louder bell “Clang” echoes throughout the restaurant. When it happened again we were not so surprised and laughed with the crowd.

After the meal we continued along Scenic 98 through Daphne, Fairhope and Point Clear. It is a slow and pretty road that added to our enjoyment of riding “topless” in the sunshine.

A short time after arriving back at the RV the clouds rolled quickly in. I drove over to the Corporate Office to connect with the Wi-Fi to get the blog out for today. We have decided that we will head home by car on Wednesday (really early) and hope to get back by Thursday evening which means there may not be a blog for a few days. We will leave the RV here and go home in the Del Sol. We had thought of taking a cruise ship (grin); however, the local coverage of the Carnival Triumph, now in Mobile Harbor, changed our mind. 

We only have to be back by Feb. 25^th – leaving a few days early gives us a buffer should something unexpected occur. The car appears to be fine; yet it is 18 years old with nearly 400,000 K of experience, so anything might happen.

As I finished the blog in the car near the office it began to rain lightly so I had to put the top on before heading across the park to the RV.

Tomorrow we will make final preparations for departure.

Sun., 17 Feb 13

Charlotte made smoothies for breakfast using the strawberries (now frozen) that we bought in Florida a few weeks ago. They were great!

It was another cool start to the day; however, with almost no wind it felt warmer than Saturday. We waited until slightly after noon to head out to enjoy the perfectly clear blue sky and sunshine.

Today we headed towards Foley, AL and took the Foley Beach Express route to bypass the several miles of stoplights through the city. Our primary destination was Orange Beach.  Once we crossed the toll bridge (could have avoided by go through Foley and Gulf Shores) we followed AL-180 (Canal Rd) to the end. This is the residential/cottage section or Orange Beach.

On the return we turned towards the beaches. This section reminds me of cruising the Outer Banks in the Carolinas. Wall-to-wall houses, built up on stilts over the dunes. A section was high rise condo or hotels for at least a mile. We could not even see the water. Then we passed another 3 to 4 miles of mostly multi-story houses to the  west end (dead end). 

Charlotte enjoyed the slow convertible ride along the beach strip. The houses were so colourful (mostly pastels) and it amused her to read the house names. People give their houses names so visitors (or renters) can find them among the multitude of look-alikes. Many were quite creative.

Once again we stopped at the Original Oyster House for a repeat of yesterday’s lunch. We don’t often do this; however, we enjoyed it (especially the Fried Green Tomatoes) so much we just couldn’t pass by. Charlotte went in to get our “beeper” while I looked for a parking spot. This place is always packed. 

We ordered the identical meal. The only thing different was our seat and our server.

After lunch we headed back to the Foley Beach Express again to avoid the several miles of stoplights. We were soon back at the RV. I think supper will just be a piece of pecan pie later this evening. In the mean time I will finish the blogs for Saturday and Sunday and then take the computer in the car and park outside the corporate office building.

I was lucky and was able to get on the Wi-Fi and send out the blogs. Now the usual TV evening. Being Sunday we won't even have to stay up for Jay (Leno).

Sat., 16 Feb 13

Today was cool and breezy with sunshine and a few clouds. Still it was nice enough to go for a ride with the top off.

We stopped at Walmart and stocked up on Charlotte’s weekly magazines: Woman’s World, First and All You. I was looking for a Bell triple lighter plug socket w/usb power outlets (2). I bought the last one at another Walmart and wanted a second unit. No luck.

As we exited we picked up a few boxes of Girl Guide cookies that the young ladies were displaying on their table by the entrance. We purchased Peanut Butter Sandwich and Shortbread; two of our favourites.

Our next destination was the Punta Clara Kitchen in Point Clear, AL. They have been known for almost 40 years for their great preserves and candies which feature local pecans.

It is located in a historic home which was quite nice to visit on the way to the “kitchen”. There we sampled several candies and preserves and were remarkably resistant to temptation. We only came away with a few purchases.

We then continued north on Scenic 98 to the Marriot Grand Hotel which, since 1847, has been known as the “Queen of Southern Resorts.”  It had served as a Confederate Hospital during the Civil War and currently is rated as Marriott’s Top Spa worldwide.

We just did a U-turn after reaching the Marriott and headed back south on Scenic 98. We branched off onto CR-1 which brought us further south along the waters of Mobile Bay. We were really enjoying the slow ride in the sunshine. Unfortunately, we had to turn inland before the road reached a dead end at Weeks Bay.

Heading back inland we followed US -98 then on to AL-59 southbound through Foley to our next destination in Gulf Shores, AL.  It was time (3 p.m.) for a late lunch. Our choice was the Original Oyster House (and Boardwalk) - a local landmark with a great view!

There were a lot of great choices on the menu. We finally decided to share the Seafood Platter and the Fried Green Tomato entrees. It was a good thing this was a late lunch – no take-home; but, we were stuffed. We would both go back just for the Fried Green Tomatoes!

We bought a few items in the Boardwalk Shops attached to the restaurant then started back to the RV – still with the top off. In Foley we pulled in to the Walmart SuperCenter. Still no luck on the item I was looking for.

We arrived back at the just before sunset. We really enjoyed the slow ride in the sunshine. All that fresh air will probably mean early to bed after a little TV. Supper will just be snacks – maybe a few of the Girl Guide cookies.

Fri., 15 Feb 13

We are resting today.

Got an e-mail from my daughter who is a Registered insurance Underwriter which included this startling bit of information.

To hit the news recently, is information about new license requirements while driving in Florida.   An international license is now a requirement.  This went into effect Jan 1 and was not made public to any degree.

You can visit:   www.citynews.ca for more information.

Anyone can obtain this by going to CAA.  There is a form that needs to be completed, along with passport photos and the fee is $25.00. It's not known how serious law enforcement in Florida will be. We would consider these clients licensed and insured for any claim purposes. There are indications that Canadians may be exempt from this at some point; however, when is not known.
Canadians need international driving licences in Florida.

14 FEB 2013:

A new law in effect in Florida requires international visitors, and yes, that includes Canadians, to have an International Driving Permit to drive in the Sunshine State, in addition to a regular driver’s licence.
The state legislature passed a law requiring all non-resident drivers in Florida to carry such a permit as of January 1.  The new law naturally applies to drivers renting cars - which is going to be a serious issue - no never mind 'issue' - it's a PROBLEM.

The upside, if there is one,  is that one apparently does not have to test for an international licence, they can apparently be purchased from the Canadian Automobile Association for $25. It’s a standardized document that translates your licence details into 10 different languages.

There are up to three-million Canadian snowbirds in Florida; however the CAA told the Toronto Star it is trying to get the state of Florida to modify or wave the law for Canadians.

"We realize that tourists will be an unintended side effect of this new law,” Kathy Torian of Visit Florida, told the Toronto Star.  We’re trying to help spread the word to the tourism community around the world as well as our own industry in Florida.”

The next legislative session doesn’t take place until March, and the Star reported the soonest any change could take place would be July.

The CAA is urging drivers to get the permit if they are heading to Florida for the March Break. 

We had a second serving of our meal from Lambert's Cafe. The pictures shows what came home. I could only eat half of the half. Now that is value for the money as the prices are quite reasonable. My liver and onions - 3 times the size of most regular restaurant plates - was $9.99.

I went down to the RV office to find that the Wi-Fi is out in the lower part of the park. The said to go up by the Corporate Office and park in front and I could get service. I did and it appears to be working. I will send out the text first and add pictures later - if my battery holds out and the connection remains good.

A lovely sunny day today - perhaps tomorrow we will explore  a little of the area.

Thu., 14 Feb 13

Up and out by a little after 9 a.m.

The new printer ran out of ink (black) because I print out copies of the blog each day. It would not recognize the replacement cartridge. I took it back to the closest Best Buy in Spanish Fort, AL about 15 miles away. We arrived about 15 minutes before the 10 a.m. opening. It only took a few moments to make the exchange for a new printer. I really like the printer. It is called the “Small –in-One” as it does everything; yet it is very compact which is great for travelling. If this one has a problem I will have to look for a different printer.

We returned using Historic “Old Hwy 98” which is also called “Alabama’s Coastal Connection”. This brought us back through Fairhope, AL where we watched the Mardi Gras Parade. We continued to the B and B Pecan Company just south of the town.

I always thought a pecan was a pecan. I guess, like many plants, there are many varieties as information on the wall explained.  We also learned many facts about pecans that we did not know. Pecans will keep for one month at room temperature and up to 2 years in the freezer. Unshelled pecans will keep up to 4 years.

Pecans have no cholesterol  or trans-fats and are high in antioxidants which helps heart health and lowers cholesterol. One ounce has the fibre of a medium sized apple. They are salt free; but, contain more than 19 vitamins and minerals. So as they say; “Go Nuts, Your Body Will Thank You!”

We bought a large bag of salted pecans that had been prepared in their almost century old roaster as well as a pecan pie.

Our next destination (we were getting hungry) was lunch at Lambert’s Cafe in Foley, AL. We have previously eaten at Lamberts in Ozark, MO when visiting Branson, MO. We were looking forward to doing it again – it is a unique experience.  The line wasn’t too bad – only about 40 folks in front of us when we arrived just before noon. The restaurant is quite larger and we were seated in minutes.

Lamberts is the home of “the throwed roll”. They ask who would like a roll – then throw them to the folks who raise their hand.  The servers are amazingly accurate. Can you find the bun in the air in the photo? Follow the end of the servers hand (45 degrees) and you will see the bun in the air (above picture).  The “hot from the oven” rolls are larger than giant muffins and have a similar shape and they are soooo good! There is huge basket of whipped butter spread containers (several dozen) on the table ready to meet your needs.

They serve the “home style” meals with two sides. Charlotte had the Chicken Pot Pie with applesauce and cottage cheese; I had liver and onions with sweet kernel corn and a baked potatoe. The also bring “Pass Arounds” to the table. We sampled fried okra, boiled cabbage, home fries w/onions and black-eyed peas. They also brought apple butter and sorghum (molasses) to top the buns.

We could not believe the size of the meals. We ate until we were stuffed and still took home more than what would be a serving in an average restaurant. Unbelievable!

Now that we ate - we had to work it off! Next stop the Tanger Outlet Mall just up the road. This is one of the largest outlet malls we have been to – including those in Florida. It was also one of the busiest.  Charlotte would walk and I would follow in the car. If she entered a store I would park. If she remained in for a few minutes I would then go in. Usually, I would return to the car, put the purchase in the trunk and repeat the procedure. Again, as I often say, we found things we didn’t know we needed.

Part way through shopping we went to the food court for a refreshment. On the large screen TV the “Carnival Triumph” story was unfolding on local TV. The cruise ship, with over 4000 on board, lost power (engine fire) while returning from the Yucatan (Mexico) to Galveston, TX. It was now being towed to Mobile, AL at 5 mph and was passing into Mobile Bay a few miles from here.

Virtually nothing was working on the ship. No washrooms, no regular food (we heard onion sandwiches were on the menu) and the smell of rotten food and sewage everywhere. Passengers with inside rooms had taken their mattresses to the decks to escape the heat and odour. They did helicopter a portable generator onto the ship and managed to get a few toilets and some lights working. With only 1 elevator unloading at the terminal would take several more hour after docking.

After the break we continued our shopping routine and then headed for the RV. It was now a lovely sunny and warm afternoon. We would have taken the top off; however, the trunk was full of purchases. About 15 minutes later we were back unloading at the RV.

Needless to say we did not need supper. A snack in the evening included a small piece of the pecan pie – what a treat! Our pecan pie was the traditional style one on the left - the one on the right was Chocolate Pecan Pie (maybe next time)

Charlotte received a single long stemmed Rose for Valentine’s Day. I managed to sneak it back to the RV without her knowing. 

It was a busy day again, tomorrow we will rest.

Pictures to follow if and when Wi-Fi improves? (Now included)

Tue., 12 Feb 13

Rain again today! 

Thank goodness – we need the rest. I am stiff and sore from all the jumping and bending for “throws” at the Mardi Gras parade last night in Fairhope, AL.

We slept in until after 9 a.m. which is really like 10 a.m. for us since we have just arrived from the Eastern Time Zone. It will take us a bit to re-adjust for “RV lag”.

Charlotte made the traditional pancakes for Shrove Tuesday or Mardi Gras (French = Fat Tuesday). Thankfully, she made a double batch……mmmmm.

After brunch we sorted our “catches” (Is that what throws are called after they are caught?) into like piles. We had a pile.

We organized them by colour and type in baggies. As well as beads, we had Moon Pies, Cracker Jacks w/prize inside, drink cups (w/Krewe logos), Frisbees, coloured balls, a “smiley” flower, a rabbit, a teddy bear, a noise maker and streamers and a huge Valentine’s Heart.  There were even more elaborate throws that didn’t make it our way including larger stuffed animals and hula hoops.

The beads were of many colours with the majority being the traditional Purple, Green and Gold. We had a few that included Krewe medallions. One of the medallions was dated 1968 which might lend truth to what Charlotte overheard – that local Walmarts buy them back by the pound?

We actually enjoyed the rain. I grew up with a tin roof on the back porch just outside my bedroom window; so, I really enjoy hearing the rain on the RV roof.

The local TV stations spent much of the day covering the Mardi Gras parades that were running continuously throughout the area. One of the many parades was that of the Comic Cowboys. They are one of the oldest parade groups and they specialize in adding humour to the parade. They are also known for having some of the most unique “throws” . On TV I saw a green and gold toilet plunger being tosses to the crowd.  

The TV coverage had to shut down mid-afternoon due to the lightning.  For safety reasons they had to lower their mobile truck transmission antennas that extend several stories into the air. Although rain is common for Mardi Gras in Mobile the TV announcers indicated this may be the rainiest celebration in the past 50 years. They were able to resume after the local thunderstorms had passed. Small hail was falling in some areas and there is a remote possibility of a tornado. Sadly, the final parade of the day in Mobile was cancelled due to the weather.

Charlotte relaxed by crocheting while watching TV. There was no Wi-Fi available today – probably due to the heavy rain – so I could not research area things to do on the internet. I entered travel destinations into the computer from brochures we had picked up in Fairhope.  I did use the computer to at least write the basic blogs for Monday and Tuesday using Microsoft Word. I can copy and paste it into the blog when the Wi-Fi is up and running well enough to use. Pictures will be added at that time as well.

I also planned our “interim” trip home which will have to occur before Feb 25^th. We need to return to Canada (Ontario, specifically) for 24 hours to recycle our “out-of-country” medical insurance.

That was it for our activities today.

Wed., 13 Feb 13

Rain again today - steady and heavy!

The Wi-Fi again was not good enough to do the blog with pictures. I did manage to get the blog for Monday and Tuesday, as well as today, out after a few hours of trying. Since there was nothing else to do in the rain it helped to pass the time.

The rain is supposed to clear; however, there will be a drastic drop in temperature. It is expected to be below freezing in areas at night. Quite a change as last night's temperature was 75 F. By mid-afternoon it was already down to the low 40's and the front windshield on the motorhome was beginning to fog up.

The Wi-Fi still slow for pictures. I will try to download pictures into the Monday and Tuesday blogs.

We are anxious for better weather so we can get out and explore the area. Today we will just watch TV. Charlotte will crochet and I will doodle on the computer. The rest will do us good.

Mon., 11 Feb 13

A little relaxation after our travel and set-up. Tornadoes touched down last night about 80 miles north of here. Building were destroyed; however, there was plenty of TV warnings and I haven`t heard of casualties. We slept in a bit (9 a.m.). Charlotte spent the morning watching TV and crocheting. I tried to get on-line to find more things to do in the area. With the heavy rain and thunderstorms I don`t think they will be installing the new Wi-Fi for a few days. (Pictures will be added when the Wi-Fi improves - I'll be lucky to just get the blog out.)

A neighbour came over this morning to let us know when (6:45 p.m.) the Mardi Gras parade would start in Fairhope, AL (just 15 minutes down the road) today. He also told us where (downtown) and how to get there. He warned us to be careful! Nothing dangerous - it is just that this is the last parade and there will be a lot of  ``throws`` from the floats. We will have to watch to not be hit. He also said the parade sometimes goes around the route 2 or 3 times. This will probably depend on the weather this evening.

The next few days weather reports are showing 80% change of rain. So far today it has been continuous and heavy with occasional thunderstorms.

We packed our rain suits (jacket and pants) and headed off to Fairhope, AL for the day sometime around noon.  The reason I say sometime is because we are not sure of the time.  We set the clocks a few times; however, we were still  unsure.  The confusion is because some of the TV stations we receive are from Florida which means they are showing a different time zone (EST).

Our main purpose was to attend the Fairhope Mardi (actually, Lundi) Gras parade. Unlike New Orleans, Mardi Gras here (greater Mobile, AL area) is more of a family event. We did not see anyone drinking anything other than coffee.

Our outing today includes two restaurants featured on Food Networks’ Guy Fieri’s “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives”. Our first stop would be for lunch at Panini Pete’s in the “French Quarter” which, like several restaurants in the downtown area, closes around 2:30 p.m.  Supper is planned for the Gumbo Shack (also featured on Triple D) which is open late.

We clicked “Panini Pete’s” on the GPS and headed out.  About 15 minutes later we arrived in downtown Fairhope.  “No Parking  after 5 PM” signs along all of the downtown streets marked the parade route.  We parked the car and then tried to find Panini Pete’s. Finally, down the street, we saw the sign on the sidewalk. 

In the south the early homes were described as “Shotgun” houses meaning if you fired a shotgun at the front the blast would go through the whole house without hitting a thing. In other words, they were long and narrow. This is like many of the stores here – long and narrow with other shops or restaurants way back down the alley.

We sat in the Victorian style “Garden Gazebo” section of Panini Pete’s Café and Bakeshoppe. Although it was packed we did find a table available. Usually (we were told) there is a line-up to get in all day long.  Charlotte ordered a Turkey Panini and I ordered the Triple D featured "Panini Pete’s Muffaletta Panino". As usual, we share good food. Both were well worth the trip – Thank You Guy! (Fieri).

Alabama has good food! Several restaurants nearby have been featured on TV food programs. Fairhope, AL has two that were featured on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives. Even more are nearby.

Not only was this cafe and bakery featured on Triple D (Diners, Drive-ins and Dives) on the Food Network - Pete was lucky enough to have been chosen to join the Krewe for the Guy Fieri Food Tour! Along with Gorilla, Stretch and Guido he hit the road for a 14 city tour of live shows. A Foodapalooza as they call it. He described it as "Rock meets The Kitchen with a circus thrown in!" The crew met in Charleston, SC for a day of rehearsal. The first day 2 of the 3 menu items changed so they had to do a little scrambling and shopping to get the right products. All worked out and they got settled in for the opening show the next night. The energy of the crowd was  phenomenal! Things went off very well. "Working those induction burners is always a challenge"; he said, "but when Guy is off from cooking to “story time” you really have to work those pan to keep things rolling; but, not burning!"

As for the food, Pete`s Muffaletta Panino (Italian meats and cheeses with olive salad on rustic Italian) is listed in Alabama Tourism`s "100 Things to eat before you die".

Before leaving we asked for the correct time and headed out after lunch with an extra hour in our day. Our  first shopping stop occurred as soon as we reached the sidewalk. The “4 Bags Boutique” was a delightful little shop filled with designer handbags and accessories.  Although Charlotte was not looking for a bag or anything else for that matter she did find something with her name on it. Sharon, like all folks we have met so far, was very warm and friendly. After several try-ons, with Sharon’s help, Charlotte made a decision - a unique and colourful jacket.

Heeding the parking warnings we decided to move the Del Sol to a safe parking before all the closest spots where taken. We then returned to shop the streets. Ironically, the closest parking spot was near our supper destination – the Gumbo Shack (again, with signs on the sidewalk).

We spent the next few hours enjoying the lovely landscaped downtown area. Fairhope really is a gem. We were surprised to learn this area really did not develop until recently. We passed a store with a plaque denoting it as the location of the first hospital (1901). Across the road was Julwin’s, Baldwin county’s oldest restaurant (1945), which also closed early (2 p.m.)

Behind the public library there were a number of parked RVs. We walked over to see if this was a city RV park. It was not. They were parked there with special permission from the city. These RVs were part of the staging area for tonight’s parade.  Presumably, many of the participants would get into costume here.

We crossed the street to the Fairhope Museum; however, it was closed (due to Mardi Gras?). We then walked the path beside the museum to the main street. It came out at the Tourism Welcome Center which we entered. We remained here (comfortable seats) and people watched. Occasionally we had conversations with those that entered (many) as there were public washrooms in the building. This was a good spot as it was raining heavily again.

A little more than an hour before parade time crews arrived to prepare the parade route. A Police car accompanied by a number of tow trucks passed first. Hopefully, no vehicles would need to be towed.  A few moments later workers arrived to remove holder covers along the curb and inserted metal posts through which steel cable was strung. This would keep the crowds off the street during the parade. Obviously, this was a procedure that they were well used to doing being the parade follows the same route year after year.

The downtown trees lit up at dusk and were very pretty. We left the Welcome Center about 15 minutes before parade time. Thankfully, the rain had stopped and things were drying up quickly. We managed to find a spot to watch the parade. There was now a continuous line of spectators along the cable on both sides of the street.

This parade was sponsored by the Order Of Mystic Magnolias (OOMM). There have been dozens of parades throughout the area in the last few days. There will be several more parades tomorrow for Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday) especially in Mobile, AL which will have six parades scheduled throughout the day.

To our surprise the Grand Marshal of the parade was Minnie Mouse! Along with the floats there were costumed riders on horseback, in autos (vintage to hot rods, a double-decker (London) bus, comically decorated vehicles and drill team mini-cars. Everyone was tossing “Throws” as they passed by. Spaced between the floats were bands of all kinds – school bands, country bands, rock bands and even bagpipers.

Folks who had used their umbrellas to protected themselves from the rain now turned them upside-down to catch the throws. Most folks just used their hands to catch throws or step on the ones that hit the road.

Charlotte was doing quite well – perhaps it was her previous practice on Bourbon St in New Orleans, LA.

The parade was well staged with a band (marching or otherwise) between the floats. This gave spectators a chance to pick up the items that had landed on the road near them.  Apparently, there is a large fine for crossing the line and entering the parade route although they don’t seem to mind if you just reach past the line.

Each float was constructed with vantage points at least three to four levels high. This allows the few dozen folks on board to toss their throws without hitting each other.  Each float was preceded by flag bearers carrying the name of the “OOMM” Krewe or the float's theme.

The parade route followed a path that ran in and out of the streets which were only one block apart. After the parade passed everyone moved to the nearby street that ran in the opposite direction and got to see it all over again. In our move we found a spot halfway between the street lights. We had learned this from our previous position. We often lost the path of the throws when the street light was directly across the street.

We changed positions a third time with the final move bringing us closer to where the car was parked . As we walked back to the car after the final pass the street cleaning workers and machines were already out. The barriers were left up to allow the workers a clear shot at cleaning up without traffic. A number of folks were also on the streets picking up the throws that had been missed or left behind. Some had “pickers” so they did not have to bend over.

On reaching the car it took us ten minutes just to unload our “throws” into the trunk.  A few steps down the street and down the alley (way down) we arrived at the Gumbo Shack. Again, like Pete’s, this place was packed with only one or two tables left.

We sat and were soon served. We ordered our meal which (again) we shared. The Gumbo (for which the place is named) and the Jambalaya (featured on Triple D) were both excellent.  Again – thank you Guy! 

We enjoying the food while listening to the music of “Rhythm Intervention”. Loved their sound – a little R and B, a little Reggae, a little Rock ‘n Roll, a little of everything – all well done. The small dance floor was always packed.

We topped the meal off with a little decadent dessert that was a great way to end a fun day. After finding our way around the blocked off streets we got on the main road heading back to the RV campground. 

After unloading our booty we watched Jay’s monologue on the Tonight Show (at 10:35 p.m. here) then turned off the TV and were asleep in moments.

Sun., 10 Feb 13

I managed to get on the net (Sunday morning) to do the Saturday blog. I did the Sunday blog as well. They are installing a totally new Wi-Fi system in the park on Monday and they are not sure what will happen in the mean time. If I am off for a few days don't be surprised. 

Yesterday was perfectly sunny and clear - today it is totally overcast. The temperatures don't seem to swing as much here due to the influence of the waters of Mobile Bay and the nearby Gulf of Mexico. It will be cooler here than central Florida which was running about 10 degrees above normal. We expect mid 50's to high 60's F for the next week or so. There is also the possibility of thundershowers, as well.

Wow! A local "Tornado Warning" on TV. At least it is well north of our location.

Funny - I haven't seen a golf cart yet!

I don't think security will be an issue due to my neighbour's vehicle parked nearby.

We are facing east which will allow the RV to warm up in the morning with the early sunrise; but will keep it from getting too warm in the afternoon. The wind is really strong today. The clouds are also moving quite quickly and sky is getting brighter with a few sunny breaks as the day moves on - then a sudden short, heavy downpour.

We are going to take it easy today. Monday we may go to Fairhope, AL about 5 miles away. We have been told that many from the RV park will going there for the Lundi Gras (Fat Monday) parade. This day is named after the French tradition of eating good foods this day (as well as on Fat Tuesday - Mardi Gras) in preparation for dietary (religious) restrictions imposed during Lent. In Mobile, Lundi Gras, is traditionally a family day.

This morning there was a mini-parade that passed by the RV. A few youngsters, costumed for the occasion, pulled a decorated wagon with passengers along the roadway. By the time I got the camera they were barely visible between the RVs and the tree.

Mardi (Fat Tuesday) Gras is big in Alabama. Mardi Gras makes everyone think of New Orleans; however, Mardi Gras, then called "Boeuf Gras" (Fat Ox), originated in Mobile, AL. It is the oldest annual Carnival celebration in the United States, having started in 1703 when Mobile was the first capital of French Louisiana. This was fifteen years before New Orleans was founded.

The festival began as a French Catholic tradition and has now evolved into a mainstream multi-week celebration that runs across a spectrum of cultures. To Mobilians, Mardi Gras refers to the entire festival season, also known as Carnival. This includes school holidays for the final Monday, Tuesday and, in some areas, (Ash) Wednesday which is the beginning of Lent. The area's traditions draw French, Spanish, British, African, Creole, American, and even Swedish influences. Both Catholics and other Christians often observe Lenten rituals, such as giving up certain foods or taking on charitable obligations during the season of repentance; but, until then - regardless of religious affiliation - it is a party!

The Mardi Gras season starts in November with exclusive parties held by secret mystic societies (Krewes). Other related events have become closely entwined with the social debutante season for members of "society". These events also include traditional masked balls where the gentle where the gentlemen are unmasked and in "Tails" while the women, in evening gowns, are masked. The New Year's Eve Ball is also one of the focal points.

The real celebration for the masses begins on three weekends before Mardi Gras with parades featuring the different Krewes that build the floats. These are held in area towns with most being on the weekend. As Mardi Gras draws closer the parades increase and include weekday events.  Nearly 50 parades occur in the greater Mobile region in the last two weeks alone. Mobile, itself, has 4 major parade routes with several parades throughout each day. They start as early as 10 a.m. with the last beginning after 6:30 p.m. Numerous smaller parades and walking clubs also parade around the city.

The traditional colours of Mardi Gras in Mobile have been purple and gold. Purple, related to royal monarchies in Europe, is also the liturgical (Christian) colour used during Lent. Many in Mobile now incorporate a third colour, green - perhaps influenced by New Orleans' traditional colours of purple, green and gold.

Elaborate floats may be commercially made with less involved units being totally made by the sponsoring Krewe. Construction often begins immediately after the last parade of the season. Krewe members may also participate in the construction or decoration. These events are organized like a party and may be held throughout the year. Their frequency increases as Mardi Gras draws closer.

During the parade Krewe float members (often costumed and masked), toss gifts (known as throws) to the spectators along the route. Throws include necklaces of plastic beads, candy, wrapped cakes or snacks, stuffed animals, and small toys, as well as, footballs, frisbees, or whistles. Often the doubloon coins and plastic cups used as throws are decorated with the symbol of the participating Krewe. Krewes use sales of these items, as souvenirs to tourists, to raise funds for the construction of their float. For safety, city regulations stipulate the length, width and height of floats, to ensure that the floats can navigate the narrow streets and tight turns of downtown. Regulations also dictate what may be used as throws to prevent accidental injury during these parades.

Promptly at the stroke of midnight at the end of Fat Tuesday, all festivities related to Mardi Gras cease. It is the start of Lent (Ash Wednesday). City crews quickly clean the streets of all signs of Mardi Gras for the next day. Local traditions even frown on wearing Mardi Gras beads during Lent.

Lent means it is time to get serious - at least until the first Krewe meeting.