When you're this close to Key West, especially during the Conch Republic Independence Celebration, it's hard not to attend the festivities. Soooooo, back on Thursday for the parade. Wide Awake (Rick and Debbie), Optimystique (only William; Judy is in Tennessee for a bit) and Serendipity headed for the celebration in Rick and Debbie's SUV. We left early in the morning and got back close to midnight, so there was plenty of time to wander around, sample beverages and food, and enjoy the colorful population and activities. We visited the Green Parrot (seen snorkeling on the door) for some great blues (see the guitar and cast of autographers). The Captain even posed with some ladies (oh no they're not) of the evening, one of whom grabbed his backside! The streets were packed with parade onlookers, and candy and beads were flying through the air from the parade participants. The street cleaners in Key West will always have job security!
Since we'd been to KW twice in a week, we didn't plan to go back until we take our boat there in early May on our way to the Dry Tortugas. But.......our neighbors invited us to go back Saturday with them and their company and it was hard to say no since we were listening to our Michael McCloud (our favorite performer at Schooner Wharf) CDs at the time. And we seldom say no to a good time anyway. So, back on Saturday for the Bed Races and the Pirate Competition. One day soon we'll need to rest up.
After a stop by the Big Pine Flea Market, lunch at Hog's Breath, and a glimpse of the entries in the Bed Race, we headed for Schooner's. A gentleman stepped up to our table and took off his sunglasses to say hello, and it was Steve Bacon from Kingston, TN. He and his wife Peggy were visiting the Keys and just happened to be in Schooner's. The world closes in again! It was great to see them again, and lunch plans are already made for Monday.
There were already pirates everywhere, including the trio from Marathon seen at the table, then the gypsies arrived! We seem to run into them a lot lately; once you know them they're everywhere. They're making plans to return to the real world in May, so we're glad they're partying with their friends in the meantime. But we do miss Doug's ponytail.
Now back to that resting up.....
