This & That from Key West, Florida
Just returned from my morning walk, my second to the last morning walk for this year's trip. Lots of thinking this morning:
BIG SCORE YESTERDAY was the purchase of a 1958 license plate from the Republica de Cuba -- pre-Castro! WHAT A SCORE. Probably only in Key West, with all its family connections to Cuba, could one find a 51-year-old Cuban license plate for sale in an antique shop. This will be added to my growing collection of license plates (thanks to my Dad, and the Hoehners who gave me a couple Missouri plates and to Julie Castenada who gave me a personalized Christian plate) that will hand on the ceiling of the loft at the cabin. FUN!
53 miles per hour. That was my top speed yesterday on calm Gulf water on the waverunner. I usually averaged 45-48 miles per hour through most of the two hours, but a couple times when I hit especially calm water I maxed the puppy out. I will probably be out on the runners again today for a couple hours, thanks to Mark and Gilbert and Jude at Ski Key West Watersports. Those guys are great!!
Spent a couple hours at Mango's bar after the wave runner where I met Jeff, a 10-year-bartender with lots of stories. Enjoyed some good Sangria and laughed at the folks walking on Duval. \
Unlike California, my cigars are welcomed inside and out at most Key West establishments -- bars, restaurants, etc. What a refreshing freedom, especially after finding the Conch Republic Cigar Company -- seems like this will be my new home cigar supplier.
Dinner last night was at El Siboney, the best Cuban place in town in my opinion. Already my second trip there and had the "usual" -- yellow rice, black beans and Ropa Vieja (literally translated "old clothes" as this beef is simmered all day). Sangria again.
Today will be the Veteran's Day Parade down Duval Street -- the local Coast Guard makes a big deal of this parade.
PROBABLY more tomorrow as I begin packing up for a 5:30 p.m. departure Thursday afternoon from Key West and an 11:00 p.m. arrival at LAX.
Pastor