We finally made it to South Padre Island (SPI), where we went to a kite fest and ate at Dirty Al's, both experiences not to be missed. Gary and Mary Ann had been at last year's kite fest and told us what a wonderful event it was. The air overhead held some unusual kites. One was a soccer umpire, complete with soccer ball. Another was a ring designed so that it turns in the wind.
The highlight of the day was a series of teams flying kites in coordinated maneuvers. We were reminded of military precision jet fighter teams--the Navy's Blue Angels or the Air Force Thunderbirds. A friend said it seemed like the kites were alive.
Afterwards we went to Dirty Al's, a local seafood joint that specializes in fried shrimp. No reservations and a long wait, but the shrimp were indeed something special. It was the first time we've eaten at a bar-restaurant-bait shop.
We timed our return to Mission to coincide with the annual Citrus Fiesta parade, like no other parade we've ever attended. Most of the entries were lighted--including the swarms of motorcycle cops with their red, white, and blue flashing lights.
As usual, lots of politicians participated, but the Rio Grande Valley mayors included several from south of the border. Lots of military imagery was featured, and the vehicles in the parade included a tank and a half-track. The crowd stood to salute every time a color guard passed, and that meant a lot of jumping up and down. Even some of the RV communities had entries, with kings and queens waving to the crowds. No candy was thrown, probably just as well in the semi-dark.
For breakfast we had goldenrod toast with sausage and grapefruit (thanks still to Hardy and Judy's backyard tree).
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