We spent two weeks near Mobile, Alabama. It was relaxing and we have a new enjoyment of the ocean, and river bays, and marshes, and deltas. Although we never saw an alligator. (“It’s too freaking cold,” they say) We were invited by friends to drive south to Dauphin Island, and see that community’s Mardi Gras parade. Now we can say we’ve been to a Mardi Gras parade! Yes, it was early; Mardi Gras is not until February 13. But Mardi Gras is not a DAY in Louisiana and Alabama. It’s a SEASON. And they have FUN. Oh, and don’t talk to a Mobilian about where the first Mardi Gras in the Americas happened…it’s not pretty. We staked out a spot on the parade route. We fortified ourselves with provisions. Oddly, for a town full of Mardi Gras revelers, the only options were Mexican, and...Mexican. The parade began, with the usual first responder fanfare. Then came the Indians. And about 45 other units. I only took a few pictures; I was pretty busy catch...