Fort Desoto

Our day started with a trip to Mobil for gas and air. The tires all needed air and Bob thinks they should be aligned. Settled for gas and air. My job was taking off and replacing the gas caps, something I have never done before. I actually think I might be able to put air in a tire now, without overfilling. Made it to 60 without having to do this, so this skill is not likely to be needed anytime soon.

Yesterday, the GPS led us astray, or, rather, nowhere, when we were looking for a Walmart for me to buy some sweatpants, and, once again, the unavailability of quickie divorces turned out to be a good thing. Words were exchanged. Shouted, really. I reluctantly plugged in the GPS when we set out for Fort Desoto, after taking the precaution of writing Google map directions by hand.

Turns out the ride was easy. We spent a couple of hours watching people fishing, kids playing in the water, families picnicking. Unfortunately, Fort Desoto itself was being restored so we did not visit this landmark from the Spanish American War. It looked like an earth house or bunker from our observation point in the parking lot. I was not altogether regretful, since I've visited a few too many forts in the last couple of decades, and there is a sameness about them, regardless of the era.

The beach was rated "the best in America" in 2009. It was lovely, but not on my personal top 10 list, especially since the tantalizing protected area for migrating birds was filled with gulls and other year-round species.

We had lunch in the Pass a Grille neighborhood we'd driven through just after sunset yesterday evening. Sea Critters Cafe served the best clam chowder and fish & chips we've ever enjoyed. A passing dolphin completed a perfect lunch hour.

Picked up deli treats for a sunset dinner on the deck.