Our drive along the Florida panhandle took us through the destruction left by Hurricane Michael, and it was jaw-dropping. Seeing everything blown around on the news is one thing, but driving through whole forests with every tree snapped off at 20-feet, past the twisted metal of highway signs and corrugated roofs, reinforced my understanding that when you're told to evacuate you probably should.
Thankfully, down in Tampa Bay everything was peaceful and sunny and we received the time-honoured Mucker welcome: a hug, a beer placed in your hand, and then lots of insults and humiliation. It's so comforting that even in this divided country some things stay the same. Jim and Jean had come over from Austin (flying, because they're a lot cleverer than us) so it was a full house...and soon after a very full belly.
What's the word for a collection of monsters?
It's Florida, it's the day before Thanksgiving, so it's beach time. Even though the temperature was more Tynemouth than Tampa.
Hannah and Christine brave the cold waters.
Claire is less convinced.
Some stunning sand castle architecture from the firm Davies & Davies.
Come to the Muckers for the topless cocktail waitresses!
Thanksgiving morning, and the kitchen is already buzzing (I stayed away - no need to add to the crowd).
Oh look, more booze!
Just like the pilgrims enjoyed.
Thanksgiving can be a tiring time.
The unsinkable Mrs Davies!
