stepping off the edge

We’re back in Ft. Lauderdale and glowing with pride as we stay at my son’s resort, Marriott Harborside in Ft. Lauderdale. Wonderful room courtesy of Marriott’s friends and family program…

On our first day we were greeted with not only lovely amenities sent up to the room like small bites and a bottle of excellent prosecco but also a display of synchronized flying by the local pelican battalion.

This, clearly, was in imitation of our other visitors, the Blue Angels practicing outside of our deck for the upcoming air show.

Yes, they were that close. No zoom needed for that picture or the following one…

That video does not do justice to the sounds, at the same time deafening and thrilling, though Mrs. T only agrees with half of that statement!

The rest of the week was filled with a grand tour of eating establishments in the hotel as well as other resorts on the strip, all accompanied by warm greetings by the chefs stopping by to give regards to Chef Mikey. Could not wipe the smile from my face all week. The fried chicken and waffle tacos? Available at the taco shop on the first floor of Chef Mikey’s high rise. Just as amazing as they sound!

Naturally there were the wild Termini’s trapsing around town as well as roaming the resort…

As if the visit were not enjoyable enough, this lovely lady greeted us upon arrival and watched over us throughout our stay. Truly the ambassador that every fine resort should have interacting with guests. Thank you Stephanie…

One of our amenities were these clever cookies whipped up by the Marriott pastry chef featuring Chef Mikey himself.

And so, after a million calories, many cocktails, and comfortable accommodations we left for points north. The next stop is St. Augustine, home of the Fountain of Youth! We need that!

BUT WAIT, I ALMOST FORGOT, TOILET PAPER!

On the road for two months visiting countless rest stops, gas station restrooms, and various home exchange/Airbnb accommodations, I am left with this pressing issue…

What the hell is up with toilet paper!?

Let us start with the dreaded single ply. What are we, a third world nation? A land of Neanderthals? Appalachians hoarding Sears catalogs in the outhouse? NO… just stop it. There is absolutely no economy in single ply. Should I state the obvious ? Does one not use twice as much because of its gossamer like texture? And don’t get me started on the 2″ variety, just cruel. The final straw? The enormous rolls in gas station dispensers that I can only guess are used to save labor so the bathrooms only need attending once a month! (By the looks of some of them this is the only time anyone checks on their condition!) My problem with these land of the giants rolls? You are forced to tease out the paper like you are trying to steal the golden idol from Raider of the Lost Ark!

OK, glad I got that off my chest!… see you all at the Fountain of Youth…