Tuesday was once again an early day, but not quite as early as the days before and after. I went to Private Gallery, a popular southern boutique, around 8 am to get some fabulous new clothes, including a nice, heavy jacket to wear during the game tomorrow.
After the mini-shopping spree, I went downtown to the City Council meeting to speak to the Council Members about what important things their support does for the America's Junior Miss Program, and what a privilege it has been to serve as AJM for the past 6 months. I talked about some of the wonderful places I've gotten to go, people I've met, and opportunities I've had because of the Council's support, and how great it is to represent not only Kentucky, but also the wonderful Mobile. I found out later that the meeting had been broadcast on a C-SPAN-esque program throughout Mobile County. Over the next day and a half, I can't count the number of people who came up to me and said "I saw you on TV speaking to the Council!" I wish I had known I was about to be broadcast throughout the city!
After the meeting, we had a little bit of downtime before the Mayor's Luncheon. I had thought the FCA breakfast was big, but this lunch was HUGE. There were easily 1000 people there. Both school's bands performed, videos played, a national guard representative sang the National Anthem- overstimulation is an understatement! Once things calmed down a little, introductions were made. Although I wasn't at the front table this time, I got a very cool introduction from the emcee. I stood and waved, a practice which I have perfected. After all the introductions were made, Charles Barkley, the keynote speaker, got up to take the podium. He was very interesting to listen to, and was a very funny guy. After the program, I went up and got a picture with him (although I plan on telling people he asked to get a picture with me- I think it's believable).
Very full from the food, music, and basketball talk, I headed back to my host home to get ready for the parade! Around 5 we rolled on downtown to meet up with our driver, the parade organizers, and all the other "paraders." I was ready for the freezing cold night, with about 6 layers, hand warmers, and thick socks. The parade started around 6:30 and it was an absolute blast! Definitely one of my favorite parts of the week. I was in the first car, and we cruised through the parade route throwing out moonpies and Mardi Gras beads to all the cheering spectators. It was so crazy, and so much fun! I will have to go back for Mardi Gras sometime, because the atmosphere was so infectious. I loved throwing out everything, and after we finished our route, we ran around and got to see the last half of the parade. I scored some spoils of my own, including a bag full of beads and a giant blue dog with only one ear.
A few hours and one after party later, I went back home to sleep for just a few hours before Wednesday's festivities began!
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