The trailer has 4 rolling wheels again. Thanks to the RV repair guy named Galvey Vinson. He was the epitome of a professional and a real good guy. He came out to our trailer yesterday, at the end of his regular work day. He knew what to do and with years of experience, he got right down to it. He left with the broken parts so he could press new bearings at home. He returned Tuesday afternoon, like he said, and reinstalled new brakes, brake drum, bearing and races. He packed the bearings with "greeze" and we were set. But he wasn't through. He checked all the other wheels and found one was loose and all others had no greeze. Remember, I had this all done 3 weeks ago before we left on this trip? He even drove home to get a part from his home to finish the job! This guy knew we were in a jam and he took care of us. So did the owners of this campground. Its feels good to meet true Americas who care for others and lend a hand to a stranger and treated them like family. Perhaps this Country really does have a chance!
In the morning, off to Kerrville Texas!
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Atchafalaya Visitor Center
Out of the Pool!
Why Did the Dales Cross the Bridge?
The Bridge Less Traveled
As the small road led us, we were given a lesson about Cajun Country. There were very small shack homes along the bayou. These were reminiscent of what one would see at Disneyland on the Pirates of the Caribbean ride. Old wood shacks, some looking worse for wear having withstood too many seasons of humidity, heat, rain and hurricanes lined the road. Other homes were beautiful brick and wrought iron mini mansions. What was unusual was that no matter what condition or economics, they all had signs out front naming their homes. Dad's Pad When Mom's Mad, Happy Times, Cajun Crib, and other clever names made for a great adventure into bayou life.
The other side of the road was raised up about 10 feet like a levee. To get to the homes on the river bank we had to off-road up the levee to the dirt road on top. Now we could see the river and how folks lived up on the river.
Then the bridge! I asked Jodie if we were on the right road. She said we were. The bridge didn't look like something that could sustain every day traffic. Note the rust and strange construction. I clicked this photo to document where we where when we collapsed the bridge.
Lessons from a Child
Breaux Bridge, Louisiana
We have learned that the little town of Breaux Bridge, LA has a rich cajun history. It is known as the "la capitale Mondiale de l'ecrevisse" (Crawfish Capitol of the World)!
Back in 1771, Acadian pioneer Firmin Breaux began buying the land from which the present day city of Breaux Bridge would evolve. He purchased the land from Jean Francois Ledee, a wealthy New Orleans merchant who had acquired the land as a French land grant. By 1774, Breaux's branding iron was registered and by 1786 he was one of the largest property owners in Teche country.
In 1799 Breaux built a footbridge across our beautiful Bayou Teche to help ease the passage for his family and neighbors. This first bridge was a suspension footbridge, likely made of rope and small planks. It was stabilized by being tied to small pilings located at each end of the bridge, as well as to a pair of huge live oak tress on both sides of the bayou. When traveling directions were given, folks would say "go to Breaux's bridge...", which eventually was adopted as the city's name.
Breaux Bridge Webcam
We will do some area exploring and provisioning for needed supplies. Check back later to see what other Cajun adventures come our way!
Back in 1771, Acadian pioneer Firmin Breaux began buying the land from which the present day city of Breaux Bridge would evolve. He purchased the land from Jean Francois Ledee, a wealthy New Orleans merchant who had acquired the land as a French land grant. By 1774, Breaux's branding iron was registered and by 1786 he was one of the largest property owners in Teche country.
In 1799 Breaux built a footbridge across our beautiful Bayou Teche to help ease the passage for his family and neighbors. This first bridge was a suspension footbridge, likely made of rope and small planks. It was stabilized by being tied to small pilings located at each end of the bridge, as well as to a pair of huge live oak tress on both sides of the bayou. When traveling directions were given, folks would say "go to Breaux's bridge...", which eventually was adopted as the city's name.
Breaux Bridge Webcam
We will do some area exploring and provisioning for needed supplies. Check back later to see what other Cajun adventures come our way!
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