Ever gone to the theatre and watched a film so powerful that your grip on the armrest left your fingerprints and embedded such a strong image in your mind that hours later you couldn’t stop thinking about it? If so, you’ll understand my state of mind after I took a trip over to Biloxi/Gulfport to see what Katrina left in her wake. You’ve seen it in the newspaper, you’ve seen it on the internet and you’ve seen it on the television, but you could never understand the extent of this event until you’ve seen it in person. Just last summer, I was in the area and was awed by the beauty and serenity of the beachfront and the Victorian and plantation-style homes. Now, the drive from Biloxi to where the road is closed (before reaching Long Beach?) is like taking a tour of Hiroshima in the late 40s.

I was able to shake free of the trance to take a few pictures, but like I said, seeing it here is nothing compared to being there in person. So, why aren’t there any pictures other than some landscape-type shots? Well, although there may not be much more than foundations left to many of the homes, I felt it to almost be a violation of a resident’s privacy to display a picture of what used to be their living room, bedroom, etc. Time permitting, I would like to return for an extended visit. It is somewhat awkward though. I do feel guilty of “gawking/rubber-necking”, but it seems that New Orleans has received most of the spotlight here and the Mississippi gulf coast has gone mostly forgotten. I do admire the residents for their resolution and strong chin.

…and I only *thought* I was shellshocked when Ivan hit here (Pensacola.)

Oddity: I noticed that many of the Hwy 90 road signs were upside down. Then it hit me: This is the residents’ way of saying “06 will be a better year”.

BTW, the buffet at the Palace is still kick-butt.