Morning Mates...guess what day it is?

I've always wanted to be a Pirate. I think the call of the seas, the quest for adventure, the dream of buried treasure and watching Peter Pan several times too many offer a reasonable explanation for my desire.

Last year, Ft. Myers Beach had it's first Pirate Festival, complete with a treasure hunt and imported pirates. I know that Clearwater has had had Pirates' Festival for years complete with formally organized pirate crews similar to those in New Orleans Mardi Gras celebration. Since Captiva Island has a history of being a Pirates' Get-a-Way, it seemed only fitting the celebration commence.

As you can see, my sister and I each snagged a handsome specimen of a pirate (cough cough)and the crew I got a picture of was in all their splendor. Unfortunately, the renowned Captain Jack Sparrow made not a single appearance the entire day.

Speaking of Johnny Depp, I believe the resurgence of interest in pirate lore and reenactments is due somewhat to the popularity of the movies. I had lots of fun when I googled "Talk like a pirate" and found games for all ages, something that would turn this post into pirate language for me and even a pirate name generator. My pirate name, by the way, is Mad Dog Bonney...fitting, wouldn't you say?

So, to all the worthy pirates out there who read this may ye days at sea be calm, may ye treasure chests be full of plunder and may ye rum keg never run dry. Enjoy your day and Arrgggggggg to ye all.