For the past two days we've been riding thru cajun country, south of I-10 between Lake Charles and Morgan City. For me this was one of the big attractions of the Tour. Although most of the day is spent riding, we have the opportunity to meet and chat with the local folks who are staffing the rest stops, and meal stops. We've had the opportunity to hear cajun music both of the last two evenings before and during dinner. Tonight we heard Waylon Thibodaux and his band. A fiddle, accordian, washboard and vocals. I don't typically catch the lyrics the first time I listen to any song, but its especially hard when the singers have cajun accents. I do know I like the driving beat and the enthusiasm of the musicians and the audience. The food servers were rockin' as they filled plates from the buffet. When their work allowed, they paired off and danced. These are a people who know how to have a good time.
Last night's dinner was served at the Abbeville Community center. We enjoyed cajun-style pork chops (hot and spicy, of course), jambalaya, and some really excellent maple flavored bread pudding. The meal was served by the youth volunteer club of the local Red Cross chapter. Breakfast was served at a multi-generational family caffe just down the road from our hotel. A son of the caffe's founder gave a stiring rendition of a gospel song after breakfast, a capella. Dinner tonight included gumbo,rice, beef, chicken, green beans and, of course, bread pudding. A great meal.
I don't know how to express the grit and happiness of the local population. In an area that is often devastated by hurricanes, floods and tornados, the people jump at the opportunity to provide hospitality and to share their culture. Its genuine. Its real. And its heartwarming.
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