On To Memphis

After a hefty $32.50 charge from the hotel for parking our car, with the help of the trusty GPS, we headed north--destination Memphis, Tennessee.  Driving away from New Orleans, we crossed more elevated highways and the long one, crossing Lake Pontchartrain.  As we headed north we slowly left the masses of pine trees which line the freeways in most of the southern states. On satellite radio we heard that LSU beat Tennessee in last minute of the game, so happy we were not on Bourbon Street Street on Saturday night--could have been very interesting as I am sure Tennessee feels they got robbed.

After settling into our hotel we hastily headed to Beale Street, the Bourbon Street of  Memphis.  Fun to wander down the street listening to jazz, soul, R&R, and hear some groups playing and trying to promote themselves and sell CDs.  Lots of horse and buggies here in Memphis but different in that each buggy has a dog riding with the driver. 

Walked thru the famous Peabody Hotel but we were too late to see the "ducks".  Seems that many years ago a hunter used to stay at the Peabody and at that time they used "live" decoys.  The story goes that as he was drinking in the bar, the ducks were playing in the fountain which sits in the lobby. So it has become a tradition for ducks to be in the lobby fountain but now they only parade thru the lobby to the fountain twice a day and we were too late to see them.  But I can assure you, if you have never been to the Peabody, that the lobby is one of the most elegant I have ever seen.  The beamed ceiling of dark wood was unbelievably gorgeous, along with the elegant chandeliers, the fountain, and stunning wood bar at one end of the lobby.  Running out of adjectives to describe the Peabody!!!

Had dinner at BB King's restaurant on Beale Street, enjoying some of his signature barbecue dishes.  Bernice even enjoyed the ribs!!!

The drive along the river in Memphis was interesting with some of the most beautiful homes sitting on the bluff above the river.  Memphis is a cool city. Tomorrow morning is Graceland.  Can hardly wait.  Need to put on our "Blue Suede Shoes".