February 10, 2007
Soulard turns into... THAT Soulard
Earlier today, I made my weekly pilgrammage to the center of my food needs, Soulard Farmer's Market. But it was in the minutes before arriving at the chilly destination that I noticed Soulard slipping into that familiar, February look. Houses were festooned in purple, green and yellow bunting. Rows of trashcans and portable hygenic units lined certain, key intersections. Parking lots were sacrificed for already-constructed, eventually-heated tents.
And, everywhere, 45-year-olds in jester caps marched around, clutching their Taste of Soulard maps.
Whether you find this Mardi Gras season a time of wild celebration or a time of great lamentation, the boozin' spirit is already beginning to cloak the neighborhood. Those looking to catch a beer at one of their favorite spots should be warned that the tourists have already breached the walls. Little Soulard Market Park has been turned into a wiener-dog racecourse. And, one week from now, most of the Soulard vendors will be anywhere but the market.
See you at the stalls on Friday, instead. A man can't live on hurricanes alone.