Jacksonville, FL
Sept 8, 4:00pm

Just got in to the bus depot in Jacksonville. When walking in there are so many choices of people to sit by. A family that looks to be Amish, a group that could be a punk band with mohawks and chains to complement the black wardrobe, some fat families, young couples, unlikely couples, and people who look normal -- whatever that is. Who do I choose? One seat over from two fat black women. It doesn't really matter because soon they get up and an older gentleman with a couple days growth beard on his face sits down. This country has so much variety. I love it!

5:30pm

Saw my first marina being worn in the US. Glad I'm not heading to NY; the bus is packed.

6:45pm

Was gettin bored so I got some food at the restaurant here. Cheeseburger and fries. Not too adventurous. Maybe I'll get a salad for the road before leaving but it's cold in this AC and I hav a feeling the bus will be just as cold. wish I'd kept one of my long sleeves for times like these. iPod time.

8:30pm
Took my last bathroom break and brushed my teeth out of consideration for my fellow passengers. I'm really writing now because I'm bored. Someone took my seat when I went to the bathroom so I decided to join the line already at my departure gate. the bus really doesn't seem so bad -- it's these long waits that get to you. Hopefully everything will be on time from now on because I have short transfers in Tallahassee and Mobile.

Gulfport, MS
6:52am (Central Time)

Just came through Biloxi, MS. Saw a huge hotel followed by much destruction still visible along the coast to Gulfport. Tons of half-standing signs fo Waffle House, Phillips 66 and other businesses with the buildings gone completely. Condos with broken windows and partial siding. To be honest, I didn't really think of the other areas affected by Katrina. In some areas there are obvious reconstruction efforts but in others it looks just as if it happened yesterday. Oh! And the boardwalk too; just torn up the whole way along miles of road.