straight trippin' to the panhandle

i'm getting ready to go to FL on a trip with the family. here's a list for getting into a preparation mindset. please comment with suggestions. we're going to Panama City Beach. they call it the Emerald Coast the 'Red Neck Riviera' on the interwubs. still reading about it. all i know is, it has white sand beaches, clear blue water, and 80 degree temp this time of year. oh and we're going to miss MTV-U being there for Spring Break '08 by days. lucky us?!

• the puppy - who is going to watch her? do we really have to board her? :(
• new sunglasses - probably cheap ones, always losing them, currently without any
  
• evaluate the beach chair situation - upgrade if need be
  
• new swimsuit for her, preferably small ;)
• map(s) - free, contact tourist board
• parks - prices, times, only if they're beachy
  
• need to order more contacts before i go
• clean the car - we're driving there
• local restaurants - where are the good eats? seafood, steak, what else
  
• internet cafes - in case the condo 'high speed' connection is no go
• plan out some photo-walking ops - see the parks, sights, beaches, what else?
  
• tattoo shop - maybe. just kidding K. maybe. need to finalize design
  
• beach towels and pillows - because ours are always better
  
• books - what to read? 1 art, 1 tech, 7 comics, 1 graphic novel, 1 non-fict
• bring my sketch book - for some drawrings and designs
  
• breakfast - where are the local greasy dives?
• what bands or music acts in town at the time
  
• clubs, bars, dance clubs - how about salsa dancing or something
• what weird activities are unique to the area, town or florida panhandle?
  
• things to do or see on the road trip - the journey is part of the journey, right?
• should we venture over to Destin or Panama City?
• what about other area beaches? worth seeing? Sunnyside, Miramar, Blue Mountain...
  
• 8 Questions to Ask in Every New Place (via b.polar.log)
• what else? more to come .....
  

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