Matagorda Madness 2012

Matagorda Madness 2012 has come and gone. We had 53 trailers with travelers from as far away as Alaska, Wisconsin, Mississippi, and Arizona.  Although we had the best turnout yet, we still had spaces available!

This year’s rally unofficially kicked off on Wednesday, November 28 with our Beer Swap.  The early birds had an evening of tasting new ales/lagers and meeting new friends.  Although the wind was a little nippy, we kept warm and huddled together like long lost friends…

The first day of the rally found 39 of us at the Colorado River Locks in Matagorda.  This event first occurred last year and due to popular demand, was brought back this year.  Based on feedback, it will probably return again next year.  Thanks to Simon DeSoto and his crew for the very informative tour.

Thursday night was our first official gathering night.  We borrowed an idea of Ken Rodd’s (Austin Casita Rally held annually in August in Austin, Texas) and opened our rally with a Sip ‘N Dip.  Hors d'oeuvres and refreshments were the menu for the evening.  The weather was a little better and the crowd a lot larger.  The food disappeared very quickly, but the refreshments flowed all evening.  Again, it was an evening with no itinerary, just friends.

Our “Dining Out” evening occurred on Friday at the Waterfront Restaurant, immediately followed by Ranger Duke’s Bonfire on the Beach.  Duke had the bonfire waiting for us as we all returned from Dinner.  The “small” bonfire lasted until almost 11pm.  Although a lot of wood was consumed, at the end of the night, we still had a lot of wood to burn.

Saturday evening brought the pot luck dinner, our only rally event held inside a building!  Although a few folks stayed inside after dinner to play games, the big event was the “big” bonfire on the beach.  Thanks to all the folks that brought wood, we had fire wood for both nights with plenty left over.

The Matagorda Nature Center offered two classes during our 3-day rally.  On Friday, a Shell Painting class was held and on Saturday, a kayaking excursion took attendees along the “Colorado River”.  Both events were sold out.

The Matagorda Nature Center and LCRA staffs were outstanding this year.  I have to thank them for all the assistance they provided.  They were very amenable and helpful.  It was a pleasure to work with them.

Fred Rosin, Coordinator for the Pineknot Rally, commented that the best part of a rally is the days before when there is no schedule and it is just friends visiting with friends.  I tried to make this year’s Matagorda Madness that kind of a “non-rally”.  I hope I succeeded and that each of you had a great time with friends.

Next year’s Matagorda Madness will be held Wednesday 12/4 to Sunday 12/8.  Mark your calendars!

Until then, enjoy and be safe.

Jackie and Pam Erikson

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