Monday, January 4, 2010

Scenes from New Orleans





There's really no way (for me at least) to adequately describe the magic, the odd, unique, special charm of New Orleans. It is, without a doubt, one of our national treasures.

My parents lived in New Orleans during Katrina and sadly (and reluctantly) had to relocate after the storm. After years of trying, they've finally made it (almost) back, as they currently live about 30 minutes from the city.

This trip was my first visit since the storm and I've only grown fonder... There were so many highlights -- an amazing meal at Herbsaint, perfect jazz at Snug Harbor (Jason Marsalis), beignets at Cafe du Monde (because you can't not go, no matter how many tourists are in line) and dark chocolate macaroons at Sucre.... yes, we ate a lot.

But without a doubt, the highlight of the trip was seeing the girlies experience the wonder of the city for the first time. We spent Millie's birthday there, and every street performer, musician and passerby wished her a happy day. She was serenaded on the street...a queen for a day. And Audrey, oh sweet Audrey... her eyes were wide and twinkling all day. She fell in love. Hard.

But how could you not?