The Big Easy

Three years ago, Mr. Fliz and I, along with my brother-in-law and a few other friends, went to Jazz Fest in New Orleans. Though I hear that Mardi Gras is the time to really get the New Orleans experience, I had an amazing time during Jazz Fest. It was an even bigger highlight, because I got to work with folks from all over the U.S., for Habitat for Humanity in rebuilding homes after Hurricane Katrina. Mr. Fliz had done it the year before as part of his bachelor party weekend (how kind). This was a great opportunity and experience to do it together. New Orleans certainly left an impression with me that I can't forget. Despite the heat and the exhaustion, I remember the kindness and hospitality that was extended to us by the people of New Orleans. I had never been to the South and was really impressed with these people's perseverance and fortitude, considering all they had been through. I also won't forget many of the young people that had committed to helping rebuild the city. Many of them had forsaken a year's education or a year's worth of earning potential to make a difference in the world. I was humbly touched. 

 

 

But I won't lie, I also love New Orleans for its AAAAMMMAAAZIIINNGGG FOOD! Diet, schmiets--don't be on one when you visit, because you'll be passing up what is clearly part of the soul of the city--THE FOOD. My favorite jambalaya was found at Mother's. I still reminisce about that every now and then. During Jazz Fest, I managed to snag those coveted soft shell crab po'boys--man, oh man--I'm salivating just thinking about it. Of course I could go on and on about the different places we ate at or the foods we tried, but, perhaps, another day. After our time in the "Big Easy," we had decided it would be fun to go back every year during Jazz Fest and invite family and good friends along. Last two years we had travel commitments and this year, we have family visiting us. We had been looking forward to bringing Micro along with us, so that he too, can fall in love with New Orleans. One day it will happen. I look forward to coming back. Congrats to the Saints and to the city! You truly deserve it :)