Thinking about New Orleans today. Yes, because it's Mardi Gras, but also because I've been reading some books on this gorgeous city lately, and have made a few ill-fated attempts at a trip down there.
Did you know that after your Bananas Foster during Breakfast at Brennans, you can go out to their courtyard (everyone in the Quarter has a courtyard. I want a courtyard.) and visit their turtle family?
It's possible that their brother was in the turtle soup. Don't tell them. And yes, I am talking about flaming alcohol and fruit (but mostly alcohol) for breakfast.
Wrought iron balconies are everywhere. I want one of those, too.
And little cherubs peek out at you from all sorts of places.
It's hard to describe New Orleans. It's such a dirty, beautiful, romantic city. Anything that can capture your imagination can be found there.
History. More history than you can wrap your head around.
Tiny old bookstores with chairs to get comfy in and tall, tall stacks of books all around you.
Food.
The unapologetically seedy side. (At a bargain, even!)
Liquor.
Pirates.
And after all that carousing, you'll be pleased to find that New Orleans takes it's religion, and it's churches, very seriously.
Also, of course, music. But I don't have any pictures of that.
Next time we go down, here's what we'll do:
Wander around Jackson Square with the people and the music and the pigeons. Look off to the right there, where I might see a piece of art that's perfect for Mason's bedroom.
Get ourselves some go cups and become part of the entertainment. That's never been difficult for us.
Find a bar and lose focus. Also, eat some really amazing garlic oysters.
Happy Fat Tuesday. Laissez les bon temps rouler!
(Photos from September 2007)