It may seem strange, given the fact that I review grammar and formatting for 8 hours a day, but I really don't handle monotony well. This distaste for the rote of daily life has caused me to develop an adventurous spirit and a keen eye for opportunity. I recently set out on a adventure to New Orleans to see some friends, and it definitely proved to be one of my most enjoyable escapes to date.
As I sat in the airport upon my departure, my mind reeled at the possibilities ahead. Generally I tend to overly intellectualize the feeling of excietment I get at the beginning of vacations (especially to new places), but on this particular morning my thoughts were prolific. Since my new job has thrown me back into the world of language and syntax, the writer in me is jumping to get out in any way possible. I frantically scribbled ideas for compositions about travel, writing, language, communication, adventure, culture, etc. I couldn't help myself! Fortunately, by the time I arrived in New Orleans, I was so enthralled with my experience that I stopped being so nerdy and was able to enjoy my trip.
As many of you know, I've been on a diet since July, so I haven't really been eating carbs or sugars. Vacation has no rules! Below you will see a shrimp po' boy from Crabby Jack's, beignets and hot chocolate from Cafe du Monde, and creole crawfish tail pasta. I also had red velvet cake ice cream, gumbo, muffaletta, and a steak/mushroom/potato dish that I don't know how to write in French. I also tried King Cake, a traditional mardi gras pastry, and ate at a fantastic Spanish tapas restaurant. All delicios!
The picture above is the cathedral at Jackson Square in the French Quarter. I spent an entire day wandering the quarter, going in and out of eclectic shops, taking pictures and eating beignets. The best part was taking in the atmosphere of this wonderful city. New Orleans has a culture that is almost tangible. The people seem so connected to the city and so proud of where they live. Every time I travel to a place with such a rich history, I envy those who live in places with such a noticeable identity.
I loved seeing things like carriages, oil and gas lanterns, restored historical homes and mansions asnd the like. The inside of the cathedral was amazing, and I always take the opportunity to light a candle, even though I'm not catholic. I think it's a really endearing quality of catholic churches.
As always, the best part of my trip was spending time with people I love. I was able to spend some quality time with friends from high school who I rarely get to see. Between geographical constraints and the fact that they are in medical school, it's difficult to coordinate things. I also reconnected with a friend from college who I hadn't seen in 6 years!
I have to admit, it warmed my heart to be with friends who have known me so long that they call me Michelle instead of Shelly. I tend to travel to places where I can take time out of my mundane life to really see what my friends are doing with their lives. There is something about being in someone else's environment that lends a new level of insight. I'm so blessed to have so many amazing friends who do spectacular things with their lives. On this trip I was with two soon-to-be doctors and an amazingly talented and brilliant vice principal. I'm often humbled to see how my friends are using their skills and talents to change the world.
Thanks for a great weekend, everyone. New Orleans, I'll definitely see you again.
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