Harmony St. Charles

Shopping List

2005-12-04T13:53:00.000-06:00

Chuck over at The Gumbo Pages has compliled a great list of NOLA merchants that are open for busines and/or online. I hope you'll consider them when shopping for gifts this holiday season.

*I've taken the liberty of posting his exact list here:

MUSIC
Louisiana Music Factory: The best record store in New Orleans, concentrating on local artists. Indispensible!!

Basin Street Records, featuring Kermit Ruffins, Los Hombres Calientes, Irvin Mayfield, Jason Marsalis, Dr. Michael White, Henry Butler, Jon Cleary and more.
Tim Laughlin, superb jazz clarinetist (and my old high school classmate)
OffBeat: New Orleans and Louisiana's Roots Music Magazine. Indispensible. Subscribe at $29/year, and right now a $200 donation to keep them afloat will get you a lifetime subscription!
Quintron and Miss Pussycat, "Swamp-tech / Noise / Mood" music from beloved local characters of the Spellcaster Lodge, St. Claude Ave., Bywater.
Jim Russell's Rare Records: Rare LPs, 45s, 78s. Can be expensive, but can also be a last-chance treasure trove of vinyl.
STR Digital, contemporary New Orleans music.
Don Vappie and the Creole Jazz Serenaders, Traditional New Orleans Jazz.

ART
A Gallery for Fine Photography: Joshua Mann Pailet's gallery is one of the finest photography galleries in the nation. Ansel Adams, Henri Cartier-Bresson, Yousuf Karsh, Jan Saudek, Jerry N. Uelsmann, Herman Leonard, many more.
The Bywater Art Market: Original works of art from local and regional artists.
Derby Pottery and Tile: Beautiful ceramic art based on local motifs. (I have several of Mark Derby's pieces.)
Hanson Gallery, local and international artists: Adrian Deckbar, Peter Max, Malcolm Liepke, Frederick Hart, Raymond Douillet, Michelle Gagliano, Patterson & Barnes, Thomas Arvid, many more. Currently offering 10% discounts on pieces under $5000 through Dec. 31!
LeMieux Galleries, Louisiana and Gulf Coast artists: Shirley Rabé Masinter, Leslie Staub, many more.
Photo Works New Orleans: A gallery of New Orleans photographs by Louis Sahuc. Ask for the poster version of Louis' wonderful photographs of Napoleon House proprietor Joe Impastato and his lady friend Margi, a true New Orleans delight and a wonderfully affordable gift.
Christopher Porché West Photography, "A Studio on Desire": Porché West documents the cultural life of the city, including jazz, Mardi Gras Indians, African-American subjects and more.
Arthur Roger Gallery, local and international artists: Debbie Fleming Caffery, Mitchell Gaudet, Greg Gorman, Francis X. Pavy, Michael Willmon, many more.
Stone + Press Gallery, specializing in mezzotints and fine art prints.
Studio Inferno: Glass art by Mitchell Gaudet, James Vella, Erica Hauben, Morgan Graff and Patti Meager. The unique history, culture, traditions, music, and architecture of the city influence the design and color palette of all Inferno's work, creating an unparalleled reputation throughout the United States and Europe. Many extremely affordable pieces by one of the most popular exhibitors at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival!

BOOKS
Beckham's Books: Used and new titles, in the French Quarter.
Faulkner House Books, Pirate's Alley, French Quarter. A National Historic Landmark.
Garden District Book Shop, "New Orleans' signature book shop", lots of local authors and lots of signed volumes.
Maple Street Book Shop, Uptown.
The Neighborhood Story Project: Home-grown young New Orleans writers, mostly high school kids, writing about their neighborhoods in the Crescent City. A unique partnership between UNO, the Literary Alliance and John McDonough Senior High School. Wonderful!
Octavia Books: Independent bookshop at the corner of Octavia and Laurel, Uptown.
Pelican Publishing: Home of the Friends of the Cabildo's New Orleans Architecture Series and myriad books about New Orleans history and culture.

CLOTHING & LINENS
House of Lounge: Luxurious designer lingerie and loungewear, Magazine St.
Kabuki Design Studio's fun original hats: From straw hats for Festivals, to fabric hats for both men and women, to costumes and wigs for Mardi Gras & Southern Decadence, to fringed velvet shawls and bags - a visit to Kabuki is a unique experience!
Leontine Linens: Monogrammed heirloom-quality linens.
Andrea Loest: Unique Art Clothing.
Metro Three: Locally-themed t-shirts and clothing for adults and kids.
Meyer the Hatter: The South's Largest Hat Store, since 1894! Where Chuck and his dad shop for their hats.
Orient Expressed: Children's clothes and gifts.
Perlis: Traditional men's wear, featuring the famous Crawfish Polo Shirt.
Trashy Diva: Vintage and retro women's fashion.
Yvonne LaFleur: Women's clothing and fragrances.

FOOD AND FOOD-RELATED
Aunt Sally's Original Creole Pralines, gift baskets, much more.
Blue Frog Chocolates: Chosen "Best Candy Shop In New Orleans" by the readers of the Gambit, five years and counting.
Café Du Monde: Famous coffee and chicory, beignets and gifts.
Evans Creole Candy Factory: Pralines and more.
Loretta's Authentic Pralines. In business for 22 years, Loretta is the first African-American woman to successfully own and operate her own praline company in New Orleans.
Louisiana Caviar, from local Choupique roe harvested in freshwater Louisiana bayous, used in restaurants throughout New Orleans.
Southern Candymakers: Pralines, turtles, toffee, classic candies, New Orleans specialties, much more.
Tabasco Gift Baskets: email lydrumm@bellsouth.net.
Uglesich's Restaurant offers the Uglesich's Restaurant Cookbook, t-shirts, aprons, pot holders and more.

JEWELRY
Mignon Faget: New Orleans-inspired jewelry and gifts. In New Orleans, anybody who's anybody has something from Mignon Faget, beloved local designer and artist. (And anybody who wants to make me really happy can get me a set of the fleur-de-lis cufflinks!)

Katy Beh Contemporary Jewelry.
Ruby Ann Bertram-Harker: New Orleans jewelry designer.
Heather Elizabeth Designs: Unique jewelry, Christmas ornaments, nightlights based on local motifs.
Thomas Mann Design: "Techno-Romantic Jewelry and Sculpture".
Sabai Jewelry Gallery: Art to wear.

GIFTS
Hazelnut: Fine gifts and elegant home accessories, featuring their exclusive, fabulous New Orleans toile fabric and related products!
Vive la France, French imports: tablecloths and quilts, clocks, glassware, home décor, HB-Henriot Quimper, bath & perfumes, Laguiole knives, Dubout cats, absinthe and pastis accessories, French CDs, repro vintage posters, lavender & sachets, and much more. A terrific little shop! Royal Street, French Quarter.

GROOMING & BEAUTY
Aidan Gill for Men: World class, top quality luxury shaving supplies, accessories, skin products and gifts. My super-nifty New Orleans Water Meter cufflinks came from here. (Currently not accepting web orders but apparently accepeting phone orders. Call to confirm.)
Earthsavers Skin Care: Skin care products, gifts and spa. Uptown, Metairie, Mandeville.
Rouge Beauty: Cosmetics, fragrances, bath & body accessories. French Quarter.

&C.
New Orleans Business Listings
French Quarter Merchants
Magazine Street Merchants

Living In The Muck

2005-12-02T15:41:00.000-06:00

Groups brand storm sediment unsafe...

Ya think?

Will It Help Or Just Be More Fubar?

2005-12-02T15:33:00.000-06:00

Louisiana Elections Chief Recommends Putting Off New Orleans Elections Up to Eight Months

A Mug Of Ohana

2005-12-01T15:25:00.000-06:00

What a great gift idea! For only 25$ you can have your very own New Orleans "Remember/Rebuild" tiki style mug designed by artist Purple Jade. She and her husband lost everything during Hurricane Katrina and 100% of the proceeds from this 48 hour sale will go directly to them.

Thanks to BoingBoing for pointing this out.

The Nothing Came

2005-12-01T14:10:00.000-06:00

If you're somewhere warm, safe, and loved right now - think of this and imagine yourself in their shoes. Do not forget those who have returned to where home once was only to find it flattened and covered in muddy death.

All Of Ninth Ward Opens To "Look And Leave"

Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes...

2005-11-29T07:37:00.000-06:00

I'm trying a little experiment with my blogging. Through the holidays I'll be posting only NOLA related items here at HSC, such as where to shop for gifts, how to help or donate and news clips ect. All posts until then, will be in direct regards to New Orleans. I want to keep the light on a subject that I fear is in danger of being forgotten - recovery.

For now, I'll be confining my personal posting to my art blog at Creative Display. If you're a regular reader I hope you'll visit me there.

Thankful Thanksgiving

2005-11-24T08:51:00.000-06:00

Wherever you are and whoever you're with may today be filled with love, grace and thanks!

My daughter and I designed this feather together as part of a school project. It's pretty clear where our hearts were.

Early Bird

2005-11-21T09:20:00.000-06:00

On Sunday, my little brood and I went to my great-aunt's house for an early Thanksgiving family celebration. It was a good way to break the self seclusion we've been in since arriving in St. Mary's

These are people that I've not seen in sixteen years, yet they've been wonderfully respectful of our need for privacy. It's been something that I've appreciated greatly, but it would be rude (and slightly batty of me) to stay in hiding forever. So we picked the holidays to make our intro.

They were all happy to see us and instantly made me feel as if I've never been away. We ate well and laughed much. It was a good time and I'm so glad we went.

Love is a healing salve.

Dark Tunnels

2005-11-21T08:07:00.000-06:00

I've been doing pretty well lately at keeping my emotions in check. Unfortunately, all that failed big time mid-Thursday when putting together a portfolio of my art and photo prints. I had to force myself to peruse file after file of pre-Katrina shots in New Orleans and it was physically painful. With each picture and print came the rush of loss and feelings that I was unprepared to face. There was also a vast amount news regarding the struggle for recovery by the city and it's people to proccess. All of it left me confused, drained and near hopeless in a very scary way.

So I took a break of sorts and spent a few days immersing myself in tons of movies, music and some early holiday shopping. I'm feeling much stronger now for having done so. The movies helped break reality's sting. The shopping gave me a chance to get some fresh air and time to myself for reflection. It helped me get a good grip on things and how they are no matter how I want them to be.

In short - grief sucks.

Moo Don't Move

2005-11-17T10:46:00.000-06:00

Been Cow-Tipping Lately? Not Likely

Thanks, Fark

Hump Day Humor

2005-11-16T07:51:00.000-06:00

After a night of intense and disturbing dreams I woke this morning in quite a dark mood. Not grumpy or despondent, just very dark and on the brink of brooding. In the middle of trying to kick my own butt into gear I came upon a very juicy piece of spam in my e-box this morning.

It made me laugh and for that I won't embarass the crap out of the guy by posting his misspelled logo and cell number (which he included in the mail) here. Just this once though and only out of the good of my heart. Because I hate spam. (Local to NOLA or not) But I really hate it when you go through the trouble to make a graphic to include in your spam - and somehow you MISSPELL it!

Dang, boy. Its N-E-T-W-O-R-K-S not N-E-W-T-O-R-K-S. How many people did you send that to and not take the time to check it over first? Ouch.

It Is So All About Me....

2005-11-11T07:33:00.000-06:00

Well, sorta.

Monday is my birthday. So, this weekend (extra long due to today's holiday) is my time to celebrate surviving all the perils of this world for thirty one whole years. This year in particular is special because I really feel like one hell of a fortunate woman.

I'm a little wierd about presents and parties for myself though. It's just way too much attention for me to handle. I prefer a nice homemade dinner and one of my mamma's making some sort of sweet thing for me. My guy is the same way. (Which is kinda strange because we both love to throw parties for our kids and planning other events together.) He and I long had a deal worked together when it comes to gifting each other. Simple -we shop for ourselves. There are exceptions to the rule but, it keeps either of us feeling pressured to find the perfect thing at an already hectic time of the year. It also guarantees that we get exactly what we want.

This year my guy chose a verynice humidor for himself that goes very well with the modern/vintage decor that we lean towards. He likes it a lot and when there's any chance for him to have some personal joy it makes me happy. That's also how he feels when it's my turn. One of many reasons why he deserves how much I love him.

For myself I'll be adding a few needed pieces to my wardrobe, new shoes and I'm attending (crafty dork alert) Clay Quest 2006 which is taking place like eight blocks from my house for the next three days. It's a polymer clay convention which isn't my thing but, it will be all over the "Historical St. Mary's Area" . (Seriously, I've read up on this thing and heard tales of it around town. Apparently, it's supposed to have a sizable attendence.) Who knows, it could actually be a hoot. If nothing else, I'll get some good pictures and have a chance to meet the local merchants. It's also a good chance to get out all by myself without my children. They've been a handful all week and I need some space between me and their needs. In other words - daddy can wrangle the herd for awhile. That is a bigger gift to me right now than any money could buy.

So, off I go to see what in the heck a "ClayQuest" looks like...

P.S.
Let's not forget to thank my mamma who not only gave me the opportunity to be here but, also helped me manage to make it this far. Trust, it wasn's an easy job.

Geek Girl Rambling

2005-11-09T15:59:00.000-06:00

Due to the advent of certain technologies my guy and I can work pretty much from anywhere. Two laptops with wireless connections and we're ready to go. With two kids it's an ideal situation - most of the time. Some days, I wouldn't mind an actual office somewhere that I could go to daily sans child. Only on particularly chaotic days though. He and I are really fulfilling a goal that we set nearly eight years ago when expecting our first daughter.

The idea was to pull together our skills and start a small design company. We wanted to put what technology was available and affordable to us at the time that would allow us to work portably. At that time it was an almost unheard of concept and would cause much trial and error for the first few years. Somehow, though, we're still here and actually making our way. It hasn't been easy and certainly not very profitable. Not yet at least.

Two years ago my guy was suddenly needed to return and help to run his family's almost sixty year old company. That took a lot of adjusting to. We've kept plucking and managed to find a decent balance by narrowing down what type of services we offer. Our small business was able to survive while he attended to the day to day operations of the family business. It took a while, but we had found some sense of balance before all hell broke loose.

Suddenly H.Katrina hits and throws a pretty big monkey wrench into our (and thousands of others') operation. When first arriving in St. Mary's we put everything on hold until the hard decision to relocate here was finalized. Then there was the whole shell-shocked trauma recovery to deal with. That took a while, but I think we're both slowly doing better.

A new challenge, though, is having my guy's company physically located in Jefferson/Orleans and him having to work from a home satellite office. That makes me his personal assistant/secretary. Then there's the new site we are working on and attempting to raise funds on behalf of the Byrd family by selling 'Fess merchandise. It's a lot to juggle but I'm nowhere near unhappy about it all. I like working with him and I'm proud of what we're involved in right now. This is just what I need too. Full hands and a busy mind!

The bonus is that most of our current projects are related to New Orleans. Thanks to good tech/fast net in 2005 (almost '06) and a good long-distance plan we are able to make progress no matter how geographically scattered our clients may be. It really softens the overall daily feeling of helplessnesss and of being disconnected.

Did I also mention how Aleve goes really well with a cup of Killer Beans Mexican Mayhem? If I didn't then I should because they are what helps keep my eyelids up and my hair from (as of yet) turning gray. So far it's working.

Today was all about merchandise designs, getting the word out about the new 'Fess stuff and securing an url for a new site. In between I had a meeting via speakerphone while chasing my youngest through the house as she grifted one verboten object after the other. (Which is the main reason why I don't do video conferencing.) Now I'm going to force myself to put the computer down for the night and work on some actual artsy stuff. It's either that or my brain is going to go on lockdown.

P.S. This post really isn't meant to be about the benefits of being able to work remotely. It's more about my making the hard effort to see the good amongst the bad and slightly more than difficult. Thanks for understanding.

I hope everyone had had a decent "hump" day!

For Professor Longhair Fans Everywhere!

2005-11-08T20:12:00.000-06:00

Fesswear, the official 'Fess merchandise store is proud to have new products available. Just in time for the holidays, we have gift ideas galore! New super-cute cap sleeve tees, hoodies, ringer shirts and organic cotton tees. You can dance to life's funky beat in comfort and style.

We also have a great assortment of new and unique items such as hangable porcelian ornaments that are perfect for your Christmas trees or even your dashboard.

Please check out the Fesswear store for more fun stuff featuring the "Bach of Rock" - Dr. Professor Longhair

All profits go directly to the Byrd family so that they may rebuild their lives after losing almost everything due to Hurricane Katrina.

You support is most appreciated!

Te-Na-Na

All Systems Go

2005-11-07T15:02:00.000-06:00

I attended to some neglected biz chores today and feel all the better for having done so. It was the most normal type of work day that I've had in a while and it felt pretty nice. My mind has cleared enough from the recent traumas to steadily concentrate again. I think. I'm grabbing the moment and really trying to make some progress despite the wieght of everything else.

It's been a few years but my guy and I find ourselves working exclusively at home. Together. A situation that makes us very grateful we were (and still are) best friends since before even becoming a couple. I think knowing each other the way we do and sharing the same quirky sense of humor makes it easy to be around each other so much. We share a good rythm and I value it immensely.

At the moment we're pretty much financially stable. (Thanks in large part to my man's BOTL. They know who they are and that I have much love for every single one.) That means I'll be able to donate some my services to a couple of displaced NOLA musicians and their recovery. I have a new site to work on and some promo/merchandise designs to start. I'll be breaking one of my self-imposed blogging rules and shamelesly promoting some new stuff here soon at HSC. Pleae bear with me when it happens. I promise not to keep it up forever.

Love That Letter Box

2005-11-06T08:49:00.000-06:00

I lucked out this morning and found a great lineup of movies on one of my favorite channels, TCM. I just had the pleasure of watching All Fall Down with the flawless Eva Marie Saint and a very young Warren Beatty. Who is upstaged by the even younger Brandon De Wilde. (In my opinion he was a brilliant actor who passed way before his time.) Angela Landsubury (I love her wardrobe in this film) as a loving but overbearing mother and Karl Malden (loved him in Street Car Named Desire) as an exasperated, ambivilant, yet warm hearted husband and father. The set alone makes it a favorite of mine but the script is so good that the story has modern relevance. Having it on in letter box was a real treat. I happily watched it while drinking my coffee and actually enjoying an early sunday for once in quite awhile.

While my guy sleeps in a bit longer I'm going to pack up a snack and take the girls up to the park for a bit. The weather is really nice and it would be a shame to waste it by staying in all day. The girls have these new bubble wand gadgets that thier aunt gave them. We're going to go and have some fun with those and then sit in the big swings eating snacks while watching the boats. We really need to go make some good memories and I think now it as good as any to start.

Defraggin'

2005-11-05T19:37:00.000-06:00

We all took the chance today to stay in and be lazy. Our week was full and our overall sanity needed some time out.

My guy got in late last night and was pretty tired from his trip back from NOLA. I let him sleep in most of the morning, Then, by the time he got up I was nursing a wierd headache. I was in real need of a nap. He took over from there and let me rest. Such a good man.

I woke up late enough to have no motiviation to accomplish much of anything. So, I sent the eldest off with daddy to the market for a quick dinner from the deli. They brought back a feast mixed with a nice array of junk. True weekend grub.

Now we're just hanging out on the couch, drinking wine and watching Cops. All while emailing an array of odd links to one another. Rock on.

Eeew...

2005-11-03T10:58:00.000-06:00

Anyone have a suggested solution?

Massive Amounts Of Post-Hurricane Trash

Finding The Treats

2005-11-01T17:19:00.000-06:00

Both kids made out like bandits this Halloween and we now have way too much candy in the house. It felt so good seeing them come back from trick-or-treating with huge smiles on their flushed faces. Evidence of just how far they've come from what first brought us here.

This morning I said goodbye to my guy as he heads off to work in NOLA for the rest of the week. I think it's going to be a much better trip for him than last time. Much of our regualr places are open for business and I know he's looking forward to some familiar comforts. (He really deserves it too!) I look forward to good reports of progress there when he gets back.

Until then I'm holding down the fort here. We've had our dinner and the girls are just about ready to fall off to sleep. They both had nice long kid type days. Fortunate beings.

P.S. There was a huge rainbow in the sky directly above my house today. Very cool.

Surviving The Trick

2005-10-29T10:29:00.000-05:00

My guy and I have been together for over eight some odd years now. Our love of New Orleans (warts and all) has always been an intregal part of our lives together. I can list every milestone of our relationship with the geographical location of where it happened. We keep track of special dates usually by knowing what we had for dinner to celebrate. Living in a city so full of options from music and dining to shopping and socializing was something we never took for granted. Even with the evident flaws (fubar public ed, crime, out of control corruption) we loved it true and defended it to anyone who dared to put our sweet NOLA down. The thought of ever being away permanently never seriously crossed our minds. We've both turned down very lucrative opportunities all because they required moving away from New Orleans. When the topic of ever leaving came up we'd agree that it would take something really major to drive us out. That major event came and here we are. It's taking a little time for us to get used to it all. That's not to say we're completely unhappy because in truth we're not. He and I have always dealt well no matter what mess we've found ourselves immersed in. Trust me - we've been in plenty.

I think if we had ended up someplace where we could hate things it would actually be easier. We could complain about our surroundings and compare it's shortcomings to New Orleans. If it were ugly or unfriendly I wouldn't have to wrestle with the guilt I am now. Everytime I find something here that makes me happy I get a wave of sick dread that reminds me of NOLA's current state of being and the vast loss that has occured. It's throwing my emotions way off balance. Like I've said here before - I feel this bad and I'm one of the very very lucky ones.

Tradgedy and quick life changes is nothing new to me. I roll with the punches pretty well and have been raised with a sense of survival no matter the odds. Bad stuff happens and it is an expected part of life. That is when it happens just to me and I can keep it to myself. However, when something horrible happens on such a large scale that changes not just my way of life but a mass of others - that's a whole new ballgame all together. Grief is hard to move past when it surrounds you and is shared by so many at the same time. It can't be suppressed and remains raw at the surface instead. It makes the journey back to normal a very rough road.

The worst is the never ending feeling of helplessness. I could donate, pack up care packages and help out in all the ways that I have and still feel like I haven't even made a dent. I'm too overwhelmed by it to even be depressed. It's a huge struggle to find any sort of balance. At some point I'm going to have to get back to my usual pace. There's work to be done both client based and my own art designs and I'm not yet tackling any of it. It's just too much to deal with. Yet I could no more ignore what has happened than I could forget my own name. It's woven into me and the only salve I have is the little bits of help I'm able to offer. Like a selfish child I want it all to be better. Now. Instead change and improvement will only come with time and effort. There is no quick fix. That's a harsh realization.

It's the weekend and Hallow's Eve is upon us come Monday. We're going to make a special go at really getting involved with the festivities. I think my mamma is coming to watch the kiddos while ma and pa get out for a few much needed libations together tonight and we have trick or treatin' to prep for. Both girls are cheerleaders this year but the eldest has to go to school monday dressed as "what she want's to be when she grows up". This week it's a librarian so we're going to head by the thrift store and pull together a cute get-up for that. We also have an awesome pumkin to carve and I want to take a stroll through town to shoot good pics of all the pumpkin/scarecrow displays that are on display all over downtown. It might actually turn out to be a nice holiday weekend. A welcome change.

He's Really Gone Pecan

2005-10-28T08:22:00.000-05:00

New Orleans Mayor Tired Of Negatives

Slacker Zone

2005-10-27T11:53:00.000-05:00

I've been a big snuggle-hermit all dang day. The sudden weather change has been hard for my mind and body accept. One day we're steamy hot and battling mosquitos the next it's all brisk and gray with an icy wind coming off the coast. I've got no desire to do anything but stay inside and be an absolute slacker. It's pretty bad too. Like eating chessy poofs while watching Ferris Bueller type bad.

Since it's about to rain there's not even the motivation to go to the park with the kids. The eldest went to the zoo today on a school field trip and she's pretty worn out anyways. So, I'm just hanging out and avoiding all forms of over due work stuffs. (Another unspoken source of frustration for me at the moment.) Throwing it all off for another day won't hurt much of anything.

Right now I just want to cook a big pot of pasta, watch Anchorman, and add fringe to a new scarf that's almost finished.

Yeah, it's like that.

Monday's Wash

2005-10-24T09:06:00.000-05:00

We're sitting here watching Hurricane Wilma toss Florida while catching up on our daily dose of H. Katrina's aftermath. It feel like all hurricanes all the time these days. I'm over it. Hey - Mamma Nature, enough already. Eh cher?

The sky over our heads is gray and drizzly with an actual chill in the air. The weather is just so wierd lately. Saturday we went to the fall carnival at my eldest's school and it was hot and bright. By sunday the sky had filled with rain. This morning it had cooled of enough for me to need to put a jacket on my daughter before sending her out the door! It's almost starting to feel like Halloween. Too many tricks but not enough treats though.

I've been crocheting a lot lately. (One hat, and four scarves in two days) Working with yarn at times of stress is like a cheap form of xanax for me. I like the control that a skeen of yarn gives me. From rolling it into neat rounds to deciding what I want to create just makes me obscenely happy. I mostly make scarves, hats or blankies and I can usually work on a project while watching t.v. or the kids play at the park. I love any hobby that lets me multi-task.

Since my headcoldslashplauge is finally clearing I can think straight again. I'm grateful for having a guy who knows how and when to pick up the slack. He kept it all together last week while I mostly when into cold medecine induced comas and slept. He's a real trooper and never grumbled once. Even when told numerous times - "That's not how Mamma does it!" Good man.

Still, there's a lot to catch up on. I don't mind one bit. It's the most basic of domesticity that makes me feel good these days. There is so much control and hope to be found in the most mundane of routines. I have had enough adventure for awhile.

Cleaning to do, care packages to pack, calls to make and beans to cook...

Sentimental & Sneezing

2005-10-20T08:24:00.000-05:00

The cold virus that is cycling through my house is a real hiefer. One moment we're all coughs and sniffles the next we're tricked into thinking it's almost over. Repeat. It's more of an annoyance than anything really. (A really annoying annoyance.) Still, it's temporary and very minor compared to what has occured in my (and everyone else's) life so recently.

I feel extremely fortunate to have so much of my own extended family around me right now. It's what I miss the most about New Orleans. My guy's family was a huge part of our lives there. Even if we didn't have time to see each other all of the time - we'd still run into one another regularly. That connection helped keep our sense of self well rooted. I'm grateful that we have some of the same here. I think it really makes a difference in our ability to heal.

Down...Not Out

2005-10-18T12:07:00.000-05:00

The kiddos and I finally caught the local chest cold that's been making the rounds. We're pretty miserasble but really thankful that's it's something so minor it will probably pass before Halloween. Thanks to the wonders of OTC medecine we're actually feeling better by the minute. My next few posts will be co-sponsored by Dayquil. Hooyah.

The Emotional Trinity

2005-10-14T07:54:00.000-05:00

The Good:

I found a nice place here to get my hair done...

We have been walking to and from school. A very pretty walk if you don't mind being a mosquito buffet....

I discovered a used bookstore that is right accross the street from the school. It's ultra cute, has coffee, and is child friendly....

My guy and I found a local bar that is to our liking....

Seafood here is fresh, cheap and everywhere....

The weather is finally turning cooler...

The Bad:

I've had a lot of crying bouts this week...

The problems in NOLA seem to be getting worse....

Every good memory floods in the realization of loss...

My grief has not faded....

The Ugly:

So many faulting others who choose not to return....

A religous leader bringing in 150 carpetbaggers....

A local government that is cracked beyond repair...

A national government with shady intentions and the inability to really understand the scope of what's happened.....

NOPD is worse than ever...

Seeing my city eviscerated....

Like Some Kind Of Horror Movie

2005-10-11T11:28:00.000-05:00

OMG! This is just gross:

Thought your refrigerator smelled bad, try 52 million pounds of rotting meat

Used To The Unusual

2005-10-11T09:00:00.000-05:00

My guy left last night for a week in Jeff/NOLA. He'll be commuting like this once a month or more depending on how he's needed. Right now it feels a little wierd but I'm sure we'll fall into a normal routine in no time. It's just another piece of our currrent paradigm shift.

His business surviving is our only chance for being able to again live anywhere near New Orleans. That means (at least for now) he needs to be there for a week or two out of each month. I can handle running the roost on my own though - that's no problem. I just miss the big guy terribly...

I plan to keep the kids and I occupied enough so that the week will seem to go by faster. We'll organize the house and then get out to explore St. Mary's some. I'm trying to have an open mind about living here by seeing the town through my kid's eyes. They see the hundreds of pretty butterflies, fishing boats and tons of kids to play with whenever they wish. I see someplace that is foriegn and unknown to me. It is nothing like when I was a child/teen visiting for a month every summer.

Back then - it was incredibly rural with just about nothing to do but fish and go to church. Now, there are shops everwhere, top of the region schools, a strongly supported artist community, much more diverse in culture and, individuality is no longer a faux pas. It is by all accounts a small version of coastal paradise (if you like mosquitos as big as hang - gliders and lets not forget the dang gnats) but it is not New Orleans. That's a fact that I'm having a hard time coming to terms with. It's just going to take time and effort that's all. Really.

Hands Full

2005-10-08T12:56:00.000-05:00

My personal world has been quite hectic for the past few days. We're settling in pretty well but I still can't get used to our "so suddenly new" surroundings. It's getting easier though. We have really been welcomed warmly here and have been trying to adapt quickly.

I have been working on organizing the house and our office needs. A job that has kept me blessedly busy. The less time I have to think deep right now the better. I can get a lot more done if not side-tracked by pain and anger.

Pretty For Friday

2005-10-07T09:13:00.000-05:00

The following are a few photos taken at the Howard Gillman Mem. Park , which is just a short walk from our house.

A Daily Cut

2005-10-06T08:05:00.000-05:00

Here's a couple more "bird's eye" views of H. Katrina's ongoing aftermath :

At Humid City - Loki has posted some pictures from his friend Ole Anders who also has a blog called Katrina Creatives.

Se7en has had his hands full trying to clean up and salvage what he can and has been sharing it all at It's a Dog's Life.

Do not forget them.

The Way Home

2005-10-05T08:12:00.000-05:00

Two of my favorite blogging chicas from New Orleans have gone home for the first time since Hurricane Katrina. Jen & Vee both give a very intimate glimpse into what an unbelievable number of people in the area are now facing. Listen to Jen's audio-blog and see her pictures at Life In New Orleans and read Vee's vivid description at Say Goodbye To Romance. They, and so many like them, will need real support if any rebuliding is to be accomplished.

Lundi Lundi Lundi...

2005-10-03T08:33:00.000-05:00

Compare my story with those not so fortunate. You'll get an idea of the enormous and almost overwhelming job facing ALL areas affected by this year's hurricane born devestation.

Remember: My house is in Old Jefferson which is right outside Riverbend between River Road and Jefferson Hyw. Our area took on next to no water. The damage came mostly from wind and looters/arsonists and downed trees. Jefferson has been open a week. So, what I saw was after considerable clean up. Holy crap.

A tree was in the middle of the Jefferson playground, Dot's Diner had a blue roof, the Circle K and St. Vincient Du Paul store on Jefferson had been looted with all windows smashed. The daquiri shop and BJ's Pawn shop had been burned to the ground but the Frost Stop mug and it's building (I forget the biz's name now) were both looking good. Signs were down everywhere. Fridges were taped and set on the curbs one right after the other. With spray painted warnings of DO NOT OPEN and UNTOUCHED LUCKY & BLESSED. Fences and garage roofs smashed in. Plywood and cardboard signs boasted what businesses were open since a lot of their signage was destroyed. The overall diagnosis looks good.

Our neighborhood was in full swing with a lot of activity and the usual "Hi ya'll! How'd you do through the storm?"

Oustisde our house looked normal and yet abandoned with it's still boarded windows. Except for a few lost shingles there was absolutley no damage at all. Even in the overgrown backyard my fruit trees were holding tight to their still green crop. The rosebushes didn't do as well but they are some tough broads and will surely rebound in a season or two. The siding is covered with this weird green-gray silt but all else seemed in good shape.

Inside was beyond strange. When my guy flipped the breakers it burst to life. The cable was even on and the air conditioner started without a hitch. A closer look showed the real mess. Coffee cups left on the table in the rush to get on the road to Lacombe were covered in bugs and there was a wierd slime on the underside of the couch. Flies were buzzing all over. The fridge which had just been filled with a week's worth of groceries was covered in maggot casings. All electronics were fine and so were our books. (I feel way too lucky on both counts.) Everything else was covered in musty mix of dust and mildew. Roaches had moved in quick and were everywhere. There was a thick smell that I can only describe as pure rot. Unreal.

Things took a wierd turn when we went into the girl's room expecting to find "Courtney" the fish belly up. Instead the dang thing is alive! Not just alive but he and his sucker-fish roomie are in a spotless tank and I swear bigger than when we left. How? I have no clue. With no oxygen (his plants are faux) a feeder rock that was only supposed to last for two weeks (we've been gone a month) they've been running on sheer luck. Looking at him swimming around oblivious to his own peril or importance and hearing the t.v. in my room blaring out Dora The Explorer I suddenly felt like a ghost in my own home. Everything seemed so normal and yet decomposed at the same time.

That was when my guy and I took a moment to have a nice freak-out as every emotion ran to the surface sharp and raw. We are both quite objective but this was just too much to take. Our feelings shadowed logic and our sense of reason. He and I are a good team though and we both got the other through. We once again weighed our options and again discussed our decision to relocate.

In the end deciding to stay in Georgia at least for the next year or two won out as our more responsible path. Facts just can't be argued with and for us it all boiled down to where our children will be happiest for the time being. We began the painful motions of packing.

Seeing that much mess in an area considered almost unscathed made me ache to think of what NOLA and the neglected places like Pearlington Mississippi were going through. You may think "it's bad," but you're wrong. Because it's way worse than you know. Help and kindness is going to be needed for a long long time. Support those going back and please try to understand those who choose to leave. It's a hard choice to make either way.

Okay, I have to take a break from thinking about this and clear my head a bit. I've got a conga player to check on , boxes to unpack and, some red beans that need cooking.

Returned & Recovering

2005-10-02T12:51:00.000-05:00

We got back this morning before dawn. It was one hell of a trip and I'm glad it's over. I was really unprepared for the whole experience and don't have my thoughts together yet. I'll put my opinions and observations on hold for a few days until I get my perspective straight. Right now I'm just too fatigued. It's time for me to get some rest.

On The Road

2005-09-29T17:15:00.000-05:00

We're leaving town right now and should be back by Sunday night or earlier. I'm taking my camera and wil hopefully have some interesting pics to share. For all those on their own journey - please stay safe and check in when you get back!

Chicken Pox & The Four Legged Distraction

2005-09-28T07:33:00.000-05:00

After two days off for the Georgia "energy saving snow day plan" my eldest was very happy to get back to class this morning. School and its constant routine has been her anchor these past few weeks. Any change in that really throws her off track. It felt so good to walk her to class today and see her feeling so normal and relaxed. Just that helps my own mental state (which is shaky at best) tremendously. It's the little pieces of normal that I cling to most.

In the "good timing" department - my youngest came down with a light case of chicken pox yesterday! She had the vaccine as a baby which makes for a much easier time if the virus is caught, even if it may not prevent it entirely. Her sister went through the same thing at this age. Since she's got her daddy's near super-human immune system the little boo hardly knows anything is amiss. The little sprite running around and causing havoc as is the norm. It's the quarantine from others that's getting to her more than anything. (No park for the rest of the week.) I feel very lucky that it isn't something worse.

Tommorow evening my guy and I have to leave my mamma with the kids for the weekend. We are headed to our house in Old Jefferson. Our neighborhood and house fared well but I am still in total knots over going. It will be hard all around and there's no getting away from it. We need to retrieve what we can of our furnishings.

I don't think we'll be going anywhere near Orleans Parish and for that I am somehow glad. I'm just not prepared to handle seeing in person what I have viewed though the news, personal photography of others and the satellite maps. I've just gotten myself down to crying only once in awhile and now it's threatening to spill over every time I even think of what happened. It's awful and I just want to wake from the dream which has become reality.

In the "what next" file:

This past sunday we ended up taking in a very sweet young dog that was found hiding under our porch. She had a crusted ring of blood and raw skin around her neck where some jerk had kept her tied up to who knows what. With a bath, some vittles and a lot of affection she's coming along nicely. I'm not going to ponder too long on what kind of lead heart makes someone treat an animal with such cruelty. She got herself to safe harbour and that's what counts. She will either blend in with my three mutts or go to a home that treats her like a princess. Being her caretaker these past few days has given me something to focus on other than my own circumstances. Her name at this moment is of course - Stella. Good dog.

Operation Eden

2005-09-25T08:54:00.000-05:00

To see a heart-breaking pictoral account of what happened to the people of Pearlington Mississippi check out Operation Eden. His pictures are beautiful and I think he tells his story much better than I can relay here.

Feelin' The Love

2005-09-24T12:04:00.000-05:00

Packages! Two very nice artist friends of mine sent some happiness my way today.

From Carrie Hawks of Tigerpixie Art Studios:
Two beautiful prints of her bubble fairy kitty paintings. We will frame them today and they will be the first pieces of art in my girl's room. Some play -doh, stickers, puzzles and books. My eldest and youngest were super thrilled! I am beyond touched.

Then from the amazing Alexandra Sandlin of Mourning Moon Artwork & Jewelry came two beautiful seed pearl necklaces for both kiddos. A phat hot necklace for me featuring my favorite painting of hers which is called (I think) "The Vulcan Mary". I will wear it proudly to the next time we go out. Some French Market coffee with chickory (yay! we get to have au laits!!!), a pack of cigars for my guy (you made him blush), some great books (Alex- I'm totally cool with the Lemony Snickets so don't worry) and more stickers!

Seriously, what great ladies these are! Check out their websites and feast your eyes on some saucy creativity. Words to express the joy that this has brought into our house today fail me. You are some hip, hip ladies and I'll never forget this. Ever.

I Got My Bracelets! What About You?

2005-09-23T12:02:00.000-05:00

How absolutely cool it was today to find these in my mail box. I ordered them from the Renew New Orleans Foundation only a few days ago. I'm going to show them off everywhere I go and encourage as many people as possible to order some. Snazzy aren't they?

Renew New Orleans Foundation - Wristbands

2005-09-22T07:42:00.000-05:00

MARDI GRAS... JAZZFEST ... HISTORY... CULTURE... FILET GUMBO... AND ALL THAT WHICH IS UNIQUELY NEW ORLEANS

America's most unique city, with all its old charm and tale-telling mystique, the city that has endeared itself to millions throughout the world, has been tragically destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. The loss of New Orleans is a loss for the entire world. New Orleans should, must, and will rebuild this place in history that has been affectionately called the "age-old melting pot of the world."

RENEW NEW ORLEANS is a 501(C)3 non-profit organization established by several natives of the Big Easy who are prominent business leaders around the country. Renew New Orleans wants you to be part of this massive, worldwide rebuilding effort by purchasing and wearing a distinguishable bracelet highlighted by the traditional purple, green, and gold Mardi Gras colors. These unique bracelets can be purchased online with your minimum donation of $5 to RENEW NEW ORLEANS.

RENEW NEW ORLEANS will in turn donate to specific recovery efforts, to the storm victims left homeless, as well as the various agencies involved in rebuilding the "city that care forgot." Buy one for yourself, buy one for each member of your family, and for each of your co-workers. See America stand up and support its favorite city with you and thousands of others around the world sporting these fashionable Renew New Orleans bracelets.

Our Mission

The objective of the Foundation is to raise funds for local New Orleans non-profits to be used to enhance the quality of life for all citizens of New Orleans, especially children and the disadvantaged. All proceeds from Renew New Orleans’ fundraising activities are donated to charities that support the renewal of New Orleans as a safe, vibrant and thriving city. Contributions will be made to charities that enhance life through education, health, human services, arts, culture and humanities.

Your donation may be tax deductible.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at 214-673-3000 or info@renewNOLA.org

*Since they do not have a banner I'm taking it upon myself to post the Renew New Orleans Foundation's front page here in it's entirety. These are some spiffy bracelets and the proceeds go to directly where needed. Buy a bunch and wear them with pride!

Nature's Witch

2005-09-21T09:20:00.000-05:00

Great. Rita huh? Yeah. Well, my mother in law, step son and most of his family are right in it's path. We spoke with my guy's mamma this morning (sorry for waking you- I made him call you early because I'm turning into a big ninny) and they are all planning to head toward Dallas. That makes me feel better but I'm still on edge.

We just don't need this right now. No one does. Especially those who are still in shelters and temporary housing. This is just salt and vinegar on a fresh wound. The whole mess just makes me want to crawl in bed and never get back up. That's not an option so I'm sitting here with the rain pissing on my roof and trying not to come totally out of my skin.

All Over All Over Again

2005-09-20T17:40:00.001-05:00

These days my mind works in three seperate parts. The main is reserved for the day to day tender care of my family's domestic needs. The next is for getting back to some version of work. The last is filled with a constant loop of mourning, anger, loss, and general helplessness that has been with me since August 25th.

There are moments when reality threatens to slip away for good. All I can do is hang on tight to the knot at the end of my rope. It's as if there is a selfish teenager stuck inside me in rage mode. She claws her way to the forefront of my mind and whines about everything! All I can do is continue on and ignore the inner screams. An effort which leaves me drained and without any real sense of humor.

I'm one of the lucky ones and I still feel this way. Imagine what it must be like for those who fared much worse. How and when does this get easier?

I want my life back, I want my city back and I want those who are lost or scattered beyond my reach back. Dammit!!!!!!!!!

Realization Friday

2005-09-16T10:36:00.000-05:00

I fully believe that most areas smacked down by Hurricane Katrina will be rebuilt with the chance to be better than ever. My very first priority, however, is to the two most important people in my life - my daughters. Their childhood won't wait for the hazmat cleanup, the razing, rebuilding, repair, upcoming ecconomic downfall and general local government/educational system that is sure to take more than a few years to put back together. Until that happens they both will require a safe and stable environment in which to grow. How my guy and I feel about leaving our whole life behind and starting over isn't really on the table in this situation. We plan to take it in two year spurts and see how it goes. If things back in Louisiana get better sooner than we expect we will re-evaluate our decision.

We were fortunate enough that my guy's family business was not lost. He'll be commuting back and forth. His company has been loaning out the use of trucks and other equiptment to the clean up effort. It gives me some comfort to know that there is still a solid link between us and there. Living there full time just isn't possible but we will not abandon where our hearts met and made a home. I have a lot of respect for those so willing to go back right now. It's the how that I can't figure out but we yat/cajun/uptown/fq/bywater souls are a hearty bunch. If there's a way it will be done. How could it not?

On the brightest of sides - I really like St. Mary's and the surrounding areas. It has grown tremendously since I was a kid/teen spending part of my summers here. Back then there was literally nothing for the youth (much less other kids to play with) to do. There are a lot more options now and it has been a pleasure to see my own kids enjoying that benefit. Still, I will not let them forget where they came from and we will not drop our unique NOLA inspired traditions. Red beans on monday, music, our own way of laughing in the face of tradgedy and dancing until the end.

Laissez Les Bon Temps Roulez!

Searching For People!!!!

2005-09-15T15:34:00.000-05:00

I am looking for the following people. If you know their whereabouts please, please let me know!

Alfred "Uganda" Roberts and family - I just found his name on a list of musicians reported as okay but, I can't reach him and am still worried for his welfare. UPDATE: Alfred called me yesterday. He and his wife are now in an apartment in Houston Texas. Unfortunately his house in historic Gentilly neighborhood flooded and looks to be a total loss. He is also without his Congas but I am working to remedy that now.

The Reverend Alex Byrd (Henry "Professor Longhair" Byrd's son) and family

Alan Godchaux

Tucker and Carrie Crawford

Ms. Tee Eva of Tee Eva's Snow Balls

Ms. Mae of The Club (and ALL of her staff!!)

Ms. Wanda Ryals (K- teacher at Jefferson Elementary)UPDATE: Finally reached her by phone. Her house and everything else are fine and she starts back teaching on Wednesday.

Ms. Cathy O'hare (principle of Jefferson Elementary)

Richie and Shaun owners of Dos Jefes and staff

Mr. Toyama (and family) of Sushi Express

The owners and staff of Russell's Marina Grill

Dr. Roxanne Thompson of Ocshner

Dr. Laurie Rodrigue of Ocshner

Dr. Susan K. Fielkow of Ocshner

Dr. Laurie Hitchcock of Ocshner

Kim Harris

Andrew Hoffman

Tim Dennis

Ian Campbell

Steve Dafner

Steve Mott

Monday Is Still For Laundry & Red Beans

2005-09-12T12:59:00.001-05:00

It's taken a lot of self motivation, tireless wrangling and some kind hearts but, we have more or less now settled here in St. Mary's Georgia. We were able to find a really cute house close to the eldest's school and up the street from the water-front playgound which we visit daily. Our decor is spare, but we have everything we need.

There is a is a big ol' pot of red beans cooking on the stove and the house smells wonderful. Every little step counts...

New Beginning Or Next Chapter?

2005-09-09T18:56:00.000-05:00

I'm trying to decide what to do with this blog and it isn't easy. Memory lane is way too painful a place to visit right now. As we have no plans to return to New Orleans the chronicle of my life there has abruptly come to an end. I have zero mental strength to wax political or mourn openly any longer about events that can not be changed. My focus must be entirely upon acclimating myself and my family to St. Mary's. It's a lovely place with some very kind people who have gone out of their way to make us feel welcome. I want to share what I find here and what our life turns out to be like. My question is - should I close Harmony St. Charles and start a new blog? Or should I just continue onto the next chapter such as real life dictates?

One Foot In Front Of The Other

2005-09-06T19:11:00.000-05:00

Just to get it out of the way – here’s my family’s experience of Hurricane Katrina and the aftermath:

My father in law’s house in Lacombe was designed and built by him to withstand winds of up to 250 miles per hour. Except for some shingle loss and some weather damage to the attic the structure didn’t even creak. Around us, though, trees of all kinds were uprooted and tossed around us like dominoes. The transformer pole split and missed one of our cars by a hair. Luckily the power was already out or we would have had a live wire to contend with. Instead it just meant that there would be no power or phone in that area for quite some time. That was our first omen. The next was after the storm when we walked down where the driveway used to be and found the bayou there instead, along with a complete maze of downed trees further blocking our way out. The third was two nights of oppressive heat, country black darkness, sounds of approaching wild life and the infuriating buzz of mosquitoes. Not a happy place and the impending danger to our health were clearly aware to us all.

Trapped like rats and running out of water the urge to get out and for some reason get here to St. Mary’s became a repeating loop in my head. My entire focus became solely on getting my children out of there as fast as possible. It took three days for my guy and a very wonderful neighbor to chop and saw a clear path to the road. Once we could get out the cars were packed, the pets gathered and we set out on an eighteen hour drive that finally landed us at my Aunt’s doorstep.

Once cleaned, cooled and re-hydrated our relief and grief were at once immense. Seeing the news footage for the first time was the worst but, we forced ourselves to sit through as much as we could stand in order to try and grasp the full scope of what has happened. After that we all got some much needed sleep and I was able to get the majority of my crying over with. Feeling rested, highly fortunate and finally safe we began to make plans to move forward with our lives. Not easy but not negotiable either. I can’t have my children looking back at this and thinking that their parents handled this wrong. Falling into an abyss of sadness and stagnation is not the example that I wish to impress upon them. So there is no choice but for us to get back on track. No matter where we are and no matter how we feel about it.

Our first decision was to enroll our eldest in school, find a job for me and a new place to live. We managed to do most of that today and it feels good but also quite painful. With each new form I signed meant my living connection to someplace I love as if it were human is ending. There’s nothing I can do to change that. I have to accept the inevitable and move on now while the opportunity to do so is good. In time we will see this place as the paradise my children seem to have found here. At least that is the hope I cling to at the end of the day.

What came out from beneath the skirts of New Orleans after the storm and our local/national (lack of) response to this has shocked and hurt me more than I thought possible for a tough broad like me. Working with some of the volunteers here in organizing the relief effort has been my only source of reprieve from the vast feeling of helplessness that I can not shake. Still, it is a mere drop in the bucket compared to the full scope of this kind of tragedy. My mind just can’t wrap itself around the whole picture but I’m trying to deal with it step by step. If I don’t keep on keeping on I’ll fall into an abyss that may be unable to return from. So, it’s is from here on out that life really has to go on. It has to…

P.S. The help, kindness and understanding from everyone we have met here has been outstanding. People really do care about what happens to New Orleans and it's people. We have been witness to that first hand. For that we will be eternally grateful and will do our best to pass it on to other who are in way more need than we are.

The Cruel Tutelage Of Katrina

2005-09-02T11:49:00.000-05:00

I am in St. Mary's Georgia with family on my mother's side. My mamma is with me too, husband and kids are safe here and so are all the pets (except the poor fish). We are as good as can be expected. We have no plans at this time to move back to Louisiana or to recover what we even may have left in our home any time soon. My family is in the proccess of re-locating here. Like everyone else I am heartbroken and in a sorrowful amount of shock. Yet I am very lucky by most comparisons. After the weekend when my emotions have calmed down I will relay the story of what I and my family went through during the storm. Right now it is just too raw for me.

Where We're At

2005-08-28T20:54:00.000-05:00

We evacuated first thing this morning and are now at my father-in-laws home in Lacombe. Packed up what we could, boarded the house and left the rest at Katrina's whim. At the moment I hold no hope of returning to our house or neighborhood for quite some time.

This really may be a life changing event for so many of us here. My heart is truly in tatters at the moment and I feel so drained emotionally it boarders on numb. I'm sure this feeling is not held by myself alone. All that can be done now is to hang tight and see what happens. I really wish I could seem more positive but I can't. Tommorow, I'll pull myself up by the ol' boot straps and do what must be done to go on. Tonight, it's pity party time.

P.S. A big huge thank you to all who left your concern for me in my comments. It meant more to me at this moment than I could ever express.

Prepped Like A T-Day Turkey

2005-08-27T12:36:00.000-05:00

We're ready to board up the windows, our hurricane kit is extra thick and our evacuation plan is a-go if need be. I've spent most of my life in hurricane areas and this is the very first storm that I've ever felt in fear of. I have a bad feeling about this bitch. Katrina looks like she wants to play and New Orleans may be the toy. The damage this thing could do is unthinkable. I hope we all make it through as safely as possible.

Since we're as ready as ready gets there's no since in worrying about it much more. Storm or not, it's still Saturday Night and I'm determined to get out for a spell. I've been stuck in art-clothes and the mommy zone all week. I have got to get girlied up and get out of here or I'm going crazy. Impending doom be damned.

Stay safe ya'll !!!!

Boo!! Katrina!! Boo!!

2005-08-27T09:52:00.000-05:00

We have a storm on the horizon eh? That's just dandy. We've been examining our options and trying to decide what's best. Go or stay? At the moment we're staying but, as the storm's course changes so could our plans. If I think about it too much more I'll just end up a nervous wreck.

So..over..it...already...

From The Family View

2005-08-25T11:22:00.000-05:00

After seeing Lisa's comment I checked out her blog which features her just now ending visit to New Orleans. From her pics it looks like the whole family had a good time. Which is amazing considering that it is egg fryin' hot outside. Bye Lisa! Come back soon!!!

Actively Humid Podcasting

2005-08-24T12:15:00.000-05:00

It's good to see Loki getting things rolling over at Humidcity with a podcast by one of the more unusual characters to call New Orleans home. Pop on over and find out what the Reverend Goat has to say. Good luck understanding him!

Mid-Weekly Reader

2005-08-24T10:19:00.000-05:00

Today is all about persuing my usual inspirational resources and checking out some new ones. For starters I've cracked open one of my favorite vintage Christmas idea books that dates back to the fifties and is filled will long forgotten decor styling and food recipes. It's titled, "The Complete Christmas Book". It is from the Franklin Watts company with some kooky illustrations by William Ronin. It's super white bread and more cheesy than the Cleavers but some of the design ideas are really fun. So far I've found one that I'm going to use for the front of a box purse and some ideas for decorative stockings. Definitely fun to spend time with when it's still so hot outside.

Then there's the matter of getting two little girls ready for Halloween time. I'm a semi-homemade kind of mom. They both get to decide (and coordinate) what they want to be and there is no changing of the mind what-so-ever after. Then I do my best to make it happen. Two years ago it was a cat and mouse, last year both were tigers and this year they've decided on buterflies. That works out pretty good for me. All I have to design and create are the wings and antenae. The rest we just buy in the dance clothes departent. (Bodysuit and tights, that sort of thing.) Like a lot of parents here - we put a lot into the whole Hallow's Eve costume because it also ends up being used for Mardi Gras the same year. So, it's got to last.

My reading at the moment also includes two recent book purchases. One is a coffee table book called, New Orleans: Then And Now and the other is Managing Ignatus. Both have given me some personal insight to a time and way of living well before mine.

He Didn't Have A Ride Home?!?

2005-08-22T10:02:00.000-05:00

I needed a good chuckle....(Thanks dumb thief from Slidell!)

Cops Recover Stolen Street Sweeper

School Bells Are Ringing

2005-08-22T09:38:00.000-05:00

I just finished taking the eldest into 1st grade. She's really nervous (so am I) but, more than ready. She's got a great teacher and some of her favorite classmates from last year are with her too. I'm sure it will be a really good day for her. I hope.

When did I turn into such a hand wringer? Lawdy.

Family Circus

2005-08-21T13:24:00.000-05:00

Yesterday at the eldest's suggestion we took a family field trip of sorts to Lakeside Mall of all places. The whole thing started with her asking me if we even lived near any malls. It then hit me suddenly that she nor I have been to a mall since she was a toddler. The youngest hasn't even been at all. I've been shopping for most of consumer goods online since 1998 and the rest of my dollars are used locally and at the "big evil blue box" where we make groceries. But, being seven and a girly-girl the allure of what "the mall" stands for is probably irresistable to her. So ma and pa decided to suck it up and drive out to the suburban maze from which we once fled.

We lucked out and it wasn't too crowded and there were some child/youth oriented activites going on that both kiddos enjoyed. Neither of them (a small miracle) were in a "gimme-gimme" type mood so we were all able to just mainly stroll around and window shop together.

We did stop in a few spots such as the pet shop, Sharper Image , Create-A-Bear and so on. At Hot Topic the girls both asked for and got new notebooks with fairies on the covers. I found some stickers there that are based on work by an artist I know through journaling. It made me feel so good to see her work like that and I bought a green fairy one that reminds me of Chartruese. After our little buys we headed to fill the youngest's ice cream craving. We ended the day by trapsing through KB Toys and getting an idea of what they'll want from Santa. It was a good time for us went far toward getting them both wound down a little. Thankfully, they both passed out on the drive home.

For dinner we ordered in Chinese food and even after stuffing ourselves we still had plenty leftover to warm up for today's lunch. That has just lent itself to our current sate of laziness. Both my guy and I on the couch watching nerd t.v. and emailing wierd links back and forth to each other. The kids are trying to clean their room but I don't think the operation is solid. I'm about to go drill seargent in a moment though and make everyone get up and moving. We still have groceries to make for the week ahead and some school supplies to pick up. As much as I want to laze around here -time isn't going to slow down for me and it's just getting later. I'm afraid if I settle in much more we'll never get out of here. Especially with the sky becoming rain heavy by the moment. That is definitely not helping any of our motivation.

Must...get...moving...

"Mystery" Revealed

2005-08-19T08:00:00.000-05:00

The pictures that I posted yesterday were of the most unusual bathroom that I have ever seen. They call it the "De-crapulator" and it is one of the many wildly decorated parts in one of the last remaining fishing camps along Haynes Blvd. Already dwindled down from past storms and development the number of camps went from about sixty to just five when Hurricane Georges swept though in 1998.

I had the pleasure of attending a get - together there last week. What a treat! I expected the place to be decorated strictly by the Cabela's catalog. Instead I was delightfully surprised to find exactly the opposite. Folk art was everywhere and the furnishings very comfortable in soft fabrics and beachy colors. Large bay windows on almost every wall are placed in a way that looking through them frames the landscape like a painting. Not an inch of the place was wasted either. Even the most mundane of things are treated with something special. Such is the case with the bathroom.

Unique to say the least!

It's A Mystery

2005-08-18T08:23:00.000-05:00

I've been working on a client bio all week and I still have a ways to go before this weekend's meeting. It has been an unusual and educating challenge. I'll be glad when I'm done though. My brain hurts.

Here's a new set of pics:

Can you guess what and where it is? I'll write about it tommorow.

Pic Day

2005-08-15T08:21:00.000-05:00

Here are a few pics of Satchmo Fest that I was unable to post until now:

In the nuetral ground along Esplanade avenue was the usual line of porta-potties found during events here.

As we passed I noticed that some musicians had left their instuments on the ground.

The crowd listening to dixe land style jazz. (I'm not sure who the band was)

Young musicians on stage. (Again, I'm not sure who they were.)

Making good use of the balcony view.

Easy Sweet

2005-08-14T09:56:00.000-05:00

I left my guy in charge of the injuns last night and met up with my mamma to celebrate her birthday at Dos Jefes. Some of her friends came out to celebrate her proper and we toasted the birthday girl with libations while listening to Jerry Jumonville & Jump City. It was a great night and I think one of the best birthday's my mamma has ever had.

It's sunday and my whole household is on lazy mode. My guy and I are just easing into the day with no real sense of direction. We have a long week ahead of us with a lot that needs to be done both house and work wise. All of which can just wait until big bad monday rears it's head.

Our biggest priority for now is to sit around awhile longer and then get out with the kids. It's such a pretty day even if the temperature is kiln level I don't want us stuck inside. There are some pictures needing to be added to my "NOLA Street Series" and I've got to pick up a new card reader.

Later we are to have dinner with my mother- in- law. She's having a rare craving for hot dogs and she's got a dulce de leche cake all ready for dessert. So, it should be a nice cap on the weekend.

Crushed Ice Happiness

2005-08-13T11:39:00.000-05:00

Now that Bill mentions it, I think we're going to have to stop by for a round while we're out later. I want strawberry with a dollop of condensed milk. Yum!

Back Off Shark!

2005-08-12T08:11:00.000-05:00

There is a new shark repellent due on the shelves sometime next year. I wonder if it works and how bad it must smell.

What's in your beach bag?

Le Jour De Bosse

2005-08-10T10:13:00.000-05:00

Why do we call wednesday 'hump day" ? The Urban Dictionary has a variety of definitions of the term. I like number four the best. It's very - natrly n'awlins!

#4.Hump Day:

The middle of the work week, wednesday, or the beginning of the weekend, depending on your level of addiction to alcohol.

Local Space Role

2005-08-08T16:19:00.000-05:00

New Orleans Engineers Look to Get Another Shuttle off the Ground

Restless Natives

2005-08-08T10:32:00.000-05:00

My guy and I had some "date time" saturday night at Dos Jefes. We met up with a few of his long distance cigar friends who are in town for the RTDA convention. He and I shared a yummy prime rib sandwich and a plate of their delicious oysters meniure. Sunpie Barnes had the zydeco flowing and the summery crowd was eating it up. It made for some great people watching and gave me some much needed artistic inspiration.

I spent sunday afternoon hanging out with my mamma and the kids in the FQ at Satchmo Fest. It was really hot and I think they need to erect some sort of shade but it's still one of my favorite local events. We ate fried boudin, grilled corn and the girls shared (I kid you not) a bbq pork chop on a stick. I sat in the grass and noshed while jazz and brass floated through the air and fell in love with the city all over again.

Now it's monday and I actually feel slightly refreshed for once. That's a good thing too because camp is over and I have two for one at home until school starts in two weeks.. I think that they are already planning a coup. My battle plan is to wear them down with fresh air and sidewalk chalk. Hopefully they'll give in and take a nap later while I get some actual work done. Or they'll tie me to a chair and set fire to my ankles. Either way it's a real win-win situation.

Sugar Smooth

2005-08-05T10:08:00.000-05:00

It's been one heck of an over-sized week and I need a breather. So, this morning I'm starting off with a Krispy Kreme donut and flashing all the way back to '93 by watching So I Married An Axe Murderer on Flixe. Ohm.

It looks to be a nice weekend ahead too. The weather could be up and down with some rain on the forecast. But with such events as Satchmo Fest and White Linen Night going on, that may benefit us all by keeping the heat and bugs to code bearable. One can at least hope right?

Off Reel

2005-08-04T09:36:00.000-05:00

Well, I stayed up long enough last night to catch myself on the ten o' clock news. I looked pretty horrid and I absolutley hate how I sound on any recording but other than that it wasn't too bad. Not something I'll want to do again though! Seriously, how do people do that? Just stand right in front of a camera and answer questions being flashed at you while your brain is trying to battle with every self conscious phobia there is to have at once! Amazing.

Right now I'm bribing the little one with Fruit Loops and Lazy Town so that I can get some work done. I have a client interview to do over the phone this morning to get his bio started. That's always the hardest part of a new project for me. The book report type details always seem to be a tough skin for me to pierce at first. Once it's rolling though it'll go fast and will be off my plate. So, I think I'm going to slam another cup of VV and get to dialing.

Camera Mortification & Yay School Clothes!

2005-08-03T11:53:00.000-05:00

My eldest was chosen along with twenty nine of her school mates to participate in a back to school promo with Academy Sports. We all went together today to pick out: two full uniforms, shoes, socks, a belt, and bookbag.

Academy Sports has a great staff who were very helpful. I don't know how but, they managed not to go stark raving bonkers while working with that many kids at once.

The only horror of the day was my being snagged for interview by whatever news station was there. Ugh. If you see a very tired and irritated looking woman babbling to the camera later - please be kind. We didn't sleep much last night and I wasn't exactly what I would consider mentally alert or camera ready. Other than that - it was tons of fun!

Dripping Gray

2005-08-02T08:37:00.000-05:00

It's so hard to wake up with the kind of weather we're having today. The sun is nowhere to be seen and the forecast just shows more rain. My body and brain are conspiring against my to-do list and the only weapon I have is a cup of dark roast. At the moment we're not winning. I'm fighting hard against the urge to curl up with the youngest and watch cartoons or read some kind of dusty paperback. Maybe later but right now I want to get ahead on what needs to be done first. So, I'll have another cup of ambition (sorry 9-5's been on a lot lately) and try to motivate myself. Even if it does feel like four a.m outside. Meh.

My Little Green Friend

2005-08-01T09:11:00.000-05:00

Made right here in Louisiana by the Ocean Coffee Co. and some of the best stuff I've ever used for cleaning. Time to chase off some grime....

Downtime

2005-07-30T15:57:00.000-05:00

We've had a pretty productive weekend so far. I am taking a moment to enjoy being caught up for once.

Yesterday we hauled the other half our our four legged urchins to Magazine Street Animal Clinic for their check-ups. This was the appointment I was dreading because neither patient likes car rides nor being poked and prodded. After getting the bill and realizing they've raised their prices we felt a bit poked on ourselves but as usual the care and service was great. So unless we can find someplace that can compete on the same level at a lower cost we will remain loyal.

Today we had brunch with a new client at Betsy's Pancake House. I've never eaten there but after today will definitely have to again. Really simple food in a clean and semi-cheerful environment. Prompt sevice and frighteningly cheap. Now I know why I've heard so much about the place. Good stuff.

At the moment, I'm taking some serious guilty pleasure in watching a Fastlane marathon on CourtTv. I've been working on some new dolls that I'm making and resting up for some time out later. My guy wants to get out for some date time so tonight I think we're headed for sushi and Sunpie Barnes at Dos Jefes. I think some seriously low key r&r sans kiddos is way overdue for us both.

Like anyone doesn't already know: Dang it's hot today!

Tiara Style Puddle Jumping

2005-07-28T10:08:00.000-05:00

One well worn party dress, a pair of rubber "bee" boots and one lone puddle. Good times.

Mid-Week Discombobulation

2005-07-27T11:36:00.000-05:00

Note to my brain and body:
Hi. I know you've both had better things to do lately like not die from a stomach virus and all but, could you both get back to work now? At least cooporate with each other. Decide on one thing to do instead of trying to go in two different directions! I'm a little young for a heart attack but about ripe for a nervous break down. Please get it together. Thanks.

Mushrumor Do Tell....

2005-07-26T10:25:00.000-05:00

My guy just sent me a rumor that he heard the owner of the Mushroom just pled guilty to selling bootlegs? Also that Mushroom is now closed?

Anyone?

UPDATE: I googled this 411:
Music Pirate Pleads Guilty

Space Baby Yeah!

2005-07-26T09:43:00.000-05:00

I'm watching the launch and it looks like Discovery made it into space so far so good. I wish them a good mission and that they all return to Earth safely.

The Monday Express

2005-07-25T14:44:00.000-05:00

I hit the ground running this morning and haven't stopped since. It feels so good to have energy again! I've been playing catch up by posting some auctions and putting the house back in order. We had vet appointments and yard work to attend to this weekend so nothing much inside got done.

I'm only about a third way to where I need to be but I had to stop awhile and take a breather. I've spent most of the morning taking pics and listing some trading cards up for sale at eAuctionWorld and my brain is beginning to jell. Luckily the littlest gave up and is taking a nap. The eldest isn't due home for another half hour so, I have some "me" time going on right now. Just drinking a cup of Venezuela Vendetta , doing a little blog surfing and enjoying the peace while it lasts.

When the eldest boo gets home we've got to go make groceries. Food shopping is always an adventure with us and not my most favorite. But we usually end up laughing through it anyway. I think I'm going to need to go by CC's and maybe take the kiddos on a nap ride through town first. Serenity now....

Friday's Colors

2005-07-22T15:01:00.000-05:00

Have a good weekend ya'll!

Ralph To The White Phone...

2005-07-21T08:04:00.000-05:00

I've been out of commison with a stomach virus since tuesday and am just now feeling better. I'm going to leave out my personal gory details but - YUCK. I think it's pretty much over for me but now the girls have it. That being the opposite order from the last round of this bug, should mean we'll be done with the damned thing for good. Finally.

Today's highest priorities will be cuddling, juice pops, tylenol doses, temperature checks and some gross cleanup moments of which no one needs to hear about. Since nothing is on deadline I'll just catch up on work stuff later.

Now it's time for D-D-D-Dora D-D-D-Dora The Explorer....

Back Home Below Sea Level

2005-07-18T09:11:00.000-05:00

I've got a lot to catch up on this morning but I wanted to share a few pics from our trip -

My Dad's regular night spot. We hit town in time for dinner there. Three ladies were harmonizing beautifully with girl group standards of the 40's. The kids loved it!

The next morning we stopped at William's Orchard on the way to my grandpa's house.

My purchases were a tomato ( which the youngest ate whole), some cherries for the eldest, apple butter (with some wierd religous scripture on the label) , and my fovorite thing ever- home made apple and peach turnovers.

I always forget how high up we go to get to my family's property. They are literally on a mountain.

Country Kitty.

Yes, that is a shrine to P. Bear Bryant. The beloved late coach of the Crimson Tide for so many years. Trust me, there are many other houses with the same. My grandpa has the best Roll Tide memorbilla collection I've ever seen. The whole top of the hallway in his house is llined with it!

Where I'm standing is one mis step away from tumbling a few hundred yards down a rocky hill.

We were not home more than half an hour before the youngest saw an oppurtunity to feed the fish. ALL of his food at once! A very patient and tired daddy saved the day by changing the water and cleaning out the whole tank. "Courtney" the fish looked on from a pitcher normally reserved for margarita hour.

Milk In My Coffee & Honey In My Tea

2005-07-14T10:05:00.000-05:00

This post is going to be a little off structure for me since my head is all over the place today:

I found this over at YatPundit while reading through my blogroll this morning. Being the spaz that I am of course I accidently commented twice. Sorry, I'm a dork. The graphic doesn't offend me but, I don't find it charming or anywhere near mature either. What Amanda wrote about it and "the media's" opinion on women and marriage at her blog really brought out a mixed bag of emotions for me personally. I wanted to leave a comment after what she said but, I fear coming off as a Pollyanna type or being totally misunderstood and causing offense. I can't agree with what she says 100% but, I respect and understand that is how she feels and percieves the way things are. Since I have yet to solve the puzzle completely myself, I am in no position to advise or admonish anyone else. All I really can say that I know so far is this:

Anyone who chooses to partner with another person regardless of gender or marital union and decides to bring children between them will be faced with their own unique set of decisions to make. You will no longer be two individuals alone together. From then on you are a family with the responsibility of not screwing up the next member of society. Decide together what works best and ingnore the nay sayers that swirl around to do nothing more than cause discourse.

Rise and whine:

I love brands of local coffee such as, Community, French Market and CDM but none of them straight black. I'm a 2/3 milk to java ratio normally. That mix for me and a scoop of Splenda is my morning route to waking up. There is one coffee brand however I can drink happily with no milk or sweetener at all. Roasted personally by Mr. Gerald Kalal over at Killer Beans. Superb coffee with some very un PC names. My favorite is Venezuela Vendetta It has just the right kick without being super acidic and no bitterness whatsoever. I woke up today of course (Murphy's law) to a fridge sans milk. Great. I find this out after I brew a whole pot of Community. Since I can't bring myself to waste it, I'm sticking with the pot of Community while resisting the urge to ditch it and start a pot of VK. Meh.

It becomes even more self indulgent from here so feel free to lose interest:

I hate packing and I really hate packing for four people. Why do they not pack for themselve you say? Because I'm not dumb enough to let them! I've been to that rodeo before. If I do it they have everything they need guaranteed. If they do it something will be left behind and it will become my problem. I like to cut out the middle on these things and just avoid the hassle if possible. Still, I hate packing!

For the first time in two years, we are officially unpacked, (our house that is) I have a functional work space/routine and I almost, almost have some clue as to what I'm doing. It feels a little wierd but good. Go me.

Have a great weekend everybody!!!!

Woop Woop Wednesday

2005-07-13T10:13:00.000-05:00

We're headed to the Middleofnowhere, Alabama this weeekend with the kids to visit my dad and his half of the family. I have a lot to wrap up work and house wise before we leave. Where we're going barely has basic cable t.v much less anything but a 28K connection. I also make it a rule to do no work (including checking e-mail or blogging) while visiting out of town like that. I'm actually looking forward to being a little "disconnected" for a few days. I always come back from there with a fresh outlook (and really grateful to live here) on a lot of things. Usually with a new artistic idea or two as well. I already have a series of photos to take in my head. It should be a good trip.

Right now, I'm prepping to meet with a new web design client later, chasing the dirvish and (for sanity purposes) switching channels between Have Rocket, Will Travel on AMC and The Gay Sisters (cheeezy but, great set and wardrobe) on TCM.

It feels like it's going to rain soon too. If the littlest cape crusader wants to get out it needs to be pronto. She is super charged today and isn't really cooperating much so, I think we'll head to the back pick a few oranges and throw her ball around. Anything to wind her down a bit. Have mercy...

Emily's Turn

2005-07-12T12:22:00.000-05:00

I'm so over it already:
New Hurricane Watch

Tourist Crap

2005-07-11T14:34:00.000-05:00

Today's perfect Monday image is brought to you courtesy of Mike Hoffman at Metroblogging NOLA

You really can sell anything here.

Soft Sunday

2005-07-10T12:22:00.000-05:00

So far there has been nothing more than a few drops of rain here but Pensacola looks to be in the proccess of getting slammed once again. I really hate it for them, too. Cleanup and recovery from Ivan hasn't even been half done and now this! I have people there and am quite anxious for them at the moment. Nothing can be done but to hope everyone comes out in the end okay.

Our little family is currently taking the day very easy and enjoying what none of us ever want to lose - each other. We're planning on lunch later at my mother-in-law's who is making spinach lasagne. Yum! My stepson will be joining us and since she doesn't have work today so will my mamma. We'll have a nice full table later and it should be a good time.

The Mr. and Mrs. got out last night for some ouverdue date time. We started out by going into the French Quarter to take advantage of the thin crowds and the rare occurance of available parking. My honey and I got a couple of coctails to go, then took a slow stroll toward the Cigar Factory on Decatur Street where we picked out a couple of nice things to enjoy later. Dinner was planned to be Byblos on Magazine Street but the sushi crave hit so we went to Wasabi instead.

After stuffing ourselves like nordic seals we headed Uptown to Dos Jefes. Music was provided by saxaphonist Eric Traub, who was with drummer Simon Lott and James Singleton on stand-up base. What a great combo! Three almost completely different styles of playing that meshed together beautifully. We hope to hear them again soon.

I'm ending this post with the hopes that all who I love (and even those I don't) make it through Hurricane Dennis safe and sound. Hold on tight ya'll!

Panic Dance

2005-07-08T12:01:00.000-05:00

Well, they're closing all the government buildings now. Which for me means the eldest had her day at camp cut short. What timing too! I was just finishing up a batch of soap and was prepping the youngest's lunch. Nap time for her and a coffee break for me was just around the bend. Then, I get the monkey-wrench call from my honey that child number one was on her way home and begging up a Happy Meal as consolation. Not really a big deal except that lunch was already in the oven here and, I had plenty to feed us all. But no more do I pull the wings off flies do I push a seven year old's emotional limit when she's had this big of a bummer dealt out So, gave in, stored the stuff I made and ate Mcjunk along with them. Man.

I just wish the school would have been able to stay open to let them finish out their day. It would have only been three more hours and I doubt we're in that imediate of a peril. Of course, just as I write this, the sky is darkening more by the minute. Ugh...

Nash's Logic

2005-07-08T08:37:00.000-05:00

Such a deceptively pretty sky above our heads today. All calm and blue with no hint of the trouble ahead. Every five minutes or so some forecaster pops up with a new prediction and still no one has a clear answer. The storm hasn't even hit yet and I'm already sick of hearing about it!

By no stretch of the term am I anywhere near native to this city but, I've been here long enough to say; "We need the Nash Roberts report!" His calm hand in this is surely missed by many.

Cruel Summer

2005-07-07T10:51:00.000-05:00

Even if it does look like Dennis won't hit us head on (so far) I'm still not letting my guard down about the mess headed our way. Evacuating for us is a last resort but, I'm prepping for it to be safe. I'm spending my day scrubbing and sweeping my fears down to a bearable level. We'll make groceries later and take care of anything else that is within our control. After that all that can be done is to bear down. I just hope the damn thing is over with soon. Leaving as little damage to us and everyone else as possible.

C'mon, two storms before the middle of July? Grr.

Wicked Cindy

2005-07-06T09:31:00.000-05:00

This is what I woke up to this morning. The streets are a blanket of green leaves and branches. So much for just having had the yard done! Seriously though, whenever cleanup calls for only a rake - we count ourselves fortunate. There are trees and lines down all over town and from what I hear, some flooding as well. It could have been much worse.

Who knows what will happen with Storm Dennis. Nothing I'm looking forward to that's for sure.

!!Happy!July!4th!!

2005-07-04T10:07:00.000-05:00

How nice of the fourth to fall on a Monday this year! Our house is taking the day off and I hope yours is too.

I had my turn at the stomach bug that circulated between the rugrats this week. Lawdy was that an adventure! Details of which I will not be sharing here. Let's just say we stayed in all weekend. Anyhoo, we're well again and I'm back to fighting condition. So, it's time to get the heck outta here for awhile. A nice long drive to some alternative scenrery is just what we need. I want to take some pictures, pick up some sparklers and find something to bring home to slap on the grill. It should be a good day.

Have a safe red, white and blue time!

Wear Your Repellent!

2005-07-01T09:05:00.000-05:00

Health Officials Warn Human West Nile Cases Expected Soon

Nurse Mommy's Week

2005-06-30T08:39:00.000-05:00

My little ones have been under the weather with a stomach bug for most of the week. I've had my hands full with cleaning up the spew, reading Olivia twenty times and de-germing everything. As is the norm the girls weren't sick for long. They've both returned to their upright positions and, I'm left feeling like the end of a four day roller coaster ride.

Thanks to the marvels of modern computing (and being married to a tech-god & one helluva team mate) I didn't fall too far behind on work. Together, we gave our company's site a content update , worked on a soap label, and installed a NetDisk which will make both of our lives easier. I'll catch up on the rest after I prop my eyes open with a few cups of FM Dark Roast.

Hampster on a wheel....

R.I.P Chief Tootie

2005-06-28T08:36:00.000-05:00

Mardi Gras Indian Chief Dies At City Council Meeting

In his memory, my hope is that the mess between the Indians and the NOPD reaches a resolution soon.

Bob's Sweet On The Inside

2005-06-26T13:13:00.000-05:00

We had a really good time yesterday and I think the kiddos did, too! Bob, however, took a beating and spilled his guts. To the delight of girl children - who filled their goodie bags to the brim.

*Note: We forgot to put the tarp down for the candy but, they managed to pick up every last piece. In fact, we left our spot in the park cleaner than we found it.

Breakin' Friday

2005-06-24T12:04:00.000-05:00

It's been quite a productive week for me but I'm glad it's over. To avoid the sharpest of grief's thorns I have worked myself to near physical exhaustion. The benefit is that our little cottage is neat as a tack, all the prep for the girl's birthday tommorow is done and, my web worksheet has all of it's to-dos checked off. This is the only way I know how I deal with this kind of sorrow. My heart has finally come to terms with a loss it can not retrieve. I feel a lot more like myself again.

Now, it's time for the weekend and some celebration of life!!!

My girls have their birthday party this Saturday. I have had the most fun planning this one than any other year before. We're holding it outside at one of the parks and the theme is "Circus Carnival".

Holding a birthday party for two girls during the heat of summer with a family as large as ours is a bit tricky. We have a mix of small kids and elderly people to consider. (More than a few of each too). Into planning must come - comfort, attention span (for both groups), the heat (good lawd) and most important did our baby girls like their party. Oh, let's not forget: "how big a bang for how small a buck" is also real biggie.

We did a great job of it this year even of I do say so myself. The party will be held at a park where we're previously attended a party before. We know beforehand where to set up so that shade and seating is possible.

One of my guy's employees is a caterer on the side. As a gift to our kids this year, he is loaning us a big table, canopy,f and a bunch of chairs. Is that cool or what? Gracias Jose!

We'll pick up a couple of sandwhich plates and some veggies for the food. With more people attending than usual it will be a large sheet cake for dessert and ice cream cups instead of anything elaborate.

Since, kids will drink anything red (it has to be a scientific fact somewhere, I swear) it's Hawiian Punch for them and canned sodas for the adults. I'm also tossing some freezy pops into the cooler just for fun. Then for the flashy stuff (sugar!!!) I bought a whole assortment of candies such as red licorice strings, lolly pops and such to fit with the circus theme. Also peanuts in the shell somehow seems fitting.. For containers, I found some big plastic sand buckets on sale in realy pretty colors. Napkins and plates in bright balloon colors and a pretty table covering will be simple yet festive.

In lieu of organized games we are going to play with bubbles. I'm bringing a big purple turtle shaped sand box/pool that is cleaned out and will be filled with a few gallons of bubble mix. I've made "bubble wands" out of wire coat hangers. The kids should have good time with that.

For the big finish we're doing a "Sponge Bob" pinata. Instead of straight candy I'm using the filling mix that has both toy trinkets together with sweets. That way I don't have to assemble goodie bags and it's a good way to end the party. Sweet and simple.`

Happy Friday Ya'll!!!

Hot Hair (Salon)

2005-06-22T14:46:00.000-05:00

I bet the client is real glad she answered the call of nature before sitting under that dryer:

"Blaze damages hair salon; client, worker escape unhurt"

Seven Year Wonder

2005-06-21T19:32:00.000-05:00

We celebrated our first born's seventh birthday this evening. I can't believe how fast she's grown. What a great kid! Here's a few pics:

An intimate setting....

Scrumptious eats....

Making a big wish...

A new art kit...

Happy #7 Big Girl!!!

Broken Wheel On The Mend

2005-06-21T11:30:00.000-05:00

Last night my mamma and I went to Des Jefes for drinks and a little dinner. We shared a tasty tuna picata with a salad and string fries on the side. Ritchie was the most charming host as always. I forget what a great place that is early on a week-night. It was really good to have some time out from all the crap that has occured over the past few days.

Now, she's on a plane to Georgia and I'm getting back to work. I've never been so grateful to have too much to do.

A Bittersweet Symphony

2005-06-19T18:39:00.000-05:00

Life is an interesting dance with many steps and tends to end mid-song. Such is the case with the much too early passing of my youngest aunt yesterday. It was sudden and unexpected - we are all still in shock. She suffered multiple brain anyuerisms and there was nothing the doctors could do. She will be greatly missed.

The small town in Georgia where she and half of my bloodline reside will surely turn her out style. It's the Irish in us. Our funerals and wakes are superb. The tears are short and only allowed at the graveyard. Then it will be home to my Nana's (rest in peace Ruby 2002) for more food and drink than a Kermit Ruffins BBQ. Pictures and stories will be passed around and it will look more like a family reunion than a mourning event.

I will not be attending the funeral for personal reasons that they are all aware of and understand. I'm very face first about death. It's something I've dealt with since an early age. What I've learned from it all especially with the last two passing is to grab life by the short hairs and squeeze it dry. You have to dance the dance while you're here without concern for an unproven after. That motto and a morbid sense of humor really helps ease the pulsing pain from the hole left in my heart by such a sensless loss as this.

Continuously questioning why the hell this happened now isn't going to help anything or anyone. Having two youngins to look after (thankfully) leaves no time for long term sorrow either. I'll just churn the feelings and manic energy into being productive.
So, with eyes still moist I am throwing myself into my work for the next few weeks. I know her well enough to know that she'd appreciate that.

Ending on a happier note:

This has been a very nice Father's Day for us and I hope all the good papas out there are living it up. We swam ourselves to exaustion at my father-in-laws today and ate crawfish (local of course) with pasta and Chocolate cake and champagne for dessert. Now, we're snug at home belly laughing to the Simpsons. Life really does go on.

Floral Friday

2005-06-17T09:59:00.000-05:00

These two were the only blooms on all five of my rose-bushes to survive this week's weather. Even with petals slightly bruised they are a silky pink with a strong and pleasant scent.