I have to give credit for my photos today to NOLA.com/The Times-Picayune and a local paper, The Advocate.  We have survived the last few days hoping we would not have to evacuate our home and we have been safe.  Other areas a matter of less than five miles from us have not been so lucky.

The Advocate

I am reminded of how much we take for granted when a storm like the one we have experienced comes our way.  We have been practicing preparedness training, instigated by my darling daughter.  Having my elderly parents living with us as well as our beloved pets makes being ready to go in a timely and organized fashion very important.  Miss Sky has seen to bins with water bottles, food that might be needed and routes to go in whatever direction we might need to get to safety.  Also included are flashlights and batteries and plenty of dog treats.

Three rivers that meet in the Covington area are out of bounds, flooding neighborhoods and the quaint town we are coming to love as well.  Water is a powerful source of destruction when it rains continuously for days like like it has. All of the photos I have featured today come from within just a few miles of our house.

This last photo of of the home of a dear friend, Laura’s, daughter.  She and her family live in Hammond just up I-12 from our home.  They were able to get out of the house with their pets and the clothes on their backs.  They have lost everything in the recent flooding.  I you would be interested in donating to help them get back on their feet please private message me.  They are in need of gift cards from places like Lowe’s and Home Depot.  Reasons to be grateful surround me and moments of prayer are a part of each day.  We are very lucky to live on higher ground.

Melissa | Out&About | 03 15th, 2016 | 1 Comment »

With orders from my orthopedic doctor I am beginning a strenuous walking routine.  It is said to be the best way, after the initial physical therapy sessions, to rehab after having full knee replacement.  I am so blessed to live near Tammany Trace, a natural trail and Louisiana’s only rails to trails conversion, this beautiful network of asphalt paths is built over the original railroad trestles.

31 bridges enable walkers, runners, bicyclists, horses and wheelchairs to stop and observe the natural beauty surrounding them.  Tammany Trail serves as a wildlife conservation area and links hidden parks, historic landmarks and wetlands throughout five communities.  The sights you can see while venturing out on these trails is nothing short of splendid!

On the meandering trail you’ll find all sorts of local foliage.  Live oak trees are in abundance along with Loblolly Pine and plenty of wild azalea as well as this lovely yellow vine I think may be wild honeysuckle.  Nature puts on its show in grandeur for all to see.

This is one of my favorite spots!  As a child I would not have had the courage to venture across this fallen tree that is suspended from one side of the river to the next.  My brother would have….hence the fact he has always been one of my heroes!  I did not have the courage and my fear of heights would have gotten in the way.  But I can stand on the bridge and imagine that I could have the ability to balance and carefully walk across from one side to the other!  I’m sure there are those who have done so.  Walking is easy in such a beautiful place and it is having a positive effect on my body, strengthening and healing me inside out.  It also clears my mind and gives me time to recollect myself so that I can live a grounded life.  “Move It Or Lose It” is my motto!

For more on Tammany Trace go here:  http://www.tammanytrace.org/

Melissa | Out&About | 03 10th, 2016 | 2 Comments »

I have been travelling through the state of Louisiana for years.  Raised on the Gulf Coast of Texas I became very familiar with the last names Thibodaux and DuBois.  We grew up seeing gumbo and jambalaya as part our state’s local cuisine.

Google

Something that has always raised a question in my mind is the reason behind the state of Louisiana having “Parishes” as opposed to the “Counties” found in most states.  I did a bit of research and I’m sharing the results with you today.

Google

Louisiana was originally a combination of French and Spanish colonies, that were primarily Roman Catholic.  When the Louisiana Purchase took place in 1803, what was then termed the Territory of Orleans, was divided into 12 counties with poorly defined borders.  In 1807 the territorial legislature met and formed nineteen parishes but they did not change the counties.  When the state was admitted into the Union in 1845 and the state’s constitution was written the term parish was used throughout the document and has maintained that title to this day.  The term county faded away.

Google

Since the Roman Catholic church had so much to do with governing of the state in early days it makes sense to me that the area around the various churches in the state, termed as parishes, should remain instead of changing to the normal term of county.  Like so many things the use of this term, which stems from the French and Spanish influence that remain in modern day, is one of the charming things about Louisiana that set it apart from so many other places.

Google

Today Louisiana is made up of sixty-four parishes.  The names of many still evoke the religion which forms the base of so many parts of this state.  Ascension, Assumption, Saint John the Baptist are three that come to mind. Then there are the parishes that so clearly speak of the French influence….Evangeline (more about that in a future post), Lafayette and Calcasieu are just a few.  I find Louisiana to be a magical state.  There is an abundance of fascinating history I am beginning to explore and will share in upcoming posts.  Great lore….a few ghost stories and plenty of good times are rolling!

Melissa | Out&About | 02 25th, 2016 | 1 Comment »

I have always had a special love for magnolias.  Little did I know that the state flower of Lousiana is this beautiful bloom!  Their gigantic, rich cream colored blossoms appear like oversized cups, drinking in the warmth of the sun.  When I was growing up in Texas, my Mother would float Magnolia blossoms in a large crystal bowl, placing it in the middle of our dining room table.  They always seemed so elegant in my eyes, filling the room with their heady fragrance.

But there is much more to the Magnolia than mere decoration.

This tree has been in existence, in some form other other since before the appearance of bees on the planet.

In ancient China, only the Emperor could have a Magnolia tree.  To be given a root from the Emperor’s tree signified that the recipient was receiving royal favor.

The Magnolia has many medicinal qualities as well.  Chinese medicine uses the bark to keep the life force flowing effectively as well as to help with digestive problems.  The dental community has taken recent interest in the Magnolia since it appears to prevent the formation of bacterial plaque.

To dream of Magnolia’s symbolizes beauty, grace and elegance as well as protection.

Magnolias symbolize nobility and perservance.  They have weathered ice ages, the creation of mountain ranges as well as Continental drift, still rising to stand regally over nature.  It is a symbol of strength and endurance throughout the South….long may they reign!

Melissa | Out&About | 02 18th, 2016 | 6 Comments »

There is a quiet hush around the Crescent City as Carnival Season comes to a close.  It is a time I will always remember as my first and the introduction to what life in this wonderful place is all about.  We partied into the night and danced in the streets by day.

Beads….beads…..and more beads along with other colorful treasures made the celebration complete as families, friends and neighbors joined in the revelry.  This is not what I expected from Mardi Gras.  As a child it was always described to me as something that was an adult event and certainly not for children.  My experience was just the opposite.

The delight of children of all ages filled the air as one colorful float after another passed by tossing beads, dubloons and mementos to treasure.  This is a time of joy, of being a child again and of having fun like never before!

The float carrying Rex, this year’s king of Mardi Gras was decked out in opulent gold with the man himself sitting on his throne, toasting the crowd and bringing this amazing time to a close in grand style.

We made our way to Jackson Square to people watch and we were not disappointed!  Amazing costumes and entertainment greeted us as the sun began to set on a time I will never forget!  Experiencing this festive season with family and their friends is totally different from being a tourist.  The commaraderie as groups plan food to bring and agree on where to meet makes it such a fun time!

Our sweet Miss Em donned a friends mask, a full sized horses head, to clown around a bit in the square as we sat and listened to bagpipes play.  The air buzzes with happiness and excitement, there is no doubt this is not just any other day.

As shadows began to fall and the crowds thinned out I remembered something my son-in-law said to me earlier in the day.  “Just think, everywhere else it’s just another Tuesday!”.  We all got to release our inner child, be a little crazy and celebrate.  It’s going to be a great year!

Melissa | Out&About | 02 11th, 2016 | No Comments »

I have enjoyed the incredible cuisine of Louisiana for years.  Growing up on the Gulf Coast of Texas I was eating gumbo from the age of four on and loving steamed crab, shrimp and any other fish or seafood available.  What I never gave any thought to was the fact that Louisiana is a rich farming state as well.  My first trip to the Covington Farmer’s Market was a real eye opener!  The array of produce and other products amazed me.  The heirloom tomatoes tasted like the fruit from my childhood.  We literally stood around our kitchen island with a shaker of pink salt and ate these delicious treats like an apple.  Bliss!

The many vendors and farmers that have booths each Saturday morning and midday on Wednesdays offer everything you can imagine to create a tasty, healthy meal!  Or you can enjoy a fabulous gluten free tortilla filled with yummy cheese and peppers if you’d like.

Would you like fresh herbs?  Take your pick!

We love the homemade KimChi and Salsa’s we found there from local producers all perfectly spiced.

Bear Creek Ranch offers a beautiful collection of fresh baked goods.  Of course King Cake is front and center during Carnival season.  I love the little French macarons, pretty and petite, not to mention the flavor!  I would never have the patience to make these tiny treats!

Do you enjoy live music?  You’ll find it here!  A festive atmosphere surrounds you as you wander among the booths sampling and enjoying a beautiful day.

Last but certainly not least!  I have to mention the awesome Korean Pancakes available for sale.  A light batter with crunchy fresh vegetables and a delicious Asian dipping sauce…..foodie heaven!  I have become addicted, I make no apologies.  And I’m not the only one.  You have to wait in a long line to get one of these savory treats.  I have to have one every time I go now!  For five dollars it’s quite the deal and worth every penny.  Life is good in Southern Louisiana!  For years I dreamed of living here and now I’m getting to enjoy every minute of it!  Ya’ll come visit!

Melissa | Out&About | 02 9th, 2016 | 1 Comment »

We attended our first Mardi Gras parades this past Sunday.  I had no idea what to expect and, not being a crowd lover, I attended with a bit of trepidation.  Can I just tell you I LOVED IT!!!!!  We set up our chairs and a table full of food for friends and family to enjoy.  The party was beginning.

Dancing in the streets was definitely on the menu for a day filled with fun and a feeling of celebration and joy!  Sky and Miss Em got right out there and strutted her stuff with the famous “Amelia Earhawts” dancers who performed in flight attendant costumes.

The beat of the bass drums got everyone’s blood going like nothing else.  None of the talented marching bands let us down.

The drill teams and dancers were amazing!

Ever dream of a handsome knight on horseback?  Yep….he was there!

The floats were all so colorful and beautifully built.  Bright strands of Mardi Gras beads and other things were tossed at all of the folks standing streetside.  The whole St. Charles Avenue area was overflowing with happy revelers enjoying this event that they wait for each year.  I’m not sure if there is ever a time in New Orleans when there isn’t a party of some sort going on.  These people know how to celebrate life and they do it well!

We had the best time!  I’m now looking forward to more parades and cannot wait for Fat Tuesday when the partying hits a fevered pitch I am told is like nothing I’ve ever experienced!  My party hat will be on and I’ll be dancing in the streets!

Melissa | Out&About | 02 4th, 2016 | 1 Comment »

There is a charming little town just northeast of my new home, Abita Springs.  Known for the healing waters that flow from the natural, deepwater spring that is available in the town center park, this little village is a delight to visit and the perfect place to take the kids for nature expeditions.

The St. Tammany Trail is readily available with beautiful paths that wander through rustic nature….

Creeks to gaze upon and some of South Louisiana’s prettiest scenery.

This is also the home of Abita Brewery that uses the healing waters to make their special beers.  Visit the tasting room at the brewery and the cafe at the town center where you can enjoy delicious food as well tastings of the companies concoctions.  Right now you might want to indulge in their special Strawberry Ale.  Not what you might expect but so amazing!

We visit once a week to fill bottles and enjoy the delicious, natural sweetness others have enjoyed for centuries!  There are countless tales of people being healed by drinking the water from Abita Springs.

If you’re visiting the New Orleans area put Abita Springs on your list of “must sees” !  You’ll love it and find so much to explore and discover!!

Melissa | Out&About | 02 2nd, 2016 | 1 Comment »

It’s Carnival time here in Louisiana!  No post holiday blues here as the colors of Mardi Gras begin to appear everywhere and King’s Cake is the order of the day.  I’m sharing a bit of local culture today with this video “The Avenue” by the New Orleans band, Cowboy Mouth.  Parties, parades and plenty of fun fill each day as we build toward Mardi Gras in February!  Have a peaceful Sunday and enjoy!

Melissa | Out&About, Simple Sundays | 01 10th, 2016 | 1 Comment »

Camelia Bushes In Bloom

Seven weeks ago, as of today, I underwent full knee replacement of my left knee.  I now have two “bionic” knees, or so I like to think they will be once I’ve finished rehab.  I have to thank Dr. Chad Millet for performing such a masterful job and his staff for their support.  Physical therapy is not one bit fun, but necessary.  I tow the line and follow directions.  Ice and elevation are my two greatest friends.  Now….to figure out how to sleep at night and I’ll have won the battle!

I haven’t gotten around to much blogging during my recovery.  The photo above is of the ceiling in my bedroom here in our new home.  This “double coved’ ceiling has been my view for days on end.  I am now getting up and around on a more regular basis, but I have watched the paint color on this ceiling change hue as hours passed.  Sometimes it’s taupe and others a serene shade of green that is completely unexpected.  It all depends on the lighting.  Sorry this photo is a bit “off kilter”, but I guess it fits my disposition of late!  I’m a work in constant progress and I’m on the rise!

Mid-Century Ranch Turns French/Pinterest

I’m not a television watcher.  In fact, we don’t even have regular television since Apple TV offers all that we need for entertainment.  But I have discovered how to watch YouTube on the big screen and am enjoying shows like “Fixer Upper” from HGTV.  Being a Texas girl, born and raised, I think of taking a trip to Waco just to see what the empire Chip and Joanna Gaines are building is all about.  I don’t know if you’ve watched the show but this couple is adorable and uber talented.  I love watching something that shows accomplishment and happy endings….”Fixer Upper” always delivers. One of my favorite episodes transforms the home in the photo above…Season 1.  AND, I’m loving the new Netflix series, “Sensitive Skin” with one of my all time favorite actresses, Kim Cattrell, of Sex in the City fame. This is not a role like “Samantha” that brought her so much attention, but her acting skills may be at their best in this new series.

My calendar is brimming over with new adventures in the New Year. Plans are in the works that will bring my best blog posts ever to your inbox every day…except Saturday.  2015 has been a mixed bag of trials and challenges which we have met and are working to turn into positive experiences as time passes.  We are surrounded by an exciting world in New Orleans.  Natives of this wonderfully historic city express an amazing joy for living on a daily basis.  They parade at the drop of a hat and make celebration and every day occurrence.  I cannot wait to experience my first Mardi Gras.  Move over and let me in, MuffALotta’s!  We’ll be dancing in the streets!

Melissa | Out&About | 12 14th, 2015 | 1 Comment »