I’ve been laying pretty low lately in the online world, mostly because I’ve been trying to stay on top of things in the real-life world. I spent this past week in New Orleans for my organization’s big annual meeting. It’s always a lot of preparation leading up to the event and then non-stop action once it begins. After it’s over, it still takes a little while for things to slow down, but I’m looking ahead and am so ready for spring, which I can see hints of in the weather this week.

I hadn’t been to New Orleans since before Katrina, but back when I lived in Memphis I would go fairly often. Just a straight drive south, and you could have a beignet in hand in under six hours. Now living in the northwest corner of Arkansas, it’s a bit of a trek. While my time was devoted to meetings all day, I was able to get out and do one thing at night – eat. I forgot how amazing the food is in New Orleans! There seemed to be an adorable, historic spot on every corner and every meal I had was incredible. I didn’t have much time to venture far from my hotel, so everywhere I went was in walking distance of The International House Hotel. My dinner tour included: The Carousel Bar, Mr. B’s Bistro, Palace Cafe, The Original Pierre Maspero’s, and of course, Cafe du Monde.

So while it was a busy trip, it at least was a delicious trip. I’ve been wanting to go to New Orleans with Todd and Iris, and now my interest is sparked even more. My favorite kind of vacation is being able to lazily walk around exploring, eating, and drinking and I’m not sure if there would be a better place to do that than New Orleans.