The Christmas Date Weekend

"You'll see a dixieland Santa Claus leading the band to a good old Creole beat. And golly what a spirit, you can only hear it down on Basin Street. Your cares will disappear when you hear 'Hallelujah, St. Nicholas is here' when it's Christmas time in New Orleans." Christmas in New Orleans by Louis Armstrong

Goodness what a wonderful weekend! TC and I went on our 4th annual Christmas date, our second as a married couple. This year, I planned our Christmas day-date to New Orleans, Louisiana. We wanted to go last year, but several events transpired keeping us from doing much beyond dinner and Christmas light-sight-seeing. Last year was just as special though; however, this year was simply, fabulous fun. I tried to keep our location a surprise, but keeping a surprise from TC is one of the most complicated tasks. He's sneaky and managed to guilt me into spilling the beans Friday.

 

We toured the French Quarter, listened to the jazz bands dotting Royal Street, visited antique shops, admired French influenced architecture, walked the Riverfront, enjoyed Cajun/Creole cuisine, observed human statues and tap-dancing artists, endured volunteering in a tumbling show, enjoyed the lights and Christmas decor, devoured beignets and cafe-au-lait from the famous Cafe Du Monde while esteeming the speed and maneuvering of the employees efforts in food preparation. All day was such an experience for the senses. Such a city of culture. We did not see all we could have, but as the sun set we headed out to "Celebration in the Oaks," a light display in City Park. The perfect festive finish.

On our way home, we entertained ourselves with singing along to the radio. Never a dull moment. We also discovered we could describe ourselves as "Adventurous homebodies." We love travelling, adventure  and experiencing something new, but we always love being at our home.

We spent Sunday morning in worship and fellowship at our church. On Sunday evening we joined with my precious dad in Christmas shopping. Afterwards, dad had us over for a wrapping party for all unwrapped gifts where we were greeted with, quite possibly, the best hot chocolate I have ever had. Christmas movies filled the background. Mom is already in TN where our tender, Tennessee Christmas is waiting for us. It's my mother's birthday today, so "Happy Birthday, Mom!" I'll sing my song to you in person tomorrow.

No. 4, 6, and 15 were a complete joy

        



Cafe Du Monde



Maybe the best shrimp and grits ever



The radio song that greeted us on our arrival downtown; a very warm New Orleans welcome. (It felt like a movie - a soundtrack pre-selected and perfectly timed)

A few things have been laid on my heart recently. Excited to share them in January.