OMG!!! Today we start the journey! AHHHHHHH! I hope Amy doesn't end up having to wear the hat the whole way!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
 |
| Happy Birthday, Shay!!!!!!! |
Friday, June 27, 2014
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
10 Day Weather Forecast
As Mikki eluded to, it's gonna be a little toasty in the south. Here's the 10 day forecast as of today (214 days since Mikki turned 40)
6/27 - Madison High of 81, 40% chance of rain
6/28 - Memphis High of 89, 30% chance of rain
6/29 - NOLA High of 92, 10% chance of rain
6/30 - NOLA High of 94, 0% chance of rain
7/01 - NOLA High of 92, 30% chance of rain
7/02 - NOLA High of 92, 30% chance of rain
7/03 - NOLA High of 94, 30% chance of rain
7/04 - Biloxi High of 91, 30% chance of rain
We will be thankful for the air conditioning and need to plan some down time (Naps for April) during the hottest part of the day.
2 days!!!!!!!
6/27 - Madison High of 81, 40% chance of rain
6/28 - Memphis High of 89, 30% chance of rain
6/29 - NOLA High of 92, 10% chance of rain
6/30 - NOLA High of 94, 0% chance of rain
7/01 - NOLA High of 92, 30% chance of rain
7/02 - NOLA High of 92, 30% chance of rain
7/03 - NOLA High of 94, 30% chance of rain
7/04 - Biloxi High of 91, 30% chance of rain
We will be thankful for the air conditioning and need to plan some down time (Naps for April) during the hottest part of the day.
2 days!!!!!!!
Wednesday, June 18, 2014
Single Digits!!! 9 days to go!!!
Some topics that came up Monday night (which was now 2 days ago so if I can't remember it's because Mikki has been 40 for 207 days!)....
Snacks:
Mikki and I are running to Sam's Club this weekend. Currently, I have a variety of crackers and pudding. Yummy but not together. lol
Food:
Ham, PB, Strawberry Jam, Rotel, Mayo and Ranch are already in my bag. I will be adding chips, Turkey, Bread, and a bunch of other things based on your surveys. So far my food total is at $17.82.
Soda and Water:
Please bring your favorite soda. We will try to fit as much as possible in. Cans are preferred as we do have the travel mugs. (Mikki, I have yours. I know you are living in suspense wondering what Amy picked out for you!)
I will be picking up a pack of water. We can pick up more at any time so again, what ever fits is what will come with.
Barbecue and Tacos:
Unless there are any objections, I will be making taco meat and barbecue or pulled pork (sauce to be added later, Amy.) to have for a couple of dinners. We will need to pick up buns, taco shells and such but that will help save some money for drinking. Dinner should time well with April's nap needs also.
Scheduled Items:
The only thing on my itinerary is Visiting Graceland Sunday A.M. If you would like to do something at a particular time, let me know. I know April mentioned the baseball game on July 3rd. Game time is 7 pm with $1 soda and draft beer. They have a mini flag giveaway and post game fireworks.
Itineraries:
Speaking of Itineraries, the travel information is in the mail as of today. I sent out a couple of copies to everyone to distribute as needed. If you need more, let me know. :)
10 Free Things to do In NOLA
NOLA Calendar of Events
Snacks:
Mikki and I are running to Sam's Club this weekend. Currently, I have a variety of crackers and pudding. Yummy but not together. lol
Food:
Ham, PB, Strawberry Jam, Rotel, Mayo and Ranch are already in my bag. I will be adding chips, Turkey, Bread, and a bunch of other things based on your surveys. So far my food total is at $17.82.
Soda and Water:
Please bring your favorite soda. We will try to fit as much as possible in. Cans are preferred as we do have the travel mugs. (Mikki, I have yours. I know you are living in suspense wondering what Amy picked out for you!)
I will be picking up a pack of water. We can pick up more at any time so again, what ever fits is what will come with.
Barbecue and Tacos:
Unless there are any objections, I will be making taco meat and barbecue or pulled pork (sauce to be added later, Amy.) to have for a couple of dinners. We will need to pick up buns, taco shells and such but that will help save some money for drinking. Dinner should time well with April's nap needs also.
Scheduled Items:
The only thing on my itinerary is Visiting Graceland Sunday A.M. If you would like to do something at a particular time, let me know. I know April mentioned the baseball game on July 3rd. Game time is 7 pm with $1 soda and draft beer. They have a mini flag giveaway and post game fireworks.
Itineraries:
Speaking of Itineraries, the travel information is in the mail as of today. I sent out a couple of copies to everyone to distribute as needed. If you need more, let me know. :)
10 Free Things to do In NOLA
NOLA Calendar of Events
BILOXI 4TH OF JULY FIREWORKS DISPLAY
July 4
Huge annual Fireworks Display over the Mississippi Sound! Fireworks shot from Deer Island! Hosted by the City of Biloxi!
Huge annual Fireworks Display over the Mississippi Sound! Fireworks shot from Deer Island! Hosted by the City of Biloxi!
- Date(s): 07/04/2014 - 07/04/2014
- Times: 9pm
- Location: Biloxi Small Craft Harbor, Highway 90, Biloxi
- Contact: Biloxi Visitor Center
- Phone: 228-374-3105
Tuesday, June 17, 2014
Packing Part II
Amy mentioned the roominess of the van. This one shows the sto and go seating on the left hand side of the page. Here is the link. Enjoy!
Now, here's a new game...... What's in that bag!?!?! Can't you just hear the theme music now?
This is my suitcase, standard carry-on size. Although, I have unzipped the expander but only because I wanted to use my red suitcase instead of the slightly larger green one.
So, what's in my bag?
1 Dress 1 Swimsuit
2 Bras 3 Pairs of socks
5 Pairs of Underwear 2 Pairs of sandles5 Shorts (1 to sleep in) 12 Tops (1 to sleep in)
Jewelry 1 Purse (cross-body)
1 Wallet Toiletries and Make-up
What's not in my bag?
Shorts A larger purse
1 Bra Walking shoes
Sunscreen Little black sweater
Beach towel Travel Mug (from Amy)
My Elvis shirt is also in my bag, so that should free up some space. lololol
Speaking of the Elvis shirt, a reminder for our theme days:
Elvis
Pink don't match Green
Vintage/Throw back
Here is my non-clothing packing list:
Plates Napkins
Plates Napkins
Plates Napkins
Plates Napkins
Elvis Prize Elvis Prize
RWB Other Prize
Elvis Match Game Bingo Games
Trivia Game Hookerland Game
Laundry Detergent (2) Fabric Sheets
Maps Directions
NOLA Binder Kleenex
Bottle Opener Card Games
Travel Games Stick Items
Camera Rechargeable Batteries
Battery Charger Laptop
Power Cord Beach Towel
Make-up Magazines
Face Lotion Pages of Travel Books
Sunscreen Aloe
Tide Stick Retro Prize
Hair Spray Baby Wipes
Spray Conditioner Hand Sanitizer
Brush Travel Mugs
Hair Ties Hair clip
Make-up Brushes Face Cleaner
Cotton Balls Shampoo/Conditioner
Q-Tips Make-up Remover
Aleve Ibuprofen
Gum/Breath Mints Rain Coat
Coupons Deoderant
I had to remove some of the specifics of the items to keep the surprises intact. The highlighted items are things that will stay in the car.
More coming tomorrow based on my conversation with Amy last night but if you have questions, let me know as we are only 10 days away!!!!!!! Smooches!!
Sunday, June 8, 2014
"Don't be stupid and you will be fine" - Safety tips for New Orleans
Virtual Tourist has some good info on 25 different topics including #14's title earning, "Don't be stupid and you will be fine". I was also interested in reading #24 "Nipples" Hopefully, I can read that one soon. ;)
http://www.virtualtourist.com/travel/North_America/United_States_of_America/Louisiana/New_Orleans-793014/Warnings_or_Dangers-New_Orleans-TG-C-1.html
Some safety tips from this site. I couldn't tell what year it was written as it references 1996/97 further down. Still some good tips for safety!
http://www.angelfire.com/jazz/davensusie/safety.htm
Anytime the sun was up, we found the French Quarter to be pretty safe. The area along the N. Rampart St. side of the Quarter, and some parts near Esplanade are probably not safe any time. Everywhere else, the problems are more likely after dark.
So, the standard rules that most well traveled folk follow should apply here:
Street Scams
Outside of the occasional pushy street person ("bet I can tell you where you got your shoes!"), we have been threatened only once and mildly at that. In fact, the worst thing that's ever happened to us was falling for a couple of street scams. These take the form of a friendly stranger walking up to you and attempting to shake your hand. He or she will look like a typical Bourbon Street character, but he wants something. These scams follow one of an array of strategies:
http://www.virtualtourist.com/travel/North_America/United_States_of_America/Louisiana/New_Orleans-793014/Warnings_or_Dangers-New_Orleans-TG-C-1.html
Some safety tips from this site. I couldn't tell what year it was written as it references 1996/97 further down. Still some good tips for safety!
http://www.angelfire.com/jazz/davensusie/safety.htm
Anytime the sun was up, we found the French Quarter to be pretty safe. The area along the N. Rampart St. side of the Quarter, and some parts near Esplanade are probably not safe any time. Everywhere else, the problems are more likely after dark.
So, the standard rules that most well traveled folk follow should apply here:
- -Avoid being conspicuously alone
- the French Quarter crowd is said to still be pretty safe, although the petty crime rate is very real.
-Avoid looking stupidly rich or careless with your money. If someone attempts to rob you, give them what they want.
- Don't chase after muggers - take in information about your situation and give accurate descriptions to police.
-While sight seeing, figure out where your next stop will be before heading out - in fact, plan your day as much as you can before leaving your hotel.
-Walk with some resolve (I carried a wooden cane that I would swing somewhat widely to scare some of the goofier assailants (This made me feel better and comes in handy as I get older!).
-Taxis are cheap, regulated, and safe - take them anytime you think maybe you should.
- Here are some iffy-to-dangerous areas for you to watch, especially at dusk and into the evenings:
-Anywhere across Esplanade Avenue into Elysian Fields
-Any place approaching N. Rampart Street, from Canal to Esplanade.
Right around the intersection of Conti and N. Rampart is the historic location of Storyville, the infamous red light district of the late 1800's. Today, these are public housing neighborhoods and they look rough to me. St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is on Basin St. between Conti and St. Louis. Don't go by yourself - you need a big group.
-If you are going anyplace at night in the CBD (Central Business District), the Garden District, or the Warehouse District - take a taxi or street car! You might take a look at the area during the day and get your bearings.
Street Scams
Outside of the occasional pushy street person ("bet I can tell you where you got your shoes!"), we have been threatened only once and mildly at that. In fact, the worst thing that's ever happened to us was falling for a couple of street scams. These take the form of a friendly stranger walking up to you and attempting to shake your hand. He or she will look like a typical Bourbon Street character, but he wants something. These scams follow one of an array of strategies:
- "Bet I can tell you where you got your shoes" - Answer: "You got your shoes on Bourbon Street in New Orleans, Louisiana!
- "Bet I can spell your last name" Answer: "Y-O-U-R L-A-S-T N-A-M-E"
- "Where you from? Ohio! My sister lives in Ohio!" The time-shares come-on will waste your time.
- Someone will try to get you to follow them to enroll in special deals.
- Somebody hands you a "free" New Orleans souvenir - then wants a donation for a worthy sounding cause.
Now I'm the softest touch around, and I fell for some of these scams at a cost of $1-$10 or 30 thirty minutes of my time. If you regularly give to charities of your choice, you can probably live with any guilt you might have over passing by a legitimate cause. You could also write a check later to the appropriate organization.
Monday, June 2, 2014
Oh man, I forgot the _____? Packing Part I
I was thinking the other day about things we could share instead of each bringing one. The only thing that came to mind, that wasn't a personal item, was a hair dryer. Since I'm the only one that actually uses one and each of the hotels has one, we should be ok there. I will have my battery charger for AA batteries and bug spray with in case you want either. Any things you can think of?
Other things to take into consideration are:
Rain Coat/Poncho - daily rains although not sure if it's like FL where it rains for 5 minutes or hours of rain.
Sun Screen - You know I'll have some but if you don't like SPF 350, it would be good to have.
I'll bring Aloe...... Or maybe just lotion....... hmm.....
Beach Towel - Not sure the Biloxi hotel will let us take towels to the beach. Hmm......
Some other things on my list:
Lap top
Toll Booth Change
Cooler options (until we know what will fit in the van)
Maps
Driving directions & reservations
Picnic items - Plates/napkins/utensils
If the need to ship something back arises, there are 3 FedEx locations within a half mile of our hotel.
555 Canal Street 504-651-1057 (.1 mile N)
762 St. Charles Ave 504-581-2541 (.4 miles SW)
601 Loyola Ave 504-524-6048 (.5 miles W)
And now the banker in me asks you to contact your bank (for debit card) and/or credit card companies you will be using on the trip to let them know you will be traveling. We have a specific travel form for our check cards so the bank doesn't think your card has been lost or stolen. You should also have copies of your ID, Credit cards and medical cards in a secondary location in the event any are lost or stolen. This will provide you with easy location of card number and a contact number.
Other things to take into consideration are:
Rain Coat/Poncho - daily rains although not sure if it's like FL where it rains for 5 minutes or hours of rain.
Sun Screen - You know I'll have some but if you don't like SPF 350, it would be good to have.
I'll bring Aloe...... Or maybe just lotion....... hmm.....
Beach Towel - Not sure the Biloxi hotel will let us take towels to the beach. Hmm......
Some other things on my list:
Lap top
Toll Booth Change
Cooler options (until we know what will fit in the van)
Maps
Driving directions & reservations
Picnic items - Plates/napkins/utensils
If the need to ship something back arises, there are 3 FedEx locations within a half mile of our hotel.
555 Canal Street 504-651-1057 (.1 mile N)
762 St. Charles Ave 504-581-2541 (.4 miles SW)
601 Loyola Ave 504-524-6048 (.5 miles W)
And now the banker in me asks you to contact your bank (for debit card) and/or credit card companies you will be using on the trip to let them know you will be traveling. We have a specific travel form for our check cards so the bank doesn't think your card has been lost or stolen. You should also have copies of your ID, Credit cards and medical cards in a secondary location in the event any are lost or stolen. This will provide you with easy location of card number and a contact number.
Friday, May 16, 2014
Drinking couch to 5k
I.e. The prep for April to get ready to drink in New Orleans! :)
Mikki and I are in the Cities and decided, while drinking, to develop a plan for April so she won't be sleeping by 4:14 on any given day.
With 6 weeks to go, here is the plan......
Week one - (drinks should be 16-22 oz)
Day 1 (Mon 5/19) - 1 drink
Day 2 - rest day
Day 3 - 1 drink
Day 4 - rest day
Day 5 - 1 drink
Day 6 - rest day
Day 7 - 1 drink
Week two - (drinks should be in the form of a yard)
Day 1 (Mon 5/26) - 1 drink
Day 2 - rest day
Day 3 - 1 drink
Day 4 - 1 drink
Day 5 - rest day
Day 6 - 1 drink
Day 7 - 1 drink
Week three - (drinks should be 16-22 oz, shots should be butter shots)
Day 1 (Mon 6/2) - rest day
Day 2 - 1 drink
Day 3 - 1 drink
Day 4 - 1 drink, 1 shot
Day 5 - rest day
Day 6 - 1 drink, 1 shot
Day 7 - 1 drink, 1 shot
Week four - (drinks should be yard size, shots should be cake vodka)
Day 1 (Mon 6/9) - 1 drink
Day 2 - 1 drink, 1 shot
Day 3 - rest day
Day 4 - 2 drinks
Day 5 - 2 drinks, 1 shot
Day 6 - 2 drinks, 1 shot
Day 7 - 2 drinks
Week five - (drinks should be yard size, shots should be Jager)
Day 1 (Mon 6/16) - rest day
Day 2 - 2 drinks, 2 shots
Day 3- 3 drinks, 2 shots
Day 4 - 3 drinks, 1 shot
Day 5 - 3 drinks
Day 6 - rest day
Day 7 - 4 drinks, 2 shots
Week six - (drinks should be in the form of pitchers, shots can be any of the 4 wise men)
Day 1 (Mon 6/23) - 4 drinks, 2 shots
Day 2 - 5 drinks
Day 3 - 5 drinks
Day 4 - 5 drinks, 2 shots
Day 5 - rest day
Your training is now complete and you are ready to participate in drinking in New Orleans, Memphis and Biloxi! Congratulations!!!
Mikki says she should do the same program but she's not doing Jager or cake vodka!
Mikki and I are in the Cities and decided, while drinking, to develop a plan for April so she won't be sleeping by 4:14 on any given day.
With 6 weeks to go, here is the plan......
Week one - (drinks should be 16-22 oz)
Day 1 (Mon 5/19) - 1 drink
Day 2 - rest day
Day 3 - 1 drink
Day 4 - rest day
Day 5 - 1 drink
Day 6 - rest day
Day 7 - 1 drink
Week two - (drinks should be in the form of a yard)
Day 1 (Mon 5/26) - 1 drink
Day 2 - rest day
Day 3 - 1 drink
Day 4 - 1 drink
Day 5 - rest day
Day 6 - 1 drink
Day 7 - 1 drink
Week three - (drinks should be 16-22 oz, shots should be butter shots)
Day 1 (Mon 6/2) - rest day
Day 2 - 1 drink
Day 3 - 1 drink
Day 4 - 1 drink, 1 shot
Day 5 - rest day
Day 6 - 1 drink, 1 shot
Day 7 - 1 drink, 1 shot
Week four - (drinks should be yard size, shots should be cake vodka)
Day 1 (Mon 6/9) - 1 drink
Day 2 - 1 drink, 1 shot
Day 3 - rest day
Day 4 - 2 drinks
Day 5 - 2 drinks, 1 shot
Day 6 - 2 drinks, 1 shot
Day 7 - 2 drinks
Week five - (drinks should be yard size, shots should be Jager)
Day 1 (Mon 6/16) - rest day
Day 2 - 2 drinks, 2 shots
Day 3- 3 drinks, 2 shots
Day 4 - 3 drinks, 1 shot
Day 5 - 3 drinks
Day 6 - rest day
Day 7 - 4 drinks, 2 shots
Week six - (drinks should be in the form of pitchers, shots can be any of the 4 wise men)
Day 1 (Mon 6/23) - 4 drinks, 2 shots
Day 2 - 5 drinks
Day 3 - 5 drinks
Day 4 - 5 drinks, 2 shots
Day 5 - rest day
Your training is now complete and you are ready to participate in drinking in New Orleans, Memphis and Biloxi! Congratulations!!!
Mikki says she should do the same program but she's not doing Jager or cake vodka!
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
New Orleans Transportation
Jazzy Pass - Sold in 1, 3 or 31 day unlimited use. Passes can be used on the city bus or the street cars. 1 day passes are sold for $3, 3 day are sold for $9. The RTA "transit day" ends at 4am. Jazzy Passes are activated the first time you use them and can be at anytime of the day, but all will expire at 4am. A one-way fare on either the city bus or street car is $1.25.
Jazzy Pass Vendor Locations
Text the stop ID to 27299 to find out when the next vehicle is scheduled to arrive.
http://www.norta.com/Maps-Schedules.aspx
Jazzy Pass Vendor Locations
Text the stop ID to 27299 to find out when the next vehicle is scheduled to arrive.
http://www.norta.com/Maps-Schedules.aspx
http://www.exploreneworleans.info/html/streetcars.php - Lots of good info in here. I found myself wanting to copy and paste the whole page so here's the link instead.
Algiers Ferry - Travels from Algiers Point to Canal St for $2. Ferries run every 30 minutes from either side and from 7:15-6:45 Monday-Thursday and 10:45-6:15 Sunday. Reviews state impressive views of the city from the ferry and Algiers Point. Algiers is home to the Jazz Walk of Fame.
Thursday, May 1, 2014
Winner, Winner Chicken Dinner
No, not another post about food....
Biloxi has 12 casinos with several of them being on the same road as our hotel.
Beau Rivage - http://www.beaurivage.com/
875 Beach Blvd - 3.5 miles from our hotel
Casino highlights:
MGM property - bring your M Life card if you have one
2100 gaming machines
$.01 - $100
With all of Mikki's overtime, she'll wave at us from the high roller area.
Golden Nugget Biloxi - http://www.goldennugget.com/Biloxi/
151 Beach Blvd - 5.4 miles from our hotel
Casino Highlights:
Tied to Golden Nugget LV - Bring your card if you have one.
Expanding gaming area May 1st to 1200 machines
Biloxi has 12 casinos with several of them being on the same road as our hotel.
Beau Rivage - http://www.beaurivage.com/
875 Beach Blvd - 3.5 miles from our hotel
Casino highlights:
MGM property - bring your M Life card if you have one
2100 gaming machines
$.01 - $100
With all of Mikki's overtime, she'll wave at us from the high roller area.
151 Beach Blvd - 5.4 miles from our hotel
Casino Highlights:
Tied to Golden Nugget LV - Bring your card if you have one.
Expanding gaming area May 1st to 1200 machines
Grand Casino Biloxi - http://www.grandcasinobiloxi.com/
280 Beach Blvd - 5.3 miles from our hotel
Casino Highlights:
Harrah's property - Bring you Total Rewards card (you'll need it in NOLA, too!)
800 machines on the casino floor
Treasure Bay Casino - http://www.treasurebay.com/
1980 Beach Blvd - .3 miles from our hotel
Casino Highlights:
800 slot/poker machines
$.01 - $100
The Beachcomber and Casino Hopper give us a nice option for transportation if we don't want to drive the short distances.
Not to be left out, New Orleans does have a casino of it's own.
Harrah's New Orleans - http://www.harrahsneworleans.com/
Casino Highlights:
515 Gavier St, 70130 - .3 miles from the timeshare
3800 gaming machines including 600 new options.
As it is now May 1st, we can officially say, we will be in New Orleans next month. Although still 57 days away, it at least sounds closer. Also, I have only a couple more blog topics in mind so if any one has any requests please let me know. :)
Monday, April 14, 2014
Survey Says.....
In a survey of 6 people. The top 2-4 answers are on the board....
My favorite Drink is:
Soda
Water
Coffee
My favorite Fruit is:
Grapes
Raspberries
Watermelon
My favorite Sandwiches are:
Ham
Peanut Butter
tie-
Turkey
Tuna
(creativity points to Pastrami and Olive Loaf)
My favorite Bread:
White
Wheat
(Shout outs to Cinnamon and French Baguette) lol
On my Samwiches I like:
Mayo/Miracle Whip
Mustard
Butter
My favorite Chips are:
(three way tie)
Plain
Sour Cream & Onion
Doritos
(Cheese, Sun Chips and Cheetos all followed with 2 votes)
My favorite Cookies are:
Chocolate Chip
Peanut Butter
My favorite Lunch Desserts are:
Pudding
Cookies
(Special mention goes to Bobber's Cheese Cake and Ice Cream suggestions)
My favorite Road Trip Snacks are:
Chips
Crackers
Granola Bars
Triscuit & Squeeze Cheese
Here's what we could be playing on the road (in addition to some unmentioned ideas):
Lawn Jarts, Bocce Ball, Croquet, License plate bingo (not sure if those were supposed to be two or not), BINGO!, Alphabet Game, 20 Questions.
I don't want to be driving if the first 3 games are being played.
My favorite Drink is:
Soda
Water
Coffee
My favorite Fruit is:
Grapes
Raspberries
Watermelon
My favorite Sandwiches are:
Ham
Peanut Butter
tie-
Turkey
Tuna
(creativity points to Pastrami and Olive Loaf)
My favorite Bread:
White
Wheat
(Shout outs to Cinnamon and French Baguette) lol
On my Samwiches I like:
Mayo/Miracle Whip
Mustard
Butter
My favorite Chips are:
(three way tie)
Plain
Sour Cream & Onion
Doritos
(Cheese, Sun Chips and Cheetos all followed with 2 votes)
My favorite Cookies are:
Chocolate Chip
Peanut Butter
My favorite Lunch Desserts are:
Pudding
Cookies
(Special mention goes to Bobber's Cheese Cake and Ice Cream suggestions)
My favorite Road Trip Snacks are:
Chips
Crackers
Granola Bars
Triscuit & Squeeze Cheese
Here's what we could be playing on the road (in addition to some unmentioned ideas):
Lawn Jarts, Bocce Ball, Croquet, License plate bingo (not sure if those were supposed to be two or not), BINGO!, Alphabet Game, 20 Questions.
I don't want to be driving if the first 3 games are being played.
Sunday, April 13, 2014
Homework results - Links for all
Since I didn't have a chance to print everything. Here are all the awesome ideas that were sent. You all blew me away with the these. I love that variety that comes from a group like ours. It should make for seeing some interesting things! :)
Things to do from Amy & Blake:
1. New Orleans Zephyrs Baseball game
http://www.milb.com/schedule/index.jsp?sid=t588&m=7&y=2014
2. St. Charles streetcar line ride
http://www.norta.com/Maps-Schedules/System-Map/Line.aspx?ID=12
3. Audubon Aquarium. Not the insectarium one. Ick.
http://www.auduboninstitute.org/visit/aquarium
4. WWII National Museum. This is actually number one.
http://nationalww2museum.org/
5. Oak Alley Plantation
http://www.oakalleyplantation.com/
6. Someplace to listen to Zydeco music
From Bob:
Eat or be eaten:
1. Bubba Gumps
http://www.bubbagump.com/
2. Pat O'Briens
http://www.patobriens.com/patobriens/
Do or be done:
1. WWII National Museum
http://nationalww2museum.org/
Things to do from Amy & Blake:
1. New Orleans Zephyrs Baseball game
http://www.milb.com/schedule/index.jsp?sid=t588&m=7&y=2014
2. St. Charles streetcar line ride
http://www.norta.com/Maps-Schedules/System-Map/Line.aspx?ID=12
3. Audubon Aquarium. Not the insectarium one. Ick.
http://www.auduboninstitute.org/visit/aquarium
4. WWII National Museum. This is actually number one.
http://nationalww2museum.org/
5. Oak Alley Plantation
http://www.oakalleyplantation.com/
6. Someplace to listen to Zydeco music
Restaurants:
1. Anything that serves cajun or creole food
2. Seafood
3. 801 Royal
From April:
Turning in my homework early, please be sure to let Ms. Lund know, I will need the extra credit 'cause I am bound to lose participation points.
Activities in NOLA:
1. Haunted cemetery/Building/Neighborhood
2. Street Car Tour or just exploring the districts (to see the city/neighborhoods)
3. Fair Grounds
Eats in NOLA:
1. Mothers
2. Joey K's
3. Creole Creamery
Extra Credit Drink Destinations:
1. The Swamp (I will tame that Cocodrie, Cher) (bonus extra credit for this!!!!!)
2. Pat O'Briens (Fire?)
3. Tropical Isle (Gernade)
From Mikki:
1. Coop's Place for Jambalaya
2. Frenchman Street
From Jen:
Restaurants:
1. Daisy Dukes
2. Oceania
3. Harrah's Buffet (can't really not have one buffet on the list. :) )
Activities:
1. Garden District Tour
2. Swamp Tour
3. New Orleans North shore
From Bob:
Eat or be eaten:
1. Bubba Gumps
http://www.bubbagump.com/
2. Pat O'Briens
http://www.patobriens.com/patobriens/
Do or be done:
1. WWII National Museum
http://nationalww2museum.org/
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
Mikki is 137 days older than me!!
I guess that says it all! Oh, and only 79 days til vacation!!!!
Happy Birthday to ME!!!
And since I am doing a business blitz today for work, I'll hopefully have a picture of that later. Stay tuned! Ha ha
Happy Birthday to ME!!!
And since I am doing a business blitz today for work, I'll hopefully have a picture of that later. Stay tuned! Ha ha
Sunday, April 6, 2014
New Orleans to English Translation
From the DK Eyewitness Travel book "New Orleans
Words and Phrases
au dit - (oh dee) ditto or "the same"
banquette - (ban-ket) sidewalk
bateau - boat
bayou - a waterway or creek
beorf - (berf) cow, meat or steak
brule - (bru-lay) burned toast
cabinette - outhouse
cocodrie - alligator
cher - widespread term of endearment in Cajun French
cold drink - soda with ice
dressin' room - polite term for the bathroom
fais-do-do - (fay-doh-doh) Literally "go to sleep"; Cajun term for a community dance where parents bring their children who often fall asleep to the music
gallery - balcony or porch
gris-gris - (gree-gree) voodoo charm
lagniappe - (lan-yap) "something extra" at no cost
neutral ground - median of a large avenue or street
ouaouaron - (wah-wah-rohn) bullfrog
parish - civil and political division on Louisiana (like a county)
ward - political division of New Orleans
where y'at - how are you?
http://goneworleans.about.com/od/nightlife/a/nospeak.htm
And, yes.... There may be a test! lololol
Words and Phrases
au dit - (oh dee) ditto or "the same"
banquette - (ban-ket) sidewalk
bateau - boat
bayou - a waterway or creek
beorf - (berf) cow, meat or steak
brule - (bru-lay) burned toast
cabinette - outhouse
cocodrie - alligator
cher - widespread term of endearment in Cajun French
cold drink - soda with ice
dressin' room - polite term for the bathroom
fais-do-do - (fay-doh-doh) Literally "go to sleep"; Cajun term for a community dance where parents bring their children who often fall asleep to the music
gallery - balcony or porch
gris-gris - (gree-gree) voodoo charm
lagniappe - (lan-yap) "something extra" at no cost
neutral ground - median of a large avenue or street
ouaouaron - (wah-wah-rohn) bullfrog
parish - civil and political division on Louisiana (like a county)
ward - political division of New Orleans
where y'at - how are you?
http://goneworleans.about.com/od/nightlife/a/nospeak.htm
And, yes.... There may be a test! lololol
Wednesday, April 2, 2014
New Orleans Districts
While there are more, here are four that are within the vicinity of the hotel.
Warehouse/Business District
Sites of Interest -
Our Hotel
The National WWII Museum
New Orleans Contemporary Arts Center
Harrah's Casino
Louisiana Superdome
Riverwalk Marketplace
Garden District
Sites of Interest -
Fancy houses with flowers
Mardi Gras World
Lafayette Cemetary
Auduban Zoo
St. Charles Avenue Streetcar
French Quarter
Sites of Interest -
Louisiana Supreme Court Building
Pirate Alley
The 1850 House
Musee Conti Wax Museum
New Orleans Pharmacy Museum
Sites of Interest -
Fancy houses with flowers
Mardi Gras World
Lafayette Cemetary
Auduban Zoo
St. Charles Avenue Streetcar
French Quarter
Sites of Interest -
Louisiana Supreme Court Building
Pirate Alley
The 1850 House
Musee Conti Wax Museum
New Orleans Pharmacy Museum
Mid-City
Sites of Interest -
New Orleans Botanical Garden
Storyland and Carousel Gardens
St. Louis Cemetary #3
Fair Grounds
Monday, March 24, 2014
Theme Days and Weather
I know a couple of them started as a joke but, I have gold sunglasses and fake sideburns (for all) that now say Elvis day is on. :) So, some ideas for what to wear on Elvis day based on his movies, songs or life in general.
Elvis Day - Saturday, June 28th
Hawaiian shirt
Army shirt
Blue shirt
Vegas shirt
Black/white stripes
Gold Lame
White jump suit (Really any color jump suit)
Vintage Day
Carson Park rocket shirt (the inspiration for the day)
Anything from your past....
Musical favorites
High school past time
Place you traveled as a kid
Girls drinking team shirt (can you believe we've had this shirt for 15-16 years?!)
Pink don't match Green Day
Boys are wearing Green
Girls are wearing Pink
That's all I have for themes for now. I have some fun games/travel activities going for Elvis day. Let me know if you have a theme you'd like for the road. I love a good challenge!!!!
From what I've heard, NOLA is similar to Vegas with regards to day attire and evening attire. Hot, hot temps during the day mean sweaty, sweaty people. Mainly the boys cuz girls glisten. :)
Here's the average temps:
June
Average High - 89
Average Low - 71
Average Rain Fall - 5.4 in
July
Average High - 91
Average Low - 73
Average Rain Fall - 6.4 in
I feel there will be updates on this topic so stay tuned. I'm not giving away any other fun things tied in with the above mentioned themes but an early thanks to Pinterest for feeding my love of planning. ;)
Elvis Day - Saturday, June 28th
Hawaiian shirt
Army shirt
Blue shirt
Vegas shirt
Black/white stripes
Gold Lame
White jump suit (Really any color jump suit)
Vintage Day
Carson Park rocket shirt (the inspiration for the day)
Anything from your past....
Musical favorites
High school past time
Place you traveled as a kid
Girls drinking team shirt (can you believe we've had this shirt for 15-16 years?!)
Pink don't match Green Day
Boys are wearing Green
Girls are wearing Pink
That's all I have for themes for now. I have some fun games/travel activities going for Elvis day. Let me know if you have a theme you'd like for the road. I love a good challenge!!!!
From what I've heard, NOLA is similar to Vegas with regards to day attire and evening attire. Hot, hot temps during the day mean sweaty, sweaty people. Mainly the boys cuz girls glisten. :)
Here's the average temps:
June
Average High - 89
Average Low - 71
Average Rain Fall - 5.4 in
July
Average High - 91
Average Low - 73
Average Rain Fall - 6.4 in
I feel there will be updates on this topic so stay tuned. I'm not giving away any other fun things tied in with the above mentioned themes but an early thanks to Pinterest for feeding my love of planning. ;)
Sunday, March 23, 2014
A summer travel preview
A preview of what we'll be doing this year. Thanks for being good sports! I know you look forward to other surprises coming your way!!!!
 |
| Sprout couldn't resist. You can tell she's happy, can't you?! |
Monday, March 17, 2014
Yes, I'll have another!
New Orleans is said to have more bars per capita than any other American city. I find this interesting being from Altoona and having traveled to Vegas. And, I find myself wondering why we haven't been there earlier. :) Not that we ever drink.
French Quarter
I originally found this spot when looking for some musical hot spots. I especially like the live video page. And, if we really like it, we could bring some home. :)
http://tropicalisle.com/live-video/
Pat O'Brien's is home to the Famous Fire Fountain. I wonder if it changes colors. If not.....April?
http://www.patobriens.com/patobriens/neworleans/drink_menu.asp
http://hotelmonteleone.com/new-orleans-dining-entertainment/carousel-bar-lounge/
Garden District
http://traceysnola.com/ (pink and green day?) lol
Warehouse District
http://www.thehowlinwolf.com/beer-and-food-menu/ (holy beer list, Batman!)
Mid-City
http://www.parkwaypoorboys.com/index.html
Misc
http://www.thrillist.com/drink/new-orleans/best-bars-in-new-orleans-the-coolest-bars-in-town
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g60864-Activities-c20-New_Orleans_Louisiana.html
Now, here are the drinks we'll be looking for. The cocktails that made New Orleans famous.
Sazerac
In 2008, this cocktail was officially named the Official Cocktail of New Orleans.
3 ounces rye whiskey
3/4 ounce simple syrup
Peychaud bitters to taste
Absinthe or absinthe substitute
Lemon twist for garnish
Ramos Fizz
Also known as the New Orleans Fizz. Shaken not stirred.
1 1/2 ounces gin
1/2 ounce lime juice
1/2 ounce lemon juice
1 1/4 ounces simple syrup
2 ounces milk, half&half or cram
1 small egg white
2 dashes fleurs d'orange
Club soda
Hurricane
This cocktail was considered a fluke. In the 1940's Pat O'Brien found too much rum in his bar and concocted this to remedy the situation. This has become the ultimate party cocktail of the city.
2 ounces light rum
2 ounces dark rum
2 ounces passion fruit juice
1 ounce orange juice
Juice of a half lime
1 tablespoon simple syrup
1 tablespoon grenadine
Orange slice and cherry for garnish
Vieux Carre Cocktail
Described as "simply one of those cocktails that if you have yet to try, you are missing one of the experiences of a lifetime". Also found at the Carousel Bar in the Hotel Monteleone.
3/4 ounce rye whiskey
3/4 ounce Cognac
3/4 ounce sweet vermouth
Dash Peychaud's bitters
Dash Angostura aromatic bitters
1/2 teaspoon Benedictine liqueur
Cherry for garnish
I'll take two, please!
French Quarter
I originally found this spot when looking for some musical hot spots. I especially like the live video page. And, if we really like it, we could bring some home. :)
http://tropicalisle.com/live-video/
Pat O'Brien's is home to the Famous Fire Fountain. I wonder if it changes colors. If not.....April?
http://www.patobriens.com/patobriens/neworleans/drink_menu.asp
http://hotelmonteleone.com/new-orleans-dining-entertainment/carousel-bar-lounge/
Garden District
http://traceysnola.com/ (pink and green day?) lol
Warehouse District
http://www.thehowlinwolf.com/beer-and-food-menu/ (holy beer list, Batman!)
Mid-City
http://www.parkwaypoorboys.com/index.html
Misc
http://www.thrillist.com/drink/new-orleans/best-bars-in-new-orleans-the-coolest-bars-in-town
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g60864-Activities-c20-New_Orleans_Louisiana.html
Now, here are the drinks we'll be looking for. The cocktails that made New Orleans famous.
Sazerac
3 ounces rye whiskey
3/4 ounce simple syrup
Peychaud bitters to taste
Absinthe or absinthe substitute
Lemon twist for garnish
Ramos Fizz
1 1/2 ounces gin
1/2 ounce lime juice
1/2 ounce lemon juice
1 1/4 ounces simple syrup
2 ounces milk, half&half or cram
1 small egg white
2 dashes fleurs d'orange
Club soda
Hurricane
2 ounces light rum
2 ounces dark rum
2 ounces passion fruit juice
1 ounce orange juice
Juice of a half lime
1 tablespoon simple syrup
1 tablespoon grenadine
Orange slice and cherry for garnish
Vieux Carre Cocktail
3/4 ounce rye whiskey
3/4 ounce Cognac
3/4 ounce sweet vermouth
Dash Peychaud's bitters
Dash Angostura aromatic bitters
1/2 teaspoon Benedictine liqueur
Cherry for garnish
I'll take two, please!
Thursday, March 13, 2014
Happy Birthday, April!!
Looks like somebody got our package!! Happy Birthday, #3!!! Always remember Mikki is 110 days older. :)
Wednesday, March 12, 2014
Tattoos in NOLA?
There are 93 Tattoo Parlours in New Orleans. Here's a sampling for you, April. The closest is .2 miles from our hotel.
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