My husband has a saying - "It's a small world, but I wouldn't want to paint it." I'm not sure who actually coined that phrase, but it comes in handy a lot. Especially here in New Orleans. There have been so many instances over the past few months of this experience, I can hardly fathom where to begin. Suffice to say, the phenomenom is not going to go away; it's only going to get bigger. Er, smaller. You know what I'm saying...
To make my life easier, I'm going to start from most recent and go backwards. Some of these are just coincidences, some are because of geographical location (i.e. right place, right time) and some are just plain weird. I love when strange shit happens and worlds collide and you run into, meet up with or stumble into someone who knows someone who knows you. As my friend Silvia says, "There are only six people in the world. The rest is done with smoke and mirrors."
At my current job, there are series of boards and committees, made up of business and community leaders who have a vested interest in making Algiers a better place. One of the members who's also hip to social media requested a meeting today at a local coffee shop. No one else was told of the meeting except my boss, who also agreed to meet. There we were kibbutzing about how to increase our web presence when not one, not two but THREE other board members sauntered in for coffee. And the local representative who shares the office floor with us. And a good friend, who happens to be working on a business plan for our organization... it was much.
One of favorite neighbors hosts a "reds and rice" party every Monday. Turns out one of the regulars is one of our very good friends. He just never told us about beans and we never put it together until we mentioned his name in passing. Sure enough, he turns up on a regular basis. We get to visit at a party of a mutual friend and neighbor. Love it!
On a recent visit to Charlotte, NC I met a couple from Albana, through my friend Vesa. Her family and small circle of friends are the only Albanians I know. At my husband's gig where I met these fellow Albanians, I also ran into my old neighbor Ethan, who is NOT Albanian. Turns out he knows these Albanians too! How is that?
I know this is going to continue to happen over and over again. Now that we are all on social media, the circle is closing tighter. Take a second (ok; it takes much longer than that) and look up the friends of an interesting friend. You're surely to find someone you know, but didn't know your friend knows. Ya know?
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Saturday, October 2, 2010
No Explanation Necessary
There are some things that defy explanation. Some things are so strange or scary or sick, it's better to leave well alone and try something else -like laughing. That's what my poor kids are figuring out here in New Orleans. We've encountered plenty of situations that I choose not to explain or are beyond my (notice I didn't say their) comprehension.
Here are just a few:
1. At dinner last night there was a trio/duo??? playing music. It was seemingly a duo, with a hunky guitar player and an old gypsy dude playing accordion. However, there was some woman sitting with them who was playing the blackberry. She wasn't listening or contributing to the music, she was just sitting and texting. What was she doing? I couldn't think of a good explanation when the kids asked, so I just left it alone. She's the sitter, I guess.
2. On the way to the car, we passed a very strange dude sitting at a pop up table on the street doing some sort of something at a table. Why did he have a massive python beside him curled up on a chain? Why was he wearing a shirt that said "I Love My Penis"? Why was he there in the middle of the street doing nothing really? I dunno. I couldn't think of an explanation and was grateful my kids just laughed. Off the hook with that one...
3. You can't live in New Orleans and not travel down Bourbon Street. So, we traumatized/initiated our kids by walking down the infamous road one evening. Why was there a silver painted guy with his head sticking out of a silver painted baby car seat on a giant box? Why did he have weird silver baby hands/flippers? Try explaining that one!!! Just cause, is the best I could come up with.
4. Why is there a festival for any occasion? Take the shrimp and petroleum festival... any other year it would seem more strange but somehow in 2010 it works. Sad, isn't it? I love the strawberry festival, the creole tomato festival and the corn festival. Is there a gumbo festival? Yes. If there isn't one for your favorite food, make a suggestion! I'm sure this town would go for it. Why do they make up these festivals? I'm not sure but I know someone, somewhere has an explanation.
5. Why do New Orleanians keep battling the odds? How come hurricanes, floods, sky high crime rates, crooked politicians (current one not withstanding), backward laws and oil spills don't damper their spirits? That one most definitely defies any explanation other than "they are New Orleanians". You gotta live it to believe it.
What do you know that defies explanation? Tell me, please.
Here are just a few:
1. At dinner last night there was a trio/duo??? playing music. It was seemingly a duo, with a hunky guitar player and an old gypsy dude playing accordion. However, there was some woman sitting with them who was playing the blackberry. She wasn't listening or contributing to the music, she was just sitting and texting. What was she doing? I couldn't think of a good explanation when the kids asked, so I just left it alone. She's the sitter, I guess.
2. On the way to the car, we passed a very strange dude sitting at a pop up table on the street doing some sort of something at a table. Why did he have a massive python beside him curled up on a chain? Why was he wearing a shirt that said "I Love My Penis"? Why was he there in the middle of the street doing nothing really? I dunno. I couldn't think of an explanation and was grateful my kids just laughed. Off the hook with that one...
3. You can't live in New Orleans and not travel down Bourbon Street. So, we traumatized/initiated our kids by walking down the infamous road one evening. Why was there a silver painted guy with his head sticking out of a silver painted baby car seat on a giant box? Why did he have weird silver baby hands/flippers? Try explaining that one!!! Just cause, is the best I could come up with.
4. Why is there a festival for any occasion? Take the shrimp and petroleum festival... any other year it would seem more strange but somehow in 2010 it works. Sad, isn't it? I love the strawberry festival, the creole tomato festival and the corn festival. Is there a gumbo festival? Yes. If there isn't one for your favorite food, make a suggestion! I'm sure this town would go for it. Why do they make up these festivals? I'm not sure but I know someone, somewhere has an explanation.
5. Why do New Orleanians keep battling the odds? How come hurricanes, floods, sky high crime rates, crooked politicians (current one not withstanding), backward laws and oil spills don't damper their spirits? That one most definitely defies any explanation other than "they are New Orleanians". You gotta live it to believe it.
What do you know that defies explanation? Tell me, please.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
It's Never Enough
Ever notice there are some things you can never have enough of? Okay all you pervs...get your minds out of the gutter! I'm talking actual things/items/products/consumables. I swear, there are certain things I desperately try to stay on top of and no matter what I do, I run out of them. Anyone know what I mean?
Here are just a few things I never seem to have enough of:
1. Band aids. I don't know what my kids do with them. Do they peel them off to show off their wounds or is it for the sheer joy/pain of whipping them off? I can buy, say, three boxes and it seems that before long, there's never one left for me if I cut my finger on a knife or get a blister from a pair of shoes. I think if I ever get any extra cash, I'm totally investing in which ever company makes band aids.
2. Bar soap. I know it sounds weird, but our family totally goes through bar soap in massive quantities. Are we really that dirty? I don't even have any bar soap for hand washing!!! It's strictly for the shower. Back when I was single, I thought it ridiculous that bar soap was sold in packs of three or six. "Who the hell uses that much soap?" I used to wonder. Now I know.
3. Sales. I will probably never buy a vacuum from a vacuum store and I doubt I will ever buy an entire room of furniture from one of those giant Rooms to Go places but I read their sale flyers every frickin week, like my life depends on it. I just love reading about sales. It excites me, even if I know I'll never purchase anything from that particular store. Is it mass consumerism at its worse or is it just me?
4. Clean Undies. My kids informed me yesterday that there was absolutely no clean underwear in their undie drawers. I swear I just did their laundry!! How does that happen? Do they put a pair on and then throw them in the laundry a minute later just for fun? Do they change out of their undies every day when they change out of school uniforms and then change again at night when it's time for bed? I know they both have more than 7 pair each and I do the damn laundry every week. Must be one of those laundry mysteries, along with the Bermuda Triangle of lost socks.
5. Pencils. This one really gets me cause I think Keller might actually be eating them. Someone is. In the past six weeks or so that school has been in session, we have bought three, I repeat three, bags of pencils for the kids. Yes, they have a lot of homework; but I don't remember seeing that many pencil shavings around the house! And, here's the kicker; my son's teacher at school says he doesn't ever seem to have pencils in his desk. Maybe if I put more snacks in his lunch box?
6. Smiles. I love to disarm grumps and mudges with a smile. Lots of times I don't really feel like smiling at the person but I do it anyway just for the reaction. Example - there's a woman in the car pool line at school who has NEVER cracked a smile once. Not to any one, any car or any staff member. Believe me, I watch! This morning I gave her a huge smile and she was forced to sort of smirk back. Ha!
7. Donuts at staff meetings. It doesn't matter if you're on a diet, or already had breakfast or don't really like donuts; you'll still eat one at a staff meeting. And, it makes the meeting all that much better if there's a sweet wad of dough involved, doesn't it? There will always be that one holdout who will pass on a donut at the beginning of the meeting. But, if it runs past an hour and they are waning, you know they are going to reach out and grab whatever is left on the plate and shove it in their mouth cause it will stifle the yawn or scream of boredom. I know; I'm that person.
8. Bottles of wine. Don't like wine? Doesn't matter; it's still vital to have wine at home. Unexpected guests or girlfriends in crisis require a bottle of wine, so always have one at the ready. I like the look of un opened bottles of wine. They make me feel like a civilized human being and I know that if I'm totally over it or particularly stressed out by the end of the night, I can always open a bottle of wine and the world will be good again.
9. Paper towels. I'm guilty of polluting the world just a little by using lots of paper towels. I'm not down with wiping the counters with the same stinky cloth that just finished cleaning a load of dishes. Even if I rinse it in bleach somehow I still feel like I'm wiping left over egg all over the counter. So, I use paper towels to wipe stuff down. But, I'm learning with this one. I now buy them in bulk.
10. Blogs. I love reading them. I really like the ones with lots of pretty pictures too. I know you do too or you wouldn't have made it to #10. So, thanks.
Here are just a few things I never seem to have enough of:
1. Band aids. I don't know what my kids do with them. Do they peel them off to show off their wounds or is it for the sheer joy/pain of whipping them off? I can buy, say, three boxes and it seems that before long, there's never one left for me if I cut my finger on a knife or get a blister from a pair of shoes. I think if I ever get any extra cash, I'm totally investing in which ever company makes band aids.
2. Bar soap. I know it sounds weird, but our family totally goes through bar soap in massive quantities. Are we really that dirty? I don't even have any bar soap for hand washing!!! It's strictly for the shower. Back when I was single, I thought it ridiculous that bar soap was sold in packs of three or six. "Who the hell uses that much soap?" I used to wonder. Now I know.
3. Sales. I will probably never buy a vacuum from a vacuum store and I doubt I will ever buy an entire room of furniture from one of those giant Rooms to Go places but I read their sale flyers every frickin week, like my life depends on it. I just love reading about sales. It excites me, even if I know I'll never purchase anything from that particular store. Is it mass consumerism at its worse or is it just me?
4. Clean Undies. My kids informed me yesterday that there was absolutely no clean underwear in their undie drawers. I swear I just did their laundry!! How does that happen? Do they put a pair on and then throw them in the laundry a minute later just for fun? Do they change out of their undies every day when they change out of school uniforms and then change again at night when it's time for bed? I know they both have more than 7 pair each and I do the damn laundry every week. Must be one of those laundry mysteries, along with the Bermuda Triangle of lost socks.
5. Pencils. This one really gets me cause I think Keller might actually be eating them. Someone is. In the past six weeks or so that school has been in session, we have bought three, I repeat three, bags of pencils for the kids. Yes, they have a lot of homework; but I don't remember seeing that many pencil shavings around the house! And, here's the kicker; my son's teacher at school says he doesn't ever seem to have pencils in his desk. Maybe if I put more snacks in his lunch box?
6. Smiles. I love to disarm grumps and mudges with a smile. Lots of times I don't really feel like smiling at the person but I do it anyway just for the reaction. Example - there's a woman in the car pool line at school who has NEVER cracked a smile once. Not to any one, any car or any staff member. Believe me, I watch! This morning I gave her a huge smile and she was forced to sort of smirk back. Ha!
7. Donuts at staff meetings. It doesn't matter if you're on a diet, or already had breakfast or don't really like donuts; you'll still eat one at a staff meeting. And, it makes the meeting all that much better if there's a sweet wad of dough involved, doesn't it? There will always be that one holdout who will pass on a donut at the beginning of the meeting. But, if it runs past an hour and they are waning, you know they are going to reach out and grab whatever is left on the plate and shove it in their mouth cause it will stifle the yawn or scream of boredom. I know; I'm that person.
8. Bottles of wine. Don't like wine? Doesn't matter; it's still vital to have wine at home. Unexpected guests or girlfriends in crisis require a bottle of wine, so always have one at the ready. I like the look of un opened bottles of wine. They make me feel like a civilized human being and I know that if I'm totally over it or particularly stressed out by the end of the night, I can always open a bottle of wine and the world will be good again.
9. Paper towels. I'm guilty of polluting the world just a little by using lots of paper towels. I'm not down with wiping the counters with the same stinky cloth that just finished cleaning a load of dishes. Even if I rinse it in bleach somehow I still feel like I'm wiping left over egg all over the counter. So, I use paper towels to wipe stuff down. But, I'm learning with this one. I now buy them in bulk.
10. Blogs. I love reading them. I really like the ones with lots of pretty pictures too. I know you do too or you wouldn't have made it to #10. So, thanks.
Friday, September 17, 2010
Dog Days of Late Summer
There are only a few more days until Fall is officially here but you'd never know it in NOLA. It's still stankin hot. People have cause for celebration if the temperature stays in the 80s. My neighbor said she actually kept her windows rolled up on the drive to work the other day because it was so lovely and cool (80 degrees). When, oh when great heat gods will you release us? For the record, 80 degrees does not register as cool to most normal people.
Today while out picking up freebie movie tickets hubby and I accidentally found a great flea market. I picked up various items, including a light sweater jacket. Did I think out loud that it would be perfect for cooler weather? Nope. But I bought it anyway. That must mean that I'm totally ready for cooler weather.
I'm appreciative of the warmth, sun and greenery it produces. I am. But, I am also a lover of the change of seasons and I haven't had my fix in a while. September (one of my favorite months) is supposed to represent back to school, leaves changing color, apple picking and light sweaters. Down here in Louisiana I'm not really going to see many leaves change, the kids went back to school in August and there aren't apples around except for at the grocery. Can't I least just get the light sweater part???
The cooler weather also means its time for mini road trips. I prefer them in the fall than in the summer, especially since we haven't had the A/C in our car working since last year. It didn't matter much until about May of this year. The kids have been troopers but we've sweated our asses off for months and it would be nice to open the windows because we WANTED to, not had to. A side note - apparently Honda Elements (older versions) are known for A/C units that blow up and cost thousands to fix. Why didn't anyone tell me this back in 2008 when we bought the bloody thing?
There's a drought back in North Carolina which is funny to me, cause we've been experiencing the typical summer tropical rains here in New Orleans. Every day in the afternoon it seems as though the skies just open up and pour down on everyone. We've done our fair share of getting caught without umbrellas. Normally rain makes me shiver and cold to the bone; here it just cools me off. I've gotten to where I almost enjoy it.
Our summer was a tough one with the move and lots of stress at my previous job. Things in NOLA have been good and are getting better. Maybe that's why I'm so eager for a change; to embrace our new life here in a new season.
Today while out picking up freebie movie tickets hubby and I accidentally found a great flea market. I picked up various items, including a light sweater jacket. Did I think out loud that it would be perfect for cooler weather? Nope. But I bought it anyway. That must mean that I'm totally ready for cooler weather.
I'm appreciative of the warmth, sun and greenery it produces. I am. But, I am also a lover of the change of seasons and I haven't had my fix in a while. September (one of my favorite months) is supposed to represent back to school, leaves changing color, apple picking and light sweaters. Down here in Louisiana I'm not really going to see many leaves change, the kids went back to school in August and there aren't apples around except for at the grocery. Can't I least just get the light sweater part???
The cooler weather also means its time for mini road trips. I prefer them in the fall than in the summer, especially since we haven't had the A/C in our car working since last year. It didn't matter much until about May of this year. The kids have been troopers but we've sweated our asses off for months and it would be nice to open the windows because we WANTED to, not had to. A side note - apparently Honda Elements (older versions) are known for A/C units that blow up and cost thousands to fix. Why didn't anyone tell me this back in 2008 when we bought the bloody thing?
There's a drought back in North Carolina which is funny to me, cause we've been experiencing the typical summer tropical rains here in New Orleans. Every day in the afternoon it seems as though the skies just open up and pour down on everyone. We've done our fair share of getting caught without umbrellas. Normally rain makes me shiver and cold to the bone; here it just cools me off. I've gotten to where I almost enjoy it.
Our summer was a tough one with the move and lots of stress at my previous job. Things in NOLA have been good and are getting better. Maybe that's why I'm so eager for a change; to embrace our new life here in a new season.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Takin Care of Business
There are so many reasons to love this city, including its attitude toward the musicians. In this town, it's not shameful or embarrassing for my kids to tell their friends their dad is a musician. It's an honor. I don't have to worry about long pauses after explaining what my husband does for a living, nor does he get asked "what do you do in the day time?" when he shares his profession with others. The reply here is always "Cool. Who does he play with?" People here get it.
Not only are musicians revered, they're also well taken care of thanks to the New Orleans Musicians Clinic, through LSU Medicine. That's right, a special clinic and set of doctors who see musicians at little or no cost. Where else on earth would that happen? To boot, their families are taken care of too. Though it's constantly facing possible closures due to scarce funding, people here rally behind it and see to it that musicians get medicine, lab work and check ups like the rest of us.
It's not just charity however, it's an investment. Music is the soul of this city and a huge industry-driver too. JazzFest, French Quarter Festival, Satchmo Fest... there are tons and tons of festivals that rely on musical talent to bring tourists and visitors out. It's one of the main reasons people come here and stay here. You gots to take care of business to get any business.
Several times a day the local jazz radio station plays the day/evening's concert listings and it still amazes me every time I hear it. There are dozens of bands playing every night, all across the city. There's some kind of festival, celebration, parade and gathering every weekend here and almost all of them have live music. In fact, I think there's more live music now than 10 years ago when we were last here.
Some cities have great momuments to past leaders placed all around their metropolis. We have those too. But our real treasures are living and breathing, blowing sweet and funky sounds throughout the crescent city.
Not only are musicians revered, they're also well taken care of thanks to the New Orleans Musicians Clinic, through LSU Medicine. That's right, a special clinic and set of doctors who see musicians at little or no cost. Where else on earth would that happen? To boot, their families are taken care of too. Though it's constantly facing possible closures due to scarce funding, people here rally behind it and see to it that musicians get medicine, lab work and check ups like the rest of us.
It's not just charity however, it's an investment. Music is the soul of this city and a huge industry-driver too. JazzFest, French Quarter Festival, Satchmo Fest... there are tons and tons of festivals that rely on musical talent to bring tourists and visitors out. It's one of the main reasons people come here and stay here. You gots to take care of business to get any business.
Several times a day the local jazz radio station plays the day/evening's concert listings and it still amazes me every time I hear it. There are dozens of bands playing every night, all across the city. There's some kind of festival, celebration, parade and gathering every weekend here and almost all of them have live music. In fact, I think there's more live music now than 10 years ago when we were last here.
Some cities have great momuments to past leaders placed all around their metropolis. We have those too. But our real treasures are living and breathing, blowing sweet and funky sounds throughout the crescent city.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
BK - AK The New Measure of Time
BK and AK. They are not fast food restaurants nor do they represent any bad ass rappers from da hood. BK and AK are new measurements of time; before Katrina and after Katrina. Some people also refer to this new standard as "the storm", which may mean even more acronyms to learn. But for now, I refer to BK and AK since this is how life exists in New Orleans.
This weekend marked the fifth anniversary of Katrina and there was a plethora of events to mark the occasion. From dignitary speeches, to photo exhibits, parades and cookouts, New Orleanians need no reason to throw a party even if it is to mark the worst disaster to hit the city, ever. We took the kids to a few of these "festivities" to learn more about just how awful it was. Was it a morbid thing to do? Not really. Was it important? To us, it was.
As outsiders who didn't live through it, walking through a photo exhibit of devastated homes and lives seemed more voyeuristic than morbid. It gave us some perspective on why everyone keeps talking about life before Katrina and after. Some people just say "It was bad", and call it a day. Looking at a photo of a ragged baby doll floating in dirty water inside the living room of what used to be some one's home is pretty bad. But, staring at a shot of starved dog hanging on a telephone wire is gut wrenching. It gives a pretty clear picture of what people suffered through and witnessed after the storm.
Our family didn't live in New Orleans anytime near Katrina. Yet, we encounter numerous questions about our lives in reference to this event now that we've moved back. Here's an example: last week Kevin and I went to pick up our new health cards. As we drove up a main street in the city core, we struggled with where the building was and if we were heading in the right direction. "Was this here before?" I ask as we pass a shiny new tower next to the old Charity Hospital. There's no need for me to explain before when. It's simply implied.
At a neighbors weekly red beans 'n rice party, I am constantly introduced to new people. Even if I don't explain why we moved back, folks just assume we're coming back after fleeing the storm. Their "Welcome back!" is so enthusiastic, I don't have the heart to tell them we haven't been here in nine years and that our decision had nothing to do with Katrina. I let them think it does simply because it would be weird to discount it all together.
Tourists to New Orleans often remark on how bad parts of the city are, even five years past the storm. I don't bother to explain that some neighborhoods looked that way before the storm and some places look even better after. It would seem impolite. There are several blighted houses that need to be addressed and the city has promised to do so. In that respect, Katrina may have been a blessing in disguise. These houses might never have been on any one's radar otherwise.
Housing, health care, jobs, groceries and parties have all taken on a new meaning in New Orleans because of Katrina. So, if I'm talking about life in here and the letters AK or BK slip out, don't be alarmed. Just know the reference and you'll get what I'm talking about.
This weekend marked the fifth anniversary of Katrina and there was a plethora of events to mark the occasion. From dignitary speeches, to photo exhibits, parades and cookouts, New Orleanians need no reason to throw a party even if it is to mark the worst disaster to hit the city, ever. We took the kids to a few of these "festivities" to learn more about just how awful it was. Was it a morbid thing to do? Not really. Was it important? To us, it was.
As outsiders who didn't live through it, walking through a photo exhibit of devastated homes and lives seemed more voyeuristic than morbid. It gave us some perspective on why everyone keeps talking about life before Katrina and after. Some people just say "It was bad", and call it a day. Looking at a photo of a ragged baby doll floating in dirty water inside the living room of what used to be some one's home is pretty bad. But, staring at a shot of starved dog hanging on a telephone wire is gut wrenching. It gives a pretty clear picture of what people suffered through and witnessed after the storm.
Our family didn't live in New Orleans anytime near Katrina. Yet, we encounter numerous questions about our lives in reference to this event now that we've moved back. Here's an example: last week Kevin and I went to pick up our new health cards. As we drove up a main street in the city core, we struggled with where the building was and if we were heading in the right direction. "Was this here before?" I ask as we pass a shiny new tower next to the old Charity Hospital. There's no need for me to explain before when. It's simply implied.
At a neighbors weekly red beans 'n rice party, I am constantly introduced to new people. Even if I don't explain why we moved back, folks just assume we're coming back after fleeing the storm. Their "Welcome back!" is so enthusiastic, I don't have the heart to tell them we haven't been here in nine years and that our decision had nothing to do with Katrina. I let them think it does simply because it would be weird to discount it all together.
Tourists to New Orleans often remark on how bad parts of the city are, even five years past the storm. I don't bother to explain that some neighborhoods looked that way before the storm and some places look even better after. It would seem impolite. There are several blighted houses that need to be addressed and the city has promised to do so. In that respect, Katrina may have been a blessing in disguise. These houses might never have been on any one's radar otherwise.
Housing, health care, jobs, groceries and parties have all taken on a new meaning in New Orleans because of Katrina. So, if I'm talking about life in here and the letters AK or BK slip out, don't be alarmed. Just know the reference and you'll get what I'm talking about.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Why Do Women Join Book Clubs?
If you have to ask, you'll never know. That was one of Louis Armstrong's favorite sayings and it is totally applicable here. Joining a book club is a favorite past time of moms. Despite the fact that’s it’s just another bitch/gab/gossip session under the guise of intelligent chatter, moms truly believe they are bettering themselves if they join a book club. Do romance novels count as serious reading? If Lois, Kathy, Ruth, Jennifer and Mary say so, then by golly, they do!
Top reasons moms join book clubs:
Expanding their minds – seriously. Who doesn’t feel enriched discussing whether Julia Roberts looks her age or guessing whether she went under the knife? Oh yeah, also, discussing whether she really pulled off the depth of emotion Liz experiences in Thailand is important too. Aren’t following? Then you have just broken the first cardinal rule of book clubs – every book club member everywhere must read EPL. (that’s “Eat, Pray, Love” for all you losers!)
Friendship – no book club member would ever feel anything but love toward another member, even if she does try to outdo your last gathering by having red velvet cupcakes made by that cute new bakery downtown. How thoughtful! The main character in this month’s book loved red velvet… the bitch!
Wine – why bother showing up to a meeting if there isn’t wine involved? It allows everyone to loosen up and share what they really feel about this month’s choice (or the fact that they didn’t bother to read it. Snort!)
Networking – need to branch out from the playground set? Joining a book club allows you to meet a whole new group of mommies! Unless of course you’ve been coerced into joining the playground mommy book club. In that case, you won’t meet anyone new; ever.
No kids – nuff said.
It's been three weeks since we arrived in New Orleans and I've already joined a book club. Yes, they already read EPL and the club went on a field trip to see the flick. (I got hungry). I've read one book so far and am looking forward to the next two books. Our particular book club meets at restaurants and cafes which is another bonus reason to join. I get to eat great food and drink lots of wine!
What I'm enjoying most however, is the friendship. I've met a great group of women who are eager to help me network and find a job, want to listen to my opinion on things and are willing to share some personal stuff. Usually that kind of bonding takes years of casual interactions before getting to the level we are at and I'm grateful to have to skip all that time! It helps that I have a very good buddy (Ms Maria) looking out for me who is VERY outgoing and not afraid to talk to anyone. She's sheparding me into the flock. I'm not quite a black sheep but I also do not live in the rest of the club's neighborhood which is almost a mark against me. Should we be able to afford a home in the Point I'll really be a full fledged member.
If you've never been part of a book club, join one. But, make sure it isn't too serious (no books on the history of salt; that takes all the fun out of it) and make sure it involves wine. AND, make sure you get a sitter that night. It's the very best part of the experience.
Top reasons moms join book clubs:
Expanding their minds – seriously. Who doesn’t feel enriched discussing whether Julia Roberts looks her age or guessing whether she went under the knife? Oh yeah, also, discussing whether she really pulled off the depth of emotion Liz experiences in Thailand is important too. Aren’t following? Then you have just broken the first cardinal rule of book clubs – every book club member everywhere must read EPL. (that’s “Eat, Pray, Love” for all you losers!)
Friendship – no book club member would ever feel anything but love toward another member, even if she does try to outdo your last gathering by having red velvet cupcakes made by that cute new bakery downtown. How thoughtful! The main character in this month’s book loved red velvet… the bitch!
Wine – why bother showing up to a meeting if there isn’t wine involved? It allows everyone to loosen up and share what they really feel about this month’s choice (or the fact that they didn’t bother to read it. Snort!)
Networking – need to branch out from the playground set? Joining a book club allows you to meet a whole new group of mommies! Unless of course you’ve been coerced into joining the playground mommy book club. In that case, you won’t meet anyone new; ever.
No kids – nuff said.
It's been three weeks since we arrived in New Orleans and I've already joined a book club. Yes, they already read EPL and the club went on a field trip to see the flick. (I got hungry). I've read one book so far and am looking forward to the next two books. Our particular book club meets at restaurants and cafes which is another bonus reason to join. I get to eat great food and drink lots of wine!
What I'm enjoying most however, is the friendship. I've met a great group of women who are eager to help me network and find a job, want to listen to my opinion on things and are willing to share some personal stuff. Usually that kind of bonding takes years of casual interactions before getting to the level we are at and I'm grateful to have to skip all that time! It helps that I have a very good buddy (Ms Maria) looking out for me who is VERY outgoing and not afraid to talk to anyone. She's sheparding me into the flock. I'm not quite a black sheep but I also do not live in the rest of the club's neighborhood which is almost a mark against me. Should we be able to afford a home in the Point I'll really be a full fledged member.
If you've never been part of a book club, join one. But, make sure it isn't too serious (no books on the history of salt; that takes all the fun out of it) and make sure it involves wine. AND, make sure you get a sitter that night. It's the very best part of the experience.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Private School - More Than the Three R's
Being a product of the public school system, I am of no help to my poor children who are navigating the tricky waters of private school here in New Orleans. Not only do they have to figure out uniforms, a ton of new rules, a new schedule, new teachers , new friends and of course new subjects, they are going to be subjected to religion classes too. Catholic, no less! Don't get me wrong, I"m not knocking Catholics. I'm admitting in a round about way that my kids have a sketchy religious education. A brief stint as methodists, followed by a long period of inactivity, and then an introduction to unitarian universalism has most likely just confused them. And now, we're throwing them into the Lions Den (just kidding; couldn't resist that reference).
But, going to a Catholic school won't be so bad. As the school administrator who so kindly took us in said, "You'll come to appreciate us Catholics more and more". I don't doubt it. I already do, in fact. Just providing a solid education for my kids for the next year is reason enough for me to be thankful. Being successful in finding the right school for kids is a seriously tough business. Were it not for the guidance and kindness of some neighbors, friends and administrators, our kids might have suffered the horror of homeschooling with an over-medicated mommy.
The entire school system in Louisiana (or New Olreans at least) is messy and complicated. For example, deciphering which private schools offer the best and most generous scholarships is difficult. Sometimes it feels like trying to get initiated into a secret club. I'll never forget going to an after work party years ago and listening to 20 somethings answer "What school did ya go to?" It was truly bizarre. No one gave a rats ass if you were at Yale or Tulane or DeVry. They all wanted to know which high school you graduated from. Yes indeed, high school. "Did I miss something?" I wondered.
Each school system and each school for that matter, says a lot about who you and your family are. If you traveled the Holy Name/De La Salle/Sacred Heart route, you were most likely Catholic, middle class and had some serious roots in Louisiana. There are lots of grads with names ending in "eaux" at these schools. Wore the green Newman shirt? Your daddy was a lawyer or business owner or a football star and could afford the very best. Had the good grace, luck, or horseshoes needed to make it into Lusher? Your parents were the ultimate hipsters, an enlightened bunch of artists/musicians/hippies who appreciate a fine, liberal public education.
Like so many other things, Katrina apparently changed the education system forever in this city. The school system was practically gutted (as the weekly alternative paper in town says) and charter schools sprang up everywhere in response. Ineffective teachers were put out to pasture and Teach for America moved in. The education system is getting better in terms of quality, but certainly not in terms of quantity. The best public and charter schools have ridiculous waiting lists and the absolute luxury of picking and choosing (minus the required district spots) the top students. So, where does that leave the rest? Wandering the desert in search of answers and a sign like oh, I don't know, a burning bush perhaps?
We didn't have the luxury of a burning bush, only a burning desire to find a good school. We spent months asking questions, filling out forms and phone calls, and we still came up empty handed. Despite its association with evil and wrong-doing, on Friday the 13th, we scored an appointment with Holy Name of Jesus on our first try (now there's a good sign!) and were quickly accepted into their loving arms. I hope we stay put.
Have we figured out the car pool or the uniform changes yet? Nope. But, we're learning. Have we short-changed the kids on school supplies already? Indeed. A trip back to Office Max however, will change all that. Like I said, this is new territory for all of us and we're doing the best we can. Thankfully, we're in a place where forgiveness is routine. Amen to that.
But, going to a Catholic school won't be so bad. As the school administrator who so kindly took us in said, "You'll come to appreciate us Catholics more and more". I don't doubt it. I already do, in fact. Just providing a solid education for my kids for the next year is reason enough for me to be thankful. Being successful in finding the right school for kids is a seriously tough business. Were it not for the guidance and kindness of some neighbors, friends and administrators, our kids might have suffered the horror of homeschooling with an over-medicated mommy.
The entire school system in Louisiana (or New Olreans at least) is messy and complicated. For example, deciphering which private schools offer the best and most generous scholarships is difficult. Sometimes it feels like trying to get initiated into a secret club. I'll never forget going to an after work party years ago and listening to 20 somethings answer "What school did ya go to?" It was truly bizarre. No one gave a rats ass if you were at Yale or Tulane or DeVry. They all wanted to know which high school you graduated from. Yes indeed, high school. "Did I miss something?" I wondered.
Each school system and each school for that matter, says a lot about who you and your family are. If you traveled the Holy Name/De La Salle/Sacred Heart route, you were most likely Catholic, middle class and had some serious roots in Louisiana. There are lots of grads with names ending in "eaux" at these schools. Wore the green Newman shirt? Your daddy was a lawyer or business owner or a football star and could afford the very best. Had the good grace, luck, or horseshoes needed to make it into Lusher? Your parents were the ultimate hipsters, an enlightened bunch of artists/musicians/hippies who appreciate a fine, liberal public education.
Like so many other things, Katrina apparently changed the education system forever in this city. The school system was practically gutted (as the weekly alternative paper in town says) and charter schools sprang up everywhere in response. Ineffective teachers were put out to pasture and Teach for America moved in. The education system is getting better in terms of quality, but certainly not in terms of quantity. The best public and charter schools have ridiculous waiting lists and the absolute luxury of picking and choosing (minus the required district spots) the top students. So, where does that leave the rest? Wandering the desert in search of answers and a sign like oh, I don't know, a burning bush perhaps?
We didn't have the luxury of a burning bush, only a burning desire to find a good school. We spent months asking questions, filling out forms and phone calls, and we still came up empty handed. Despite its association with evil and wrong-doing, on Friday the 13th, we scored an appointment with Holy Name of Jesus on our first try (now there's a good sign!) and were quickly accepted into their loving arms. I hope we stay put.
Have we figured out the car pool or the uniform changes yet? Nope. But, we're learning. Have we short-changed the kids on school supplies already? Indeed. A trip back to Office Max however, will change all that. Like I said, this is new territory for all of us and we're doing the best we can. Thankfully, we're in a place where forgiveness is routine. Amen to that.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Full Circle: Fast Friends
Full Circle: Fast Friends: "Disclaimer: by no means does this blog imply that my friends are 'fast' or 'loose'. Well, maybe some of ya'll... It's week two in NOLA an..."
Fast Friends
Disclaimer: by no means does this blog imply that my friends are "fast" or "loose". Well, maybe some of ya'll...
It's week two in NOLA and we are busy making new friends. Cyre has an adoring fan/friend next door, Keller has several boys to call buds, Kev has reconnected with many former hang daddies, and I've met a wonderful group of women too. It feels so good to have my own group of friends, despite already knowing and loving several musicians in town. As one gets older, making friends can seem more of a task than just an experience and I'm thankful it's been such a positive experience for all of us.
Out walking the dog one day last week, the kids and I met a new neighbor also out walking her dog. It turns out she has an adorable granddaughter named Lilly who was ready to make new friends. The very next day, a beautiful, precocious, chatty southern belle turned up at our door ready to play. We've had the pleasure of Lilly's presence every day since and she's made fast friends with Cyre. Though she is friends with Keller, it's Cyre who she longs to play dolls with, discuss fashion, make phone calls and chase after. I'm sure once kids at school meet the new girl, the tiny Canadian and the funny one, Cyre will have a pack of new friends. I use the term pack loosely. Tween girls in a group sound and sometimes act like a pack of hyenas. I know; I was one.
One of my biggest fears in moving to New Orleans was that Keller would have a hard time making friends. Lots of kids don't always get him and his encyclopedic knowledge of wars, weapons and mummies. After six days of pestering his sister and his parents, we desperately called a friend of Kevin's with a son Keller's age and begged them to come over. Keller and Ray hit it off and ended their play date shooting a still video of a Lego war. The only thing I remember shooting at age nine was my mouth off, resulting in me not being able to play with Jennifer Renne for a full year. Yeah. Not a good one...
Just like Keller, our new neighbor Zeke has probably never met a stranger he didn't like. On Monday morning of this week he showed up at my door with an invitation to a red beans n' rice party that evening. His enthusiasm was infectious! I just had to come meet the family that produced such a happy, friendly kid. Since that day, the boys have been inseparable and totally unhappy when family commitments, meals and sleep interfere in their games. I am grateful and relieved.
Kev has reconnected with his former hang daddies and is up to no good already. The smart ass jokes and comments are free flowing and his sense of humor is once more in tact. What's different this time, is that he's more humble and appreciative of full time work. He's working hard at making his band the best it can be and the former Disney employee is in full force. Dress code, stage rules and rehearsals are now part of his weekly routine. What a change from disgruntled posties, threatening dogs and proper dismounts!
To my surprise, I've made friends within my first week here, something I absolutely did not plan on. My first move to New Orleans was rather lonely and it took me several months to make any real friends. This round, it's happened much quicker and I'm thrilled. Am I more open? Yes. Did I have the help of my dear friend Maria? Yes. But, I've made friends with neighbors too and on my own. It takes some chutzpah to walk into a stranger's home full of people and sit down at their table and talk. Thank god for the many years of sales and cold calls; I got me some chutzpah!
The ladies of the Algiers Book Club are a loud and opinionated bunch (their words) and just my cup of tea. I fancy myself both a dame and a broad and these women fit both of these descriptions. Though we'd just met, by the end of the night several of the ladies had asked for my resume, suggested places to take my kids and shared more than a couple of cocktails. We even danced together! I absolutely cannot wait for the next gathering and hope to see many of them sooner.
It's week two in NOLA and we are busy making new friends. Cyre has an adoring fan/friend next door, Keller has several boys to call buds, Kev has reconnected with many former hang daddies, and I've met a wonderful group of women too. It feels so good to have my own group of friends, despite already knowing and loving several musicians in town. As one gets older, making friends can seem more of a task than just an experience and I'm thankful it's been such a positive experience for all of us.
Out walking the dog one day last week, the kids and I met a new neighbor also out walking her dog. It turns out she has an adorable granddaughter named Lilly who was ready to make new friends. The very next day, a beautiful, precocious, chatty southern belle turned up at our door ready to play. We've had the pleasure of Lilly's presence every day since and she's made fast friends with Cyre. Though she is friends with Keller, it's Cyre who she longs to play dolls with, discuss fashion, make phone calls and chase after. I'm sure once kids at school meet the new girl, the tiny Canadian and the funny one, Cyre will have a pack of new friends. I use the term pack loosely. Tween girls in a group sound and sometimes act like a pack of hyenas. I know; I was one.
One of my biggest fears in moving to New Orleans was that Keller would have a hard time making friends. Lots of kids don't always get him and his encyclopedic knowledge of wars, weapons and mummies. After six days of pestering his sister and his parents, we desperately called a friend of Kevin's with a son Keller's age and begged them to come over. Keller and Ray hit it off and ended their play date shooting a still video of a Lego war. The only thing I remember shooting at age nine was my mouth off, resulting in me not being able to play with Jennifer Renne for a full year. Yeah. Not a good one...
Just like Keller, our new neighbor Zeke has probably never met a stranger he didn't like. On Monday morning of this week he showed up at my door with an invitation to a red beans n' rice party that evening. His enthusiasm was infectious! I just had to come meet the family that produced such a happy, friendly kid. Since that day, the boys have been inseparable and totally unhappy when family commitments, meals and sleep interfere in their games. I am grateful and relieved.
Kev has reconnected with his former hang daddies and is up to no good already. The smart ass jokes and comments are free flowing and his sense of humor is once more in tact. What's different this time, is that he's more humble and appreciative of full time work. He's working hard at making his band the best it can be and the former Disney employee is in full force. Dress code, stage rules and rehearsals are now part of his weekly routine. What a change from disgruntled posties, threatening dogs and proper dismounts!
To my surprise, I've made friends within my first week here, something I absolutely did not plan on. My first move to New Orleans was rather lonely and it took me several months to make any real friends. This round, it's happened much quicker and I'm thrilled. Am I more open? Yes. Did I have the help of my dear friend Maria? Yes. But, I've made friends with neighbors too and on my own. It takes some chutzpah to walk into a stranger's home full of people and sit down at their table and talk. Thank god for the many years of sales and cold calls; I got me some chutzpah!
The ladies of the Algiers Book Club are a loud and opinionated bunch (their words) and just my cup of tea. I fancy myself both a dame and a broad and these women fit both of these descriptions. Though we'd just met, by the end of the night several of the ladies had asked for my resume, suggested places to take my kids and shared more than a couple of cocktails. We even danced together! I absolutely cannot wait for the next gathering and hope to see many of them sooner.
Sunday, August 8, 2010
It's Eatin Time!
The fast is over.
We're back in NOLA, in the land of food and a glutton of amazing restaurants. I don't know why, but we just didn't eat out much in Charlotte and we've done just that every single day in the one week we've been back in New Orleans. Yes, there are a gazillion great restaurants here, but it's not like Charlotte was a complete wasteland. It just didn't seem quite as meaningful there.
It's weird to be back. I've titled this new blog full circle, cause that's how it feels. New Orleans is where I met my husband and where my life completely changed. (no need to cue any sort of Air Supply song; it's cliche all right, but 100% true.) I am mostly happy to be here, but somewhat apprehensive too. Starting over is tough anywhere, but somehow it feels like it might be harder here than in Charlotte. I was lucky in the Queen City, and very successful as a writer. I had a fresh start and could be anything I wanted. I don't quite have that luxury here. I'm somewhat remembered, but not as a writer. That just might confuse folks.
The kids are adjusting, but it's harder for them too. They had friends in Toronto, but not BFFs. Plus, they see them at least once a year since we travel to TO frequently. I'm not sure how often we'll get back to Charlotte and that's makes the sting of leaving that much more painful. Poor Cyre is sad, sad, sad about leaving her friends, her school and her Meredith. Truth is, I miss Meredith and the McVadons too. I can only imagine how she feels. Remember 12? Your friends were your whole world (I'm not far from that at 42!) and giving them up is like having an organ ripped out. Okay, a little dramatic; but, I swear all the moping is affecting me.
Keller is happy to be here, but missing his buds too. He is enjoying all the weirdness, the food, the music and le bon temps roulez here. However, I think he is mostly confused and a little bored. He doesn't have the freedom to wander the neighborhood, killing the Dutch. He can't run over to the neighbors houses at 7 am on a Sunday and bombard them with WWI weaponry facts. (don't you want to live next door?) Once the kids start school and he has a routine and regular people to talk to, I'm sure he'll settle down.
The best part though, is how happy my husband is. He's smiling all the time and no longer looks ashen. His walk has a bounce once more. He's grateful, thankful and humble too. It's a lovely combo, though I'm sure it will eventually get old. Playing music every day knowing he can take care of his family has turned his world around. It's the way it's supposed to be. I'm looking forward to that kind of experience myself.
So, off we go to eat more food. More later.
Meg
We're back in NOLA, in the land of food and a glutton of amazing restaurants. I don't know why, but we just didn't eat out much in Charlotte and we've done just that every single day in the one week we've been back in New Orleans. Yes, there are a gazillion great restaurants here, but it's not like Charlotte was a complete wasteland. It just didn't seem quite as meaningful there.
It's weird to be back. I've titled this new blog full circle, cause that's how it feels. New Orleans is where I met my husband and where my life completely changed. (no need to cue any sort of Air Supply song; it's cliche all right, but 100% true.) I am mostly happy to be here, but somewhat apprehensive too. Starting over is tough anywhere, but somehow it feels like it might be harder here than in Charlotte. I was lucky in the Queen City, and very successful as a writer. I had a fresh start and could be anything I wanted. I don't quite have that luxury here. I'm somewhat remembered, but not as a writer. That just might confuse folks.
The kids are adjusting, but it's harder for them too. They had friends in Toronto, but not BFFs. Plus, they see them at least once a year since we travel to TO frequently. I'm not sure how often we'll get back to Charlotte and that's makes the sting of leaving that much more painful. Poor Cyre is sad, sad, sad about leaving her friends, her school and her Meredith. Truth is, I miss Meredith and the McVadons too. I can only imagine how she feels. Remember 12? Your friends were your whole world (I'm not far from that at 42!) and giving them up is like having an organ ripped out. Okay, a little dramatic; but, I swear all the moping is affecting me.
Keller is happy to be here, but missing his buds too. He is enjoying all the weirdness, the food, the music and le bon temps roulez here. However, I think he is mostly confused and a little bored. He doesn't have the freedom to wander the neighborhood, killing the Dutch. He can't run over to the neighbors houses at 7 am on a Sunday and bombard them with WWI weaponry facts. (don't you want to live next door?) Once the kids start school and he has a routine and regular people to talk to, I'm sure he'll settle down.
The best part though, is how happy my husband is. He's smiling all the time and no longer looks ashen. His walk has a bounce once more. He's grateful, thankful and humble too. It's a lovely combo, though I'm sure it will eventually get old. Playing music every day knowing he can take care of his family has turned his world around. It's the way it's supposed to be. I'm looking forward to that kind of experience myself.
So, off we go to eat more food. More later.
Meg
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