NOLA!

Since lots of our friends were turning 30 this spring (yes that was ages ago for me), they decided to plan a trip to New Orleans to celebrate.  We had never been to the Big Easy and were excited to get to go with great friends!  Only minutes after stepping off the plane we were off to the bars to soak up some sun and try the infamous Hurricanes.  Of course we had to do it in style, so John ordered a Magnum (3 gallon) Hurricane at Pat O'Brien's (the original hurricane of NOLA). 

 After the Hurricane

The next morning we got up and walked to Cafe du Monde for their famous coffee and beignets (doughnuts).  We also checked out Jackson square (named after Andrew Jackson - who seems to be quite the hero in New Orleans)

Steve and I decided we wanted some authentic New Orleans grub.  This was our first Po Boy sandwich with fried alligator, crawfish, and shrimp.  Apparently they were featured on the Food Network (although it seemed that everyone claimed that down there)

 The French Quarter (just down the street from our hotel)

Friday night was our "classy" night and we all went out to a nice restaurant.

Nothing ends a class evening like stopping by the convenience store for some beers.... (notice the other clientele in the store)

 and then brown-bagging it on the street!

Saturday we took a tour of the Mississippi River on their popular steam engine boat.  You can see how high the water is (the trunks are underwater).

 After the tour we were walking to lunch and sure enough, Steve stepped onto the curb and sprained his ankle.  Of course you can see the condition of the sidewalk (and most of them) in New Orleans.  Ironically there was a sign behind him that commemorated the sidewalk restoration of 1985.    But Steve didn't let the injury slow him down!

Hard core with his new cane from Chris & Tricia.  They sell these everywhere - and now we know who actually buys them!

 On a carriage ride through the French Quarter

 Saturday evening we did a walking booze tour of the city

On Sunday we checked out the Garden District and all the celeb homes.  What a beautiful part of the city!  Overall, what a fun trip with great friends, but we were excited to get home and hug those girlies!