It feels great to be a New Orleanian these days! The city is
breezing excitement!
I went today to the Airport to pick up some friends that
came for the Super Bowl, and will stay with me for a couple of days. Since I am
always afraid to be late, I got there about 40 min earlier than I should have,
and I am so glad that I did. I found myself in the middle of a welcoming party
New Orleans style: band playing jazz, volunteers giving out beads and
brochures, happy visitors that were simply overwhelmed by our hospitality and
therefore were gracious and kind in return.
A lady from Hawaii started a conversation while waiting for
her boyfriend who went to collect their luggage. She visited New Orleans once
before Katrina, and she was asking me if it’s true that the city was back to
normal. I had a feeling that she was
somewhat apprehensive. I gave her my business card and asked her to text me
tomorrow to let me know what her thoughts were. I hope she will.
Two young guys from Baltimore were picking up some friends.
These two came yesterday, and let me tell you, they are so fond of New
Orleans!!! One asked me if I think he could find a job in the food industry
here. He doesn't cook, he never wanted to cook, and his mom and his girlfriend
had been taking care of that element in his life. He never watches the food
shows because that’s not his thing. He
visited two restaurants yesterday and picked up some food from a street vendor.
His words: “never tasted anything that good, I’d love to find a job here at a
food joint and learn how to cook like that”. What a great compliment to our cuisine!
I am so proud to be a New Orleanian!
