Here in a tiny cafe we sat nursing our coffee w/chicory, my husband and I and perk our ears we did, catching fragments of the unique New Orleans accent. Did you know that New Orleanians and New Yorker’s have a similar dialects? My mother has lived in both places and tells me she has heard that they were both influenced by German immigrates.
Shop fronts and wrought ironed balconies are festooned with purple, green and gold bunting, all glamed up.........it’s Carnival! The Mardi Gras season began on the Twelfth Night, and the celebrations becomes more and more exciting, with parades and balls beginning this weekend and running though Fat Tuesday. The festivities will end as lent begins, on Ash Wednesday. Streets are magically cleaned and the next day life goes on with the only evidence of the merriment, are strands of beads suspended from high trees and telephone wires. People in Louisiana, take their celebrating seriously, it’s a part of their culture and a spirit that you can feel in the air.
We meandered along the uneven cobble stoned sidewalks of the French Quarter. The backdrop was stunning blue skied days, punctuated by the glorious long shadows of winter. A slight chill is still in the air, but easily avoided by crossing over to the sunny side of the street.
Inspiration Galore!
A super discovery, was happening into Masquerade, the BEST mask shop in New Orleans. Each and every mask in this gallery is handmade. Meeting the vivacious owner, Marian (above) was a true bonus. She's an entrepreneur extraordinaire, as her shop features thirty-eight mask maker artists, from all over the U.S.
There’s also a nice selection of Venetian carnival masks not to be missed. It was fun and exciting hanging out and watching people try on different masks, reminding me of the days I worked for a milliner, how fascinating it was to see customers try on different hats and identities.
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On the way back we stopped by Gambino’ (famous for their Doberge and King Cakes) to pick up few. A sweet ending to a happy few days away, together.
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Hope you enjoy seeing and hearing about another part of the world because I do enjoy seeing yours!
xox
Constance
