We are getting ready to depart on the final leg of our westward journey, the 11 hour drive east on I20.  Just a few brief updates from the lobby of our hotel while the rest of the group showers and changes.

New Orleans was wonderful.  It was very, very, very humid, but much prettier then I expected.  We had a wonderful time wandering around the more private parts of the French Quarter, spying on secret garden areas built into the houses.  We wandered over to the Oak Street area, which felt a little bit like the Decatur of New Orleans, and I ate alligator for the first time and Jaques-Imo.  We even got to meet Jaques!  l, ate alligator and rabbit for the first time.  The last night we went to Rock and Bowl, a zydico-bowling alley, which is just as much fun as it sounds.

Then, Dallas.  We did not get to see much in the way of tourist stops, but had a wonderful time all the same.  Robert and Staci are now officially husband and wife, and the ceremony and reception were one of the most beautiful I have ever seen.  There will be photos on line I am sure, but a most hearty congratulations to them and their families for a wonderful wedding.

From here, I make the drive to Atlanta, spend one more night on Nicole’s couch, then fly to New York.  After that, we take off for Europe on Tuesday afternoon!