Shrimp Po-boy or a...

The Bobby on The Glades

2010-08-02T09:42:00.000-05:00

Just in case you missed Bobby Bowden on last night's episode of "The Glades."

http://www.aetv.com/the-glades/video/?bcpid=82843735001&bclid=342968633001&bctid=326300755001&baseURL=%2Fbcconfig%2FPlayer%2F3Tier%2FTheGlades_3Tws%2Fconfig-xml%2F&baseDIR=%2Fbcplayers%2FPlayer%2F3Tier_ws%2FbaseDIR%2F

Are you committed?

2010-07-21T11:07:00.000-05:00

Kicking off Friday on a happy note!

2009-04-24T11:11:00.001-05:00

I just need something perky beyond the usual three cups of coffee. ;)

Jazz Fest starts this weekend!

Beannachtaí na Féile Pádraig oraibh!

2009-03-17T10:01:00.001-05:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day, y'all!

100 days!

2009-03-12T09:51:00.000-05:00

That's right, people.

Gladoon supremacy will commence in precisely 100 days.

(Erm, that is to say, Dave and I will be husband and wife in short order.)

FSU vs. the NCAA

2009-03-10T16:23:00.000-05:00

I concur:

http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/blog/dr_saturday/post/You-too-can-juke-the-NCAA-Just-keep-your-mout?urn=ncaaf,147129&post_comment=1&success=1

FAIL:

http://blog.nola.com/johndeshazier/2009/03/ncaa_should_take_the_wins_from.html

You may be asking yourself...

2009-03-04T16:37:00.003-06:00

...where has Cait been?

(Probably not, though - even I'm not that arrogant.)

That said, a new obsession has taken over - and it's not work, it's not dressing up the collies as local sports figures, it's not the Greater New Orleans Seminole Club preparations and it's not wedding planning. It's not even obsessing over Veronica White's everchanging weave.

Nope, it's Thundersquee!

I'm an editor and contributor to the site, and several of my fellow hags will actually be lobbing out snarky humor during our blessed nuptials this summer.

So take a look around, settle in for a bit, and enjoy our irreverent humor.

(You know you want to.)

Because we all need some humor...

2009-03-04T16:36:00.000-06:00

(And this isn't it.)

But this is!

My one cool story from Mardi Gras

2009-02-25T13:10:00.000-06:00

So Mardi Gras has come and gone, much to my relief. I always love the first weekend of Mardi Gras, because it’s very localized and very family-friendly. Every year, though, fratty types from around the nation descend upon our city the Friday before Fat Tuesday to terrorize our neighborhoods by peeing in our yards, vomiting in our trash cans and leaving broken tequila bottles and crushed beer cans everywhere. Bleargh. The sense of entitlement that radiates in waves off of these boneheads is amazing - on Friday night, Dave and I came home to find frat boys vomiting in our trash can, and we asked them why they didn't close the lid when they were done (the smell was THAT awful).

Idiot Boy #1 replied, "You shouldn't live here if you care."

Me: "The other 51 weeks of the year I don't have to care."

(Yeah, I was just not having it.)

I don't mind people parking in our neighborhood, having a great time, etc. But the second weekend of Mardi Gras has almost turned into an excuse to act like a moron and treat this city like a personal playground (sort of an R-rated Disney World, where the residents of uptown New Orleans are in fact employees of drunken college students, and should tidy up after them).

On Sunday, as we walked the three blocks down to St. Charles to meet up with our neighbors for Bacchus, we saw a girl (commando-style, actually) hike up her dress and squat in the front yard of a house. We might not have noticed her had it not been for her cheerful shrieks of, "HAPPY MARDI GRAS!"

Oy.

I have only one very cool story from Mardi Gras. Last year our neighbor, Jay, was the Big Shot of Zulu. Zulu was the first black krewe in New Orleans (and one of the first to integrate, actually).Zulu is the first parade on Fat Tuesday, and it marked its 100th anniversary this year. They also have one of the most prized Mardi Gras throws - hand-painted coconuts.

We went to Zulu yesterday and managed to end up with two coconuts (yay!) but what we really wanted was a Zulu second line parasol. Alas, it was not to be.

So last night we were grilling out on our front porch with friends when Jay got home from the parade finally. He was still mostly in costume and looked exhausted. We complimented him on the parade (which was awesome, as usual), and he shared with us the good news that he and his wife will be the king and queen of Zulu next year (block party time!). He asked if we got our coconuts, and we replied that we did, but we were disappointed about the parasols, because we wanted to use parasols in our wedding to second line into our reception (a second line is a parade at weddings and funerals in New Orleans – the bride has a white parasol, the groom waves a black one, and the wedding party uses hankerchiefs…and they usually follow a brass band, making the band the first line and the wedding party the – you guessed it – second line).

He said, "Walk with me."

I followed him into his living room, and he gave me both the 100th anniversary Zulu Coca-Cola bottle (which almost NO one got yesterday) and the white, decorated parasol his wife used at the Zulu ball this year. She said, "It might not be what we hand out at the parade, but you'll know it's a hand-decorated Zulu parasol used by the Queen of Zulu!"

How cool is that? I’m using the Zulu Queen’s parasol at our wedding!

Bleargh. Brake tags. Bleargh.

2009-02-03T13:15:00.002-06:00

Sometimes I really hate stupid people.

And brake tags.

And the bass-ackward traffic court procedures in Orleans Parish.

She's baaaaaaaaaaaaack!

2009-01-28T14:25:00.001-06:00

Sorry, y'all.

I'm alive.

I'm now 30.

I'm getting married in 5 months.

I just got promoted at work.

I'm happy, stressed, overly worked, exhausted and I'm alive.

Grrrrr. Roar. Grrrrr.

2008-12-16T14:31:00.002-06:00

I'm just sayin'.

2008-12-11T10:25:00.001-06:00

In honor of today's snowfall, I present one of the greatest Christmas songs EVER:

So I was on TV last night.

2008-12-08T11:40:00.001-06:00

Gotta say, it was a little weird to see myself in a movie.

(Belatedly) kicking off Friday on a happy note!

2008-12-05T15:03:00.002-06:00

I really can't explain the depths of my crush on Lily Allen.

D. and I met her in south Florida when she was playing at the Culture Room - she was having dinner with her band at a nearby pub, and she was very different from the chav-y public persona. She was sweet, humble and friendly as hell.

LOVE HER.

True story.

Dude. I require this.

2008-12-05T14:19:00.002-06:00

From Woot, and alas, already sold out, I present a marshmallow shooter.

Not only marketed with the clever "Full Mallow Jacket" key messaging, this weaponry is ideal for annoying Auburn boosters, who are currently patting themselves on the back for firing one of the best coaches in Division 1 football.

Bobby Lowder, I'm looking at you.

Sweet baby Jeebus.

2008-12-05T14:17:00.002-06:00

OJ is going away.

can Bill Jefferson be far behind?

Two years, already?

2008-12-05T09:34:00.001-06:00

Tuesday marked two years since my father passed away.

This daddy's girl misses him terribly.

That said, this year December 2nd was slightly easier. The best thing I can do, I figure, is just to keep the memory of him alive in my heart, right?

This is for him.

But the holidays are upon us, so D. and I bought a 9' Frasier Fir last night and put it up in our living room.

Thus far, Charlie has peed on it twice.

Riddle me this...

2008-11-26T11:57:00.002-06:00

How is Myron Rolle, who is an A student in a master's program and a newly minted Rhodes Scholar, a second-team Academic All-American, while Tim Tebow, who has a less impressive GPA in his Family/Life Studies (what IS that, anyway?) degree program, a first-teamer?

As D. put it, "It's troubling."

I suppose that while Myron Rolle is off discovering a cure for Alzheimer's at Oxford, we'll learn that Tebow can, in fact, walk on water and feed the masses.

ESPN, you suck.

RickRoll: A Tutorial

2008-11-25T11:22:00.001-06:00

For Mizz Gandy, that saucy minx.

So there's a rumor circulating that...

2008-11-25T11:16:00.002-06:00

...my family will descend upon me for Christmas.

Yeah, it's time for emergency measures. ::grin::

Overheard...well, read on GChat.

2008-11-25T10:58:00.001-06:00

On the sheer notion of a Bobby Bowden nacho cheese fountain (please see Saturday night's YouTube post about it), my friend Natalie sent me an IM reading, "I want to dip a ritz cracker in it and then my head."

Saints Jesus and other sundry Tuesday issues.

2008-11-25T10:02:00.003-06:00

I am so tired.

Literally, my contacts are all that are keeping my eyes open at this point.

I can't believe it's only 10:00 a.m.

I also can't believe I'm awake.

Yesterday afternoon my neighbor M. asked me if I wanted to go to the Saints-Packers game - his ticket block had a spare ticket available - and of COURSE I jumped on that offer.

So I spent my Monday Night Football as part of the experience, rather than merely observing it in high-definition from the relatively comfortable confines of our couch.

There were cheeseheads and Favre jerseys everywhere in sight, and a particularly heretical Saints fan showed up dressed as Jesus.

(Funnier still was the preppy dude dressed as Adrian McPherson, down to the gold tooth.)

All humorous costuming aside, the game was a blowout. And I was thrilled.

But then I had to go home and make dressing for my work potluck today. So at 1:00 this morning I was shredding a loaf of french bread into some sauteed veggies and toasted pecans.

Bleargh. Towards that end, since I am still evidently not all that coherent, here's my recipe for another great dinner for a chilly autumn evening.

Pumpkin Risotto

1 can pumpkin
Olive oil, for cooking and to drizzle
1-2 cups chicken stock (depending on the cooking time of the rice)
1 cup arborio rice
Salt and pepper
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, shredded
1 tablespoon sage

Bring the stock to a simmer in a pan and keep it at a gentle simmer over a low heat. Heat a little olive oil in a larger saucepan and add the rice. Cook, stirring frequently, for a minute, then add a ladleful of hot stock and stir until it is almost all absorbed before adding another ladleful.

Repeat until you’ve reached your last few ladlefuls of stock. Taste the rice to see if it is al dente. If not, add more stock. Add the pumpkin, a little at a time, until you reach the desired taste and consistency. Add the sage, and then the grated parmesan. Keep warm.

Ladle the risotto on to warm plates and tap the bottom of each plate gently to spread it out. Drizzle with a little olive oil and scatter over the parmesan, then serve immediately.

I can haz tag?

2008-11-24T14:43:00.003-06:00

I have been tagged by fellow Florida State alumna, NolaCleophatra.

So I guess this is how this works:

1. Link to the person who tagged you. (Check.)

2. Post the rules on your blog. (Check.)

3. Write six random things about yourself. (Aw, hell.)

4. Tag six people at the end of your post and link to them. (Done.)

5. Let each person know they’ve been tagged and leave a comment on their blog. (Sigh. Bleargh. Sigh.)

6. Let the tagger know when your entry is up. (Working on it.)

Here goes:

1. I think NOLACleophatra is insane to not appreciate the manna-like joys of Dr. Pepper. My crack of choice is Diet Dr. Pepper.

2. I am amused that after countless hours of having to endure a litany of UF fans telling me how much academically better their fine Hogtown institution is, that FSU has produced its third Rhodes Scholar in the last four years. ::snicker of amusement::

3. I hate crowds. True story. I get incredibly claustrophobic and cranky when surrounded by a sea of people.

4. I DVR old episodes of "Doctor Who" so that when D. works late, I can indulge my geeky side.

5. I think "Beerfest" may be one of the funniest movies made over the past ten years.

6. I'm actually kind of excited about turning 30.

So, who to tag? What about Mizz Gandy, Krista, April, Kevin, Bedbugs & Ballyhoo and Toker.

On a totally random side note, the Po'Boy Preservation Festival was crowded and hectic and full of Teh Yum.

Please note my astonishment in meeting a barbequed oyster po'boy:

Steven Seagal is a JPSO deputy?!?

2008-11-24T14:20:00.002-06:00

I'd like to think Harry Lee is rolling over in his grave about this, but...

Move over Dog the Bounty Hunter!

There's going to be a new regulator on cable channel A&E.

Martial arts film star Steven Seagal will be starring in a reality show (called Steven Seagal: Lawman) on the net that will chronicle his little-known life in law enforcement.

According to reports, Segal has been working as a fully commissioned deputy with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office in Louisiana for the past 20 years.

In addition to going out on patrol, the karate man is said to be an expert marksman who has worked with the Jefferson Parish SWAT team and has instructed officers in firearms and hand-to-hand combat.

Christ on a crouton, what's next? Nutrias on Ice?

NOLEY NOLEY NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOLES!

2008-11-22T21:52:00.003-06:00

It's been a joyous day.

Myron Rolle is a Rhodes Scholar.

FSU kept its ACC hopes alive in a BIG, BIG way, defeating Maryland in a chilly road game.

And then someone told me this would be our wedding gift, and I was most pleased.

Anyone in for a game watch next week against the much-vaunted, Citadel-destroying TeHarvins of UF?

P.S. Prospect 1 has been a BLAST.

Kicking off Friday on a happy note!

2008-11-21T10:42:00.002-06:00

I've been woefully absent from the blogosphere.

This has been a pretty crazy month so far - I've been in design mode for work, and D.'s been in Saints/Hornets craziness mode.

But we've been lucky to get some quality time together lately - and this is for my future husband and best friend in the entire world:

Myron Rolle. Wow.

2008-11-12T16:06:00.002-06:00

Just a link roll here, folks:

http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/sportsline/main11098557.shtml

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/writers/stewart_mandel/11/12/mailbag/1.html

Yeah, this kid is pretty awesome. I'm glad he's a Nole.

Submitted without comment

2008-11-05T13:02:00.001-06:00

Yep. That's right. I'll be able to to come up to D.'s shoulders when we say our vows.

On another topic - the election...McCain was humble and gracious in defeat, and Obama's somber speech indicated to me, at least, that he understands that the road ahead will be painful for Americans.

Either man would have been crippled by a fractured populace, a tumultuous economy and a deficit created by two wars - but even if the next four years are a political failure, it can't be denied that last night's election was a social victory for our nation.

In honor of Election Day 2008

2008-11-04T13:33:00.001-06:00

That's all I'm sayin'.

Voodoo Music Experience 2008

2008-10-30T13:11:00.015-05:00

So I've clearly been hampered by my inability to hold down solid food this week, and I've been busy with my cousin's impending nuptials (eek! tomorrow!), but without further delay, here are a few snaps from Voodoo...for D. and me, Voodoo's line-up this year was like going back to high school, minus the cassette tapes and awkward puberty.

Highlights:
R.E.M. (if you know me, you're not surprised)
Thievery Corporation
Ghostland Observatory
Cowboy Mouth
Old 97's

Great, but man, I'm getting old:
Nine Inch Nails

Mediocre as hell:
Lil' Wayne

Dear Florida Democratic Party

2008-10-30T13:01:00.001-05:00

Please stop spamcalling my cell phone.

I've asked you very nicely FOUR TIMES now to place me on your do-not-call list.

I already voted, yeaux.

Best,
Cait

Submitted without comment

2008-10-30T12:19:00.001-05:00

Wearing my now-retro CP3 jersey at the gamewatch last night at Handsome Willy's.

GEAUX HORNETS!

(Note: Check out hornets247.com. Those guys are HIGH-larious and very cool.)

Michael Stipe, meet my stomach bug.

2008-10-30T09:08:00.002-05:00

At least I'm pretty sure it's a stomach bug.

So it's fall now.

Crime is down in our 'hood.

Florida State is winning.

The Saints (yet again) have a new kicker and a punter.

Voodoo was awesome, and I managed to not throw up while pogoing up and down like a 15 year-old at a boy band concert as Michael Stipe and the rest of R.E.M. electrified City Park.

This is why Drew Brees rocks my world.

2008-10-23T16:09:00.002-05:00

Well, in a completely platonic way, at least.

http://myespn.go.com/blogs/nfcsouth/0-4-130/Chargers-provide-extra-motivation-for-Brees.html

A Voodoo Quandary

2008-10-23T13:44:00.003-05:00

So D. and I have weekend passes for Voodoo, and are entering Round 2 of out-of-town guests this week with some friends from south Florida up for the music shindig at City Park.

With some dismay I note that the Old 97's, only one of the greatest live bands ever, are scheduled to play somewhere during the second quarter of the FSU-Virginia Tech game.

Even worse, the Cold War Kids and Blind Boys of Alabama are scheduled during the Saints' London game.

WHAT TO DO? WHAT TO DO?

Do I DVR the FSU game and pray that my friends (ahem, Fudge) won't send me texts about the game? Or do I avoid my longstanding crush on Rhett Miller's foxy ways and faithfully cheer on my Noles?

Do I give up on the Saints and assume that this season has become a dismal lost cause due to injuries and hideous playcalling? Or do I eschew the weird musical stylings of "Hang Me Up To Dry"?

There's only one certainty, and that is R.E.M.

Oh yes, you will see me at the R.E.M. show. And it might be a little bit scary, because I'll be the zealot singing along to EVERY. SINGLE. SONG.

(That's how strong my love is, yeaux. No offense meant to Otis.)

Frothy, sugary fun.

2008-10-22T12:28:00.001-05:00

I don't normally buy into the manufactured pop music, but this song is infectious and fun - and the single has just been released in the UK. Enjoy!

(Everyone getting excited about Voodoo?)

Life is a mixed bag o' crazy.

2008-10-22T12:24:00.002-05:00

Pros:
The weather is incredible here right now.
No one is shooting up our neighborhood.
D.'s parents are visiting (thus the bloggish absence).
Our house is surprisingly neat.

Cons:
Family crap.
Exhaustion.

Questions:
Anyone know of a good rehearsal dinner venue?

Yes, yes.

2008-10-16T14:30:00.002-05:00

Sukkot is ongoing, so I've been off work.

I've flyered the neighborhood in advance of a neighborhood association meeting, and now I'm the secretary.

I've lost 7 pounds.

I've got to clean the house, because D.'s parents are coming to visit.

My glasses hurt my eyes...but my contacts hurt worse.

I am envious of D.'s metabolism.

In 15 days, my cousin is getting married, and I've been swamped planning her wedding.

I apparently still fit into the dress I wore to my college graduation. Kerrrazy.

I need a nap. Maybe a vacation?

Hmmm.

The diet.

2008-10-08T12:59:00.003-05:00

Oktoberfest = Diet Killer

Saints Home Loss to GUS FREROTTE = Diet Restorer

Despite the excesses of Oktoberfest and FSU-UM viewing this past weekend, I managed to regroup and lose a pound.

24 lbs. to go before I hit my skinny jeans size.

On a separate note, does anyone know of any not overpriced, giant dog-friendly places for rent in uptown or Mid-City? We had a less than positive experience with our landlord's new management company yesterday, and we're pretty much hit our wall.

FINALLY.

2008-10-07T13:03:00.003-05:00

A diss song for mild-mannered yuppies everywhere:

This - this, people, is what the world has been lacking.

Finally, someone has filled the void - and by someone, I mean the Wojahn Brothers.

Big Lebowski, meet Big Poppa.

In heaven there is no beer.

2008-10-06T09:30:00.007-05:00

That's why we drink it here.

D. and I ventured over to Deutsches Haus on Saturday night after FSU hung on to beat Miami and K-State lost to Texas Tech.

Once we entered the building, he was in his element, surrounded by other lanky, pale people who likewise enjoyed singing songs about saw horses and eating sausages.

Ah yes, D. was among his people.

We drank Paulaner, danced the chicken dance and bellowed along to "Ja, das ist eine Schnitzel Bank" repeatedly.

And we had a blast - unfortunately, that means I fell off the weight loss wagon, so I'm trying to climb back on again this week.

I made several strudels last night - here's a relatively healthy recipe:

Apple Strudel

(makes 2, serves 12-16)

5 tart apples (peeled, cored and sliced)

1 tablespoon grated lemon rind

Juice of 1 lemon

3/4 cup Splenda

2 teaspoons cinnamon

3/4 cup almonds, ground (pecans work well, too)

8 ounces phyllo pastry, 1/2 box,thawed

1 cup margarine, melted

1 cup whole-wheat breadcrumbs, finely crushed

Mix apples with lemon, lemon rind, sugar, cinnamon, and almonds. Set aside. Heat a couple of tablespoons of the melted margarine in a skillet over medium heat - stir in the breadcrumbs until crispy. Place 1 phyllo leaf on a sheet of wax paper and brush with melted margarine. Place a second leaf on top and repeat. Repeat until 6-7 leaves have been used, using about 1/2 cup of margarine.

Sprinkle 3/4 cup crumbs on the layered dough. Mound 1/2 of the filling in a 3-inch strip along the narrow end of the fillo, leaving a 2-inch border. Lift wax paper, using it to roll leaves over apples, jelly roll style. Brush top of the strudel with margarine and sprinkle with 2 T crumbs. Repeat the entire procedure for the second strudel. Bake the strudels (make sure the pan you use has sides, or the margarine will drip over the sides) at 400 degrees for 20-25 minutes, until browned.

SAVE THE HAUS!

Kicking Friday off on a happy note...

2008-10-03T10:42:00.001-05:00

GO SEMINOLES!

Going off the rails on a crazy train...

2008-10-02T21:26:00.003-05:00

Seriously. Did you know that 5,000 people were mysteriously shot, execution-style, and dumped in some sort of 21st century Katyn Massacre reenactment?

That's what Acclaimed Looney Cynthia McKinney is claiming - that 5,000 prisoners were murdered in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, only to be dumped in the bayous of southeastern Louisiana.

But wait, you say. Why haven't we heard about this before?

Per Green Party presidential candidate McKinney, it's, "uh...because they ['they' theoretically being the shooters, approved by the Department of Defense] signed a silence agreement."

Maybe she's just been watching "Southern Comfort" too much of late.

In honor of Miami Week...

2008-10-02T12:57:00.001-05:00

May I present...

GEAUX NOLES!

(This, um, assumes, more consistency from behind center.)

Life is good.

2008-09-29T13:47:00.002-05:00

On Friday night, I came home from work to an amazing surprise.

On Saturday, in quick succession:

UF lost (HA!)
UM lost (Double-HA!)
FSU won
K-State won

On Sunday:

I went to the Saints game and sat on the 50 yard-line right behind the Saints' bench. I was able to watch Drew and Deuce shred the 49ers' D.

Plus, the one garbage touchdown the 49ers had was from Isaac Bruce - who is on my fantasy roster.

I kicked ass in our fantasy league this weekend.

I have lost almost 4 lbs.

I have an amazing fiance.

I have the two cutest dogs in the world.

Life is good.

Oh, Entergy.

2008-09-25T16:14:00.001-05:00

So is THIS why I have a $330 power bill this month, despite having no utilities for a week following Gustav?

That's just great.

30 before 30.

2008-09-25T15:33:00.000-05:00

The countdown has begun.

FSU, LSU and awful fans.

2008-09-22T13:40:00.003-05:00

On Saturday night, D. and I trekked over to Big Al's Seafood, where we met up with other Noles, including the wonderfully witty NOLACleophatra and Your Right Hand Thief.

I'd wager that we had a great little group going on. We showed up early, and we had called ahead.

Mind you, LSU has a fantastic football team. I've also never had a problem with any LSU football fans - but I'm about to relate the exception to the rule.

So here's what happened.

We started watching the game when four LSU fans came in and started rudely telling me to enjoy the game while I could, because they'd make sure it got changed to the LSU game when it started. So then I told them very calmly, look, I appreciate your position, but we set it up several days ago, and we were here early.

They told me that if I wanted to watch some lame game in LSU country, I should just go the eff back to Florida, where I belong. That's the nicest thing they said the entire time, actually.

I said, "That's really rude and uncalled for."

Them: "Well, FSU sucks." They kept bitching.

They then called the manager over and tried to berate her into changing the channel. She gave in. They start taunting us. Another table gets up and leaves because of them. The manager comes over to tell us she's going to change the channel.

I look her in the eye, and say, "I'm very sorry you've been put in this position, and I recognize that we're in southern Louisiana, but we're customers, we've been polite, and that would be incredibly unfair."

She's clearly not used to these situations. Dave gently reminds her that we were here 45 minutes before the asshole LSU fans. At this point, the owner comes out. He's planning to change the channel until the waitress goes to the mat for us. She was seriously great. She had overheard everything, and she told the manager that the LSU fans had created the conflict and had been very rude.

Ultimately, he says, "Hey, LSU people, geaux Tigers, but they were here first. It's only fair. Call ahead next time."

They get pissed. Throw a hissy fit. Bitch and moan. Finally, the bitchy LSU chick running the show demands the bill and announces stridently to the entire bar area, "We're taking our business elsewhere."

Now here's the kicker. LSU-Auburn was obviously a huge game. It was on 2 other TV's in the place. It was on at roughly 1,000 (I'm not exaggerating) bars/restaurants in the metro New Orleans area. Why pick a fight like that? Why?

Had they been nice, or even asked, we would have moved to the bar, where the smaller TVs were. Instead they were combative, rude and out of line. I get that it was a huge game, and we wanted to watch it, too. And LSU had a tremendous victory over Auburn. I also get that we live in LSU country. But that doesn't relegate fellow college football fans and customers to second-tier status.

When people immediately go on the offensive like that, it just makes me dig in my heels. Case in point, right?

At the end of the night, we all apologized profusely to the owner, the manager and the kick-ass waitress. We also left a huge tip. She told us she was glad they left instead of us, because at least we weren't jerks.

So for those hopefully-exception-to-the-rule-jerkoff fans, I present some important bar patron rules:

If you arrive late and have not called ahead, you don't get to butt ahead in line without express permission of those who got their before you.
Don't chase off other customers and expect people to warm to your cause.
Honey, vinegar, flies. You know the ol' saying.
If a bar patron is wearing another team's shirt, and they are not your rival, don't be an ass. Chances are, they pay taxes in the same area as you, and they are also customers.
Berating staff and management will not serve your cause, either. Please reference the film "Waiting" for additional information on this.
Just living 60 minutes from a university does not create a universal standard of Tier 1 status for why your game should trump another (which in all fairness, was their logic - not that it was a huge match-up, but that LSU was closer than FSU.)

I'm not going to write about how perfect FSU fans are. We aren't. But we know better than to act like the Ugly American stereotype so many Europeans link to the U.S.

That said, even though FSU committed seven turnovers and exhibited atrocious playcalling and execution, I had a great time hanging out with the other 6 FSU fans there.

Also, because I'm not a jerkoff fan, congrats to LSU for their hugely important win over Auburn.

One more murder in this town...

2008-09-22T13:33:00.002-05:00

What will it take for the city to seriously recognize the problem in the 1900 block of Amelia?

Another dead high school student?

Unintentionally funny video on NOLA.com

2008-09-19T12:51:00.004-05:00

I'm pretty sure that much like this kid, poor Adam will never live this down.

It's on the front page of NOLA.com right now, and I just can't stop cracking up.

Dating advice to the ladies out there:

Do NOT make a video for public consumption celebrating your one month of blissful infatuation. Crap like that generally will come back to bite you in the behind.
But if you be clingy, at least do so using the correct pronoun when you publicly proclaim your love for Adam - example: "You're my world, baby!" Not your.
If you respect Adam's dignity, you must realize that posting 14,000 shirtless pictures of Adam in your video will cause Adam's friends to rip him a new one repeatedly for the rest of his life. He could cure cancer, and his friends would still remind him of his beefcake pictures in your one-month dating video.
I reaaaaaaaaaaally hope Adam likes N'Sync. See above.
Do your parents know that you kissed Adam on August 27, 2008, thus rendering him your soulmate?
Wait, given that date, have you guys skipped through a space/time continuum to make it through an entire month? Most impressive.

I know I'm being a tad mean, but the unintentional hilarity struck me harder than Paris Hilton's earnest attempts to be a respected thespian.

To My Boyfriend Adam

Joey Frickin' Heisman?

2008-09-19T11:48:00.003-05:00

Something tells me that something happened to Brees or Brunell in practice this week.

That's the only reason the Saints would have signed Joey Harrington.

This guy has the amazing nine lives-style of Brian Griese. Despite his innate mediocrity, he always manages to land on a roster somewhere.

Also of note is that the Saints are very reluctant to release news on injuries - no one knew the real story about Colston until practically after the man had already had surgery.

So who got hurt? Brees or Brunell?

More importantly, as my good friend and fellow Saints fan CD asks, can Joey Harrington play DB?

Kicking off Friday on a happy note!

2008-09-19T10:50:00.009-05:00

D. and I went to the Sugar Bowl Committee's kickoff cocktail shindig last night at the Superdome.

(I even got to exchange pleasantries with Archie Manning. ZOMG. I'm amazed I didn't pull a Wayne-and-Garth.)

As usual, the food and drink and setting were gawkworthy. D. developed an insatiable craving for the crabcakes that were being fried up on the field, and I was content to nurse my merlot and engage in a favorite past time of mine - peoplewatching.

But what we truly gawked at was the Committee's presentation to the NOPD of a Sky Watch. And yes, they do look quite a bit like the Imperial Walkers from "The Empire Strikes Back." (I think there's one in the Home Depot parking lot on Earhart, actually.)

That's not the funny part.

Not by a long shot.

So as the Committee was making the presentation, the fog machine kicked in and dramatic Empire-esque music started swelling throughout the Dome.

I swear I saw Ted Lewis from the Times-Picayune snickering.

So the Sky Watch started to rise slowly through the fog. There, inside the module, sat Warren Riley. Flanking the Sky Watch on either side, though?

The only reasonable choice for a party attended by local officials has to be models hired to dress as sexy cops, right? Hereafter they shall be referred to as the "stripper cops."

(Way to improve credibility in a room where reps from all of the major NCAA conferences, All State and various NOLA hoi polloi are located. Sigh.)

Amazingly, the stripper cops were dressed in blue shirts and black skirts - wait a sec, I thought wearing a blue shirt could get an NOPD officer suspended?

Maybe they make exceptions for extras off the set of a Skinemax flick. Hmmm. Must ponder.

Either way, minus that bizarre interlude, it was a great party that definitely kicked off the Sugar Bowl's 75th Anniversary with panache.

I'm just glad I wore low heels, since we were walking on Tulane's rolled-out turf. ;)

On to the music...so last night I suddenly started craving the Breeders, the underrated Kim Deal-led band that rose from the ashes of the break up of the terribly underrated Pixies.

Man, I REALLY loved "Safari" and "Last Splash." Still do, in fact. I dare you to listen to "Divine Hammer" or "Saints" and not catch yourself humming them later. Plus, it's just a known fact that "Cannonball" is the only song about the Marquis de Sade to ever get insane amounts of airplay on MTV...

...y'know, back when they actually played videos.

OK, it's set: Florida State vs. Wake Forest, NOLA styley.

2008-09-17T21:52:00.007-05:00

OK, Seminole fans - I know FSU's alumni club has been defunct in New Orleans since Katrina, and frankly, it's been a struggle to revive it (between work and the lack of alumni still living in the area/out-of-date contact info for alums).

But at the very least, we can manage a game watch for the FSU-Wake Forest game.

It was a challenge to identify a venue. I mean, NOLA has many virtues - but a quality selection of sports bars is not among them.

The luminous NOLACleophatra came to our rescue. A fellow Nole, she suggested we get off the beaten path and away from the Fat Harry's and Cooter Brown's of the world. We need beer, we need food, and we need it away from the LSU game, right?

So here are the details of our game watch - come one, come all. We will drown our sorrows (joys?) in Abita and buckets of boiled crawfish.

What: FSU vs. Wake Forest
When: Saturday at 6:00 p.m.
Where: Big Al's Seafood (1377 Annunciation St., New Orleans, LA 70130)

See y'all then! E-mail me for more information.

GEAUX NOLES!

A Tale of Two Jasons

2008-09-17T21:52:00.005-05:00

The wrong Jason was released from the Saints roster today.

I'm just sayin'.

Any interest in an FSU game watching soiree this weekend?

2008-09-17T17:29:00.002-05:00

We are, after all, playing Wake.

Thoughts? Ruminations? Smack?

Rebounding.

2008-09-17T17:29:00.000-05:00

Stupid stomach bug.

Stupid exhaustion.

Kicking off Friday on a happy note!

2008-09-12T13:02:00.001-05:00

It's much easier to cheer up now that my college roommate has evacuated Galveston.

Last night, when we thought she was going to ride out Ike, my sleep wasn't very restful.

Thank God she's safe.

On to the show...my favorite band, who is headlining Voodoo this year:

Hollis Thomas is no longer a Saint.

2008-09-11T14:09:00.002-05:00

That's right - the Saints just cut Hollis Thomas off IR.

http://saintsreport.com/forums/showthread.php?t=82521

To tan or not to tan?

2008-09-10T15:56:00.003-05:00

So my brother's favorite hobby (apart from destroying watermelons, that is) is to lay out by the pool at his apartment complex in Tallahassee whilst his remote-controlled robot serves him cranberry martinis with a twist of lime.

I kid you not.

Today I told him he is beginning to resemble fine Corinthian leather, just like George Hamilton.

Too harsh? ;)

Like chocolate, beer, and jewel thieves...

2008-09-10T15:53:00.003-05:00

...the best adult diapers come from Europe."

Still crying from laughter here...it's been a while since I've read anything quite as clever.

"I felt voluptuous."

Ha!

Colston is out for 4-6 weeks.

2008-09-10T11:56:00.001-05:00

Fantasy owners, it's time to take a fresh look at David Patten - he'll be our No. 1 receiver for the next few weeks.

Seriously, what will it take?

2008-09-10T11:51:00.002-05:00

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/09/04/AR2008090403649.html

Are Nagin and his crony Riley so determined to ruin any chance for this city to rebuild and thrive?

Seriously?

My condolences to the family of this remarkable man.

It pisses me off that while other cities are able to use our crime rate against us when bidding for conferences/events, our city officials sit around with their thumbs up their proverbial posteriors. The DEA took a chance on our city by holding their conference here, and this is how we give thanks.

Wow.

I'm sure they won't make the same mistake twice...and I'm also fairly sure that we will start to see the number of conferences in NOLA start to dwindle - with good reason.

He was our neighbor.

2008-09-08T12:41:00.001-05:00

I hope his family knows that our neighborhood shares their grief at this act of violence.

http://www.nola.com/news/index.ssf/2008/09/taking_the_long_way_to_tegucig.html

We're okay after Gustav - happy to be home and not buying any groceries until after Ike.

Crap. Gustav. Crap.

2008-08-27T09:13:00.000-05:00

Gustav's a-comin'.

2008-08-26T12:52:00.000-05:00

Oh no...

I'd just like to point out...

2008-08-21T23:21:00.002-05:00

...that Michael Phelps has more gold medals than France.

Hehe.

So I'm in agreement with Jeffrey. The Hornets unis?

Do. Not. Want.

Pinstripes only belong in baseball, folks. And creole blue? A more "passionate" purple?

Spare me.

But I do kinda dig the new logos.

Hornets' new unis...

2008-08-20T16:53:00.001-05:00

...thoughts?

Christ on a crouton!

2008-08-20T16:51:00.002-05:00

Let hilarity ensue...

The Swimmer vs. The Mediocre Multi-Hyphenate

2008-08-19T13:34:00.006-05:00

But so hilariously brilliant that I just spewed Diet Coke all over my desk.

From Yeeeah:

Jennifer Lopez wants you to know it’s about time you stopped watching the stupid Olympics and paid attention to her and her upcoming triathlon. Phelps who? It’s Jenny from the Block, dummies! According to MSNBC, Lopez, who appeared on “Good Morning America” Aug. 18 to discuss her preparations for the Malibu Triathlon, was overheard saying after the segment that she “couldn’t understand why everyone is talking about that swimmer,” according to a GMA source. “She couldn’t come up with (eight-time gold-medal winner Michael) Phelps’ name, and then she yammered on about how she was the one training for a triathlon just six months after giving birth, and how that was the big story right now, not ‘the swimmer.’”

Okay, let’s see. Some facts:
1. If you look into the eye of a hurricane you will see Michael
Phelps swimming.
2. Newton’s First Law is wrong: Even if an external force is applied to Michael Phelps he will remain in the Michael Phelps state of motion.
3. Water drinks Michael Phelps.
4. Every time you see a shooting star you are really watching Michael Phelps train in space.
5. Aquaman wears Michael Phelps underwear.
6. Newborn dolphins learn to swim by watching footage of Michael Phelps.
7. Michael Phelps doesn’t swim through water, water gets out of his way.

And now, for some Jennifer Lopez facts:
1. Jennifer Lopez can eat her weight in gouda.
2. Jennifer Lopez once crushed a folding chair with her ass.
3. Jennifer Lopez can fart Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star.
4. Jennifer Lopez comes with saddlebags and paunch attachments.

The only way Jennifer Lopez will ever beat Michael Phelps at anything is if it involves eating her way through a swimming pool full of bacon, Fanta, and Christmas hams. And to the best of my knowledge, that kind of pool only exists in Britney Spears’ imagination. Advantage: Michael Phelps.
I'm thinking, hey, Phelps (and his stunning abs) has eight gold medals. Lopez has what, eight ex-husbands?

With my future husband's permission...

2008-08-13T22:46:00.002-05:00

I wanted to post something D. wrote earlier this week about the Olympics (which we've been watching obsessively).

http://blog.nola.com/gladow/2008/08/relay_teams_win_abates_blogger.html

OK, so yes, I suck.

2008-08-13T22:36:00.005-05:00

I meant to post more on Friday, but life's been rather hectic of late.

Well, no, that's not really it.

The reality is that I live in NOLAdishu.

The reality is that my mom is fast approaching needing assisted living.

The reality is that I never expected 29 to look or feel like this.

But I also wouldn't change a thing. Even with the strain, it's just life. It's not some ridiculous, glossy, frothy film (see: Kate Hudson). It's also not a Dave Eggers book. I'm not painfully witty or especially clever.

Besides, everyone knows that David Sedaris is funnier.

(Sweet mercy, I feel whiny tonight.)

Kicking off Friday on a happy note!

2008-08-08T09:58:00.002-05:00

...or at least as happy a note as possible when suffering a caffeine deficiency.

Sorry for the absence of late. Between travel, family issues, and D.'s birthday/our anniversary, it's been hectic.

I briefly came out of hibernation last night for a cookbook meeting at the OLGC rectory and then hauled it home to catch the first quarter of the Saints-Cardinal preseason game. And as previously mentioned, I'm lamenting the weird facial hair sported by Drew Brees.

There's only one man I think looks hot with facial hair, and that's D.

(Not that I'm biased, of course.)

I'll recap the past couple of weeks later on today, but here's The Verve's new single, "Love is Noise."

Warning - it WILL grow on you insidiously. I wonder how long the band can stay together this time - isn't this their third or fourth attempt at banddom?

Oh, Drew Brees...

2008-08-08T09:48:00.002-05:00

You had me at "hello."

But really, you must lose the pornstache.

As the goatee goes, so too goes my crush...into the ether.

Sigh.

Random and sundry thoughts...

2008-08-06T14:59:00.002-05:00

It's been hectic since my return from Boca - I've been working a lot, and D.'s birthday/our anniversary was this past weekend. Here are a few thoughts from the course of the past several days:

I hate when friends lie and throw you under the bus to save face with mere acquaintances. Ouch.
Why has no one told me about Stein's Deli? D. and I went there for lunch today, and I just about inhaled my Kelly sandwich. Dear GOD, was that good...
Absinthe tastes like watered-down Good n' Plenty. And not in a good way. I'm very meh on the whole experience.
Crawfish risotto will win over neighbors in jiffy.
Any man who takes a donated fruit salad and dumps it into a blender with tequila is all right by me.
D. loves carrot cake.
The collies have been more shedtastic than usual.
I had a great time fishing off Boca Inlet with Trishy and Brooke. Also, I still have a fishing pole mark where my thighs were sunburned.
I was in a car accident on Monday. Yep, I was literally hit by a truck. Good times. I'm fine, just sore.
I need more sleep.
I really, REALLY need to lose weight.
I love The Verve's new album, and MGMT's new single "Electric Feel" is growing on me.
The crazy shovel lady case went to trial while I was in south Florida, despite me telling the DA's Office that I would be away more than a month in advance, before they continued the trial. The guy was found not guilty. He claimed self-defense. Evidently, she slapped him. The jury found it reasonable that he should respond by almost cutting her arm off with a shovel. Clearly.

Happy Birthday, D.!

2008-08-03T21:10:00.002-05:00

Hope you like your Beasley rookie jersey...oh, and...

...the Mannings should officially do all NFL commercials.

"JENGA!"

I'm back from Boca.

2008-07-31T13:30:00.000-05:00

I survived bad hotel kosher food, too.

Girl Sailor

2008-07-26T10:57:00.002-05:00

That's me - at least for today. I'm sitting in the Tampa airport, waiting for my connection to Ft. Lauderdale.

I miss D. and the monster collies already...but I'm excited to see Brookie!

The Bobby Speaks.

2008-07-24T13:34:00.002-05:00

This is a fabulous distraction from the oil fumes coating the city and its environs at the moment...

Yet another distraction? Saints training camp begins today. And Colston is there!

Jeremy Shockey

2008-07-21T15:48:00.002-05:00

Do. Not. Want.

Help me, Oprah! Help me, Tom Cruise!

2008-07-17T16:58:00.002-05:00

Please Lord, let me fit into my bridesmaid dress this Saturday.

I faithfully promise to limit my chocolate and red wine consumption, and to only stare longingly at the po'boys D. brings home from Crabby Jack's.

I promise to hit the elliptical we just bought more often and to even use the dust-gathering exercise ball that sits forlornly in our living room.

I will eat healthy things, ignoring the bounty of fried goodness that surrounds me (like the gravy cheese fries at Parasol's).

I will ignore the 902840239482309482309 degree heat and 4,000% humidity outside and walk the collies daily.

I will even Jazzercise if it means I will not look like a Jersey girl stuffed into a bright red organza dress like a piece of andouille.

Your most humble servant,

Cait the Starved

The Delachaise Blog

2008-07-17T12:03:00.001-05:00

The Delachaise Neighborhood Association has an official blog, gorgeously designed by the lovely NOLABlossom.

Check it out - between the two of us, we'll keep the neighborhood blights in line. ;)

http://delachaiseneighborhood.blogspot.com/

Chris and Rebecca

2008-07-17T11:48:00.004-05:00

Dear Chris and Rebecca,

I am so thrilled for you - D. and I are honored to be part of your wedding, and we're happy that - after 8 years of dating - you're now officially in a relationship.

Some advice:

-Rebecca, let Chris keep his Britney Spears poster (in the closet, where it belongs.)
-Chris, Rebecca's probably right. About most everything. ::wry grin::
-Rebecca, you need a Saints jersey. Drew Brees, perhaps?
-Chris, a Jaguars jersey (say...Greg Jones?) wouldn't hurt.
-Make sure to laugh a lot. It helps. For reals.
-Always remember why you love one another, and chose to commit your lives to one another.
-Keep some popcorn on hand for when friends come to visit and you decide to fake-fight.
-Chris, Italian leather shoes ARE a necessary expenditure.
-Rebecca, keep some Xanax around the house. It could prove useful during football season.
-It's okay to have a crush on Buster Posey. That goes for both of you. Get your minds out of the gutter!
-Let the little stuff slide. Always talk it out.
-Most importantly, there's no contest. The shrimp po'boy will always lose.

Then again, as D. just pointed out, we're not married...so I'm probably full of crap.

I love you both, and we'll be in Jacksonville just after lunch tomorrow.

Until then, here's a little lagniappe for two of my favorite FSU alums:

Geaux Noles, and congratulations to two of the most amazing friends I will ever have - I'm so blessed to have you in my life, and I'm so fortunate to be included in your special day.

Love,
Caiti

In a master stroke of the universe laughing at me...

2008-07-15T09:17:00.004-05:00

...two of my favorite musical acts EVER will be playing in New Orleans this weekend:

-Alejandro Escovedo
-Old 97's

D. and I will be in Jacksonville, proudly standing up for our friends Chris and Rebecca, who are getting married after nearly 8 years of dating.

We're thrilled for them...but I told Dave this means we'll be listening to an Old 97's/Escovedo mix on our 8-hour drive. :)

But if you're in town this weekend, do go check them out. You won't be disappointed, I promise.

Here's a song we're considering for our wedding ceremony:

Kicking off Friday on a happy note!

2008-07-11T09:28:00.003-05:00

D. and I attended last night's Delachaise Neighborhood Association meeting at The Columns, where 3 of the DA candidates spoke...it was very interesting (and by parts illuminating).

More on that later. I still need my coffee.

Towards that end, here's one of my new favorite picks for my road trip playlist, Black Kids. They're quasi-New Radicals, and they're a Florida band (woot!...says this Floridian) - they're actually from Jacksonville. Here's "I'm Not Going to Teach Your Boyfriend."

Lemme know what you think...I think that this band has the motivation and live show chops to have some lasting power, but time will tell, right?

Happy Soggy Wednesday Time!

2008-07-09T11:33:00.002-05:00

On a day as dreary as this (it's pouring out here in Metry), some moody, atmospheric music is ideal to cope, especially when you realize that it's gorgeously sunny uptown at the moment.

Here's "Touch Me I'm Going to Scream Part II," from My Morning Jacket:

Hey, it's less harmful to your health than an NOPD cop armed with a truck...

Progress? Quoi?

2008-07-08T09:37:00.004-05:00

I blearily peeked out from under my duvet this morning at exactly 7:01, when the jackhammers started pummeling the street outside. Jake and Charlie, who have taken to luxuriously stretching out in D.'s absence, jumped up in alarm, and promptly punctured my liver.

Well, yes, that's a bit of a stretch, but the collie maiming was very painful when paired with the siren's call of the construction outside.

Still, half the battle of progress is to accept change in all of its murky good and bad proportions, right?

So here's the latest on the burned out house (AKA "Squatter's Heaven") across the street, thanks to a patient neighbor who sat through the code enforcement hearing yesterday:

Debriefing from yesterday's Adjudication Hearing for 1908 Peniston St: After many hours of waiting for the address to be called, the new owner (Stephen Smith) and myself entered the meeting room for the court proceeding. The Code Enforcement Officer and Mr. Smith were sworn-in (anyone who speaks will be) after which the Officer read off the charges against the owner. The Officer provided photos to the Hearing Administrator who asked the owner if HE was the owner of the property and did he dispute the condition of the property or the charges. He agreed that he was the owner and guilty of all charges. He added that he had just bought the property and intended to demolish but was told that the City was working on their own demo plans and that he should wait to see what the City does."Irrelevant," stated the Administrator; "Are you aware that YOU are currently facing Civil and Criminal charges for your (in)actions?" The owner stated that he understands now! The Administrator ordered another inspection in 30 days to determine if the owner has remedied that which he was charged of; next hearing date is August 13.

But wait, there's more - the house directly across from Squatter's Heaven is a gorgeous Spanish-style house abandoned by its owner, a vice-president at Purdue University. His house is literally falling apart from the inside out, and people have been helping themselves to parts of his former home - in March I literally watched someone back a truck up the drive and steal all of the furniture from the house. Along with a ton of other neighbors, I've called the police many times to report kids from Cohen breaking in to the house or squatters taking up residence...but Mr. Rochon has thus far continued his siege on our neighborhood.

Now I get it if you're just devastated financially after a hurricane, and can't rebuild in the same area. I also understand to a certain extent when people are emotionally devastated by storm waters and high winds - I grew up in the Florida panhandle, and before I moved to NOLA I lived in south Florida (a veritable beacon of hurricane joy). I can relate to being suckered punched by Mother Nature and trying to find a scrap of determination and strength to fix things or to even start over.

But I dislike intensely the head-stuck-in the sand approach of former residents like Mr. Rochon, who instead of taking responsibility for his property, plays the "woe is me" card whenever he is contacted about the safety hazards his home and yard create for our struggling neighborhood. This man is a human Eeyore - instead of seeing the potential for revitalization he sees excuses. We all share responsibility for improving this city and ensuring its sustained future.

Did I mention that this man is a VP at Purdue? Yeah. From another neighbor:

There has been a notification of Violation and Hearing Notice posted at 1905 Peniston (Gilbert Rochon III house), and the hearing is scheduled for July 15, 2008 at 1:15 pm at 1340 Poydras Street Suite 1100. If anyone can attend, please do!!! This property has been a danger to the neighborhood as vagrants and neighborhood teens have used it as a source of income (stealing architectural items and metals), a place to sleep, a place to hang out, and a dumping ground for trash and stolen vehicles (set on fire). Mr. Rochon has been notified on several occasions of the problems that his abandoned property has caused, and he has taken insufficient steps to secure the premises. The rear of the property has been fenced, but the gate is open allowing easy access.

The Delachaise Neighborhood Association will meet Thursday at 7:00 p.m. at The Columns Hotel.

Sigh.

2008-07-07T17:16:00.006-05:00

So the city is fixing the drainage and sewer systems on our street, rendering it a place of horror for the next few months. If that means that I won't have to wade out to my car at 6:00 a.m. on a Sunday morning to move it to higher ground during a lightning storm, I'm golden.

The work began early this morning. (And yes, that's why the streets were cut down in our front yard. Grrr. Sort of.)

In semi-related news, the new slacker (erm, owner) of the burned out house diagonally across the street has been cited for not demolishing the home. As of this morning, he has thirty days to demolish it, or Code Enforcement will smite him with the unholy anger of a city struggling to cut through red tape. Here's a photo my neighbor took when a squatter set it on fire in the not-so-distant past:

Yeah. It's like that.

On the upside, I think we have a block party to look forward to the day that moldering monstrosity finally comes down.

Divinity, thy name is Sucre.

2008-07-07T16:59:00.005-05:00

So my eldest niece is on the cusp of turning 16 (egads), and frankly, that merits an insanely fabulous cake.

By insanely fabulous, I mean a cake that costs nearly what my wedding cake will. Enter Tariq Hanna, the pastry chef at Sucre, an artisanal sweets shop nestled into Magazine Street.

I called Sucre in a last minute effort to plan an impromptu Sweet 16, since I had just found out she'd be here for the 4th of July. We're not a family of moguls, so spoiled fodder for MTV this girl is not. We surprised her with her cake at Ninja (she looooooooooooves sushi) on Saturday, before surprising her with a Vampire tour of the Quarter. The poor girl just moved to Ft. Polk (near Alexandria) from Alaska, leaving all of her friends behind just before her birthday.

Ouch.

Anyhow, Tariq's efforts proved to be nothing short of phenomenal - delicate chocolate chiffon cake with cookies-and-cream filling, carefully encased in fondant.

Kayla's face was radiant when she saw her cake. I had no clue at the time, but apparently her favorite TV show is "Ace of Cakes" on the Food Network. (So yeah, I was effectively ecstatic to have made her so happy.)

Alrighty then...:)

I'm going to need about 4 hours a day on the elliptical to work off all the junk food the girls and I consumed this weekend - I need to fit into a bridesmaid's dress next weekend. ::hanging my head in mock shame::

Holy heart attack!

2008-07-07T15:05:00.003-05:00

D. is off gallivanting around Illinois with some of his family at the moment, while I am recovering from my four days of playing Aunt Cait to my two teenaged nieces.

So this morning D. woke up and checked the front page of NOLA.com, where he promptly saw the headline, "Greater St. Stephen burns down."

He called me, in shock, to relay the news, thinking that the church where we are slated to marry is now smoldering rubble. I immediately freaked out and click on the story, only to find that...

...it's a different church.

Dimitri loves Olga.

2008-07-03T14:10:00.004-05:00

A non-NOLA post today...I have PLENTY to say about the street resurfacing project, but it's rainy and I'm missing D. and I require humor.

Ergo, I present the love story of the humble Dimitri, who seeks to woo our fair Olga.

Once upon a time, handsome catch Dimitri became obsessed with a woman named Olga, whom he briefly met on a curb near the San Francisco Marina. Olga gave Dimitri a business card. Here's what followed, as reenacted with great skill on YouTube:

Crushed that he was unable to reach out to the elegant object of his desires, Dimitri valiantly tried again:

Oh, Dimitri. Be still my beating heart...

Yeah, so that was anticlimactic.

2008-07-02T15:16:00.001-05:00

The victim got cold feet and didn't show up for court today.

Oh! Congrats to Walter Dix, too.

2008-06-30T17:19:00.001-05:00

Walter became the sixth Seminole to qualify for the summer Olympics.

http://seminoles.cstv.com/sports/c-track/spec-rel/063008aaa.html

Remember the crazy shovel lady episode?

2008-06-30T17:04:00.002-05:00

Yeah, that's going to trial on Wednesday. Guess who will be testifying?

Mercy, mercy me...

2008-06-25T09:44:00.002-05:00

We got home last night only to find that the City of New Orleans had taken down the trees in front of our house without warning. There are abandoned homes in our neighborhood that require attention and instead the City is concerned with cutting down trees?!?

There goes our electricity bill...with no shade on our house during the blazing NOLA summers, I'm pretty sure our wedding fund just took a hit.

Blech.

The streetcar is back on Carrollton!

2008-06-23T14:17:00.000-05:00

Voodoo 2008

2008-06-20T12:54:00.005-05:00

So the Voodoo Fest line-up was announced this morning.

Apart from R.E.M., Old 97's, Cold War Kids, Nine Inch Nails and Death Cab for Cutie, I'm very "meh" on the list of acts.

On the one hand, it's like my high school playlist is repeating itself. So huzzah for 1995!

On the other hand...this is a disappointing letdown after the last few line-ups, eh?

Thoughts?

(But D. and I did buy weekend passes! It's R.E.M., people!)

Today is June 20th.

2008-06-20T12:47:00.001-05:00

In one year, I will be Mrs. D. :)

(That definitely makes me smile.)

Why is it that as we get older, less alcohol causes a worse hangover? Last night we had friends over for dinner. Over the course of the evening, 3 bottles of pinot grigio, a bottle of tempranillo, and a bottle of brut were consumed.

This morning at precisely 6:00 a.m., I blearily sought out our Advil supply.

Oh, well. It was a nice evening and I'm mostly recovered from the excesses of it.

Here's a recipe for what we had for dessert last night - bon appetit!

Mint Julep Poached Peaches

2 ripe peaches
1/2 c. bourbon
1/2 c. simple syrup
several springs mint

To make the simple syrup: in a small saucepan, bring 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of water to a boil; simmer until the sugar is dissolved, 3 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool completely.

Cut the peaches in half and remove the pitst. Using the blunt side of a knife blade, bruise the mint by whacking it firmly but gently several times. In a small nonreactive saucepan (large enough for all four halves to lay face down), combine the bourbon, syrup and mint and bring to a simmer; steep the mint for a few minutes, until very fragrant, then remove. Carefully drop the fruit, cut side down, into the syrup. Poach for a minute or two, depending on how soft and ripe your fruit is. Using a spoon or spatula, carefully flip the peach halves over and poach on the other side another minute or two.

Gently remove the peaches from the pan and plate them. Meanwhile, turn the heat up on the burner – to a low boil, ideally – to reduce the syrup.

Serve the peach halves warm or room temperature, whole or sliced. Spoon the reduced syrup over the peaches, and serve with vanilla ice cream.

Dance with me...

2008-06-17T12:29:00.002-05:00

Heeeeeeeeeeeey, this'll cheer me up.

Behold the Old 97's brand-spanking-new video, "Dance with Me."

The 97's will be playing at the House of Blues in New Orleans the weekend of July 19th. Alas, D. and I will be in Jacksonville for a wedding (which we wouldn't miss, even for a chance to see the cuteness that is Rhett Miller).

That just broke my heart.

2008-06-16T16:52:00.000-05:00

17 batters were left stranded on base.

Sigh.