Wednesday, January 31, 2018

Dear Kermit

Dear Kermit,
Hey there! How are ya? Are you having a good Carnivale season? So, yes, i suppose one might call this a fan letter. i'm a huge fan of you city, the music, the food, and most of all, the SPIRIT!!!
I have made several treks there over the years, 2 in 2017! New Orleans has made such an impression on me, a lasting mark on my soul, i might say. I know, i know, it's a fave of many. I'm an artist from New Mexico, and have both Spanish and Native blood running through my veins, and am VERY proud of my culture and heritage. I see New Orleans as pretty much the only other place in the US that holds their customs and traditions so dear. We New Mexicans have things that we say, do and eat that no outsider would ever understand. When i'm in your city, i feel it. I feel that same vibe. I love it so.
So, I'm really just using social media to send little letters and notes to some of my faves, and you were on that list. One, well, as i've mentioned before, i do LOVE me some New Orleans, and you seem to be one of the Crescent City's most favorite sons. I first saw you in the show Treme, whick i rewatch now and again, just to get that NOLA feeling. I looked up your music, and will gladly say that you are now on several play lists.
Anyhoo... I'm heading there for Mardi Gras again this year. Last year was so very memorable, i don't really ever want to miss it again. It'll be a short trip, literally fly in sunday, get to be there for Lundi Gras and Mardi Gras day, and then head back to Albuquerque for work. I know this is a long shot, but, i have a blog called Madeline Mariposa Musings, and a facebook page call Follow Your Bliss.
https://www.facebook.com/pg/blissgoddess/photos/?tab=album&album_id=1044728208990671

https://maddymariposa.blogspot.com/

On these, i have starteed something i call "The Bliss Project". What it is, surrounds one question. "WHAT FEEDS YOUR SOUL?" I ask random people, and take a quick pick and post them with their answers.
If you happen to be around and not busy, which, it being Mardi Gras, i know you'll be out playing music somewhere, or BBQing with your peeps, i was just wondering if there was any possibility of getting a quick pic and answer, oh, and of course a hug!
That's all darlin'.
If your people get this and are able to pass it along, well, this old soul of a girl would be ecstatic!
If not this time, perhaps when i'm back there in March.
Thanks for reading!
With Bliss,
Madeline Mariposa

Saturday, January 27, 2018

Spotted Cat Music Club, New Orleans

 
When my boyfriend and I went to NOLA for Mardis Gras, a friend told me I HAD to go here. I am SO glad he did! I LOVE this place! One, it's on Frenchman street, which is my favorite area in New Orleans, and I went back every night I was there! Best place for local, live music! GO THERE!
 
https://www.spottedcatmusicclub.com/
 
Adding to my Trip Advisor review above, I want to say, that I noticed The Spotted Cat often on the show Treme!  It was great to see it so honored and revered in a show about the people and the music of such a wonderful city!

Praline Connection, Frenchman Street

Ok, there are so many things to love about this place! One, it's on Frenchman Street! Two, the service is really great! Three, the FOOD! Not necessarily in that order, either! I've been there for dinner and let me tell you, the fried okra is perfect! Last weekend, while walking around Frenchman street, my boyfriend and I had a sweet tooth! We went in and had sweet potato pie, coffee, Bailey's and something call a "shoe soul" That thing, well, I want another one now!!!
 
http://www.pralineconnection.com/
 






 

Friday, January 26, 2018

House of Blues New Orleans

Although I LOVE New Orleans, I had yet to go to House of Blues. We went last spring to see my partner's favorite musician, Matisyahu, and I am SO glad we did! We first ate dinner outside on the patio, on a gorgeous spring night, to the super fun sounds of a local blues band, who's name eludes me at the moment, but boy howdy, their sound does not! We then made out way in to the concert venue, and decided to upgrade out tickets to VIP so we could go upstairs. We hung out inside the lounge for about an hour, sipping fabulous cocktails and enjoying the 80s cover band, and people watching. As everyone made their way in to the show, we followed suite. The views from the balcony area and the sound were superb. We had so much fun, and danced so much, security came and asked us if we would like to be close, and guided down a few steps. THAT made out night even MORE special! Can't wait to go back! Will be there for Mardi Gras and again for Matisyahu! YAY!!!!! <3


http://www.houseofblues.com/neworleans



Monday, January 22, 2018

The Bliss Project

In the last year, under the regime of "The Orange One" or, as I usually refer to him, the "Cheeto in Chief", it is my belief that most well meaning, and consciously aware Americans have been experiencing some sort of chaos or depression.  It's hard to know what's to come of our country when there is a monkey running amuck in the White House, right?  Well, after chatting with friends and seeing how this was actually creating a new sense of urgency in people to "live for today" and "make this life count", I decided that I wanted to collect stories, so speak.  To talk to folks about what they do to keep a smile on their face, or, ya know, stay hopeful, see the light. What feeds their soul??? 
The Bliss Project can be found on my Facebook page: Follow Your Bliss
Here's a link to the photo album:
https://www.facebook.com/pg/blissgoddess/photos/?tab=album&album_id=1044728208990671







 
Remember,
Be Kind
Be Honest
Be Brave
~ALWAYS~
 

Fry and Pie ~ New Orleans

After a night of eating, drinking and art shows, my boyfriend and I did a late night stroll through the neighborhood we were staying in. Our host had mentioned this place, and we decided we needed a late night treat~ We had something savory and something sweet and both were fabulous!
 
https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=8513453329861810208#editor/target=post;postID=8330535540065833994
 







 

Cake Cafe, New Orleans

 
This has seriously become our favorite place for breakfast when visiting New Orleans! We have never had a bad experience there. They always seem to be busy, but the service is always quick and friendly. The baked goods are out of this world and everything we have tried off the menu is simply to die for. During Mardi Gras, be sure and have a slice of king cake!
 
Adding to this from my Trip Advisor review, i'll be back in New Orleans on Mardi Gras and will be for sure stop by for breakfast AND King Cake!!! CAN NOT WAIT!!!