31 Days of Halloween in New Orleans Update

So I kind of got a bit distracted with all sorts of happenings to keep up with what all we've done for our 31 days of Halloween. We've watched a bunch of scary movies, played dress up in so many costumes, made some yummy fall treats, and enjoyed some outdoor time. This past weekend mom and dad came to visit! We spent some time in the French Quarter, went to the Halloween Festival at the French Market, and even took a road trip! Here are some of the photos :)

31 Days of Halloween in New Orleans: Days 11, 12, 13 & 14

The last few days have continued to be about costumes! We've been on the search for our many costume pieces and over the past few days we've managed to score pirate boots, vampire teeth, a pirate hat, an Effie Trinket dress, the pieces of my soon-to-be handmade voodoo staff, and today I got a hair wrap that I hope to wear with my voodoo queen garb. This weekend will be our first costume occasion and I can hardly wait! It's "Boo Carre" at the French Market. Stay tuned for pictures!

Louisiana Seafood Festival Time!!

After the NAMI Walk, and a nap, we headed to City Park for the annual Louisiana Seafood Festival. It's a FREE festival that is all about seafood! There was plenty of live music and the weather was great for an outdoor festival. Matt had Catfish, Creole Corn, and Cajun Rice. I had Corn & Crab Soup in a Bread Bowl with Watermelon Lemonade! Perfect :)

New Orleans NAMI Walk

I was so happy when my boss agreed to let our agency be a sponsor of the New Orleans NAMI Walk. I was even happier when over 40 people from my company showed up to walk! I spent a few days making signs for us all to carry and several weeks promoting the walk to get people excited. Regardless of my city or residence, where I work, or what my job title is, I will always be interested in recovery and wellness. I believe it is so important that mental illness, stigma, treatment, and recovery are topics we talk openly and publicly about and that people with mental illness are viewed the same way as someone with cancer or diabetes. I thought about my AIM Center friends many times today. I miss you guys! Here are a few pictures of our group!

Balcony Dining in the French Quarter

We have spent many hours in the French Quarter this week! We've had beignets, we've took leisurely strolls, we've had some of the best gelato ever, and last night we had our first "Balcony Dining" experience at Frank's Italian & Seafood Restaurant overlooking Decatur Street. The weather is amazing!

31 Days of Halloween in New Orleans: Day 9 & 10

The last two days were all about costume shopping! I now have my Effie Trinket costume as well as my pirate outfit and pirate hat for the Renaissance Festival (I still need boots!) Just about one more week for all the costume shenanigans to begin!!!

31 Days of Halloween in New Orleans: Day 8

Watching The Nightmare Before Christmas for the first time tonight!