Louisiana

Dear Chewey,

As we entered Louisiana from Arkansas, our first stop was a small town in the northeastern corner of the state called Lake Providence. It felt like driving into a scene from The Princess and the Frog. We were headed to New Orleans but couldn’t resist stopping several times to take photos of the water and the surrounding towns—including one called Transylvania (spooky), which had an equally eerie, abandoned elementary school (pictures below).

From there, we drove into Mississippi before circling back into Louisiana.

I find the entire southern U.S. to be an amazing place—so unlike much of the rest of the country. It’s like being transported to a different world, and I love it.

We got into New Orleans around 5:00 p.m., checked into our hotel, and spent the evening walking the French Quarter. It’s equal parts Disney, Las Vegas… and Tijuana. Ha.

This morning, I had incredible beignets from Café Beignet while being treated to a thunderstorm that could rival any New Mexico monsoon. Afterward, I got some homework done, woke up Avery, and we walked along the Mississippi River waterfront to build up our appetites for lunch. Lunch was just as amazing as breakfast, made even better by one of the many talented bands that frequent Bourbon Street. The band at our restaurant—and I kid you not—performed the best version of Purple Rain I’ve ever heard from anyone not named Prince.

Tomorrow we’re heading to Pensacola Beach, and Avery is super excited to see her bestie down there. As for me, I’m just excited not to drive for a few days.

Wish you were here.

I’ll write to you from Florida.

Love you,

Dad

Lake Providence

Transylvania

From the road

The Big Easy