Is it just me or is Wednesday night the worst night of television all week long? Oh, I know there are a bunch of you who watch “Lost”, but that convoluted ship passed me by about three years ago. And, yes, there’s always the “American Idol” results show, but Seacrest kills me with all his drama.
Dude, it’s just a talent competition, not something important like the Showcase Showdown on “The Price is Right”.
Anyway, none of that is really the issue here. Consider it foreshadowing for all the nonsense that’s to come.
Over the last few days, a couple of questions have come up that I wanted to answer. Not to mention the fact that I can’t really come up with anything else to write about.
1. Many of you asked how I know Beth Moore. The short version is that I became friends with her daughter, Amanda, through the wonder that is the internet. We’d read each other’s blogs for about a year and finally got to meet in person at a Deeper Still event in Atlanta last summer when I was there to write for the Allaccess blog.
Since then, we’ve seen each other from time to time if we happen to be in the same city and have become real life friends, not just nerdy computer friends.
So, going out to dinner with Beth isn’t a regular occurrence. In fact, that’s the only time it’s ever happened. Although she does call me CONSTANTLY when she needs someone to translate a Biblical reference to the original Hebrew.
If my twenty-year-old self could read that last sentence she would die a little because how did I become a person who makes dorky Bible study jokes?
Truth be told, I don’t know any Hebrew. Except “shalom, y’all”.
2. The other question was about the ribbons on my front door.
That is a Fiesta wreath. There is a big celebration every year in April called Fiesta. It involves lots of parades and people dressing up as faux royalty and riding in police-escorted caravans all over town so they can blaze through stoplights like they’re on their way to a medical emergency as opposed to visiting a local preschool to hand out medals to a group of people who aren’t even potty-trained.
Anyway, you see these wreaths everywhere in San Antonio. Many of them have all sorts of little things tucked in them like a tiny Mariachi band that plays “Guantanamera”, but I chose to go with something more simple.
If you can call something covered in multi-colored ribbons and flowers that are bigger than my head, simple.
And I believe that concludes the question-answering portion of this post, but I have an idea.
If you have any other questions that you’ve ever wanted to ask, leave them in the comments and I’ll do my best to answer some of them at some point next week, or maybe never depending on how I feel and what the questions are.
I’ll even tell you what I weigh. In my dreams.
Also, I’m heading to New Orleans this weekend so if you have any restaurant recommendations, feel free to share.
And thus concludes a post that makes even less sense than “Lost”.
I think the place is called Brennan’s. A bit pricy but delicious!!
Any update on the clampets trailer across the street? LOL
steff
Do you realize how adorable your daughter is?
Umm all you need to do is make sure you go here! It’s N.O. tradition, girl!
http://www.cafedumonde.com/beignet.html
Coffee and Beignets are a meal for those who know how to live.
Wednesday night is Ghost Hunters!
Why don’t you watch that?
I had to make it into a question…
Restaurant Suggestions: Emeril’s Delmonico – on St. Charles in the Garden District, Brigtsen’s (probably not the right spelling) Uptown – in a cute house and our favorite meal we had! And of course, Commander’s Palace (where Emeril, Paul Prudhomme and many others got their start!) in the Garden District. We had our first meal as a married couple there and loved it!
I am scared to death of moving to the south because of killer bees!! Have you or anyone you know seen and/or had any contact with them?? Love your blog!
Big Mama…
If you are looking for something good to watch on Wednesday nights, you just about can’t go wrong with A&E’s, “Dog the Bounty Hunter.” There’s suspense, air-soft guns, lots of bleach-blonde hair, and despite the first twenty-five minutes of the show where Dog’s profanity is bleeped out,…a nice Christian prayer at the end. They don’t call it Arts and Entertainment for nothing. Happy viewing!
PS-We follow that up with “The Exterminators” which is the tale of Ricky and his Louisana adventures with bees, possums, and a dysfunctional family.
Oh my gosh, you have to try Antoine’s in NO. It’s a bit pricy but it’s been there for something like 160 years. Really.
The BEST Sunday brunch in New Orleans can be found at The Court of Three Sisters – right in the middle of downtown. It has old world ambiance, amazing food, and just enough pampering that you feel like you want to stay a while! We loved it – can you tell?
http://www.crazyjohnnies.net
It is wonderful and very inexpensive for the quallity of food. Wonderful prime rib and shrimp.
The eggs benedict po boy at Stanley on Jackson Square will make you cry with its perfection.
Brennan’s and Court of Three Sisters are both excellent. On the no-go list, add Yo Mama’s. We were at Mardi Gras back when I was pg with my son (outreach!) and were ministering to this guy named Garland on the streets. He said in a deep cajun accent “hey, let’s go eat at my favorite bar and grill” and my husband, our team, and I are thinking “oh, Applebees-ish!” and then proceeded to walk into a narrow bar with a picture of a naked woman wrapped in a snake on the walls. I guess she was yo mama. Anyway, the bartender was amazed at the whole group of us ordering Diet Cokes and Dr. Pepper and opened up a whole new conversation of why we were there. I love NOLA for that reason, you don’t even have to look for places to share your faith–they are everywhere!
Lengthy… sorry!
I’m not into Lost or American Idol either and since you asked for some questions I was just wondering what is your favorite TV show? …oh, can I ask two questions? …If you could do – or have – one thing just for yourself what would it be?
Cafe du Monde of course but for good food I would do Courtyard of The Three Sisters and Mother’s (a whole in the wall but yummy, yummy. They also have great breakfast.) You kind of have to know what you are doing when you go in to order (think Soup Nazi but with a southern accent) so it helps to look things over before you go :0) http://www.mothersrestaurant.net/mothers_dictionary.htm. Have Fun!
Oh Big Mama, you MUST partake in beignets at Cafe du Monde! OH. MY. GOODNESS! I am certain that we can eat these fried hunks of dough, doused with sugar, all day when we get to heaven!
Also, Mother’s Restaurant on Poydrus (i think that is the correct but if not any local can tell you exactly) THE BEST roast beef po boy EVEAH!!!!!
Enjoy and I can’t wait to hear your report!
Happy Thursday!
I about died laughing with the comment about the tortilla and Beth Moore’s hair!!
I wish I lived somewhere that a Fiesta wreath would not cause my neighbors to question my sanity – so bright and happy!
I’ve only been to New Orleans once. In college for spring break. Was not that crazy. Don’t remember anywhere we ate since we mostly camped out and cooked our own food since we were poor and not into partying. Don’t camp. Our food was bad.
What do you expect from poor college students?
First, I’m jealous – dinner w/Beth and I live minutes from Living Proof and have only seen her from a far distance and on DVD’s!!! Second, you crack me up – I look forward to a dose of Big Mama w/my cup of coffee every morning. Love to meet you!
Third, a question…have you ever bought a Boden swimsuit – do they fit well, just OK???
From left field: Anyone who has read your blog for more than 2 days can see your palpable love of mexican and junk food. But I want to know how you stay so gosh darn trim (my gramma’s phraseology)? Do you work out tons? Eat sensible foods that you don’t blog about? Or is the love of guacamole and corn dogs just a clever facade to make us identify with you more? Cause you know all I want right now is a corn dog with guacamole dip.
Cafe du Monde, of course.
Mama’s for a shrimp po boy.
agree with Antoine’s…pricey, but YUM.
Semolina’s on Magazine St. YUMMY Chicken Enchilda Pasta…right up your alley.
And yes beignet’s. Crazy Johnnies…great steaks! And look up Chucky C and Clearly Blue to see if they are playing anywhere. LOVE that man!
Okay,my question is this.I wonder why you tell us your name and your daughter’s name but all we get with the hubby is a capital “P”.Is he a secret service outdoorsman?
I have eaten my way through NO more times than I can count. Sadly that must have put me into a food stupor because I can’t remember any names of restaurants. Except NOLAs. That was great!
Cochon. My brother’s rehearsal dinner was there and we were served multiple courses with mutliple choices within each course, family style, so you could try everything. It was AMAZING! I couldn’t remember the name so I googled “NOLA restaurants” and a guy who rates restaurants had it as his number one. When I read his review, he ate A LOT OF WEIRD Stuff! We had some things I’d never had, but nothing like alligator!
So, obviously, this place has some strange offerings, but “normal” stuff too!
It’s really awesome cajun dining.
Cochon
930 Tchoupitoulas St
(504) 588-2123
http://www.cochonrestaurant.com
love the wreath, love the front door…thanks for sharing.
)
I have never been to NO but I know by reputation that you will have plenty of wonderful resturants to choose from.
Let me see if I can come up with a question:
How hard or easy was the decision to leave the outside work place and be a stay at home (still working) mom?
I totally love what Clair wrote about “Dog the Bounty Hunter.” Too bad that is what I enjoyed last night….followed by “The Exterminators”….What a life I live!!
Heres my question: I am from the Beaumont area in Texas. Do you visit this area often and did you grow up around Beaumont?
restaurant: the Redfish Grill, on bourbon street, was delicious – their bread was warm and crusty, and the yellowfin tuna I had was a party in my mouth! And I just saw Brennan’s (which some other people mentioned) on the Food Network last night, and that’s where Bananas Foster was invented – YUM!
question: this too was also mentioned, but how do you manage to stay thin? I’ve seen lots of Mexican food & the results of your trips to the HEB, so if you could offer any hints, we’d appreciate it : )
This might be a bit personal, but since you often talk about your “ovaries hurting” I thought I’d be brave and ask: Do you and P plan on having more children (naturally or by adoption)? Has Caroline ever asked for a bro or sis, or does she like to have the whole spotlight to herself?
And yes, how much do you weigh? Please don’t block me from your blog
I just have a comment about the “y’all”. I am a midwestern girl, but I subscribe to so many Texans’ & southern girls’ blogs, that I often say “y’all” in my head. Sometimes I think it’s going to come out in my blog writing. There’s a part of me that believes I shoulda been born in Texas and not Indiana.
I live in Saint Louis, but I am totally going to make a fiesta wreath! I love it!
Oh, and I posted my weight a few weeks ago. I figured the accountability would help me lose a little? It hasn’t worked yet.
I live very close to New Orleans and every time we go to the French Quarters we go to Cafe du Monde and ALWAYS go to Cafe Maspero! They have awesome Po Boys and are famous for their Muffuletta’s (don’t know exactly how to spell them- just eat them!
This is for the lower price range…perfect for lunch time. The other suggestions made are wonderful too, some a tad pricey. Hope you have fun- it’s a great place to visit. I usually can only handle a day at a time because it’s simply like it’s own little world- and oh my word the sights you will see! But, I still love the history and architecture; and of course the beignets and muffuletta’s!
Ok- I must say that I am thrilled to pieces about the question/answer thingy. I have been reading for several years and I have been dying to know more about Gulley. Ok, I’m assuming that would be her nickname, right? Or does she go by that? Or is it a totally made up name for the safety of the internet? Where did you guys meet, etc? I have always wished for a friendship like that. I have many friends, several of whom would drop everything on a moments notice if need be- but I don’t share the same connection with any 1 particular person that you seem to have with her. We are so busy with family, church/ ministry, life, etc it just is so hard to keep friendships as a priority. You guys seem to have that all worked out and it seems amazingly fun to have someone like that in your life.
Ok, so now that I’ve written a novel- hope you have a great time in New Orleans and really hope you have the opportunity to answer my question one day… inquiring minds really want to know if Gulley is her real name.
Wednesday night is the only timeframe during the week that I turn on the TV and it is truly the highlight of my week (as pathetic as that sounds).
I understand your reluctance to watch Lost because I felt exactly the same way until about a year ago. But let me tell you, I dove in, got caught up, and it has CHANGED my life! (OK… not really.) But it has made it more fun. Because, you see, Lost isn’t just a TV show, it’s sort of a lifestyle. You can’t just watch it and forget about it. It requires research, dedication, message boards!
I do feel a little bad for people who don’t watch it in a weird sort of way because it’s probably the best TV show ever written in the history of mankind. So would you just consider renting the first season and watching if for me?? You know, for someone you’ve never met, but who has done many Beth Moore studies and is leading one right now and so, therefore, we are somehow connected??? Please?
(That’s my question.)
Big Mama,
I just got back from NYC and I am jealous about your trip to NOLA! Because, well, it’s all about food for me.. I had to chuckle at the killer bees comment.. do we have killer bees.. I’m from Texas, living in Nashvegas.. but I can’t get that 70′s movie with the chick in the volkswagon trying to escape the bees OUT OF MY HEAD!!! hahahahah!
YES! Wednesday night IS the worst TV night EVER! And considering how crowded my Monday and Thursday TV nights are, it kinda ticks me off.
Glad to hear I’m not alone in this very important issue.
Hmm, I thought you might be from San Antonio, and the wreath just confirmed it. Spent some time in Laredo, oh my, was that a scary place, but loved going to San Antonio every month to buy dog food–yep they only had Ol’ Roy in Laredo!
Anyway, did you know that I went to school with Jennifer Broome and guess what?? She has curly hair, I just thought you ought to know!
Killer bees? I’ve lived in Texas all my life and was unaware The South was known as Killer Bee Capital of the World. Missed the boat on that one!
Love your blog and your randomness…
I know it’s been mentioned a time or twelve, but you have to have Café du Monde. Divine beignets.
Let me guess, it’s going to be some fashion advice!
The questions: Would you ever take Caroline and P on a Compassion trip with you? What is one thing you want to teach Caroline from your own past mistakes, if any?
First, thank you for blog-mitting (admitting in your blog) that you enjoy a nap now and then. Even though my kids are 10 and 7, I still feel like I haven’t quite caught up on my sleep debt from the first couple colic filled years. Thanks to you I am ditching the guilt I occasionally feel over taking my Sabbath rest smack dab in the middle of the week. Shalom ya’ll.
Second, I know NO is an abbreviation for New Orleans, but when someone posted in their comment, “I have eaten my way through NO more times than I can count”, I audibly giggled.
Third, a parenting question. Do you make Caroline do chores? What kinds? And more importantly…how do you motivate yourself to motivate her?
I really love that wreath. Truly.
Is there a website I can look at to see what craziness will be going on while we’re in SA?
How about fashion friday post about girls’ clothes? What are your favorite places to shop for children? Where do you like to shop for dresses, shoes, and hairbows? Maybe some fancy ideas for special ocassions and some bargains. Thanks!!
Eat at local places. Try to avoid the big chains like House of Blues or Hard Rock Cafe. You will get a better feel of the local flavor that way. Try some Gator and go to Emeril’s place.
in new orleans…restaurant august. it’s fabulous. and, of course, you cannot leave unless you’ve been to cafe du monde for benets. they are powdered-sugar-covered pillows from heaven!
This is very personal, so if you don’t want to answer I understand. Do you and your husband want to have any more children?
I’d like to second Café Maspero for lunch, or even stopping by Central Grocery on Decatur St. to grab a muffaletta and enjoying it from a park bench on the riverwalk, as you watch the boats go by. Definitely visit Café du Monde for beignets – it’s a must!
Did you make the wreath yourself or purchase it somewhere? I love crazy wreaths – too fun!
Big Mama -
Did you ever watch Gilmore Girls? You SO remind me of Lorelai – one of the best TV characters of all time!
Love reading your blog – keep it coming!
Becca
I wanna know P’s real name…
I make up a new name for him each time I read. Patrick, Paul, Perry, Pete, Pablo…
Also, rhetorical question, but did u know that i read my blogs in order from least favorite to most-us favoritus! yes, I am a bit OCD, but you should know that win the mostus favoritus award!
I’d get a cheeseburger at Camilla Grill.
And-fyi-you were totally right about Friday Night Lights.
I so agree with Becca!!!
And no matter what you talk about it’ll make more sense than “Lost”.
Okay, I have what I’m sure is a trivial question and I wasn’t going to post it but now I see a commenter has mentioned HEB in her comment and so I changed my mind. I really need someone to tell me what is HEB? Thank you.
Do you read all your comments? That’s another question. I hope so because I’m number 40-something.
I am so with you on that … Wednesday night tv stinks. My husband decided to go to the Mavs game last night, and I said, “You can’t stay out late on a Wednesday! I might actually pay attention to you.” … as opposed to the other nights where I am loving the tube. And, I am O U T on Lost. blech!
We have a timeshare in N.O and spent our 7 days there last Summer. The BEST restaurant that we ate at was Emeril’s NOLA in the French Quarter (try the duck!!). Obviously you have to do Cafe Du Monde (several times). We did the river cruise and the food was WAY below what we were expecting, my opinion is do a cruise during the day but skip the eating part! We enjoyed Acme Oyster house and Denie’s which were w/in walking distance to our place. Both on Iberville, I think. Gosh, there is SO much to choose from. Just eat LOTS of seafood and enjoy the spicy crawfish as I secretly hate you for getting to eat some!!!!!!
Oh how I love the wonder that is DVR. It lets me power right through all of Ryan’s drama.
My question: What if there was a horrible new law passed that limited TV watching to one show a week. What would you choose to watch?
Did I mention that I am from LA, so going to NO is like eating in Heaven over and over again!!
I would pass on Cafe Maspero when I am there again (but thats my personal opinion!!). I liked the poboys at Cafe Pontablo (I dont know about the spelling-it’s just across the street (to the left when looking @) from St Louis Cathedrial) MUCH better. There is also a po boy place that is only open at lunch, I think it’s Johnny’s or something.
There is a place right next to NOLA (the restaurant) that is a cooking school thing. You go in and learn to make gumbo or something and get to eat it and take some with you. I want to do this next time we are there!!!
It’s all about the DIVES. They always have the BEST food!!!
Skip New Orleans, stay home this weekend and rent the entire series of LOST so you can see that the ship has not sailed without you and it really is the best show on TV (much better than oh, maybe….24?!?). Go ahead and make yourself a big pot of gumbo if it makes you feel better.
Hi Big Mama! I thought I’d chime in to tell you that you are one seriously funny person and I hardly EVER read your blog without laughing hysterically! I’m from South Carolina which has it’s own “Southern Flavor.” (different from Texas I’m sure, but still the South, Y’all.)
Anyway, I’m about to have my 4th (and final) baby and just wondered if you were done having kids? You mention kinda wanting another sometimes on your blog, so I was just curious if you were done after one or if you might ever have another?
Love the pictures, fashion advice and laughter I find here all the time! Keep on writing..the random stuff is sometimes the funniest b/c it’s so real!
When in New Orleans – and not doing the obligatory beignets and cafe au lait at Cafe Du Monde – you mustmustmust go to Pere Antoines in the Quarter. They have Monte Cristo and fruit for breakfast that makes you want to slap your momma
Ok, I had a friend in Grad school in new orleans for a few years and visited her along with the drive thru daquiri shops! Yikes, can’t believe I ever did that! Anyway we had to go to Deanie’s SeaFood every trip…
Hope you get a chance to eat it! It’s definitely my fave….
Oh my gosh, my husband and I just had the same conversation last night that Wednesday is totally the worst night for tv. I’m so glad you agree with us!
Because I love you, I will overlook the insult to Lost. That is all.
Wednesday night TV suggestion: “Life”
I LOVE this show and I’m currently trying to watch the early episodes so I can understand the background a little better. I promise you won’t be disappointed!
I know that Beth is blessed to have you translate Hebrew for her. lol I love your wreath and I was happy to see it in person last year. You have a pretty home and well, you know how I feel about your grass/yard.
I do have a question: A Siesta provided for Holly and I to attend the Wyoming LPL conference in May. We would like to know if you are going to be there?
I can’t believe I am going to Wyoming. I can’t wait to hear the message!
Praying for you this weekend. When my brother was working he worked in New Orleans for awhile and he loved the food there!
Love,
Patty
Hi
We ate at Mayas on Magazine Street for lunch and it was fabulous! If you go, you must order the chips and guacomole, once the chips were gone, we were literally licking the plate clean.
Also loved Herbsaint and NOLA. Have a great time in NO.
I second Jill’s request for a Fashion Friday about girls’ clothing – where you shop for Caroline and where to get bargains, etc.
Also, what bubble bath and/or shampoo do you use for her? I’m in search of a good bath product for my kids. I’m a reformed Johnson and Johnson user, using California Baby for the time being. Just curious if you recommend anything! Thanks!
When my husband was in seminary in NOLA we were flat broke and didn’t get to eat at many of the famous, fancy NOLA restaurants. However, we did have a native NOLA family in our church who introduced us to Deanies.
http://deanies.com/bucktown.html
I have to say, the first time we went I was oh so not excited because I thought they wanted to go to DENNY’S and that didn’t interest me at all! We now live 12 hours from NOLA and I often sit around and try to figure out logical reasons that would require me to go to NOLA just so I can go to Deanies to eat. We once drove a youth group on a mission trip 3 hours from AL into NOLA just to eat at Deanies. If you like seafood, it is a MUST. We have only been to their Bucktown location, but I understand that there is one in the French Quarter as well.
Have fun! I am jealous!
I love the wreath – my friend’s the Millers (Kyle’s parents) are from San Antonio, but I’ve only been there once, but I really enjoyed the River Walk….and I think I saw the Alamo – was there for work very quickly about 11 years ago.
I have a question for you – did you ‘find God’ or did you grow up a Christian? And I think you will find it funny that I just initially spelled that ‘Christina’ – so, have you always gone by the name Christina???? Yeah, I think I need some coffee – what do you think?
Have you ever convinced Caroline to wear one of those little Fiesta tiara/wreath things?
I love the polka-dot jacket you are wearing in your Twitter picture. Where did it come from?
Au contraire mon ami! Wednesday is the best night of TV for our family – and we aren’t even HOME on Wednesdays to watch it as we’re at mid-week Bible study. Trusty TiVo to the rescue!
We like the following, all neatly fitted into a grid so as to not lose ANY of them: Life, Lie to Me, and Better Off Ted (okay, the jury is still out on that last one but I thought I’d give it a fighting chance…)
AI is dead to me this year. I finally lost patience with it, with Simon and Paula’s “love-hate-but-always-touching-each-other” nauseous relationship, the whole “Dawg!” thing with Randy, the serious lack of talent this year. Still record it but find I just delete most of it without even bothering to watch it.
New Orleans – hm, we lived there for 6 months but it seemed more like years. Got to Texas as soon as we could. But man, can I eat my way across that city! Commanders Palace is considered cliche but you can “cliche” me all you want because they have the best bread pudding and whiskey sauce I’ve ever had! And if you get across the lake to Mandeville – where we lived when we were there, there’s a great restaurant nearby. Friends on the Tchefuncte – 407 St. Tammany St., Madisonville, LA 70447. Casual dining on our deck over the Tchefuncte River. (504) 845-7303. They have SWEET POTATO HUSH PUPPIES!! Roll those babies in some sugar and you will never want a “normal” donut again! Seafood is fantastic too but those hushpuppies…oh…my…word….
Have fun and try to keep weight gain to 5 lbs or less. Hard to do in New Orleans. That city = great food.
Here are two of my picks for restaurants in New Orleans. Brennan’s is SO GOOD but pricey. Johnny’s Po Boys is not fancy whatsoever but definitely YUMMY!!
http://www.brennansneworleans.com/
http://johnnyspoboy.com/
Have fun!
Kerri
So I think you are one funny gal! Your blog cracks me up…
I’m from Corpus Christi so San Antonio is like our little day trip alot…And I gotta get me that wreath! It’s FAB! So where do you get them? Like at the mercado?
There is only one restaurant in New Orleans that you need to find. A tiny little place called Deanie’s (NOT to be confused with Denny’s)… order the ‘barbeque shrimp’ (don’t worry, its not texas style barbeque), wear a bib, die and go to heaven, come back and thank me. in that order. stat.
btw, Deanie’s French Quarter is located on Iberville Street, between Bourbon Street and Dauphine Street
Are Fiesta wreaths new? Or are they common in particular areas of town? I ask because I went to high school there and my parents lived in San Antonio until 2005, and I don’t remember ever seeing or even hearing about them.
And that wreath is so colorful and happy that I wish I had known about them!
I live close to NOLA and by far my favorites are:
Snack- Cafe du Monde (beignets and coffee)
Breakfast- Brennans (Three course breakfast with Bananas Foster for dessert!)
Lunch/Dinner- Emeril’s Delmonico, The Palace, or to save money (but wait in a long line) Cafe Maspero
As a plus, those are all in the French Quarter where the best shopping is and where you’re most likely to run into Brad and Angelina (we have
)
I haven’t been to New Orleans in a few years, but these are a few of my favorite places.
Commander’s Palace is a little pricey but one of the Brennans also owns a little place on Canal Street called Palace Cafe. The crabmeat cheesecake are delicious and the white chocolate bread pudding? Don’t get me started. I also enjoyed Mulate’s the last time I was there. Aunt Sally’s on Decatur isn’t a restaurant but they have yummy pralines.
New Orleans is one of my favorite places in the whole wide world to eat.
I’m a NOLA local, and I’m going to tell you about a hole-in-the-wall place you HAVE to try. It’s called The Alpine and it’s downtown on Chartres right beside Jackson Square (so you could still get your FQ sightseeing in). BEST CRAB CAKES EVER. And the Redfish Amer is to die for. http://www.thealpinebistro.com/index.html
I saw some people recommend Deanie’s. It’s pretty good for fried seafood. Just make sure you go to the one in Bucktown by the lake.
I don’t recommend Mother’s on Poydras. It’s an institution but the servers are rude and I’m not a fan of cabbage on my po-boys.
If you want a great, short-order grill, you have to go to the Camellia Grill in the Riverbend on Carrollton (by the Audubon Zoo). You’ll have a heart attack from all the fat and butter they use, but it’s the best cheeseburger I’ve ever had. Very entertaining wait staff. You might have to wait in line a few minutes depending on what time of day you go, but it’s completely worth it. Order Caroline a chocolate freeze.
http://www.camelliagrill.net/
And for breakfast or lunch (they close at dinner) I recommend Russell’s Marina Grill in Lakeview on Lake Pontcharchain. Great breakfasts, sandwiches, wraps, seafood, etc. They close at 3, so you’d have to go before then. Plus you could drive around by the lake and see how well Lakeview has rebuilt from Katrina (it was completely washed away).
Hope this helps! Email me for any other recommendations or questions: future.pastors.wife@gmail.com
Hope you have a great trip!
Ok, I used to live in NO. Some restaurants you MUST go to–
Court of Two Sisters has a FABULOUS brunch and atmosphere, Commander’s Palace is pricey, but worth it, it’s where Emeril started, Cafe Du Monde is a must for a snack, Brennan’s is great also, a bit pricey too. A favorite of ours we always visit when back home is a chain of gas stations, I know, I know, Danny & Clyde’s. They have GREAT po boys and they are price right!! Another place that’s great and affordable is Semolina’s, it’s pasta and really great. Have a fabulous time, in NO it’s ALL about the food!!!
Oh, and one more thing: my hubby had lunch at Brennan’s yesterday. He said it was OK, but definitely not worth the price. I don’t want you to come to NOLA and feel like you got ripped off.
There’s a new restaurant in New Orleans called Huevos. I think that means eggs, but I don’t really know. They’re open for breakfast and lunch.
A guy I went to high school with opened it up with a buddy and I read a review of it that made me so very hungry. So I would look them up!
Have fun! Oh, and yeah, Cafe Du Monde for coffee and beignets.
Ok, so I have never ventured further into the deep south than Perry, GA, but I wanted to let you know that there is GOOD programming on Wednesday night. Say hello to my little friends: Lie to Me and Criminal Minds.
I thought Wednesday nights were a waste of TV until I discovered these two shoes recently.
Yea!!!!!! New Orleans, my hometown, I can sooooo help you out here!!!!!! Ok, Camellia Grill on S Carrollton, almost to St. Charles for burgers and omelets all day long, must go see!!!!! Mother’s on Poydras for breakfast, go early, cannot miss it, will be the one with a line around the corner waiting to get in all day!!!! If you wanna splurge for brunch (and it is sooo worth it), Commander’s Palace on Washington in the Garden District is beyond divine and a super treat. Commander’s will probably have strawberry desserts right now that are always good but bread pudding is my fav and HEAVENLY!!!!! Ok, sorry that was super long but being a local, I had to share some of my favs that maybe tourists may or may not know about. Cannot wait to see and read your post about your trip, sooo fun!!!!
I liked your sensless post.
Enjoy your trip! You’ve got a great wreath.
-FringeGirl
Have you ever seen “Lie to Me”? We love that show!
If you have the chance go to the Cafe Maspero. They have the best po’boys and muffuletta you have ever put in your mouth
And one morning you have to hit cafe du monde! Absolutely heavenly 
I am seriously cracking up at Joyce’s question “what is HEB?”!!!!! I guess you have to be from South Texas to know what that is!!!! I am and I do, but I’m not telling!!
As for tv on Wednesday — the best show by far is Damages on FX. My DH and I are both hooked on that show and have a standing date night to watch it. Season 2 just ended last night, but I would highly recommend you going back and watching both season 1 and 2.
But you have to watch them in order because it jumps around ALOT and it’s kinda easy to get confused!!!
Love your blog!!!
What’s the air-speed velocity of an unladen swallow?
And how did you dress cute when you were pregnant? I’m thinking of writing my own little “Fashion Friday” post about maternity-wear. If I can summon enough energy to actually write an entire post without falling asleep in the middle of it.
In NOLA, I would skip all of the famous places (Brennan’s/Commander’s Palace/Emeril’s) and go for slightly smaller restaurants. Restaurant August (downtown) is excellent, if pricey, and I think the chef was honored by Food and Wine magazine a couple of years ago as best new chef. For a somewhat more low-key but still nice dinner, I recommend Lilette on Magazine Street (uptown), which is kind of a modern southern/french bistro. There is a divey bar near there called St. Joe’s with a cool back patio and good mojitos. For breakfast, Penelope’s in the French Quarter has great french toast. And for an amazing hamburger and baked potato in a totally authentic New Orleans dive, try Port of Call on Esplanade Street. And yes, Cafe Du Monde begniets are a must.
Love love love your blog. I have a fashion question… I have a cute little navy dress that needs some cropped leggings to go with. I have some gray ones, but am having trouble with shoes (no black b/c of navy, no brown b/c of gray leggings.) So do I get a different color legging? Like brown or white- white kinda scare me.
Any suggestions?
My “guilty pleasure” show is on Wednesdays. I can’t help it – I just love America’s Next Top Model!
Lucky you! New Orleans is home for me, but I’m away at college and just wishin I could be home this weekend. But moving on to a topic of greater importance—FOOD.
For more traditional Creole or Cajun fare:
New Orleans Food & Spirits-great seafood
Praline Connection-good home cookin’
Palace Cafe
Red Fish Grill-their chocolate bread pudding is so good I almost fell out of my chair. And I don’t even like bread pudding.
Bourbon House-spinach salad with red onion and pecans is lovely
Jacque-Imo’s Cafe
*Cafe du Monde for a cafe au lait and beignets is a must.
Parkway Bakery has the best poboys!
Superior Grill or Juan’s Flying Burrito for Mexican.
Zea’s Grill & Rotisserie on St. Charles is good.
Port of Call has the best burgers!
Rock-n-Sake is the be-all-end-all in sushi.
Hipstix is great for Thai.
Italian Pie for great pizza.
Houston’s for steak.
*Sucré for dessert. This is a must. Their desserts almost too beautiful to eat and veryvery affordable. Plus it looks like Tiffany’s in there.
Commander’s Palace, Emeril’s, and Court of Two Sisters are good, but definitely pricey.
I know, this is more than you ever wanted to know about New Orleans dining, but can you tell I love food?
Make sure to wear your eatin’ pants! You know, the ones with the elastic waistband.
Have fun!
There is a fabulous whiskey bread pudding at a hotel in the French quarter – I believe it’s called The Royal Sonata or Sunset or something French like that.
Hilarious post, by the way. And in regards to Lost – we have about five or six episodes DVRed that we haven’t gotten to watch because, in your words, that “convoluted ship is [about] to pass us by”.
My husband grew up in San Antonio, so the Fiesta wreath made me grin- really big.
Fiesta has always reminded me of Cinderella on steriods (with a Mexican twist of course.) Walt Disney could not have created a better theme than with names like the Battle of Flowers and Fiesta Flambeau.
I agree that you should rent the previous seasons of Lost. I started watching the show last year when I was home on bedrest because of my pregnancy. I rented all of the seasons and was hooked from the first epidose (yes, I spelled it “epidose” on purpose).
My husband watches 24 but I can’t get into it, normally I’m not much of a sci-fi girl either but Lost is something else.
Enjoy your trip to NO. I haven’t been there since I was a teenager (when I lived in Sugarland, TX we tried to make it to Mardi Gras one year but our car broke down so we only made it to the outskirts and had to go back)so I have no recommendations.
Ps. You don’t remind me of the girl from Gilmore Girls at all, she was extremely annoying and I could’t watch that show if my life depended on it, and your blog is awesome!
I was in New Orleans several years ago and overall the food was fabulous! We stayed in the French Quarter, so all my recommendations are for that locale. Hopefully the restaurants I’ll be mentioning kept the same level of quality. And with that caveat–
I had brunch at The Court of Two (I think it’s 2, not 3) Sisters Restaurant. It was tasty, with lots of variety. We had lunch at The Gumbo Shop one day–I (oddly) had gumbo–it was very good. And we also went to NOLA for dinner one night. I cannot say enough about how good NOLA was. It was the best meal we had all week.
I wish I could comment on Cafe Du Monde, but they were closed the few days I was there because of a kitchen fire. But everybody says you have to go–if you do, have an extra beignet for me! And I’ve heard the Bananas Foster dessert at Brennan’s is supposed to be fabulous.
Have fun!
CAFE MASPERO!!!
yum, yum, yum!!!!
You’re right Wednesday is not the strongest of nights for the tube, but I manage to survive by catching Scrubs and Important Things by Demetri Martin on Comedy Central. Both make me laugh and I forget all about those sad people watching shipwrecked party of five stars.
Please tell me where I can find a wreath like the one you have pictured! It’s so fun, I’m from the Dakota’s, and we need to add color like this to our lives considering we may or may not get green grass until mid-June.
My question is: what is your family’s favorite recipe?
Great blog I always love your stories…. HEB is a Texas grocery store. Wed TV: Damages with Glenn Close on FX but only if you do not mind some violence.
I love Copelands–Fried Bow Tie Pasta with Spinach Artichoke Dip and then I have Eggplant Piroque (sp?). http://www.nmrestaurants.com/copelands/about.html
Also Prejeans is our favorite in Lafayette, LA, if you are driving to New Orleans. It has some really fun atmosphere, too!!
http://www.prejeans.com/
I’m glad to call you a real life friend, Melanie! Praying for you, you know.
My fav in New Orleans is Acme Oyster House. It’s small and not fancy, but very very yummy. It’s been there for years.
Try the Wednesday night show “Lie to Me” I learn things from it. It’s a great show. Lost confused me.
I didn’t find Loralei annoying. I think she was clever.
Question: What is your favorite fashion look?
How did you become a writer/traveler for the AllAccess blog?
You really make me giggle! I teach Kindergarten and there have been a few days your posts have gotten me through the day. I so hope I don’t get fired for reading “Big Mama” … but, I daresay it would be worth it!
My parents just returned to the states after spending 3 months working at the Garden Tomb in Israel. My dad would take groups around and share the gospel. He would meet every group with “Shalom ya’ll” … so, maybe you know more Hebrew than you think!
Learn something every day! I didn’t know that Amanda had a blog other than the posts she did on LPM ministries one. That is so cool. I can’t wait to try get rid of my family so I can read it!
Have a great weekend!
Beignets and cafe-au-lait at Cafe Du Monde is an absolute must (and if you want to take home some coffee and beignet mix – get it there instead of at a gift shop, it’s much less at the restaurant)!
We enjoyed the “Jambalaya Nazi” (as opposed to the “soup nazi”) at Mother’s. They just want you to keep on moving – and the servings – oh my! You will be stuffed!
Have a great time and look for the trombone player that will give you your best photo-op on your whole trip (but keep the Germ-X handy!)!
Um, so, how much do you weigh in your dreams?
Never been to N’yawlins, but always wanted to eat beignets at Cafe DuMonde and eat at Emeril’s place. You do it and blog about it and I’ll live vicariously through you for awhile instead of my 21 year old daughter. She could use a break. Oh, there’s also some place where you get this potent alcoholic beverage with everything but the kitchen sink thrown in – have a taste of that.
Mother’s. You HAVE to go to Mother’s. They have THE BEST shrimp po-boy sandwiches. Just a warning- you usually have to stand in line. But it is well, well worth it and not expensive! Also, if you’re in the French Quarter Emeril’s restaurant Nola is great. As is Emeril’s and Emeril’s Delmonico. Another good dive, if it’s still there, is Acme Oyster House. And don’t forget to top off your evening with a beignet and cafe au lait at Cafe du Monde- a must in New Orleans!
Jacques-Imo’s Cafe is by far the BEST restaurant in New Orleans! EVERY texan i have ever told about this restaurant has raved about it ~ b/c of the southern-style of the food, i think. it’s a bit off the beaten path (10 minutes by car from the french quarter) but sooooooo worth it.
http://www.jacquesimoscafe.com/
I promise, this is one of those hidden gems that every city has. Enjoy!!
and update us on your trip!
xoxo.
On March 4th of this year I had braces put on my teeth for the second time in my whole life. I’ll be 29 in August.
I know you had braces as an adult and I’m wondering if you have ANY advice. Think of all the things you wished someone would have told you about having braces at such a time as this and then please share just a few nuggets of that wisdom with me.
For example, let’s just say… how on earth do I look “pretty” in these things?? HOW??? I’m dying here… help please.
Oh Big Mama, you are fielding questions from your adoring fans? Well then, how about telling us what P’s real name is? Phinehas? Pedro? Percival? You and Caroline have divulged your names to us, but the elusive P still remains a mystery.
I used to live in Baton Rouge, and we did “date night” in NOLA every now and then. Our faves are Commander’s Palace and Emeril’s Delmonico. Delmonico is pricey. I suggest going to lunch there. The service is amazing, and the food is out of this world. And you must, of course, go to Cafe Du Monde for cafe au lait and beignets. Just watch out of the creepy guy making balloon animals.:) I also love the Court of Three Sisters for Sunday brunch, but only for brunch.
Okay, signing up for the cute Fiesta wreath giveway:) Would look FAB on my black front door.
Loved to read about your fun lunch date with Amanda, Beth, and her seriously, eternally cute hair. I think it was on the Living Proof Blog that I read the post about “the critical moment” in the hair combing/fixing process. Really, really funny stuff.
I knew you were in South Texas, but not sure where…then I see your Fiesta wreath….r u in San Antonio? I am!!!
Love your blog
love ‘ask me a question’ posts!!
What are your hopes for the teen years with your daughter? Besides the usual.
Thanks for answering the wreath question… it’s just too cute! I remember you had a similar one out at Christmas time and you totally inspired me. I printed the pic of your door just to remind myself to make the wreath this year! So, do you make these wreaths yourself? Got any tips?
And how jealous am I that you got to go to Lupe Tortilla with Beth Moore!? I’ve bene there once and it was the best plate of fajitas I’ve EVER had! Beth Moore and LT’s fajitas…I think I’d have been looking for Jesus’s arrival in that parking lot if that had been my last Friday night!:)
If you think Wednesday night is bad, you must not be watching Criminal Minds. At least I think it comes on on Wednesdays… I always just have a bunch of stuff in the DVR to watch, so I never know what night anything comes on…
Red Fish has the best dessert I’ve ever had (and I’ve had a LOT) – Double Chocolate Bread Pudding! YUM!
I just can’t get over how you don’t like Lost!
You inspired me:
http://everydaymomlife.blogspot.com/2009/04/if-you-arent-lost-please-come-back.html
=] emily
Wow, that is a lot of advice but I am going to throw in my 2 cents also. I know a local did not like Mother’s but their debris poboy is great. Someone else also mentioned the Gumbo Shop. It is always on our must visit list whenever we go home. It is great food (cajun/creole) for a very reasonable price. Recommend the shrimp poboy – it is their shrimp ettouffee stuffed in french bread. YUM!
I watch “Lie to Me” on Wednesday nights. And I DID watch “Life On Mars”, but it ended this week for good. I must have been the only person watching it. I loved the ’70′s theme of the show. I’d see and hear about things I had forgotten about. Oh, well.
My question is personal. I don’t even like answering these questions. So you may answer “hypothetically” (or, you know, not at all):
“Hypothetically”, how much money does Big Mama make in the average month, just by being Big Mama?
I love your Fiesta wreath and your blog about your daughter’s showbox float for school! It was nice to read from a parent’s point of view
Also, did you make your wreath???
From: a San Antonio teacher