I was born in New Orleans, Louisiana and raised just outside of the actual city. I had all three of my babies there. We moved with Hurricane Katrina after 29 years there. New Orleans is not only my home, it is my heart and my soul. When I was born, Moon Landrieu was mayor and he gave my parents a certificate for me about being a New Orleanian, calling it "the city with many faces, but one soul". I'll probably never be able to accurately convey what "home" means to me, but suffice it to say that we miss it dearly and visit as often as possible.
We have been in our current house for three years and during much of those three years, I didn't know if it was going to be permanent or not. So I haven't invested much of myself into the place, inside or out (gardening). I now know that we are here to stay; and I am filled to the brim with excitement at really getting into the place! What I want to do is to completely redecorate the place New Orleans-style, inside and out! On this page I will post links to all of my redecorating and gardening entries. I will probably also throw in a cajun or creole recipe or two!
To me, old world New Orleans is all about largeness (as in floor to ceiling drapes, huge chunky vases) and fanciness (elaborate ceiling moulding, crystal, antiques), and at the same time, a laid-backness that is inviting and "homey" and charming (outdoor courtyards with flowers and birds and cold drinks, front porches with swings and rattan sofas). I have a ton of ideas and of course will have to implement them over time as my budget allows. But I think the journey is going to be even more fun than finally finishing, and I know I will enjoy sharing the progress with you! So I hope you enjoy these "Nola girl" posts.
I ask you to please keep in your daily prayers all of the many men, women, and families harmed by the Gulf oil spill. I took a visit down there after it happened, and spoke with several people who make a living from the seafood and they were all devastated and lost as to what to do now. Please pray that the leak is stopped (for all of our sakes, and the sake of our planet), and that God will provide direction, comfort, and help for all of the thousands and thousands of people who were dependent on a healthy Gulf for their very livelihoods, and everyone else in need in this situation.
God Bless Us All,
Tanya
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