And all that jazz...

Yesterday there was no blog, because I was so physically and mentally exhausted that there was really nothing to say except this: Texas is a big ass state. So big that we drove for 12 hours and still didn't make it all the way across. We passed through hundreds of miles of desert, with gas stations and towns a couple hours apart. There was no relief from the sun beating in the car windows and no where to go but forward. We finally reached civilization (San Antonio) around dinner time and thought we'd relax with a nice dinner on the famed downtown river walk. We were wrong. That place was more hoppin' than Cancun on spring break, and after almost an hour of searching for a parking space, we were so frustrated, tired, and hungry that we headed out of town toward Houston. When we finally reached my aunt Martha's house in Houston last night, it was like seeing an oasis in the middle of the desert. Actually now that you think about it, that's actually what it was to us. We had a great time visiting into the wee hours of the morning and even had a mini-birthday party for my cousin John who celebrated his 25th bday on St. Patty's day. This morning, Martha fixed the most incredible breakfast that would rival any B&B out there. And - drum roll -I had my first serving of grits in over 4 months! Reunited and it feels so gooooood...

After some much appreciated (and needed) hospitality, we headed back on the 10 (which I actually switched to calling I-10 about halfway through Texas...NOOO!) toward New Orleans. FYI: New Orleans is the greatest city in the world. I've been here several times over the years and every time it just gets better and better. This is my dad's first time in NOLA, so it's been fun getting lost together and showing him this beautiful city.

I will never forget tonight. Ever. We took the trolley to the French Quarter (we are staying in the garden district) and walked around for a while to get our bearings. We then headed to Deanie's Seafood at the suggestion of Ms. Carolyn, my go-to New Orleans expert. Let me tell you - KILLER seafood and delicious drinks. Dad ordered some insane bloody mary that came with green bean, potato, and shrimp garnish. Now that's Cajun. While wandering down Bourbon Street, me with a daiquiri in hand, dad with wide eyes and a buzz, we stumbled upon Preservation Hall - one of the all-time famous jazz joints. We got there just in time to hear the last set and experienced some of the best live music I have ever heard. Preservation Hall is said to offer some of the world's last "pure musical experiences" and after spending an hour there, I must say it was nothing short of pure magic. If you enjoy live music, you know that feeling during a great concert when you think: "I could listen to this song forever." That's how it was in this small dimly lit room with some of the most talented musicians I've ever been witness to. In that moment, I felt total joy.

Tomorrow morning we will have some delicious beignets at Cafe Du Monde before heading east once again, and tomorrow night our journey will end back home in Georgia. This road trip feels shorter and less climatic than before, but no less significant. I am traveling toward another exciting chapter and trying to enjoy the highs and lows as they come. Life right now is like a great jazz tune that could take an unexpected, brilliant turn at any moment. And I can't help but think -- I could listen to this song forever.