Free Day

On my day to roam the city without structure, I chose a laizze faire approach. Free day really began Friday night, as the girls and myself dolled up and ventured to El Gato Negro and then to Bourbon Street. I was impressed that a city known for its Cajun and Creole cuisine could also surprise me with the best Mexican cuisine I have ever eaten. Bourbon Street was already a beehive of diversity and eccentricity when we arrived at nine at night. Bodies congregated into the doorways of each bar and it was easy to spot those who had been barhopping since high noon, as they were dancing in the streets, with red-hued cheeks. Daring to seek out the unconventional and progressive ways of New Orleans, we decided it was appropriate on a place like Bourbon street to venture into an establishment for male exotic dancers, a change of pace from the typical gentleman's clubs seen in the north.

Sugar Skull art that dressed a hallway in El Gato Negr

I slept in on Saturday morning and then made time to reflect on my experiences of the trip thus far. The rest was needed as I have been averaging a few hours a night of sleep. New Orleans was covered with a bitter cold today. It was below freezing, with a high of twenty-eight degrees and a windchill that felt like twelve. Nevertheless, we chose to discuss our experiences thus far in the hot tub. Venturing down the elevator in swimsuits, we found that the hot tub was in a separate building across the canopy. We had to run outside, across the valet parking area, blasted by a brisk wind and biting cold. Entering the next building covered in goosebumps and full of regret, we find the hot tub and realize it is hardly above room temperature. We turn on the bubbles and climb in anyway, feeling indignant and determined to at least try it out.

You can't even tell from this picture that it is cold. Some good selfie photography right there. Keeping those at home jealous while I'm on the trip.

The rest of our "plans" for the day included possibilities. We wanted authentic New Orleans food, a dose of art, and a glimpse of the Joan of Arc Parade. We did not want to feel rushed, scheduled, or obligated to do anything specific. As class trips tend to come along with scheduled blocks of time that trap us in with our anxiety. Stepping off the streetcar, which had finally arrived after several unexpected and lengthy stops, we spotted the preparation of the Joan of Arc Parade. Approaching the actors, I was able to speak to Bobby, who had participated and organized the parade for over ten years. He described the importance of Joan of Arc to New Orleans, stating "Without the bravery of this 19 year old girl, New Orleans would not exist. The French Quarter would not exist. Louisiana would not exist. And really the United States would not exist as it is today." They celebrate her birthday annually with a parade, to kick off Carnival season. She turned 605 this year.

Joan of Arc is of high-regard, because without her act of bravery, New Orleans would not exist.