Did you know that they call counties in Louisiana “parishes?”  It’s the only state that uses that term.  This state is probably the most unique out of all the states I’ve been.  I was lucky to come during Mardi Gras and work on Bourbon St.  Tonight they are setting up for the parade of Creux de Veux.  I actually had a crash course on each of the parades when I was at City Hall.  Each Creux has to be recognized by the 7 Councilmen and granted a spot in the parade.  I was actually at the meeting during Zulu Cruex’s 100th anniversary. 

I knew it was going to be crazy working during Mardi Gras, but I’ve never seen anything like this.  How do people go on for weeks partying like this?  I was exhausted after 2 nights working.  It’s pretty hectic inside and outside and nothing but guys yelling for girls to show their boobs.  Don’t take your kids here for a family vacation, but it probably has been the most fun city so far.  There’s more to the New Orleans than the French Quarter.  By the way, the French Quarter really does resemble France and if you want to go to Europe for a cheaper flight, go to New Orleans.  Like I said, there is more to New Orleans, like Audubon Park, St. Charles and Magazine Ave, and many museums. 

You’re probably wondering about the career of working in a blues club.  Well, I don’t see a job being anymore lively.  There’s always something to do and people to meet.  It could get kind of hectic during certain hours, but if you enjoy serving people and listening to live music then time flies by.  There’s much more details, but I’ll get back to that.

February 4, 2009

This morning I went to the City Hall of New Orleans to receive a proclamation.  It was an honor for the city of New Orleans to recognize my project to benefit their city.  It really helped me get tips in the blues bar that night too.  Hahah

I’m really starting to like this routine of having the days free and working at night.  I’m sure it will eventually take a toll on my body, but for now I love it.  I got to enjoy walking along the Mississippi for the first time in my life.  It’s much wider down here than where it starts in Minnesota.  Well I have to get ready for another night at the Funky Pirate.  By the way, this club is known for the “Hand Grenade.”  It sounds like an interesting drink, but I wouldn’t know because I don’t drink.  I guess I would make the best bartender because it’s impossible that I would drink any of the inventory.

February 3, 2009

“Hurricane Katrina” happened 3 years ago, but people talk about it like it happened last week.  I was surprised to hear that the hurricane covered a region the size of United Kingdom.  My boss toured me around the city and showed me all the damage.  It was pretty much incomprehensible.  Could you imagine some parts of the city flooding up to 10 feet?  I saw watermarks on some of the buildings reaching that high.  Keep in mind, that it wasn’t the hurricane that caused the damage, but the levees that collapsed. 

Just like every job that I’ve done, I was thrown right into action.  I started my shift by serving a couple some beverages.  Of course I spilled everywhere, but it’s all part of the crash course of learning.  I started my shift 7pm and ended around 1am.  I couldn’t believe how time flies by in that environment.  Meeting nice people and listening to blues from a 500 pound man.  Oh, and the really nice people are generous with the tips.

February 2, 2009

I had been anticipating Mississippi since I started.  I came here feeling that this state and Alabama would be the most foreign to me.  It’s not too often someone from MS comes to California.  And it’s not too often that people talk about MS in California.  I had no idea what the state looks like, what kind of food they eat, or what kind of people there are. 

I was pleasantly surprised how beautiful the drive was into Jackson.  It was actually one of my favorite drives so far.  I wasn’t surprised to see billboards advertising to “live a healthy life.”  That’s exactly what I came for.  I knew one thing before coming to MS; the reputation of poor health.  As I came closer to the state capital of Jackson, there was nothing but health care signs and hospitals alongside the freeway.  It’s my first time in the “deep south,” so many things will be new to me………