Louisiana

I’ve never forgiven myself for living a few hours away from New Orleans for 3 years and never actually making the trip there. We decided to remedy that situation as we were leaving Lynn Haven, with a few nights stay at my nephew’s house in Denham Springs, which is an hour and a half away from New Orleans.

It was such a blessing to be able to see my nephew and his family; my grand-nephews I hadn’t seen in years  - they’re such little gentleman now! (I’m only 30 and I have grand-nephews. Yep #thanksmom) We enjoyed a few hours at a strawberry farm, letting the littles pick strawberries and play on the playground, a WOD at CrossFit Denham Springs where my nephew and his wife coach, and a day in New Orleans.

New Orleans with kids, I’m assuming, is totally different than New Orleans without kids. Patrick and I immediately came to the conclusion that we liked this charming little city, and that we need to add it to a “come back without kids” list. Especially since I was looking forward to seeing Klaus and Elijah, and they, unfortunately, didn’t appear. (The Originals – anyone?) Our first stop was District for some donut sliders on Magazine Street – and let me tell you – those donuts were out of this world. I liked them because they weren’t too sweet and sugary, more of a bread-like consistency without too much sweetness. We explored for a few hours, did the obligatory stroll down Bourbon Street (it’s kinda smelly), stopped to listen to a jazz band play outside of a park, and stopped at Mother’s for a shrimp po’ boy for a late lunch.

district donuts

mother's 

Mississippi River

We left Denham Springs and made our way to Duck Dynasty country (apparently), to Landry Vineyards in Northern Louisiana for the night. Harvest Hosts is so freaking cool; we totally enjoyed staying at this gorgeous vineyard for the night. We felt so welcome by the owners and their tasting room manager! The kids went down on time (this has been a rarity with all this change), so Patrick and I managed to get in a romantic dinner overlooking the vineyards.

We’d love to hear your suggestions on places to visit, or maybe a must-stay b&b, when we decide to go back. What’s your favorite place to visit in New Orleans?