I'm not exactly sure how you guys post videos in your avatars, but http://ceaseill.blogspot.com/ has a short clip and a little write up of downtown and here is the longer video of Mardi Gras outside my window.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MngAYq7QroM has a nigh-four minute video, shot two floors up, up and away from the street scene.

Very cool!

yeah, it kinda IS! I've got actual tickets coming for the St. Patty's block party. Thanks, John V! I worked on this while it went on. finishing Val this afternoon (putting in another head as an in joke, so I had to scan) for my story I'm wrapping up over on me blogs..

While i was in Miami for Superbowl I was awestruck by the spirit of the New Orleans fans...they know how to have fun..makes me want to visit New Orleans sometime soon!

I love New Orleans. I stayed at an ancient hotel in the quarter for two weeks several years back and could have stayed a month if I were independently wealthy. You don't have to go during any special festivals (and I'd actually recommend NOT going during Mardi Gras - it's just too crowded). It's always fascinating and fun. More so if you enjoy jazz, zydeco, and hurricanes (the drink kind), but even if you're just a people watcher you'll have a blast.

That sounds like something to do before I die, Jeff!

I recommend going right after Mardi Gras. The streets have been cleaned and the strip clubs are packed with out of town talent left over from Mardi Gras.

I wondered where the heck Grandma got off to...thanks for clearing that up...