Publisher’s Points to Ponder: When I think of home

Diana Ross sang, “When I think of home, I think of a place where there is love overflowing.” So, love is what I thought about when I returned home to Louisiana for a visit after a long hiatus. While Olney has become home to me during the past four years, Louisiana will always remain in my heart. As soon as I exited the plane in the newly built New Orleans International Airport, I was reminded of the authenticity of the people, the eclectic melting pot of various cultures, and the delicious food.

Something is intriguing about authentic people who are secure with being themselves. It is the quality that contributes to the superior hospitality in New Orleans. It is this characteristic that pulls people together in trying times, such as the recent storm surge. Although I was sad to discover that my neighbors in the nearby subdivisions suffered losses from the flooding, I was delighted to see that they remained resilient despite the loss. Most Americans are resilient in stressful situations, but Louisianans find a way to turn tragedy into triumph. Only in Louisiana will you find people hosting a hurricane party.

That beautiful New Orleans skyline draws me into the city’s warmth every single time I see it. The picturesque horizon coupled with moss trees causes worries to vanish in seconds. The smell of the St. Augustine grass was a wonderful reminder of home. Behind the cityscape, you will find a diverse group of people who welcome you with open arms. I love that New Orleans is a place that embodies varying lifestyles and traditions that make this city unique and unforgettable. The beauty is that everyone has a shared passion for the city. It is usually love at first sight.

While walking through the New Orleans French Quarter, I would be remiss if I did not stop by Café Du Monde for the best coffee and beignets (French doughnuts fried and covered with powdered sugar) in the French Market. It has been there since 1862. The place is always packed, but it is worth the wait. I continued my food parade while taking in the smell of foods influenced by French, Spanish, Caribbean and African cultures, among others. Check out the picture of my favorite dish, which is Redfish stuffed with lump crabmeat, Cajun sauce and Parmesan cheese. The grilled asparagus with Gorgonzola butter and garlic Parmesan potatoes were showstoppers on their own. Unfortunately, I did not make it to Willie Mae’s Fried Chicken. I will go there next time.

I enjoyed my vacation in the Crescent City—also referred to as Nawlins. However, I was happy to return to Olney with the traffic-less streets and backyard conversations about Friday night lights. I love that I am usually the only one in line at the post office. I like going into businesses that greet me by my name instead of “Next.” The best part is that I feel the overflow of love here, too.