Oh, the slacking!

So it's been a week since I've last posted. Not that I've disappointed anyone with the lack of entries, but I just haven't been that interesting lately. Well, I lie. There's always interesting things going on.

This past weekend, I had another ballroom dance competition in Chattanooga at the Choo-Choo Challenge. This time I actually had some competition and got a good run for my money. I did well during the smooth competition (waltz, foxtrot, tango), but got my tail handed to me in the rhythm (cha-cha, rumba, swing).

My hands still look weird, as well as the lift on them. I can't seem to find it in myself to be graceful. I love dancing, but I don't know if competing is for me anymore. I started this so I would have a hobby and learn something new, but I don't like looking like an idiot in front of a room full of people.

Lindsey came with me; thank goodness! This would have been a nightmare without her...

The person who took this picture? A whole new story. Once upon a time, there was a crazy boy who pretended he was Johnny Cash. He worked at the Choo-Choo hotel, and sold pesticides to pay the bills. Of course he had that whole brooding musician thing going on; dark hair, slicked back (like Johnny Cash), nice little country twang (like Johnny Cash) and an all black outfit (like Johnny Cash). So naturally, with my "I can attract any crazy" attitude, this dude came over and talked to us at the hotel bar, where we went after the competition. And he called me June Carter, at least until I went to the bathroom and he found out that A. I was married. B. Lindsey has a boyfriend and C. He wasn't getting any that night.

Oh, did I mention that he had a girlfriend? Oh yeah.

The weekend was finished by a lovely breakfast at the Cracker Barrel.

There would have been more pictures had I not left my Nikon at the house. Don't get me started; I was definitely mad about that.

Oh the drinks we will drink...

So every time I go to New Orleans...all I talk about is the food. The food is great, but the drinks? Even better. Even the Diet Cokes taste better there. I don't know why, but here is a quick run down of the very-much alcoholic beverages to enjoy while in the Big Easy.

The famous Hurrican from Pat O's. This is definitely a touristy destination, but seriously? One of these and you'll probably be giddy. Take one of these, plus one of their Cyclones? You may as well call it a night.

The Hand Grenade. They claim it's the strongest drink on Bourbon Street, and who am I to argue? They definitely give you a little buzz. And for them to look so sweet with their little alien head cups? Just a lovely little front...

The mimosa. At the hotel restaurant (which was super nice by the way!). I spilled my first one all over me in classic Laura style. They did give me another one on the house! With lots of champagne. Offered at most places in New Orleans for brunch. Name me another city that can do up brunch like this place!


The New Orleans Bloody Mary. It's a good idea to sip this out of the straw, or your lips will be burning for a half hour. Trust me. This is from experience.

The hole in the wall Hurricane. These are probably half the size of the ones from Pat O's, but pack more liquor. Hang on to your skirts ladies!

Ahhh....Abita. Local. Awesomeness. Try the Turbo Dog or Purple Haze. Both delicious, and totally beat the heat while we were eating outside.


So there ya have it. I'm sure there are many that were left off (the frozen daiquiries you can get on every corner...Banana rules!), but you will just have to go down and try them all for yourself.

With the amazing food.

Sunday Stupidity

• I am so excited about the things that are happening in my life right now. There are soooo many amazing things that are going on, and I can't wait to be able to share them with you all.


• I get to go to Chattanooga this weekend for my dance competition. My goals are to let go of my self-consciousness and actually dance like I know what I'm doing!


• The people on The Biggest Loser are amazing. I have so much respect for these people, it's unreal.


• I finally got to watch the Royal Wedding this morning at the in-laws this weekend.


• I found a dress I actually wanted to buy at modcloth.com, but lo and behold (and of course), it was out of stock. I hope they restock soon.


• I'm about to read the sex secrets of 30,000 women in Glamour (only the best mag ever...next to Southern Living of course). I'll share what I learn. Maybe.


• I picked a horse based on the name for the Kentucky Derby. The damn horse came in dead last. Oh well. At least there wasn't any real money on the table.


• I don't have any pictures for this post; sorry.