Go to one new place/do one new thing each week

Going to a political fundraiser (blue) in a red state (Toto, we’re not on the liberal West Coast anymore…).

• Enjoying a dinner of red beans & rice at Buffa’s.

• Going to the Bywater Art Market to start shopping locally for holiday gifts going out-of-state.

Breakfast at a (new to me) restaurant in the Bywater and a visit to Dr. Bob’s art studio (he’s the “Be Nice or Leave!” folk signs guy here in New Orleans).

Enjoying my first-ever massage from a licensed therapist (being fairly touch-conscious, I was a little bit nervous about whether or not I’d be able to relax; it was easier to let go and enjoy than I’d expected). My left shoulder and back are doing so much better for it!

I’ve kicked off the search for a hairstylist in my new city (my last hair cut was in March 2008… Curly hair is pretty forgiving when it comes to the frequency of haircuts, but six months is pushing it). With a little luck, I’ll be “ornamentally pruned” by the end of the week!

Trying a “team shot” with the usual suspects (mint and cinnamon schnapps mixed); it’s a local custom (grin!). I’m happy (relieved?) to report that it wasn’t as bad as I’d imagined!

Preparing for a “Hurrication” (evacuation from a major hurricane turned into a short holiday). As my first experience with this particular situation that’s inherently tense, I’m grateful for having the type of people around me who provide an example of doing what needs to be done with a heaping side order of priority-setting, wisdom, practicality, offbeat humor, kindness and grace.

Joining in for “Board Game Night” with friends at a favorite local watering hole.