When the Patrón Social Club Concierge let me know I was going to New Orleans and I was in a complete state of shock. I have never won anything, ever. I had been volunteering with St. Bernard Project in April and was so excited to be heading back there. It took me a few hours to let it all settle in and after a few days of trying to figure out flights, cars and other planning aspects, I was so excited.
When we got to New Orleans we made it to the hotel and I was completely floored. I'm a college student and to be staying at the International House was just such a treat. It was so conveniently located and absolutely stunning. Plus, we loved the box of goodies from Patrón in our room.
St. Bernard project is one of the most amazing organizations I have ever had the opportunity to work with. We were so excited to be back and thrilled to have gotten the chance to meet Zack and Liz. They are such an inspiration and their dedication to New Orleans is amazing. During the day we worked on mudding in a home. Shannon was our site supervisor when we were there for Spring Break, and she was shocked when we walked in as the contest winners. It was great to catch up with her again. We had the unique experience of building with the homeowners and got a chance to hear their story and play with the adorable children. A highlight of the day was meeting a homeowner who moved into her house about 2 years ago. It is amazing to see what volunteer work means to the people of New Orleans.
With Jazz Fest occurring, the city was full of incredible music and people. Walking around during the day and downtown at night you heard a variety of music styles, while enjoying some of the fantastic, mostly fried, food. There is an incredible energy that I wish I could bottle up and bring home for my friends and family, instead of buying a t-shirt or something equally as touristy. I purchased some cool homemade African instruments as well as some original photography. Of course, the contrast to other parts of the town that still show the signs of destruction is very apparent. Jazz Fest itself was just incredible. I'm a music student so not only was I obsessed with the music but the culture is just amazing. From the artists to the food to the heritage, it was so much to take in. I have to admit by 5pm we had reached a little bit of sensory overload!
The following morning our flight was at 7am so we had to leave so early. It seemed as if the whole weekend was a blur. I wish we had had an extra day to work with St. Bernard or check out the steamboat on the Mississippi. I also would have wanted to check out the Garden District... I guess we will have to go back!
