New Orleans fills the bloodstream with some sort of magic only the Bayou could ignite within. I felt the intoxication of the city’s life – the jazz horns echoing down the corridor-like streets, sweet hellos to strangers in the neighborhoods, the markets brimming with food, jewelry and bargaining. We traipsed through the old Cajun French rooted districts, enjoying the life that was fully conscious as well as present. Homes continued to grow, flowers reaching towards the sky from the chimney and down the shingles to bring color to the blue backdrop.

This city brought me back to the people I knew and grew with through my Peace Corps experience. Stepping into an unfamiliar place for a few moments gave me perspective and allowed me to zoom out from the world I’m building in Southern California. There were late nights, long conversations, the celebration of love at B & M’s wedding, and a whole lot of dancing.

I’m glad that summer is coming and I’m adjusting my lens – micro and macroscopically examining the life around me. More sunlight, more ocean, more fun is meant to come.