There Could be a Story There...

My husband and I are planning our first vacation in a long time -- a five-day trip to New Orleans. I've attempted to visit there twice before, but something happened both times to stymie my plans. Once it was a hurricane, then I got mononucleosis! I'm keeping my fingers and toes crossed this time.

New Orleans seems like such a fascinating place, the sort of city where anything could happen, a great place to set a suspense story.

All the right elements are there -- the mystique of old southern charm, all those creepy cemeteries with their above-ground graves, and of course, the lure of voodoo and other types of magic.

New Orleans Magic Store

New Orleans Voodoo Store

Hey, I think I might be able to find a tax write-off for part of this vacation! because while I'm searching through all those wonderful magic shops and antebellum homes, I'll bet I can come up with some new ideas to get my muse excited.

I mean, what writer couldn't conjure up the bones of a good story in a setting like that? So what am I planning to see while I'm there?

Well, of course I'll go see out the tomb of local voodoo queen Marie Laveau.

She was quite famous from what I read. The sort of fodder one could base a story upon.


I'll have to stop by Cafe du Monde for some authentic New Orleans beignets. Maybe all that powdered sugar will give me some ideas, or the strong coffee will at least keep me up all night for the partying.

Speaking of which, I'll also be sure to check out the famous nightlife. (The live kind outside of the graveyards.)

Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar is on top of the list, along with The Spotted Cat Music Club. Give a girl enough Hurricanes to drink and she's bound to get into trouble worthy of a story. Maybe even a whole series!

So wish me luck in The Big Easy. I'll tell you what happens...