New Orleans Day 2

Today I am continuing my post about my trip to New Orleans. But, let me start with card first. That way for those who come here for cards, you don't have to go through the long story. :) Now, this card makes me happy. It's simple, but for me it seems to convey so much joy. I think whenever I used Lawn Fawn cute animal stamps, I can't help but smile. They're just so stinkin' cute!

I just love the clean look of this card. Truly, sometime less is more, don't you think? Sigh...  the smile on this seahorse & octopus, just so cute. I am entering this card for Caardvarks clean & simple challenge. 

Now, continue about my trip. On our second day in New Orleans, we decided to skip the plantation tour and went with the swamp tour instead. We didn't make any reservation, so when we got there the boat of course already left and the next one is two hours later. Lucky for us, one of the guy said we can do private boat tour which cost a few bucks extra, but  we can have the boat all to ourselves. That turned out better as the guide was able to take us all the way to the back where the normal tour couldn't go.

There's certain charm of the swamp and it's so quiet. You could hear the crickets & simply enjoy the calmness of the area. Whenever the boat stop, we always have bunch of dragonflies flying around. And look at this pic, I was so delighted to be able to capture its beauty. 

We didn't get to see the big alligator, only saw some of the small ones and  that was fine by me. LOL, I was pretty nervous about seeing any big one being that close to the water. I was laughing nervously when the guide talked about floating device, I was like hmm... what good floating device if you're surrounded by alligators?

Of course, we have to take pic of the people, too, right? Here's me and my brother's girlfriend, Denada. Isn't she gorgeous?

The tour lasted about a couple hours and with the heat & humidity, it wiped us out. So, after lunch we decided to head back to the hotel to nap. :) Then at night, we explore the Bourbon Street. Some of the views were pretty raunchy I can tell you that. And quite a few street performers.

Me & the goofy couple. :)

One of our nice pose.

All in all it was a nice trip. The next day we head back home to Houston and again.... oh my goodness... the drive. Long & boring. Seriously there's nothing exciting or beautiful travelling through Texas. It's flat & no scenic view. Unlike when we travel in the West or East coast where the scenic view is gorgeous. My brother & his girlfriend were dozing off most of the time and hubby is keeping me company to make sure I stay awake.  When we pass the border, of course my brother & his girlfriend have to do their typical jumping picture in front of Welcome to Texas sign. I love this pic as it capture their fun personality.

Minutes before heading out to the airport.

I so treasure my time with them. Although, like I told my mom, sometime the short visit is harder, because the moment you see them, you already counting how many days you have left and dreading the time to say bye. Seeing my brother at such short time, makes me miss my family even more. It makes me realize even more how much I am missing. I know my life is here in the States, but sure wish that all my family is closer. Would love to be able to get together with them once a week instead of every few years. To my mom, Jeff, Gina, Jerry, & Dena I love you all & miss you all so very much. I pray that I will get to see you all again soon.

To all of you who send me words of encouragement this past week, thank you so much for your thoughtfulness & kindness. Your support means so much to me. Thank you for everything. Hugs, Vera.