Day 14 – Louisiana Plantations

Kate said she will never forget our shower today. We took it with a congregation of bugs and one bright green frog. Lovely! We were getting ready to ditch the boys and spend a girl’s day visiting some of the local plantations.

We started with Oak Alley. It’s a gorgeous white Greek-revival styled mansion with ancient huge oak trees. The tour was fine.

Next we moved to the Laura Plantation. Wow, what a contrast. To begin with, the house is brightly colored like something you’d see in the Caribbean – because it is of Creole origins, which are similar to those in the Caribbean. Then our tour guide introduces himself, “My name is Norman. I’m the owner which means you’re in for a good time.” He couldn’t be more spot-on! He, his house and his stories were absolutely fascinating – like a good book you get wrapped up in and cannot put down. His sole ambition seemed to be to restore the house and then “give” its history to others. He graciously invited us inside. And unlike Oak Alley, he invited us to touch everything and take pictures of anything. He even asked us to sit in Laura’s chair. Unfortunately we had to leave the tour early because Kate did not feel well (and has gone to bed still not feeling well).

The boys spent the day at the pool and around the campsite. Jeremy checked the blog often as he is anxious to hear comments about his post from yesterday – from someone other than cynical Uncle Todd.

Greg’s highlight was eating dinner at New Orleans Food and Spirits. He finally got his fried oysters! We all (except Kate, who slept) had lots of great fish.

We won’t be posting regularly for the next 5 nights as the state beach we’re staying at in Florida doesn’t have Wi-Fi in the campground.