With this damn virus robbing us of so much of life, like parties and events, it’s the little things I am finding joy in doing. Whether it is something simple or special, I now appreciate almost everything so much more.
Here are just a few of my latest obsessions. Check out September’s part one list.
#5. Becoming a tourist in my own city and riding the Steamboat Natchez
Now I understand that everything is shut down, but our wonderful city has many tourist attractions that are open and socially distant and safe things to do. I never used to pay attention to the Steamboat Natchez’ calliope when it played; in fact, sometimes I thought the sound was a little much. But now the melodic tunes coming from it are music to my ears, enveloping me in a sense of normalcy. I have done the cruise on the Natchez many times, but recently when I was on the boat, I noticed things with much more appreciation. The boat ride was spectacular, the view amazing, the food delectable, not to mention that they had some great cocktails. We have a gorgeous city; experience it and keep the faith that this challenge will be over soon and we will come out stronger.
#4. Quitutes Cuisine
Quitutes is the greater New Orleans area only fast-casual fresh take on Brazilian cuisine. Located in Arabi, a neighborhood just outside Orleans Parish, Quitutes has authentic Brazilian cuisine along with a completely full bar and Brazilian inspired specialty cocktails. Most people think of steakhouses when they think of this cuisine (and I do love a good Brazilian steakhouse), but Brazilian cooking goes far beyond that. The food here is affordable, delicious, and inspired. Quitutes Cuisine & Bar give customers classic Brazilian dishes, “quitutes” or finger foods. I can attest their rum selection is amazing! So drive on down to the parish and try their Coxinha Bites, Pastels, or their Picanha.
#3. Quarantine Cooking
Now that I have more time at home, I have been experimenting with cooking new and unique dishes. I have cracked open my cookbook library and created tasty meals from Drag Queen Brunch, Emeril’s New Orleans Kitchen and Any Queen Can Decorate. I also have been watching great shows on Instagram by Paula Dean and the Pasta Queen whose husband is super sexy! My chef skills have gone up several notches as has my COVID weight. So now I limit myself to creating fabulous dishes twice a week and the rest of the days are for more healthy fare. Bam!
#2. Total Wine and becoming a Craft Cocktail Expert
I know I am repeating this one, but I really love this place and make sure you get on their rewards program. Not only do you get discounts and coupons, but after a certain amount of points, you get fun gifts. Much like honing my skills in the kitchen, I have been turning myself into a master mixologist. I have been whipping up everything from classic cocktails like the Sazerac and the French 75 to oldies like the Pink Squirrel and everything in between. Bottoms up.
#1. In the Dark Movies on Hulu
I love horror movies and also the holidays so this series on Hulu is right up my alley. Every month, they stream a new horror movie that correlates to one of the holidays, from popular ones such as Halloween and Christmas to more obscure fare like Pet Appreciation Week and Earth Day. Now, not all the movies are that good, but some of them are pretty fun additions to the horror genre like Pure and The Body. With October coming, this is perfect, must-see TV.
