Recently, our group explored and had a seminar at Audabon Park. As I was walking, I couldn’t help but think “wow, this is the life.” We came across horses, a kid's birthday party, a group of middle-aged women dancing as they walked, a lovely river, and some very luxurious dogs (whose breeds I believe are a reflection of those who can afford to live there). It felt very picturesque.

I also went to the classic, famous Café Du Monde with Ciena. We went to the one at City Park, and while it was quite different from the Jackson Square location, I preferred it. I think my heart is most content in slower, more open spaces. The architecture was beautiful, there was a soprano saxophone making some music, and we simply sat, had some good conversation, then enjoyed our frozen coffees and beignets. Just thinking about it makes me want to go back!

Some members of the group and I went to another Second Line Parade — the Money Wasters. I felt like I owned my dancing more at this one, and there were moments that truly blew my mind. It was like a scene from a movie. I remember feeling pure excitement from the crowd, and I looked around me and saw people climbing up poles and dancing on balconies. The band was playing and singing proudly, and people all around them were moving with great energy. I saw my trombone crush performing (a trombonist who I have been seeing frequently around and mildly obsessing over their skill). Then there was a battle of the bands! Two bands had come together and were going back and forth with each other.

A few things ran through my mind: I can’t imagine growing up with this. There was a little girl sitting on her father’s shoulders, and this is probably a part of her weekly routine! Yet I don’t think Los Angeles, or anywhere for that matter, could have anything matched to New Orleans’ Second Line parades. We were joking that people in LA would just get their phones out and record the whole thing rather than dance along with the band. But I think this is what makes the parades so special and unique, and it’s what makes me want to come back.

And of course… ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW! I got close to three of my friends back home because of this movie. We would watch it every so often and become acquainted with the audience’s script, even using props like one is supposed to in the theater. But wow – seeing it live was incomparable. Our entire group went and dressed up in the theme. When we got there, it immediately felt like a welcoming and fun atmosphere. Seeing the performers who were around my age own their sexuality and confidence was incredibly empowering. I felt giddy the entire show. This was one of my most memorable moments from the Maymester.

I’ve been enjoying buying gifts for people back home. It feels special to think of what reminds me of someone and take back a part of the city to them. I can’t wait to get back to my family, friends, and pets, but I also don’t want to leave. I wish that I could bring others here to share it with me, except that I know what I have sincerely appreciated about this experience is increasing my confidence and learning that I can handle myself independently. Additionally, I feel so lucky when I remember the people I am with. I truly feel like my brain expands when we all have discussions. I can’t think of any other opportunity when I would have gotten to spend time with so many of these different people involved in other activities from me.

I’m really valuing the bookpacking aspect of the class. I love learning in general and really enjoy our morning seminars. I also feel like it’s powerful to be able to explore a place through literature. I wanted this course to make me fond of reading again, and I can thoroughly say it’s done that. I appreciate having a book in my hands because, while it can allow me to escape, it is also more inviting to others than me being on my phone. People may ask what I’m reading, and it can spark a conversation.

Finally, I talked about this in my last blog, but man, I love the people here! I just came back from a laundromat where I was chatting with the worker there, Georgia, for a long while. I realized that I haven’t ever small talked this much with so many different people. I understand how grand it is for some to live in LA, and my mom even left a similar town to Louisiana in upstate New York to move to Southern California, but I question how one could ever leave a town like this where there is such a strong community. There is an infectious warmth, and I really find myself feeling excited, smiley, and eager to talk to others because of how people have been treating me. There’s so much to get to know about everyone!

That was a fun and perhaps chaotic mix of thoughts, but I appreciate you sticking with me. I feel at the perfect point where, with the end in sight, I am taking in every moment of my time here. If I’m parting with you, I’ll miss you! If I’m coming back to you, see you soon!