Soon after September 11, Citizens of Louisiana undertook a drive to collect funds to replace one of the pumper trucks lost in the attack on the Twin Towers. The result was the “Spirit of Louisiana.” Fast Forward to Hurricane Katrina. New Orleans’ Fire Department infrastructure and much of the equipment was destroyed. New York City Fire Department sent “The Spirit” back home, at least until New Orleans is back on her feet. NYFD-NOFD Engine 283 rode in our Christmas parade Saturday.

In Natchitoches at the Christmas Festival, you watch two parades, shop for crafts, eat alligator on a stick and blooming onions. Then after dark there’s this amazing fireworks and laser/music show. What next? Why, stop by a friend’s house for a snack and some music. There was chili, gumbo, a roasted hog, couchon de lait, turkey, various liquid refreshments. Also a great band local band, “Downtown.” Here, they’re joined by Johnny Earthquake, lead singer of another long-time local band.