Frosted Petunias

Winter Musings

Just popping in to wish everyone a happy winter.

Hope you enjoyed this week's full winter moon.

Are you excited about the holidays?

I don't have too much hustle and bustle to deal with since my gift list is pretty small and I really try to stay away from all the shopping craziness.

It's been unseasonably colder here lately so lots of extra cups of tea and hot cocoa have been in order.

I've mostly been busy with my volunteer work at the animal shelter. It's harder to get dogs adopted this time of the year, especially for the pit bulls I work with. Sadly we're seeing dogs returned to the shelter after being adopted. It's heartbreaking and there are so many that need to be saved.

I wish they could all have a warm and comfy sofa to curl up on and a family to spoil them and call their own, just like my Isis.

Make sure to give your pets an extra hug this winter and if you can spare another hug give one to a homeless pet at your local shelter. They really do love it when someone comes to see them.

Stay warm, share a little joy and enjoy the quiet magic of this season.

I watched this on TV a few days ago and just found it on YouTube. I love this version, especially the sets and costumes. It's been a while since I saw it live but I always love watching it every year.

Broomsticks on the Bayou

There's a full moon rising over the bayou tonight

Come gather under her spell

Witches, gypsies and restless spirits

Grab your broomsticks and favorite brew

and meet me in New Orleans for a night or two

Tales of witchcraft and voodoo

fill the air

They say the Queen herself roams these streets

Portrait by Frank Schneider, based on a painting by George Catlin

You might encounter her right in the Vieux Carre

You never know what you'll find among the magnolias and Spanish moss

Friend or Foe

Sinner or Saint

What lies beyond the garden gate?

Leave your broom here, dear witches, if you dare

Don't be afraid

An offering might please the lady of the house

But tread lightly

For here lie ghosts from a bygone day

Was it voodoo or witchcraft that brought about her end?

Was she haunted by her deeds?

Or betrayed by a friend?

Many say she passed peacefully at a ripe old age

Still others claim to see her ghostly figure strolling through the city

What about you?

Digital art by Schonee

Have you seen Marie?

It's time to take our leave, there is much more to do and see

Join me first for a sweet treat

then leave a comment with your link before you go

Hope you enjoyed your visit here.

Before you go check out one of my favorite Nola singers

If you're a fan of this season's American Horror Story which is set in New Orleans, here's a great video they posted that looks at why Nola is such a unique and amazing place.

Do you know that there is a fragrance inspired by Marie Laveau?

Bourbon French Parfums, a noted perfumery in New Orleans' French Quarter since 1843, created a small collection called Southern Favorites. One fragrance is Voodoo Love, a heady jasmine scent inspired by the queen of voodoo herself.

Haunted Humpday

It's Haunted Humpday #8!

I missed last week and I wanted to make sure I didn't miss this week so I'm posting on time for a change. It's also almost time for the Broomsticks on the Bayou party so busy busy busy.

Every October I complain about how no one else in my neighborhood seems to get into the spirit of Halloween. I mean here we are halfway through October and I can count how many houses around me might even have a pumpkin by the front door. Right now I'm the only one with any decorations up and well, it just makes me sad.

I have a few things on my mantle at least. I decided to do black birds and white pumpkins this year.

I was so excited to find this gate in the gardening section at Home Depot. I thought it would be perfect for the New Orleans party and afterwards it's going out by the front door to scare off trick or treaters. He he he!

I don't really drink much but mixing drinks fascinates me. I guess maybe because it's a lot like potion making. When I first got into my New Orleans kick I used to make one of their famous drinks called a Sazerac, a cocktail that goes back to the 1800's and is as much a part of New Orleans lore as a Mardi Gras parade.

However, one New Orleans drink I've never tried but seems more appropriate for the season is the Zombie. Want to give it a try?

1/2 oz Bacardi® 151 rum
1 oz pineapple juice
1 oz orange juice
1/2 oz apricot brandy
1 tsp sugar
2 oz light rum
1 oz dark rum
1 oz lime juice

Blend all ingredients with ice except Bacardi 151 proof rum. Pour into a collins glass. Float Bacardi 151 proof rum on top. Garnish with a fruit slice, sprig of mint and a cherry.

Are you ready for the party now?

It's going to be a mad rush for me but what else is new? I have beignets to cook, voodoo dolls to hang, tarot cards to find. Up until today I still had no idea what my post was going to be but I think I see a few things forming in my brain.

Oh and I need to find my crows!