Going home for Christmas is going to be surreal because life in rural Maryland and suburban Michigan is so different from life here. What is an old news story most other places is part of everyday life here. I can't step out my front door without seeing red x's everywhere, I can't go to the grocery store without driving through neighborhoods that once drowned in 20 feet of water, I can't drive or bike anywhere without wondering why? why? why?

Just as importantly, I can't go for a bike ride without noticing historic houses in every color of the rainbow or hearing music spilling out onto the streets or dodging tourists on their way to a hearty bowl of gumbo or etouffee. There is life and energy and open-mindedness and creativity everywhere I look.

All New Orleans wants is for someone to listen.

(Which you do, and you understand and get it.)