I've been aching to go to New Orleans for years and never had the good fortune to visit. I've read about it alot though, as it's the setting for alot of books. Has a natural storytellers history or something I think. Just sounds a fascinating city. Well said Antonius on the Dutch! They say Venice too is sinking under the sea rapidly in recent years, but does that mean they should never have built it?

On another note, Julilla. Words cannot express how much your son is in my thoughts right now. If for any reason he comes through Bahrain and there is anything I can do for him, take him out to dinner (if the ship lets him off base obviously) or anything you let me know. I still have quite a few friends in Iraq at the moment as well so if there is a problem contacting him or something I can do my best to try to reach him through other channels. Granted most are ex-boyfriends (all 193 of them) lol but last I checked none were holding a grudge. Thank God he had the good sense to join the Marines! Semper Fidelis Madam J.