Nov 8 - New Friends & Old Favorites

D Day (departure day) was the next day. The cousins wanted the morning to organize for the return trip, so we arranged to pick them up at lunch time. Much to our surprise, we found lunch awaiting us chez Daubard! Early that morning they had made one last trip across the river and brought back some lovely fresh shrimp that Bernard lightly sauteed. Romain made rice from a Zatarain's package, and Fabienne presented ice cream for dessert. Perfect!

We set off for the French Quarter, but encountered some serious delays. The Crescent City Connection was a parking lot, both in front of the toll booths and on the bridge itself. We made our way over to the ferry but must have just missed it, as we waited a good long while for it to come back. Once across the river, we encountered further traffic delays related to road and trolley line construction.

In any event, we finally made it to the home of Marie Francoise Crouch and her husband, Michel Bechetoille. Lloyd and I had met Marie Francoise at an LA Creole conference the week before the Daubards arrived. She has taught French in New Orleans for a long time. Kristie Kaufman Rollen was one of her students back in the day. We followed up on several of her suggestions regarding French-friendly excursions, including Norbert LeBlanc's swamp tour.

In the kitchen

It was chilly on the balcony, but no one wanted to go inside.

The French language flew as we enjoyed wine and cheese.

This historic building on Rue des Ursulines
makes a charming home. Note the high
window that comprises the door to the balcony.

A lovely view of the French Quarter

We took leave of Marie Francoise and Michel and headed for Drago's Seafood Restaurant at 3232 N. Arnoult Road in Metairie. We wanted their final dinner in Louisiana to be special, and I couldn't think of anything more special than the char-broiled oysters at Drago's.

Gloria Barbarin joined us.

A toast to a most amazing visit!

This is where the oysters are grilled.

In the right hands, an oyster, butter, garlic, and
a little Parmesan cheese can be heavenly! Gloria,
Bernard, Romain, and I indulged. Lloyd
had raw oysters, and Fabienne opted for chicken.
All delicous!

Creme brulée for dessert. We agreed that
the whipped cream was a bit much, but the
creme brulée itself was excellent.

Once again, the Dobard family crest, this
time with an extra spoon to honor Gloria.