Whether you're a huge Mardi Gras person or not, it can become the center of your life in New Orleans during the season. One of the things I like best about the "Mardi Gras Weekends" is that almost everyone vacates my neighborhood for whatever parade is going that day.
It is quiet...no people, no traffic, and just a bit of a respite of silence when you can just sit and be.
I'd been writing and working from my table on the Saturday of that first Mardi Gras weekend. When I went back to my office desk, I discovered a package from Amazon.com.waiting for me on top of my computer. I knew I hadn't ordered anything and wondered what it could be.
What a wonderful surprise! Inside, was the gift of the book: "Suspended Sentences" by Patrick Modiano, Translated by Mark Polizzotti, from my friend David Munroe. It included a note that said David had chosen this book just for me. It made me feel like this book and I were meant for each other.
And, we were.
David gave me so much more than just the gift of this amazing, Nobel prize-winning, book that captures an era, feel and the moodiness of Paris. It arrived at a time when a surprise "happy" was needed, but the most wonderful part was discovering just how much my friend "sees me". I glowed the rest of the afternon and weekend.
I immediately sent a private message of thanks on facebook, AND a thank you card via snail mail. David and I are already planning a coffee for the two of us to talk about the book together once I'm finished. Hmmm, David and Michael live in Treme...maybe the Treme Coffee Shop will be the perfect spot!
I'll be back with more details of the perfection of "Suspended Sentences" for me, and that coffee with my friend.
HUGE MERCI, David Munroe for so generously sharing the magic of books and our growing friendship.
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