Today is street sweeping day in my neighborhood, which means all cars have to be off of certain streets by 8 am. I moved my car about 7, but had some difficulty finding a good place to park. I found a parking spot on Pacific Coast Highway, and went home to get ready for work. By the time I got to my car about 8:45, I was in the midst of what passes for a three alarm fire in my neck of the woods. This photo is taken sitting in my car. That's a fire engine to my right, another is behind it, there at least 3 more up ahead, and one off to my left. No fire, as far as I could tell, (and I'd walked past the subject building about 7 am with the dogs), but plenty of fire trucks.

With the help of a neighbor to direct me, I was able to squeeze my car through there, and head off to work.

Thanks to everyone for their support regarding my upcoming trip. Gal in Charge just walked by my office and reminded me that will be on a plane in 48 hours. I can hardly wait. Plus, my seat is not directly adjacent to the other gals, and no matter how much I protest, I guarantee they will be those annoying people on planes who try to make people switch seats so that some group can all sit together.

Clearly, I am not a group-type person. Clearly, my plan to finish The Monkey Wrench Gang and start the new John LeCarre thriller is not going to pan out . . .

Thanks to Sage for suggesting Crabby Jacks - anyone else have a favorite place to eat or visit in New Orleans?