My Las Vegas Vacation !!

Had a great time in Vegas. Did a little slot machines and broke even I would think. I am not a real gambler and had myself on a strict budget for the slots. Once that was gone, no more gambling. Did some sightseeing and had a great time doing the Hoover Dam Tour.
Will visit again later in the future and do more of the "Shows"! I did get to see Mr. George Wallace and enjoyed that a lot. Sorry I couldn't see my favorite Ms. Tony Braxton!!! Maybe next time!
This is a view of the New York, New York Casino. 

Before and After ! This is AFTER!

This is the home across the street fro my home. The below picture shows this home before all the trees and debris was removed. Makes a big difference; doesn't it? We (neighbors) are slowly returning. Presently we now have three (3) trailers in our block. We have all streets lights on and that makes it more livable at night. As you look down the street to St. Claude St, you see no other sign of activity, which makes you wonder will things really get back to normal! The trailer isn't that bad, but nothing is like having your own home. We will start renovations soon and take it one day at a time. 

This is Ms. Edna's home directly across the street from my home in the Lower 9th Ward. Her husband was killed in the flood and her son "Butch" later died from stress related issues caused by "Katrina". She vows never to return to this place. 

My Summer Home !!

This is my "Summer Home". I've officially been assigned my FEMA trailer. Yes I know the grass needs cutting, but I wouldn't want to stand out in the neighborhood. I am only one (1) of (2) trailers in my block and in about a three (3) sq block area I've counted a total of maybe eight (8). At night the street lights are lite, but absolutely nothing else is moving except for the rare moments a car might pass. Here nine (9) months later it's definately a "ghost" town in the Lower Ninth Ward. But it's my home! (smile)
P.S. - I will cut the grass next weekend, when I am off from work. 

Baton Rouge - Family Connection

My father Lionel McGruder Sr., is from the Baton Rouge area (Gross Tete, LA) and has family in Baton Rouge. This picture is an old one of my Annie Vick and I believe (Gus Young) at a ceremony. As a child my father and mother took us to Baton Rouge to visit Annie Vick and other family members. I would like very much to re-established those connections, but we grew apart over the years. 

HAPPY BELATED NEW YEAR

This is just a short "Blog" to wish my family and friends far and near a HAPPY BELATED NEW YEARS. I do hope you find 2006 kinder than 2005 and certainly happier. This New Year was so much different than the rest I am not sure if it was better...(smile) I plan to do the things that bring happiness into my life in 2006 and will keep on keeping on!!!