Furlough isn't such a bad thing ...

I knew I hadn't lost my job forever, but there was still a little sting when I applied for unemployment last week. But that sting quickly faded when I hit the ground in New Orleans.

Nothing like a little pampering at the Aveda spa to take your mind off your troubles. Follow that up with some yummy, seriously yummy, food. And throw in a couple fabulous drinks for good measure.

I've been to New Orleans several times over the years that my best buddy Maria has lived there. But I've never been for Mardi Gras. I really don't like huge crowds and strangers touching me. But this year, Maria convinced me it was time. The best part is that I really spent very little time in the French Quarter.

Instead, we spent a lot of time on parade routes in neighborhoods filled with adults and children enjoying the festivities. There is something really fun about getting people to throw beads at you. It's cool to see what you get. I got some cool things, but really a couple nights of that was enough.

There's just something fun about New Orleans. Whether it was at the Hornets game on Wednesday -- where I sat next to the biggest fans I think I've ever met who screamed their heads off but made me laugh. Or whether it was just watching all the characters in the parades. Or savoring every bite of crab au gratin. I love it there.

Maria wants me to move there. I'm not sure I'm there in my mind. I think it might be a nicer place for me to visit than live, but you never know I guess. I certainly enjoy the time I spend there.

I came back with beads and lots of good memories. I'm so glad I went.

It was an added bonus that no one from my office was allowed to call, email or text me at all during the week. I truly let things go. And I didn't feel one bit bad that I was missing a big story and not sitting on a SWAT call out for hours on end.

Now, I might not feel so cheery about it when I get one week's worth of pay on the next check. But for now, I'll take that furlough and relish in the fun time I had.