Thankful for November

Who doesn’t love November?

Really. Cooler temperatures, family get-togethers and festivals galore … what’s not to love?

In recent days, I’ve heard lifelong Louisiana natives theorize that November’s weather is God’s gift to us for enduring the heat the preceding 10 months of the year. Whatever the real case, we’re thankful.

The lineup in November should keep us all busy. The month charges out of the gate with the Southdown Marketplace Arts & Crafts Fair and the Blues & Barbeque on the Bayou celebration Nov. 3.

I had the great opportunity to speak to one of the Southdown Marketplace’s craftsmen: Greenwood Middle School principal Robert Picou. An artist in his own right, Picou turns wood blocks into amazing box, bowl and vase creations.

He took up the hobby to relieve his stress, and to hear Picou tell it, he’s enjoyed years of stress relief seated in front of his lathe. He is one of 222 artists and craftsmen scheduled to appear at the Southdown fair. Be sure to stop by booth 98 and let him know you saw him in this month’s Gumbo Entertainment Guide.

I also had the opportunity to meet the truly delightful couple featured on the cover of this month’s issue. When asked to renew their wedding vows on the steps of Houma’s Courthouse, Junius and Olivia Porche said yes. Not for the attention, not for the glory, but for friends.

Event organizer Ann Picou popped the question, and the couple, regular volunteers at other events in which Picou is a part, quickly agreed out of friendship.

The Porches personify the spirit of Terrebonne, open and welcoming. And all of us here at Gumbo wish them happiness on this occasion and many blessed years ahead.

This really is just one weekend’s fun. There’s plenty to see and do all month long. The weather is here, the opportunities are beautiful … so what are you waiting for?