Brie and Ryan made it safely to Cambodia, the next leg of their journey.

Today was a pretty warm day, so we sat outside in the sun and played cards, went for a walk, and had supper at home . After supper, we headed back to the French Quarter to Preservation Hall on St. Peter Street.

Preservation Hall is an intimate little jazz club (although it serves no food or refreshments). It was founded in 1961 to protect and honour New Orleans jazz. The building was originally built in 1817, with portions dating as far back as the 1750's. I dare say, it hasn't changed much over the years. It's bare bones, and holds about 20 people on wooden benches, and about as many sitting on the floor on pillows, or standing at the back. Cost is $15/person for three one-hour sets.

We waited in line from 7 til 8 pm to get tickets. On any given night, they turn people away because the hall is packed. The hall features New Orleans jazz played by veteran musicians in their 70's and 80's, along with younger musicians learning from the old guys. Tonite we saw the Preservation Hall Stars, with band leader and drummer Shannon Powell, who has played with Harry Connick Jr and Diana Krall, among others . There was a clarinet & sax player named Charlie Gabriel who was about 80 years old - he was fantastic. And the trombone player was a younger fellow, but boy could he play. He stood and just groved as he was playing. There was also a trumpet player and a pianist. We weren't allowed to take pictures while the band was playing, so my pictures are limited.

Preservation Hall was next door to Pat O'Brien's, whose famous drink is the Hurricane. Roger went next door and got one to nurse while we waited in line (another one of nephew Sean's recommendations). We met two Canadian ladies behind us in line, Katie from London, Ontario and Kathy from Vancouver, who also sat beside us in the hall. We had a great time with them. What an awesome night.