Hi, I’m Cora Ann. I was born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana. I’m a permanently disabled retired female veteran of the US Army. 

I have proudly served for 22 years. Although I have had some state-side assignments, I have spent most of my Army career in Germany. I love living here, traveling, and writing about my European experiences. I visit New Orleans from time to time. But now, I call Germany my home.

WRITING IS MY ENCOURAGEMENT, MY FUEL, MY THERAPY

I have not lost touch with my unique, colorful Creole roots. In my own unique way, I still celebrate Mardi Gras, which is called Fasching in Germany and is similar to Mardi Gras. Fastnacht or Karneval are the names used in northern Germany, but Fasching is the name most commonly used. Like the tradition in New Orleans, the carnival season officially begins at 11:11 on November 11. 

During Fasching, people in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland party non-stop and wear gaudy, outlandish costumes, as is customary in New Orleans. Masked balls, parades with vibrant floats, dancers, and bands are prominent in many cities. 

On Rosenmontag (Rose Monday), the day before Fasching, grand parades are held all over Germany. However, the largest Fasching parade takes place in Cologne, Germany, a city one hour and 45 minutes north of my town. 

Fasching usually reaches its peak in the three days preceding Ash Wednesday. This European pre-Lenten celebration comes close to but cannot beat the fun and wild revelry of Mardi Gras in New Orleans. And so all the fun must end. Fasching in Germany ends on Shrove Tuesday, Mardi Gras day, just as it does in New Orleans.  The significance of St. Joseph’s Night and other cultural events in my hometown are still fresh in my memory.

European culture has become very dear to me. I have learned more than I expected. Finding connections between my culture and the French, German, and Spanish cultures has been fascinating. I have found these discoveries to be heartwarming and encouraging. They help me realize how similar we are to one another on many levels.

I spend most of my time writing about my experiences and travels, which take me through picturesque villages, imposing medieval castles in Germany, and quaint, charming towns in neighboring countries. During my trips, I have had a lot of fun documenting my experiences and have met some amazing people. 

As I continue to improve my German speaking ability, most people I meet speak some level of English. I never encounter looks that make me feel uneasy, unwelcome, or like an outsider who doesn’t belong. I appreciate the courtesy, respect, and acceptance I continue to receive.

While growing up in New Orleans, my parents and grandparents taught me valuable, fundamental principles: be respectful, treat others as you want to be treated, look people in the eye, and always give them a firm handshake. Because of this, I feel comfortable and at home wherever I go. Sadly, these human behaviors are rarely found in parts of the United States.

I am grateful to God for giving me the gift of writing. I have often felt His presence in my life. Time and again, I find myself in situations where He sends someone to help me when I need it. He has also blessed me with the capability to be of service to others.

I have also found that God has a great sense of humor. Sometimes, He puts me knee-deep in sticky situations where I have no idea if I will ever see the light of day again or make it out alive! Even on my worst days, my determination and willpower keep me going. I am a survivor. He knows that, and, by His grace, I am still here.

I have gained new perspectives and a deeper understanding of human nature by writing about situations and events others might miss.

There are so many adventures and stories out here just waiting to be told. I aim to capture as much information as possible and turn my notes into articles that others will enjoy reading as much as I enjoy writing them.

Thanks for stopping by. I invite you to visit as often as possible to see what I’ve been up to.