Guest Author - Julie Sullivan

New Orleans and the metro surrounding areas in southeastern Louisiana got a real taste of winter for Christmas Day 2004. When less than an inch of snow, sleet, and freezing rain fell to the ground this past Saturday.

Thought it wasn't a whole lot of white stuff, it was just enough to close down this and that, as well as create trouble for native Louisianians who are unaccustomed to the icy hand of winter.

This very rare southern snowfall was the first for Louisiana in 50 years. Also the first to shutdown major roads and bridges in the local area since 1954. Louis Armstrong International Airport was also forced to close down to service in addition.

Though this wonderful mixture of snow flakes, sleet, and freezing rain did create many a beautiful wintry scene for us to behold on rooftops and on lawns. It was also the main cause of many a traffic accident here and there. A factor which prompted the quick closing of many thoroughfares and bridges in Louisiana.

So for the first time in a very long time. Louisianians did indeed get their
"wish" for a truly White Christmas. Though the snowy scene didn't last very long in length, it's memory will live on in the hearts and minds of many, who don't usually encounter snow as a rule in the heart of the Deep South. It definitely was a White Christmas for us all and then some!! Happy Holidays Y'all!