A preface to the storm: An introduction to our New Orleans travelogue

Ah, Valentine’s Day. The most romantic of holidays. And what is more romantic than the NBA All-Star Weekend? In New Orleans. At the beginning of Mardi Gras.

I will be frank with you: I have no idea what I’m getting myself into. I have never been to New Orleans, or All-Star Weekend, or Mardi Gras. The fear of Pierre the Pelican lives strong in my heart.

But I will do my best to persevere so I can bring you live (or almost live) updates on my adventures throughout the weekend. Unless Pierre gets to me first, that is.

I am on a mission to discover all that New Orleans has to offer, or however much I can discover over the course of three days. I guess I’ll watch some basketball while I’m there, though let’s be real: I’m mainly on the lookout for weird shit and good food (also good shit and weird food).

Since a lot of people won’t be able to make it down to New Orleans this weekend, I will see how much trouble I can get into on your behalf -- hopefully without getting hurt or arrested -- and you’ll be able to follow along as I go. If you don’t hear from me for an extended period of time, Pierre has found me. Send help.

On a final note: Pau Gasol, if you’re in New Orleans this weekend I will find you. I mean this in the least terrifying/creepy way possible. But I will find you.