Above, my Grandmother Gertrude "Trudy" and Father in New Orleans in 1958. I always loved the name Gertrude - the name actually translates to "spear of strength" which is relevant because Grandma Trudy was a tiny, southern belle with a dose of punchy pep and resilience. While I won't get my share of king cakes and Mardi Gras this Carnival season, I'm looking forward to enjoying the annual Jazz Festival in New Orleans in just a few months.