re: Leaving Lousiana?

It is a different planet. If you go somewhere without humidity, it's like the Kryptonian experience: you're just stronger, faster and more physically invulnerable than everyone around you ( unless they're from a swamp / jungle biome then they have to same privilege ).

Way of Life: leaving Louisiana will usually means a mixed bag improvement and loss. Most places I would consider living having better liberties and economic circumstances than South Louisiana, but many of them are far behind the superior culture of South Louisiana. By culture, I mean food, music and other arts. You'll rarely find a clear step up, but lateral moves specifically good for your family can be identified through wisdom and vision.

The way I deal with the separation from Louisiana: I cook the things at home I used to enjoy in Louisiana, I watch LSU football, I stay in contact with people still living in Louisiana. Simultaneously covering the opposite concern: I've also cultivated an appreciation for the local stuff here that was not available in South Louisiana.

Texas has a lot of cool shite going on. I have a good friend from NOLA who found a better standard of living for his family by moving to Houston. I love my city, New Orleans and state and ALL of the people there, but I recognized that if I wanted to pursue various interests I would need to love them from a distance. This is a way to achieve nice things.