Mardi Gras!

Mardi Gras is right around the corner, and I couldn't be more excited!  It's the time of year for beads, king cakes, parades, and costumes; not to mention a break from school too.  Ever since I was a kid, Mardi Gras has always been one of my favorite holidays.  I just love the festive colors, exciting parades, and of course, getting to spend time with friends and family.  I have many memorable childhood experiences from fun times during Mardi Gras, but there was one particular experience that I will never forget.

A few years ago, my dad got invited to ride in the Bacchus Parade, which is considered one of the best parades in New Orleans.  When I heard that he was going to be riding in a big float, in a crazy costume, throwing out beads, I was more excited than he was!  On the day of the parade, my whole family drove down to New Orleans early, so that we wouldn't miss any of the exciting events.  You can always find something to do in New Orleans over Mardi Gras, that's for sure!  Before all of the krewe members got on the floats, I got to take a tour around one of them!  It was incredible!  I had never seen so many beads in my life.  The actual parade lasted for about 3 hours, and my dad's float was the very last one.  It was worth the wait though, because when I was lifted up to him, he handed me about 10 bags stuffed with beads!  For an 8-year-old, this was a BIG deal.  Getting to see my dad ride in the parade, and being a part of all the chaos of Mardi Gras was definitely my favorite Mardi Gras memory.    

This year for Mardi Gras break, my family is traveling to Virgin Gorda in the Caribbean.  I have never been to the Caribbean before, and I cannot wait!