Prepping for Mardis Gras 2016

David and I have been invited to a Mardi Gras party, so this past Saturday we

went to our local party store to pick up some bling.  I bought a purple boa and some

more beads (to add to the many beads I already have), and a new mask.

And a fleur de lis of course.

Yesterday I was going through a trinket box where I knew I had more beads, and

found these doubloons.  David and I were at Mardi Gras in Galveston together

with some friends in 1987.  This was before we were married and still dating.

I remember jumping and fighting the crowds to get these.  Being the sentimental

sap that I am, I saved them along with the parking voucher for the night.

source

Here is a more recent picture of the Mardi Gras parade passing the historic

Tremont Hotel.

And here I am with my mask, and David is standing behind me.  The crowds

were enormous.  From a balcony above, Otis Day and the Knights were singing

Shout.  My friend Kathy and I were singing along at the top of our lungs and

Kathy snapped this pic.  It was so much fun!  I remember being so hoarse

the next day, but we didn't mind because we were young.

Here is a clip of Otis Day and the Knights performing

Shout in the movie Animal House.   I dare you to

sit still while he's signing this great oldie :-)

We don't fight the Mardi Gras crowds anymore, but will have

lots of fun celebrating at our friend's party.  By the way, 

Mardi Gras 2016 is a week from this Tuesday.  Even if you

don't attend an event, or go to a party, you can still celebrate

at home with a King Cake.  More about that later.

Big Texas Hugs,

Susan and Bentley