week 14, post 1Mardi Gras

There are certain things I want to do at least once in life...more than once is uncertain. I've been through my first Mardi Gras SEASON here in Houma. There are 11 or so parades, over a period of 10 days. The biggie was yesterday. It was hot, loud, crowded, raucous. I've collected about 25# of beads and trinkets -- a very modest haul -- strictly beginner. Now, what does one do with 25+ pounds of this stuff -- per year? My prize beads are a string with little white boots (Cajun Reeboks), the kind worn by shrimpers, and blue crabs. The parade was definitely, I think, one of those events that go better with lots to drink--which I didn't. But I've done it, lived to tell about it, and it was lots of fun. The local residents dedicated themselves, as usual, to making sure I had a good time -- Cajun hospitality. I took my little sidekick, Sissy, with me. She did not have such a good time (just look at a crowd from one foot up), but she did like the hot dogs for lunch. Pictures are posted. Peace, Warren.