Mardi Gras 2019 - The Unplanned Adventure

Our annual 2019 trip was scheduled, and we got there the day before Mardi Gras. I always wanted to see a parade, but didn't plan for it to be that trip, but I love to improvise. See, I was in a boot. I had a serious fracture on my foot, and had JUST gotten the boot 2 weeks prior, but already had our tickets, and rental car. This is how I travel - I don't make too many plans, I have things I'd "like" to do, and then we wing it.

1st parade on Bourbon Street was at 1:00 - we were there! Standing on a corner, me leaning on a pole - stone cold sober - come on, would you want to wait your whole life to experience something fun like this, and NOT remember it? Heck no. We were right where the Krewe of Pontchartrain was stopping to go upstairs at the bar and throw beads. The Captain of the Krewe was none other than Dee Snider! He, his wife, and his group stood on the balcony above us and threw beads to the people. The green arrow in 1st picture is pointing to ME and MEGHAN (on my left) and was screen shotted from Dee's video online. The 2nd one I took right before he threw me the gold beads wrapped around his hand. I hobbled out there,

got some gold beads from Dee - super cool experience from this 80's girl! When Meghan and I had beads, had pictures, and logged some cool memories (loved the Krewe of Cork). Had to stop at a bar and sit for a minute because our car was all the way at the end of St. Ann - don't judge, this is New Orleans.

We got back to our hotel (Prytannia Park - favorite stays), changed and headed down to St. Charles for an evening parade. This one had school bands, and dance companies, there were families in the streets (they were closed), kids everywhere, and it was just a fun, family vibe. We stayed for a couple of hours, then headed back to the hotel. My foot was throbbing, and I'd definitely outdone myself, but boy the memories!

The Boot beer was appropriate, but I don't have a picture of me in my boot (Meghan does, because she thought I was crazy). The beautiful bar (bottom center) was on St. Ann's. I love that the entire area (not just New Orleans, but outlying parishes) get involved in celebrating Mardi Gras. Homes, businesses, towns. It's just a cool feeling to be amongst all the happy, positive vibes. No racial stuff, no monetary division, just everybody celebrating! My friend, Mel, who passed away in 2003 at the age of 30, said everyone should experience Mardi Gras at least once. Well, Mel was right!

Wishing everyone a happy Mardi Gras 2021 - look up the ways they are celebrating during Covid-19 - they are killing it! Artists are decorating homes, they had Floats in the Oaks at City Park, making it happen, supporting local artists, and celebrating! Rock on! 🤘🤘🤘