Tuesday, we will celebrate Mardi Gras.
With our close proximity to New Orleans, the capital of Carnival Season, South Mississippi also indulges in the festivities with balls and parades.
Here in Picayune, the Krewe of the Pearl hosts a fun-filled and family-friendly parade. The group is also responsible for the ball, which provides a merry night of fun for the adults.
This time of year, one of my best friends is always missing in action. She works for Carter Church Designs in Bay St. Louis and spends her days, nights and weekends gluing intricate designs on collars and mantles, which are worn by Mardi Gras royalty in South Mississippi and Louisiana.
During my youth, I attended the Nereids parade held in Waveland each year.
One year, when I was about nine or ten, I kissed a strange man who was walking in the parade for a plastic flower. I got in big trouble with my mom for that one.
Besides the fact that we got a break from school, one of my favorite things about Mardi Gras is eating king cake.
I prefer the plain varieties, although sometimes I will indulge in a filled one.
Each year around this time, since both my husband and sister share the same birthday, I must purchase two king cakes as their birthday cake. That saves me from having to bake or spend any time in the kitchen.
I used to use Mardi Gras beads for art projects with my preschool students.
I have always enjoyed the holiday because it’s something the rest of the country doesn’t experience on a yearly basis.
Here in the South, we know how to kick back and have a good time and Mardi Gras provides that opportunity each year.
While it may seem silly to some to stand on the street screaming for beads and other items, it’s something we participate in that brings us joy.
So while the rest of the country spends their Tuesday doing the same mundane things, we will be letting the good times roll and enjoying king cake.