Mardi Gras is upon us, and it's downright chilly! Brrrrrr!!!! Although last Mardi Gras was a bit chilly some nights too, this one is definitely colder than I remember the holiday ever being -- primarily because Mardi Gras is earlier this year than I remember it ever being. This does add a bit of difficulty to the costuming process, since bare patches of skin often contribute to many a costume. I'm at a bit of a loss concerning dressing up this year, though I think that I'm going to go as a Ponchatoula strawberry. If I do, it'll be rudimentary, but I'll post some pictures.

For the college kiddies, Mardi Gras rules have changed since when I was at Loyola as an undergrad. I'm not talking about the drinking age (although it's ticked up, I'm sure my students are clever at finding covert means of imbibing). But these kids do get an entire week's holiday. Wow! In my time, that holiday was three days -- two because EVERYTHING comes to a standstill here for Mardi Gras, and 1 extra day for the kiddies to puke and recover. By Thursday, everyone was still a little sleepy, but mostly good as new. Lest this sound like a complaint, please note that it isn't. I am just delighted that we won't be meeting again till February 11th. And that'll be a nice week too -- just days before I turn the big 3-4. (Gasp!!)

There are other little changes to consider this Mardi Gras weekend too. For the first time in many years, I'll be alcohol free for the celebration, thanks to a little somebody incubating inside me. I'm 9 weeks pregnant today, and I'm hoping hoping hoping that this baby makes it through the first trimester, unlike our last attempt. We did see the heartbeat for this one last week, which means that we're already off to a better start, though still not out of the woods yet. But I'm hoping.....

Comments

[Eileen]

T,

Wow! I am so happy for you--enjoy all you & J have to celebrate.

Warm regards,
Ei

[Ellie]

Congratulations! Take care of yourself.

(PS Thanks for being willing to do a recommendation! I'll email you soon. Things are hectic around here).

[Wendy]

That's the best reason not to drink I can think of! Congrats. Much love to the three of you.