The Boys Walked in their First Parade

 Our Martial Arts family participated in this year's Mardi Gras Children's parade in downtown Galveston.  With so many parades packed in the two week celebration, the Children's parade followed the Pet parade; this was a bonus as we got to see the cute animals up close..

 Mardi Gras costumes are bright and beautiful.

 I'm taking note for next year.

 This town is serious about their beads. 

Our group was asked to bring beads to throw out to the crowds along the parade route.  I seriously underestimated the amount of beads we brought with us.  20 packs (200 strands) from Dollar Tree was nowhere near sufficient for two participants. 

This  cart was one family's bead contribution and their supply was completely depleted by the end of the parade route.  Most families brought 400-800 strands of beads.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Waiting for our group to get called in to parade position.

So.Many.People!

  We had so much fun throwing beads but were a tad disappointed we didn't bring more beads for the entire parade route; next year we WILL be prepared.

 The route was too long, especially for these 5 year old legs.  

 

The boys walked in their first parade today and despite how tired they were and not enough beads, we had fun.

Sparring

The boys had their first try at sparring today. 

 Everett's never been much in to sports but I gotta say he's really taken to Taekwondo and he's pretty good at it, too.  Today I overheard him say, "THAT WAS AWESOME!" as he ran off the mat.

He's ready to spar again.

Emory gave us a good laugh tonight.  He moved around so much he lost his belt THEN went after his opponent, like an annoying terrier attacking a doberman pinscher.  :)  

Even so, I am very proud of his energy and determination tonight. 

Taekwondo has been great for Everett and Emory. Martial Arts training has definitely given them opportunities to strengthenen their minds as well as body. 

Happy Mardi Gras!

LET'S MARDI GRAS! According to MardiGrasGalveston.com Galveston hosts the "third largest Mardi Gras celebration in the United States". Galveston is unique because you can experience sand between your toes and gorgeous beach sunsets while watching parades along Seawall Blvd.

The Island’s 105th Mardi Gras celebration officially started today and will continue though February 9.  Mardi Gras  is expected to draw more than 300,000 attendees for 30+ concerts, 22 parades, 20 balcony parties and five elegant masked balls.  Mardi Gras Galveston offers excitement for everyone!

 

Photo credit: MardiGrasGalveston.com 

 

 Decorating for Mardi Gras isn't an option when you live or do business on Galveston island.

 

It seems everyone enjoys decorating for Mardi Gras. 

Walmart decorates as well, only to rake in the revenue. 

 Seawall Blvd is shut down in preparation for several parades opening day. 

And again TWENTY-TWO parades, the next two weeks!

 

Galveston sure knows how to throw a good party; lots of people, lots of beads and LOTS of fun. 

Today was a beautiful day and we very much enjoyed spending it with our new friends. 

  

 Happy Mardi Gras to everyone; you too, little doggy!