Bass Masters and Mardi Gras Baubles

Shreveport-Bossier is hosting the Bass Masters Classic this weekend. The last of the competing fishermen (AND fisherwomen) came into town yesterday. They hit the Red River early this morning in the clear, cold (as in 30-something degree) air and later lined up for weigh-ins down the Teague Parkway at the CenturyTel Center. TV vehicles and sports reporters from ESPN jockied with spectators for the best viewing spots. Today's catches were low, but they're just getting started. Welcome to all, and may the best Bass Master win!

In addition to all the "fishy folks" there are also Mardi Gras partiers reveling this weekend. The Shreveport/Bossier Tourist Bureau estimates there will be close to 70,000 people attending one or both events. The second of the big parades, lead by the Krewe of Gemini, will be held on Saturdy and The Krewe of Highland will hold their parade on Sunday. Various parties and masked bals will be held through Fat Tuesday on February 24 (including our Krewe of Liti-gators king cake and punch party at the law firm where I am librarian.) The Krewe of Aesclepius will toast the Closing of Mardi Gras Ceremony on the Red River Bridge at midnight Tuesday and then all will fall silent as the revelers go home and begin the Lenten season. Here are a few pictures of the Mardi Gras baubles around our house -



Matthew headed back to Arkansas this morning. So begins the transition to the next phase of his life - work and school and living in the same area as the majority of my husband's family. He is a little nervous but mostly excited, and committed to this "new start." I'm a little nervous but mostly proud of the growth and maturity he has shown these last months. I've turned him over to God (once again - how many times do we Mom's do that in the course of raising a child?!) and will continue praying that the Lord will provide guidance, discernment, and encouragement to a young man who is striving to find his place in Life.

These are pictures from last weekend after Matt came in from the Krewe of Centaur parade - clear eyed and sober, laughing and truly enjoying the moment. He brought me home lots of beads and even shared some with Frank's puppy Skye! I miss him already, but am so confident he is going to do well in his new surroundings. Spread your wings and fly, our baby bird - Mom and Dad love you!