July 4: Alton, Illinois

Celebrated America in the heartland of America this year. I have celebrated the 4th in every environment (including once with guns). But this was hands down, the closest to disaster a 4th has ever been for me. At least the pictures were good.

  

   

Right as this picture was finishing I start hear frantic screaming. I start to lower the camera and see a big firework going off on the ground (after it fell over). The person next to me grabs my shoulder and seconds later a fireball flies through the inches between us. I could FEEL the heat. Needless to say, I got out of dodge like I was on Seal Team Six. Dives, barrel rolls, crawling frantically through the grass. The closest to a fireworks disaster I have ever come, knock on wood.

Mardi Gras 2013

Oh Mardi Gras, how I have missed you.

Beads: Bringing out the inner monster in everyone since whenever Mardi Gras began.

Dancing in the streets!
Best Place to Shut it Down on the Street: St. Charles

Endymion is already the most dangerous (in terms of getting your head bashed in by beads) parade. This sign increased the danger tenfold.
Most Dangerous Parade Award: Endymion

Seriously, more floats need shadow boxes.
Best Float Design Award: Muses
Also Best Throw Award: Muses

Greatest walking group. Ever.
Parade with the Most Interesting Marchers (and Theme): Tucks

 

Frenchman Halloween

My first "adult" Halloween in New Orleans. And Frenchman is a madhouse. I was very happy that the people here actually put thought and effort into their costumes (and aren't just package slutty ladybugs like I'm used to in Miami). Maybe it's the cold weather, maybe it's the culture, maybe it's Maybelline.

I told him to make a kissy face, but he had a strict policy against duck face.

Amy, finally reincarnated into the soulful black body she always needed.