Never had I imagined attending an “official” Mardi Gras in New Orleans would be in my near future; (insert favorite horror story here). My parents would shudder at the thought of their youngest daughter on the streets of Bourbon during one of the craziest festivals known worldwide. 
Well, my first Mardi Gras experience is one I will never forget. How can it be that I am 24 years old and have never before witnessed this historical gathering? The words that best describe my Mardi Gras experience—Family friendly. No, really! We enjoyed adult beverages, screamed very loudly for beads, all while never shedding one article of clothing! I felt very lucky to have been welcomed with open arms to the unique traditions of this event.
Thank you to my very dear friend and local New Orleanian; I was able to witness the art of the ladder. The importance of a ladder means more to me now and will forever remind me that it’s OK to scream at the top of my lungs for a beaded necklace; better beads equals larger bragging rights!
New Orleans has carved a special little place in my heart. It is very likely that I will try to make this a new tradition in my own life. Mardi Gras on St. Charles with your best friends is something we should all experience.
