This is surely the first of many Mardi Gras-related posts, because yes, it’s that time of year.  The air is already starting to take on that smell–no, not that one–and bands are practicing.  This is the first place I’ve lived that actually decorates for this holiday, and some places are really doing it up.  I passed this house pedaling my way to and from work today.  From a distance it actually looked like someone had painted their fence these colors, and I was impressed with the dedication to the Mardi Gras cause.  Upon closer inspection I found it was banner, draped along the iron fence.  My favorite part, though, is the cut out around the mail drop.  Is this banner custom made?  Actually, there’s nothing all that surprising about that.  Some people in this town go absolutely nuts during carnival.  It’s a real celebration.  And I’m ready to go nuts.  I’ve got decorations for my bike and a glue gun and beads.  Bring it on.  This will be my first Mardi Gras with my bicycle, and I’m looking forward to seeing all kinds of crazy things, as I’m riding my bike around.