10 years ago, my friend Emily and I traveled down to New Orleans to celebrate Mardi Gras. I turned 25 in New Orleans. We had a great time and got lots of beads. And since we do not drink, we feel we were among the few who really saw Mardi Gras 2000. On Fat Tuesday we left Bourbon Street by about 5pm because we had seen enough public urination.

This year for my birthday, I am taking Colin and Jane to Philadelphia to spend some time with my old college roommate since her husband will be away. It will be Kristy and I vs. 5 kids. It will probably be just as crazy as Mardi Gras, if not more crazy.