LizarLife: GMAC Bowl Parade

After a long day of working on getting the marketplace ready for the GMAC Bowl, Craig came home and asked if we'd like to head back over to Mobile for the Bowl Parade. It sounded like a great family outing to me, so we bundled up the kids and headed out the door. After going to our first parade in the South, I quickly learned that one must have a large bag in which to collect the TON of candy thrown from the floats, so I made sure to pack two grocery bags for both the kids-remember this, you'll know why later.

It was an easy drive to Mobile and we were able to find a good parking space rather easily. After a short walk, we found a perfect parade viewing location that wasn't too crowded at all. We settled down and waited for the parade to begin.

At the appearance of the first float, the kids jumped up and cheered, waving their hands in order to get the attention of those on the float to throw them some candy. Imagine their surprise (and mine) when H was tossed a stuffed Pumba-the warthog from the Lion King! We thought, it was going to be a one time deal to receive a stuffed animal but soon realized that not only did the floats toss animals, but also beads, candy, plastic cups, "coins," footballs, frisbees, and even moonpies! Apparently, moonpies have some sort of Mardi Gras connection. Once, I was even pelted in the head with a whiffle ball!

Oh, did you know that Mobile is the site of the first Mardi Gras parade-who knew! Anyway by the time the parade was finished we had collected more than 15 stuffed animals, 5 footballs, an entire bag of beads and another filled with candy and moonpies! Next time we go to a Mardi Gras parade, I'll be sure to take along a few more bags for all the swag!

Another highlight of the parade was the Food Tiger shopping cart. It's one of those things you have to see to believe!