February 17, 2015 {48/365} « Laissez les bons temps rouler! »

French holidays are especially hard for me since I left the classroom. I loved sharing historical and cultural events with my students, especially in February when we flipped crêpes for la Chandeleur, listened to Piaf and made romantic Valentines (in la langue de l'amour), and compared Mardi gras celebrations in Nice, Quebec, and New Orleans. Today we would be listening to zydeco music, making masks, and enjoying a Carnaval feast. I do miss those days, so I was thrilled when one of my colleague who teaches culinary arts asked me to visit his Pro-Start class today. While they prepare jambalaya and a New Orleans style kings' cake, I will be sharing some of the history and tradition behind today's celebration.

Alors, laissez les bons temps rouler!

[Interested in a learning more about Mardi gras? Here's a link to my presentation: Mardi Gras 2015]