My niece Marisa’s birthday usually falls around Fat Tuesday, and for years now, we’ve had a Mardi Gras-style birthday party for her. As with many of our gatherings, “Tradition” (pronounced, uh, actually sung a la the song from ‘Fiddler on the Roof’ ) is key.

Red beans and rice, shellfish of some kind – and Gumbo!
Jeff found this recipes years ago – I love it, have made it several times “just because”, and it lives up to its name: One Great Gumbo. It’s my choice for my contribution this year. Each year I make something different – last year I made a reader’s contribution which was well received, and I truly enjoyed! Papa says that he’s making King Cake Cupcake’s ? this year. Lots of beads (an’ happy thoughts) to y’all!!!! (even if it IS a little late...) ps. Papa's cupcakes were wonderful - and pretty as a picture!