Resolutions and revelry
By February 1, most people have completely abandoned their New Year’s resolutions. I usually set one or two soft resolutions, which I don’t share with anyone for fear of being found a failure. I learned a long time ago to wait until spring to set any sort of exercising goal. January is just far too busy at the YMCA—there is no room in yoga class and not a treadmill available until at least mid-February. At least not at the times I can go, which are apparently during “gym rush hour.” I guess I could get up an hour earlier. Maybe that will make the list next year!
There’s one resolution that appears on my list year after year. Stop procrastinating. Do the thing you have been avoiding the most and do it first. But there is a happy side effect to not keeping this resolution: The things that are second and third on my list are completed quickly and with great gusto! Things get done. Just not the main thing. Case in point: I found myself in a near-trance the other day digging lint out of the dryer.
In addition to reconsidering resolutions and goals, February is also the month for lovers and revelers. We have six weeks this year, beginning on Epiphany, to enjoy king cakes and attend Mardi Gras balls before the first Baton Rouge parade rolls mid-month. The Capital Region is fortunate, indeed, to have the support of seven krewes, who spend their time and money to put on parades that delight and entertain our entire community. You can find the routes and further details at visitbatonrouge.com. The parade schedules are worth noting:
Krewe of Jupiter, Feb. 15, 6:30 p.m.
Mystique Krewe of Mutts, Feb. 16, 11 a.m.
Krewe of Artemis, Feb. 21, 7 p.m.
Krewe of Mystique, Feb. 22, 6:30 p.m.
Krewe of Orion, Feb. 22, 6:30 p.m.
Krewe of Southdowns, Feb. 28, 7 p.m.
Krewe of Spanish Town, March 1, noon
Valentine’s Day is on Friday this year, an occurrence that surely will fill our fine local restaurants to capacity once over. If you are are looking for some romance and revelry, the Karnival Krewe de Louisiane will host its 27th ball that evening. While many krewes generously make donations to area nonprofits, KKdL, as it is affectionately known, has raised more than $1 million for local cancer treatment and services for indigent patients.
I read that 3% of pet owners give their pets a Valentine treat and 15% of women send themselves flowers. You learn something new every day. Another New Year’s resolution—success! Happy Valentine’s Day!
