Mardi Gras Ball (Warning: LONG POST)

Drew and I were invited to the 45th Nereids Mardi Gras Ball, which was held at the Mississippi Gulf Coast Arena in Biloxi.  We've been to the ball once before, way back in 2004.  It was a lot of fun, so we were looking forward to another night out on the town.  Before the ball we met up with his best friend, Tim and his new bride, Amy for dinner.  We took a few "before" pictures.  *Note: This very well may be the LAST time (EVER) you see Drew in this uniform.  He should be promoted to Major before next year's Marine Corps Ball, and with that promotion comes a new uniform.*

 Tim & Amy

 The night starts in the arena, with a huge production.  This year's theme was "A Disco Night."  Drew's cousin as well as Tim's family are both very involved with the production.   The show kicks off with the introduction of last year's King and Queen as well as Dukes and Maids.  

 This is the Captain:  Apparently she runs the show. I learned that this is only the second captain in all 45 years of Nereids history!

 One of Laura's numbers.

 Introduction of this year's Maids and Dukes.  They each have a name and I forget these guys.

 Disco Music

 Neon and Laser (Does she look familiar?) Tim's Mom surprised us all.  We had no idea she was going to be a Maid this year!

 Pop Art

 The City That Never Sleeps

 Studio 54

 The Royal Court

 Sandra

 After the presentation of the Royal Court, the show continued with more dancing.  Sandra's boys, Nick and Zach were in this number.

 Laura's 2nd number.

 That's the choreographer...Man, I'd love to have his job!

 Final number: Tim's sister Katelyn is in the purple group.

 Totally in charge...

 Grand Finale

 After the show, we went down on the floor to offer our congratulations on a wonderful performance!

Me and Laura

 Maid Sandra

 Then it was on to the "Supper Dance."  Louisiana Spice was the live band.  They were really good.  The party got started with a parade of the royal court.

 Another shot of Tim and Amy

 Me and my man

 Drew and Laura

 Me and Laura

Balaina with the Everhart boys.  They should NOT be 16 and 18 already!

Katelyn and Drewf 

We danced until our feet hurt and then headed home.  What a fun night!  Thanks Sandra, for inviting us.  We had a great time!