Having lived in New Orleans for 12 years, Mardi Gras holds such a special place in my heart. The sweet smell of king cakes in the air, the music from brass bands around you, the warmth from the sun and the community that gathers alongside you at the parade route — commotion and laughter and fellowship all around. The heart of it all is celebrating the present moment and the joy and fellowship shared with those around you. It is probably the bleakest time of the year in many places, the long, cold winter still settled in, but in New Orleans, it is the most beautiful — flowers blooming accentuated by this bright and colorful season of pure joy and celebration. - Caitlin Wallace-Rowland