Dinah joins the Krewe of Iris

Today I sent off my application to ride on a Mardi Gras float in the Krewe of Iris.

I'm totally psyched.

Founded in 1917 and named for the Goddess of the Rainbow and Messenger to the Gods, the Krewe of Iris is now New Orleans' sole parading Carnival organization exclusively for women and the largest ladies' club in Carnival history. The Iris tableau ball was the first such event to ever be televised.

The Krewe prides itself on strictly following the traditional customs of full-length Carnival masks and white gloves.

The Captain of the Krewe of Iris throws her own special 10-guage doubloons...unique items of chartreuse and lavender with freshly-minted 10-guage blue and silver aluminum.

The oldest of female krewes and the largest female parading organization in Carnival history, this krewe takes its name from the Greek goddess of rainbows and messenger to the gods. Iris is known for presenting her court with great finery on a series of mini-floats, as well as her former queen and king who ride in convertible automobiles.

The Krewe's motto: “Pour La Joie de Vivre” (“For the Joy of Living”)