Josette wins for helping to create my favorite shot of the entire, wet, Gasparilla day.
The Sunset Salsa Tent . . . packed and protecting people from the rain.
The annual pirate invasion of Tampa, Gasparilla, is a day Tampa-natives look forward to all year long. It is basically our Mardi Gras. There are thousands of people who flood the waters and streets, awaiting the invasion of hundreds of pirates who willingly share their booty by throwing beads out to all on-lookers (on land and sea). For the past two years, Kenzo and I have been on boats as a part of the invasion (shots from the better weathered event last year). However, this past weekend for Gasparilla, we made plans to stay on land and attend the popular Sunset Salsa Tent Party. We were really thankful for this decision when we woke up and heard of the 3 to 6 foot swells and "advisory warnings for small crafts". I do not know how the invasion actually took place. The tent was definitely the place to be this year and the parade went on, even in the worst weather in Gasparilla history (at least the history I can remember). We had a blast with my friends and family. Here are some fun shots from the day . . .
Jeff . . .
. . . Jocelyn . . .
My baby brother, Joseph. I like his look here, and the rain falling around him.
My husband, post-parade, taking in the madness that is Gasparilla.
Dad with "his youngest set of high school friends".
Kenzo and Jocelyn owning the side-line.
There was definitely a huge rain drop on my lens, right over my mom's face. Still a great shot of pirates and friends!
Pre-party at Ship's house. It was a great way to start the day -- with some of my favorite people and cuban sandwich casserole . . . and mimosas . . . and pirate punch, okay, it was awesome. (Photo taken by Kenzo).
Kenzo and me, staying dry, pre-parade. (Photo taken by mom).
The aftermath.
Post Script: we heard that even though attendance was 50% of the norm, there were still 400 arrests. Wow. Take it easy popo.
