How lucky is it to have a grandmother whose home is in New Orleans on the Mardi Gras parade route?

In her front yard, her grandchildren discover how bead trees come to be. It takes a bit of work, a sprinkling of whimsy, and an imaginative grandmother to help them discover the secret of the very first bead tree.

Maybe you can grow a bead tree too!

Just remember to pluck those dazzling beads when Mardi Gras day is done. The tree must rest to prepare for next year's magic and fun.