Christmas at the Rouse's

It was Reese's first Christmas and she had a blast. Toys, treats, food, food and more food.

She was a blast to watch all day, a pure ball of energy, playing with toy after toy, messing with Maggie (the resident Rouse dog), running laps in the muddy backyard resulting in a towel bath from her Mama and Grandma -- too funny!!
Big Daddy Rouse and I seem to take this same picture every Christmas at the Rouse's.

The Rouse Family -- Mr. Roger, Mama Jane, Big Daddy and Maggie

The Mouse-Rouse Family Pic

Christmas was different this year -- we woke up at 10:00am, it was crazy!!

I missed everyone immensely but I had a good day nonetheless.

Ate some improvised Shrimp & Grits for breakfast.

Spent the morning opening some presents -- a vest jacket, some cool socks, wine, jewelry

and some much needed spending money for my upcoming visit to Wisconsin.

And of course, we watched A Christmas Story - Fa Ra Ra Ra Ra Ra Ra Ra Ra.

Biltmore on Christmas Eve

Brad and I woke up early to leave for Asheville and head to Biltmore with his parents. I can't ever remember going in the past, so it was wonderful for me. It was completely amazing to walk around this house and see how the Vanderbilts lived.

My future child will marry a Vanderbilt, I am willing this to come true. Mama Jane and I doing the classic picture pose.

A great Rouse family picture!!

In perfect Mouse-tourist-fashion,
I had to rub the cherub belly.

I had a wonderful day!!
MERRY CHRISTMAS EVE EVERYONE!!!

I LOVE YOU!!!

I MISS YOU!!!

It's a crazy feeling -- I have 2 weeks off and I'm getting paid and not taking sick leave or vacation, it's just part of the gig. That's just amazing to me. Last night, it felt like a Friday because I knew I didn't have to wake up at the butt-crack of dawn to head to school. It's was an awkward feeling really.