Visiting Texas

Since we have 3 weeks off for Christmas, its a great opportunity for the family to go visit Nannie Jane and her family.  We got there in time to watch the LSU bowl game - not as pleasant of a turn out as the rest of the weekend, but fun either way.

 Jake got lots of loving this weekend from the Carrolls:

The next day was New Years eve and Emma wanted to go to the Galleria and ice skate.  Only me, Emma and Emily skated, but we had a good time.  This mall is gorgeous.

We spent the rest of the day watching football and hanging out a Jane's:

That night we had reservations at Bucca, which is this really cool Italian restaurant where you eat "family style" with big bowls of various dishes - it was delicious.

Mark had to help our waitress open the wine:

Katie proceeded to get a GIANT chocolate cake for dessert (which we all shared - along with some great canolli.  (not sure if I spelled that right)

Christmas at the Carrolls

So as Christmas time rolls around this year, Mark and the girls and I get to enjoy 3 whole weeks off as our parish takes a longer winter break to accommodate testing.  It doesn't really matter to us why we do it, we just know we really enjoy it.  It does make us get out a little later, but we'll worry about that in May!  Here are some pics from the holiday festivities:

Emma opens the traditional Christmas eve present - shocking - Pokemon cards!

Katie and her new Coach wallet - another shocker since she picked it out!

Christmas morning, we all got some great things - even Lilo and Jovi - although Jovi's didn't fit her so well!

Emma's biggest wish this year was for a REAL bow and arrow.  She has enjoyed playing with it a little bit, but the rain has made it more difficult.

Making the traditional "Missy" dessert;  This year, no 3 foot  Southern Living cake, just some wreath chocolate cupcakes:

Everyone around the dinner table having gumbo and brisket:  Juju, Kim, Chad, Jason and Paw paw:

That's my girl:

This look from Emma will be a trend as you may see:

Our LSU purple and gold snowpeople, and Jovi looking for a place to ... well, you know:

Emma and chad - two peas in a pod:

Me and my angelic nephew:

Katie showing the grands how to play with the new WiiU:

And it wouldn't be a Carroll gathering without some Just Dance (2015 edition of course)  - I love how in sync they are - and yes, that is my nephew Jason, the future doctor - nice moves, doc!

Jovi has had enough of this - and to all a good night!