Laughing our pants off

Well, folks, we've finally made it through our final dress rehearsal. All we need now is an audience for our 2011 Victorian Christmas Feast. I, for one, cannot wait. When I was putting on my tux before tonight's rehearsal I realized that the last time I put on my fake diamond studs was two years ago at a Victorian Christmas Feast at the Beechwood Mansion. It's strange how muscle memory stays with you. As soon as I got the first stud through the button hole I felt this odd wave of nostalgia. I can remember the first time I ever wore studs and cufflinks. I had no idea what I was doing, and it took forever. This time, though, it felt like second nature. How odd that a simple gesture or movement can spark so many fond memories of waltzing through Mrs. Astor's grand Newport Ballroom. Even though we're no longer at Beechwood, the beauty and Victorian elegance of the Griswold House will make for a fine feast.

How else do I know this will be a great feast? During our rehearsal tonight as we danced the opening number I noticed that Katherine was laughing hysterically. I looked around to see why, and Nikki was tripping all over her skirt that was falling around her ankles. Even Victorians have trouble being classy.

Happy Christmas!