In the vein of celebrating family-style before the holidays are upon us, I thought this year we'd come up with a new tradition. I thought it might be nice for Ava and I to have an annual girls' night out, where we would attend the Nutcracker (or something else similarly girly) during the Christmas season. I know she loves ballet and all things that sparkle. Considering Liam's age and that he's a boy, I didn't think he would appreciate it as much as Ava. The Nutcracker was playing at the Fox Theater, downtown. I knew it would be magical for her to see such a show there. It's such a gorgeous theater!
So we put on our party dresses, Daddy took a picture of us together and we headed out. I've never seen the Nutcracker live, so I was looking forward to it!
Before we headed out to the Fox Theater
We bought the "souvenir" program and found our seats. One of the ladies ushering mentioned we should probably grab a booster seat for her, before there weren't any available. That was a good call. We lucked out, as well, as the two seats directly in front of Ava were empty for the entire show. We put our coats down and went to find a snack for Ava. They had a little popcorn, drink and sweet treat deal in a tray for kids, so we opted for that.
Before the show started, they had an organist up front playing an old-time organ. Right before the show started, his platform slowly sunk into the floor.
The show was so great! There was a first half, intermission and a second half. Knowing Ava wore herself out at gymnastics earlier in the day, I was curious if she would fall asleep by the end of the show. She got pretty snuggly and laid her head down on my arm toward the end, but never did fall asleep. During intermission, we walked up to the front of the theater, so I could show her where the orchestra pit was located. I also wanted to point out the stars twinkling in the "sky" of the theater. She loved it.
The beginning of the show
The dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy
The snow fairies
The "sky" in Fox Theater
I think my favorite part of the ballet was the oriental "Indian" dancer. She was very athletic and held the most amazing, graceful poses for what seemed like forever! When I asked Ava what her favorite part was, she answered "All of it!" There you go. :-) I think it will be fun to do something like this as a tradition every holiday, to take time out with my sweet girl and have fun.
She fell asleep in the car, on the way home. Visions of sugarplums danced in her head, I'm sure. ;-)
Shelly, Doug, Ava and Liam
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