Abby & The Nutcracker

waiting for the show to begin...

...on pins and needles

Abby and the Mouse King

with the Sugarplum fairy and her prince

Yesterday, Abby and I went to The Richmond Ballet's Nutcracker. It was a big surprise for Abby and she had no idea where we were going and I managed to keep her on pins and needles for the entire trip up to Richmond. When we arrived and we stood in front of the theatre I asked Abby to read the marquee and the expression on her face was priceless. We walked into this gorgeous old theatre which has recently been re done and it was just spectacular and we both were taking every moment in. Finally, the bells rang and we were able to go in and find our seats, which by the way were pretty awesome. I kinda splurged and got great seats because I wanted her very first experience to be perfect. We had a great time people watching as everyone filed in and Abby and I were checking out all the dresses that the little girls were wearing. Then the lights began to flicker announcing that it was about to begin and Abby was instantly on the very edge of her seat with anticipation. I'm not sure which was more fun for me ... watching the ballet or watching the expressions on her face throughout the performance. She just loved it! Afterwards we went to a very special Tea Party where the children can meet the performers and have their pictures taken with them. Sadly, I only brought my little point and shoot camera because I didn't want to lug the big one but I did manage to get a few pictures to share. After the Tea Party was over we headed back to the car for one final surprise. My dear friend Linda's daughter is a real ballerina and she sent Abby a pair of her toe shoes that she wore this year in the Nutcracker and she signed them for Abby. Abby's comment "Mommy, thank you so much for a perfect day!" I know she will remember this forever, and so will I.

Dawn