Nutcracker

Taylor performed in the Nutcracker again this year. This was her third year doing it, so it is quickly becoming part of our holiday tradition. The performances are always the weekend before Christmas, so it prevents her and I from doing anything other than going to dress rehearsal and the four performances. Taylor looks forward to the Nutcracker all year, and she cries huge tears the second it is over, so it is worth the sacrifice on my end to give up any other social activities the weekend before Christmas.

Taylor was a "girl cousin" this year. She has dreamed of being in this role since the first time she saw The Nutcracker in 2012, so it made my heart smile to watch her. She did an incredible job; she was by far the smallest girl cousin in the ensemble but she kept up with all the lines and circles. And her facial expressions! She nailed it. Her favorite part of the performance was at the end of the party scene - all of the aunts, uncles, and cousins were getting ready to leave the party - Taylor curled up on the couch and pretended to fall asleep. When her "dad" picked her up to carry her home, she lifted her head and waved good bye to the party/audience. It was super cute.

I received several comments from other parents about Taylor's poise, presence, and technique. She is still young but she has potential. I have always said Taylor does not need to take dance because I loved dancing - she can quit whenever she decides - but I am thrilled that she enjoys it so much. It has been a joy to watch her from my perspective as a "dance mom."

All ready for the first performance

Taylor and her "brother" Hayden. He is a 5th grader at her school and I am pretty sure he has a crush on her. :)

Taylor and her fan club

These curls took a LOT of time. Every night, we would roll her wet hair in sponge curlers. The following morning, I would take the curlers out and then re-curl with the curling iron and spray spray spray. By the 4th time I did it (after dress rehearsals and performances), I was a pro. I kinda hope she has another role someday that requires these curls because I have learned a new art. 

Several friends came to see Taylor at the Saturday evening performance.

Mimi sent Taylor a Nutcracker doll since she could not be here this year.

Sadie and Lauretta came to Sunday afternoon's performance.

Lexi and Julia came to the final performance.

Taylor and her "parents," Jeremy and Laurie Lo. They took great care of her!