Mom and Daughter Date : The Nutcracker

Magical. Holidays are magical for the kids. For the adults, it seems to pass by in a whirlwind of getting things done, but for the kids, it feels like timeless, magical, endless fun. They kids get so excited for the holidays now that they are older and have past impressions of what it means.

With that in mind, I took Emilia out for a momma and daughter date, to see the classic performance of "The Nutcracker".

It was fun in a "soaking in the moment" kind of thing. I really enjoyed watching her take in this new experience. It was an experience and we dressed up for the occasion.

When we arrived, she took in the sights all around.. the hustle and bustle of many people and other girls in pretty dresses, the colorful and festive decor of the holidays, and of course the beauty of the ballet dancers - the costumes, make-up, hair, and the dancing.

Waiting for the performance to start.. I brought backup entertainment, crayons and paper.

I was worried that she would get bored with the classical music and dancing, but she was completely entranced and watched intently throughout. She told me during the performance that it was very beautiful.

Definitely "The Nutcracker" is part of the atmospheric decor for the Christmas season. Just like the lights, the music, the hot cocoa, Charlie Brown's Christmas Special, or Mr. Bean's Thanksgiving Turkey episode... it helps to create magical moments of awe, laughter, and fun memories that will stay with us.

When we went home later that evening, Emilia was twirling around on her toes and teaching Liam to do the same thing.