Nutcracker 2009

Going to the Nutcracker is a Mooney family tradition. Every year for the past 14 years, Tom (father-in-law, aka Grandad) Kelly (aka K-Sue) Hannah (Zac's half sister, Sophie and Luke's Aunt) Harrison, (Zac's half brother, Sophie and Luke's uncle), Kelly (Zac's sister, Sophie and Luke's Aunt) have gone to the Nutcracker. If you don't know our family, you are probably going---huh? Yes it is confusing. That is what you get when you have two divorced families! There have been a few years that Zac and I didn't go---the first few years Zac and I weren't dating, and mayyybe once or twice we weren't "invited" (not bitter or anything) and Sophie has not been. Because of Sophie's need to "fidget", we haven't felt like she was ready until this year. You should see her sit in "big people" church---it isn't pretty. Anyway, I am glad we waited. She LOVED IT! I had so much fun whispering back and forth with her about the story and exactly what was going on. She loved the dancing and the costumes and dressing up to go. We also went out to eat at yummy Italian restaurant right next to the theatre (also part of the tradition). Sophie was so cute during everything. She kept saying what a great day it was and that she wanted to do this every year. Grandad bought her a Nutcracker at intermission. Sophie was concerned about Luke---so Grandad was kind enough to go back and buy an exact copy of the one Sophie got. Sophie is so funny that way---sweet big sister always thinking about Luke. She got to take a picture with a rat from the ballet during intermission as well. Uncle Harrison went with her so that she "wouldn't be scared" Sophie is so lucky to have so many sweet people in her life!

After the Nutcracker we went to open presents at Grandad and K-Sue's house (after picking up Luke, of course) and drink some coffee/eat dessert. We all had a wonderful evening and are looking forward to going next year and bringing Luke!

All dressed up and ready to go! Zac looked nice too (I guess...) but he wasn't wearing red, so Sophie and I wouldn't let him in the picture :)

Sophie and her Uncle Harrison with the big scary rat!