Ellie's first Ballet

David and I decided to take Ellie to see the Nutcracker as part of her birthday gift. We wanted her to get a taste of how far this dancing thing can go if she's interested. Today was the day. Ellie and Mommy were off for a 2pm show in Frederick. SHe was very excited and I was too. The walk from the car to the theater was about the top point for her I think. She was nearly pulling me along the streets. She couldn't wait to see what this was all going to be about. We got our tickets and went inside. SHe stayed close becuase it was really packed. We had good seats. When we sat down she wanted to know where the Nutcracker was. (We had read the story to prepare.) I told her it was appear after the show starts, taht it hasn't started yet. So she waited patiently.

I find Ballet quite strange really. I don't get much without words. I know, that makes me boring, but I'm so literally that ballet can nearly put me to sleep. However, I enjoyed snuggling Ellie and watching her look around and take in the experience. She sat at attention for the first half and really enjoyed it. I am not sure she was all that impressed with the dancing, but she enjoyed the scene and the environment for sure. We had a snack of some M&Ms at the half and I think that may have been the highlight for her. The second half was more entertaining for me. I really enjoyed the snow queen dancing. She got a little antsy at the end. I think it was hard for her becuase it was during naptime. I underestimated how hard that would be for her. But she said she really enjoyed it. I asked her if she wanted to dance like the lead does. Her first response was,"No." Then she watched another 15 seconds and turns back to me and says, "Maybe when I grow up I want to."

It was a great Mommy and Ellie afternoon and I hope to always remember the excitement of taking her on this new experience. Ellie was so tired, that she was asleep in the car before we made it home (which is very unlike her.)