December Memories - The Nutcracker

When I was young, (can't remember exactly how old I was, my sisters' might remember for me), our Nana took all of us girl cousins to Ballet West's Nutcracker in Salt Lake City.  I remember just being mesmerized by the whole performance. 

Grandma LaPerle decided to take us this year to see the Pacific Northwest Ballet's performance and it was just beautiful!

(image: PNB.org)

Obviously you're not allowed to take pictures during the performance, but I was able to find some from PNB's website for the Nutcracker -- Maddie loves looking at these!

My absolute favorite scene and dance.

(all images from PNB.org)

After the performance we had to get some pics in front of the big tree in the lobby.

Here's Maddie with some of her cousins, Cassie, Megan and Libby.

(We missed being with all the girl cousins in the family :)

Her typical timid look... couldn't get her to look real excited here!

And of course one in front of the huge replica of the Nutcracker.

We loved the performance and want to thank Grandma LaPerle so much for taking us.  I'm sure Maddie will always remember the experience!

December Memories - Leavenworth at Christmastime

Tyler's Jazz Band had the opportunity to go over to Leavenworth, that cute little Bavarian town I've mentioned here...

It is absolutely gorgeous all decked out with lights at Christmastime!

Everyone gathers on the historic street the first few weeks of December for the Christmas lighting ceremony, and then bands and choirs from all over perform in the town square. 

It is so festive!

Here's a couple of Tyler playing.  (He's in the middle in the back).

What a fun opportunity Tyler had, I'm so glad he got to go with his band!

He also got to pick out some fun Christmas ornaments for he and Maddie from the Kris Kringle store... a fun family tradition.

December Memories - At the Tree Farm

 It was a beautiful day to head out to our favorite tree farm to pick out a tree!

A busy day as well, with Tyler having a band concert at the Dickens Fair and then in Leavenworth.

There were some moments like this...

(which may or may not have been my fault, in the quest for a perfect tree :(

But we found a perfect one, for everyone!

This is the baby tree Maddie wanted for her room... how cute!  (She didn't understand why we couldn't get it :)

Their fresh wreaths and garlands are gorgeous.

 What a fun place to go!