Two Firsts of Many (I hope...)

On December 16th, we fought the crowds and the horrendous parking situation to enjoy our first Madison orchestra concert in the Barrus Concert Hall. Okay, it wasn't technically our "first". I mean, back in the day it was Richard and I sitting on that same stage under the direction of Rick Hansen. This time, it was our son, Thomas, under the direction of Rick Hansen's son, Doug Hansen. Oh, the irony!

Introducing the Madison Middle School Orchestra. Actually, this isn't even the entire orchestra. This is only the 5th grade. Can you find Thomas? I'll give you a hint: He is somewhere in that enormous cello section.

Give up? Okay, I will post a close-up.

To make things even cooler, his stand partner is Ashley - his cousin. Another cousin, Adam, is also in his class, but because of another conflict, he was unable to perform in this concert. Adam plays violin.

Now that's one proud Mama!

Moving on to the next notable performance: The Nutcracker. In Rexburg! I don't think the Nutcracker has been performed in Rexburg since I have been alive - unless the college did it once, a long time ago. Marianne's ballet teacher, Diane Loveland, combined her studio with another dance studio in Rexburg, and they put on a great show! So much talent in these little ballerinas! All it was lacking was a live orchestra, but I am sure that will come with time. I recorded the performance on my camera, so I didn't get any pictures of her actually dancing, or in her costume, but here are some pictures afterwards.

We are so blessed to have such supportive grandparents that live so close!

Marianne was a cherub. And, a beautiful cherub she was! So fitting for my little angel. I hope the Nutcracker can become a yearly tradition. It really put me in the holiday spirit!