Emma, Zack, Eric, and Heather went to NYC on December 18th to see the NYCB production of the Nutcracker. This is a tradition that Zack and Heather started when Zack was 3, and we have done this every year since. The event ramped-up over the years to include an overnight stay at a different 5* hotel each year, a trip to Teuscher chocolates for champagne truffles, room service, the tree at Rockefeller Center, etc. Emma is 3 now, and it was great fun to introduce her to the ritual with Zack. Of course we wore her out, so she did a lot of shoulder time. This reminded Heather of why she lifts every day.

We took the train, subways, and taxis. Emma had her first Teuscher, which is a big moment for me, right up there with one's first Manolos.
Emma was completely mesmerized by the ballet.

So were Zack and Eric.

Then, suddenly in the second act, complete shutdown.

All recovered for the train ride home. Emma and Heather stayed up late to watch The Polar Express. Zack stayed up late to do whatever with friends. Next year: The Pierre!