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There is nothing that brings back wonderful memories of Christmas for me more strongly than hearing the opening bars of the Nutcracker.  As a child, like so many little girls, I dreamed of being a ballerina. But I also learned at a very early age it takes hours of work and discipline! As a student of the Pennsylvania Ballet I had the honor of performing in their annual Nutcracker for many years.

I can still remember what it felt like to stand in the wings, hearing the live orchestra play the soaring music at Philadelphia's historic Academy of Music.  Once my Mom and sister, Ginna, had front row seats and I can remember smiling at them as I danced on the stage!

Is it any wonder that when Cara, my oldest daughter, would follow in Mom's footsteps dancing in the Nutcracker?! Although she has retired her pointe shoes for swim goggles, she too is nostalgic about her performances. This year, little Deirdre was busily preparing for her first role in the Nutcracker ballet.

Although I have golden memories of my dancing days, I have one regret: I never danced the role of Clara!  However, proving just because God delays doesn't mean God denies, about ten years ago I returned to the stage dancing the role of Clara's mother.  That wonderful feeling of waiting in the wings came over me once again, even though it had been nearly 25 years since my last Nutcracker!

-Jane