There's no better way to get into the holiday mood than to attend a live performance of "The Nutcracker." I've seen it probably six times on stage, and every time it's different and every time I leave the theater like a kid on Christmas morning. 

So this year, I'm extra fortunate because two different variations of "The Nutcracker" are coming to town. And both look exceptional! Hmmmm, can I go to both?!? 

The State Street Ballet from Santa Barbara, Calif., sweeps into town on Nov. 27 and 28 for three primo performances featuring music by Western Slope Chamber Music. Add to that dazzling sets and costumes, and you're in for pure holiday entertainment. Friday and Saturday evenings, the curtain rises at 7 p.m., and then on Saturday there's also a matinee at 2 p.m. The most expensive tickets start at just $26.

The second round of Nutcracker bliss hits Grand Junction on Thursday, Dec. 3, at 7:30 p.m., when the Moscow Ballet performs the "Great Russian Nutcracker." There are a couple of things that make this performance unique (besides the exquisite costumes and hand-painted scenery): First, they introduce a new character -- a Christmas dove. And then they have a one-of-a-kind setting of Act II in the "Land of Peace and Harmony." The who's who of dance is long in this performance, and even though I won't go into it all here (because to spell all the Russian names would send me into a tizzy!), be assured you won't be disappointed. Tickets start at $27.50.

As far as this weekend is concerned, put on your runnin' shoes, 'cause there's a lot going on. A few quick highlights:

The 2009 Grand Junction Cowboy Poetry Gathering begins Friday, Nov. 20, from 1 to 5 p.m., and then again at 7 p.m. at the Museum of Western Colorado Whitman Education Center. Sunday, the poetry goes from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and starts up again at 7 p.m. Admission is free, except in the evenings, when it is $5. A cowboy's sweet drawl makes me feel completely happy and comforted. It must be those Wyoming roots!

Next up -- two art and gift shows that are entirely different and totally fun. One-of-a-kind art items can be found at the 38th Annual Art Center Holiday Art & Craft Fair from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is free. I always walk away with an armful of pottery, paintings, jewelry, gourmet food and more. It's a blast, and you can buy a homemade lunch while browsing. This event puts the fun back in fundraiser (for The Art Center). Go to www.gjartcenter.org for more.

The Holiday Gift Show & Sale at The Gallery Studios on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. is another favorite. Set on a an old farm complete with several buildings now housing residents and studios, it feels like a wonderful art compound you might find somewhere like Taos. Numerous artists, including the ever-popular and incredibly kind Damian Radice and his students, share their wares, including pottery and sculpture jewelry. Prices are crazy good, and delightful refreshments as well as admission are free.

OK -- one more. Rounding out the weekend is "Something's Afoot in Santa's Workshop" with Grand Mesa Sweet Adelines. Santa, elves, music and more hit the Avalon Theatre. Hey -- you can't beat that! Log onto www.grandmesachorus.org for more info.

Whewww! Sorry I got a little long-winded. There's just so much happening right now. I''m just hitting the "tip of the iceberg!" Be sure to check this website for more great happenings. If I don't get back with you before Thanksgiving, have a fabulous time with friends and family. I can tell you one thing: I am thankful to live here in this wonderful valley!