03/30/2026
First dance competition of 2026 done and dusted ✌🏼
The 7am call times, the fake eyelashes, the costumes that scratch armpits and fit in November but don't fit in March, the slicked back high pony's, the flat ballet buns, the endless rehearsals, the tears, the insecurities, the lipstick stains, the scuffed ballet slippers, the acro exam prep, the infinite Tim Hortons frozen lemonades drunk, the makeup wipes used, the pep talks given...
I wouldn't trade it for anything on this Earth. Little one came off stage after her first ever competitive routine absolutely bawling. I panicked, until she smiled through her tears and shouted how this was the best day of her whole life and she was so proud of herself and how *powerful* she felt. Later in the weekend, that same routine won them 1st place overall (for their large group category) and she looked at me with tears in her eyes and said "1st place? In the whole world? Like the very bestest? I KNEW IT!!!"
It was in those moments that I viscerally understood the lengths I would go to to ensure my kids never ever questioned if their passions were a burden on me - because if I could bottle that joy and share it, I truly believe we could heal the world.
Whew. Let's go girls ❤️
