Spring Recital

I snapped this photo on my phone before the chaos began at recital, I was hoping to get more but I knew that this was probably going to be the only one. Seeing the Kanji next to these dressing rooms was a bit surreal.  As I've said before, everything about living on Okinawa is so fast paced.  Families are constantly moving in and out so I have found myself having to be more personable and on top of my game.  I think the hardest part about working at this studio now and in the future is knowing that most of these children are only going to be with us for a short time as most of them belong to military families.  We are losing quite a few students to military PCS season.  Recital here isn't just a culmination of their dance accomplishments but also a time to say goodbye.  One of my favorite students, who I didn't even know was PCSing told me at dress rehearsal that they were moving soon. One thought that went through my mind was, " I hope I've given her enough, I hope that what I've taught her will be able to help her wherever she goes next."  This mentality has helped me be on my toes more as a dance instructor.  I want them not only to be their best on the stage, but I also want them to do their best wherever they go so their transition into a new studio goes smoothly.  I love military children, these moves are not easy them.  These kids are tough, hard little workers.  I have loved being able to work at Footloose, it has provided so many blessings for myself and this community.  I'm looking forward to the next season with anticipation and excitement.