The Last Dance (for now)

To touch, to move, to inspire.  This is the true gift of dance.

~aubrey lynch

This week was tough, and to be honest I have put off writing this post because it truly signals the end.

  The end of another awesome contract doing exactly what I love.  It is not lost on me that I truly enjoy my job, and how fortunate I am to feel that way about it.  I came to Korea hoping, praying, that I would find an opportunity to continue sharing my passion.  I have done that, and as cliche as it may be...it rings true...when one door closes, another will open.

12 months

18 classes a week

Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Musical Theatre

3 Summer Camps &

3 Performances later...

It has been a year of teaching far more "littles" than I ever have before.  Of hearing 2 year old squeals of merriment in my Mommy and Me class when the colorful parachute sailed over their heads.  Of watching a 3 year old make the connection that "plie" means to bend, and "chasse" means to chase!  Of experiencing my 5 and 6 year old's take the stage with confidence, a little shakiness, but the biggest smiles...

It's been a year of not only teaching dance technique, but in hopes of leading my classes to a better version of themselves.  To respect each other, try their best, be a team, make BIG mistakes (and it's okay!), learn to create choreography, and clap loudly when another dancer finishes his/her curtsy or bow.

Now that it is all wrapped up, I've looked back on the past year, and feel happy of what was accomplished. My main goal coming here was to start my own program, I can happily put a check in that box! 

Follow my journey at the links below: 

The Reveal, February 11, 2012

Feature in my Top 25 of 25

Studio Tours

Princess Ballet Camp

Fairy Tale Ballet Camp

Broadway Camp

First Community Performance

Dance Recital

On my way out, it was apparent my dancers would miss me too.  That made me feel sad, but also I guess...grateful? I did not want to see their tears, but I did love their hugs and the revelation that I made an impact.

They were also so kind to make me cupcakes, which I shared with them of course! Adorably, one of my dancers told me I needed to "save one for MR. Lindsay";)

One family brought me flowers for their daughter's last class, "for your final performance." Thank you so much for the memories, the smiles, the chance to dance!

Another lovely sentiment was given to me by the parent's of my PreBallet-Tap class, they made a plaque for me, showcasing a picture of me with the wee ones, and this quote:

"Great dancers are not great because of their technique; they are great because of their passion"

~Martha Graham

"Thank you for your dedication, patience, and passion. We will truly miss you."

I will miss you!

I would not trade all I've learned here, the friendships formed, the delight I gained from helping another crop of dancers reach for the stars.  Obviously this means a change is in the air for the Swoboda family once again, and more details to come soon.  Until then...

I hope you dance.

Photo Credit: Victoria Dawn Photography, That is ME leaping:) How cool is that?!

xoxolindsay