Natalie's Dance Recital

Natalie was in her first dance recital and she did such a great job! She has been taking tap and ballet since September of last year. She has had days that she really enjoyed going to class and days that she would rather have stayed to play on the playground at daycare. So, I wasn't sure what to expect as we were nearing recital time but when she learned that she would be able to wear make up, she was VERY excited about the recital. She had a great time getting ready on dress rehearsal day. However, when it came time to walk up the stairs to that "CUGE" stage, she got a little nervous. So, mommy accompanied her up the first time to check it out. I explained that she would need to be a big, brave girl and do a good job for the rest of her class, her teacher and her grandparents who were eager to watch her dance. I asked her what kind of reward she would like to have for being a big girl and doing a good job. The answer was a bowling trip! After she knew what she was working for she did a great job and really enjoyed herself. I was so proud to see my shy little girl put aside her fears and get on that big stage in front of a pretty large crowd. She preformed both dances to perfection and smiled beautifully. We enjoyed taking dance this year with some old friends and we made some new friends along the way. It was a fun experience and I hope Natalie will look back on this time in her childhood with fond memories. Here a few pictures from the day and the bowling trip that followed. By the way, little brother enjoyed the recital too and danced away on Paw Paw's lap until they both fell asleep ; )