Teaching or Dancing?

 Hey there, Friends!

I'm bursting with excitement to share with you the very roots of my love for teaching, a passion that began to brew in the most unexpected of places. Picture this: a young me, bossing my sister around and playing school with her—classic big sister antics, right? But nestled in the heart of Sulphur Springs, my favorite place on earth, lies the Sulphur Springs Centre for Dance, where my journey truly began at the tender age of six.

Fast forward to eighth grade, and I was finally old enough to assist classes at the studio—a dream come true! There was something about being with children, guiding them through new discoveries, that filled my heart with boundless joy. But when high school graduation rolled around, my world turned upside down. Suddenly thrust into the adult realm, where I went from being the social butterfly to a solitary online college student, I felt lost. Yet amidst this sea of uncertainty, one constant kept me grounded: my dance studio.

Teaching cheer and assisting Mrs. Megan with the younger classes became my lifeline, my sanctuary. The studio was where I felt truly seen, truly loved. Every hug, every word of encouragement from those radiant little dancers filled me with warmth and purpose. And let's not forget the amazing moms who welcomed me into their fold, lifting me up and making me feel like family. Watching these girls grow from tiny tots to vibrant pre-teens has been an absolute blessing!

But at the heart of it all stands Mrs. Megan, my guiding light and mentor. She's not just a dance instructor; she's a catalyst for growth, a beacon of unwavering support. Her belief in me has opened doors to countless opportunities and adventures, not to mention a second family within the studio walls. I often tell her, "I think I like the teaching part more than the dancing part," and it's true—her guidance has shaped me into the person I am today.

And just when you thought the excitement couldn't get any better, competition season kicked off last weekend! Watching my girls take the stage, giving it their all with every move, fills me with pride beyond words. They may stumble now and then, but their resilience shines through, reminding me why I love what I do.

So here's to the endless hugs, the boundless love, and the incredible journey that is life at the dance studio. Thank you for letting me share a piece of my heart with you.

8 Hugs,

Harley Kate