Another NO???

I just turned down “Yet ANOTHER” invitation to a party due to a dance conflict.  This has become our life.  And for better or worse, it’s a commitment we made; and as we teach and tell our kids they must follow through – so must we, as parents!!!

Last night I had Mom Crew Hip Hop class.  It was the first group meeting after competition (where we brought home platinum) and our coach was pumped!

At the end of class we stood in a circle, holding hands (yes, very koobayah….) and each one of us shared what this has done for us.

Now, before going into this, I had my own struggles.  Practice was on a weekday and it was late and if you are a mom or even a parent, you know that after 8pm, you can’t be held responsible for your actions.  So to think 8:30 – 9:30, anyone could die…..

Through the season I had my doubts and aches and pains and schedule conflicts etc.  I rearranged my schedule on many occasions and plugged away so I could get through this with my group of gals and hopefully not disappoint.  The choreo was much harder than last year and my body (sadly) is having a hard time keeping up.  But as I made this commitment, I had to show my kids that I meant business.  And as I had done this last year, I knew where the payoff was, so I had my eye on the ball.

Last night as I stood in the circle, over 20 of us shared our joys and struggles.  It was a most heart-warming session.  There were tears and laughter all around.

But the best part was; listening to these moms I realized how much the same we all are!  Many shared how it had been a hard year!!  They were not alone!  Some said they were doubtful they could do it – I totally agreed.  Many said, I couldn’t back out because my kid was watching! I totally got that.  But my favorite was when a few of them said that come hell or high water, the WOULD make it every week, because this was for THEM!!!  And with that, over 20 heads nodded and over 20 faces smiled…….

I felt bad for the moms who couldn’t make it last night, because it was such a great bonding moment that I literally feel more connected to each one of these fabulous ladies who I get to share stage time with!  I knew I loved and respected them but this brought it to a deeper level – one that many people never achieve.  I learned a little more about people I thought I knew completely!  It was totally awesome!

So when I decline yet another invite, yes, it does break my heart.  But I realize that we have chosen our path, and we have to stick to it.  Would I like to see my friends?  ABSOLUTLEY; but as a dance family, it comes with the territory. And thankfully, my “non” dance family friends understand it.  Okay….not completely and maybe they never will, but as long as they continue to love me and invite me, I will be happy!!!

Happy Thursday