Back to School

Today was the first day of school for many areas of the US. I've seen all my teacher friends and friends with kids post pictures on Facebook of all the "first day" pomp and excitement--new outfits, perfect hair, gleaming school supplies, and smiling faces at the prospect of the new year. I find myself sharing in the giddiness, but mainly because this "new year" signals the start of a season that leads to the holidays! Halloween/Harvest, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years...all neatly in a row!

In a way, yesterday was my "first day of school" at my new Irish dance school. Sitting in the parking lot (full of mini vans), waiting to go in, I had some of the same anxious feelings as that first day at a new school. That knot in my stomach about who I'd stand next to, what I'd say, and who my friends would be. It was kind of laughable. How old am I?!

I did much more in this first official class: learning steps, meeting people, and pushing myself more. I ended up sweaty and exhausted, but my muscles feel better than after my trial run two weeks ago. The kids all chatted about their first day of regular school in the morning, and I smiled because I was thinking some of the same things about what this new "class" would hold for me. Hopefully friendships, good health, stronger muscles, and the chance to continue in this dance form I love so much.

The other "20-somethings" were MIA last night, but they told my teacher to apologize to me, and that I'll meet them in the coming weeks. I don't terribly mind being the minority age-wise--after all, I was the oldest in both of my archery classes and several acting auditions, and the youngest by far in my Zumba class (it was a Friday morning session, so it wasn't so surprising)! I've just come to expect the age gap with all the new things I attempt to learn and try out. :) But, I am happy there will be others this time, who may be easier to relate to. Talk of cheer camp and homework can only go so far. I'm happy to be 25, let me tell you! Sure, there's "drama" and hormonal/emotional roller coasters in life as an adult, but of a different type. I love coming home to my husband after class, folding laundry, and enjoying a late-night snack on the couch with him before bed. It's a good life!

My dance teachers, a married couple, are quick to praise. I'm noticing that in their teaching style in general. They're encouraging and point out errors graciously. You can tell they truly love this--that it's not so much of a business as a place for them to be creative with dance and watch their work come to life through us dancers. (And, I'll admit, I'm pretty thrilled to be taught by some retired Lord of the Dance and Trinity dancers!) Even this morning, I found an email telling me I did great. I was tickled pink at this gesture after my first visit, and now I just shake my head in wonder. Do they mean it? Or are they trying to "wine and dine" me to keep me around? I'm leaning toward the former, from what I know of them and their personalities so far. It was nice to be encouraged, especially when I feel so out of shape and limited in what my body can handle. I know it will get better, and I loved falling asleep while running steps in my head, feet tensing and kicking at the sheets subconsciously, like they used to. 

It's good to be back. (Now when did I ever say that of regular school?!)