Living Life Passionately!

Today I went to my first local Toastmasters meeting in Enumclaw, WA as I want to develop my skills in public speaking. It was fun and I enjoyed meeting locals in the community and hearing their stories. The word of the day was "passionately", perfect for Valentine's week.

Some were asked to tell a story about their first love - it could be anything, not necessarily a romantic love.

For me, this was easy. My first love was ballet, which I am still passionate about. Growing up, I loved everything about ballet. Even though you dance with others, your main competition is yourself. I love how progress develops with each lesson. Although perfection is never reached, challenging your body was fascinating for me. I love the classical music, the costumes, the way new toe shoes smell, and the way ballet makes me feel feminine.

Since I reduced my hours working as a PA, I was able to join a local adult ballet class at The Ballet Workshop in Enumclaw. After a break from dance, I choose to savor every moment I can dance. The muscle memory is still there, the pleasure of music combined with movement, and being able to challenge myself again to improve.

If you have never tried ballet, I highly recommend it. In fact, adult ballet is making a comeback. While the adult body does not take kindly to multiple turns in a row anymore without inducing extreme dizziness, dance is the best activity to prevent dementia in recent studies. You don't even have to wear a leotard!

Whatever helps you to live passionately, don't stop - pick it up again if you have - pursue your passions. I know you won't regret it!

@pbrt_plateauballet,