I don’t know about everyone else, but September always holds more of a “new year” feel for me than January. It might be the bustle of back-to-school, or the sudden sharp smell in the air. Whatever the reason, I am so glad to finally be back in the thick of it!

As chaotic as the last two weeks have been, I have missed the thrill of preparing for a new dance season. Even though I’ve taught for all but one of the last 7 seasons, I haven’t had to really do anything. I made a few playlists, prepped a few class plans. I showed up. This year, though, I’m invested again. I’m directing the momentum and loving every crazy second of it.

I feel like I have a purpose in this world again.

But with this renewed responsibility also comes an unprecedented calm. 10 years ago, I was an absolute wreck the night before classes started. My brain would not shut off. It was like that every year in Thorsby, and before every big event. I always felt like I was drowning.

Now, 10 years later, I am so calm. Yes, I have a lot to still do tomorrow and for the rest of this week. Yes, my to-do list is a little crazy right now. And here I am, calm. I know that I’m on top of things. A lot of it has to do with the amazing systems Kristi had for me to follow, and a lot comes from 10 years of personal growth. I also have the knowledge that this is not the be-all and end-all of my existence, and I have the incredible support of my husband.

The workload is heavy, but it’s not a burden. That’s something I haven’t felt before. I feel capable. I feel like I deserve this. I’m excited!!

And with this new studio comes the opportunity for betterment at home. A new babysitter means that I need to keep my house somewhat presentable and tidy. It means I have to put my things away. It means meal planning and pre-prepping dinner for her and the bugz.

All of that means that I have cause to be organized. I’ve never had to be organized before. Let me tell you this: it’s really hard to want to be organized when there’s no great need. It’s like deep cleaning your house. You can do it really well, and very efficiently, when you find out you have out-of-town visitors coming to stay in two hours.

This new schedule is the same as those surprise guests. It’s getting me up and moving, motivated in a way I haven’t felt in a long time. It’s a domino effect of good change that our household has been craving for years now.

There is so much goodness right now! I am so happy that tomorrow is finally here. All this preparation, unfolding into reality. After all these years, I’ve finally done it. I’ve finally found a niche that balances my family commitments with my passions, and allows all of us to develop the life we’ve been wanting in so many ways.

Happy new year