She's Leaving Home

So, this is it! I leave for Dublin in four days and have never felt such a myriad of emotions. Mostly, I am excited, but of course, as is for most teenagers, leaving home for the first time is bittersweet.

So how did I get this sweet gig you might be wondering. Mostly by listening to my heart, as cheesy as it sounds. And when it was looking like it wasn't going to happen, I held the words of Randy Pausch (RIP) close to my heart. "Be thankful for brick walls," he says. "They're there for a reason. They let us prove how badly we want things" I wanted this pretty badly, and for quite a while too.

So basically, the lovely Jane (Teacher), graciously accompanied me to my audition in the loveliest place in the world -- Tennessee. Not only is Tennessee, Dollywood, and its surrounding area the most magical, beautiful, place in the world, it smells good too! What's more? I got the job! So since that weekend in May, not only have I been obsessed with Tennessee, but more importantly anxiously awaiting my new job with Rhythm of the Dance.

Obviously this couldn't of happened without some very fabulous people. First, the fam. Thanks for driving me to endless dance classes and putting up with hundreds of feises and the ridiculous drama that accompanies any competitive activity, as well as always loving me no matter what. Next, I want to thank my dance teachers for providing me with the skillz and confidence to get this job. Also, I would like to thank my teachers over the years who have shown me what it is like to be passionate about your work as well as encouraging me to follow my heart and my dreams. And of course, my friends -- thanks for listening to me stress, whine, and complain trying to figure out what I want as well as never giving up on me.

Anyhow, now to tackle packing a for a year's travel in one suitcase.