As a young woman, I trained long and hard to become a professional dancer. I had some success, but when I married and had children, it became obvious that my kids needed a mommy more than I needed to perform. So, with a heavy heart, I chose to give up my dancing career, knowing there would be no going back, as the window of time for a dancer is very small. Our daughters grew up, married, and we’re grandparents several times over.
Then, at the age of sixty, I found ballroom dancing! It was really hard at first, but eventually the muscle memory came back, the pounds came off, and after decades, I began to experience again the joy of performing challenging, but beautiful, dance routines. My coach decided it was time to start dancing competitively. Slowly, my skills and confidence returned, and at age 66, I won a World Title as a senior rhythm champion, which includes cha-cha, rhumba, bolero and mambo. I was thrilled beyond words.
I tell this story to let young women know there is life – and even fulfilled dreams – beyond your child-rearing years. Thankfully, my talented daughters have also chosen to put their own careers on hold to raise our grandchildren. Thank you for continuing to be a “mommy and child” advocate.
Bunny
There Is Life After the Kids Are Gone
The Dr. Laura Call of the Day Podcast
