When Melissa asked the staff to write a little “blurb” about ourselves to help parents learn a little bit about our lives outside the studio, I had to chuckle because for over half of my life has been spent living at the studio! I have been a part of the Melissa Hoffman family in various capacities since I was sixteen years old (and without revealing my current age, lets just say –that is a loooong time)! I grew up dancing, but it wasn’t until I joined Melissa’s team here that I discovered that the heart and soul of a true dancer cannot be found in the rhythm of their step, but rather in the rhythm of their life. One of the greatest rewards of teaching here has been watching each dancer discover her own gift, and being there to celebrate each milestone along the way. These milestones are not the ones marked by medals or crowns, but simply the ones that help each student find their own path and make the most of their own talents and abilities. Yes, I have the reputation as the hard-core teacher, always pushing my students to be the best, but I guess this is my opportunity to tell them that they ARE the best–as long as they remain true to themselves!
Aside from my studio life, I am the proud Mama of two wonderful girls that make each day an adventure. Both of my girls have been a part of the MHDC family since they were born and continue to amaze me with their achievements and abilities both in and out of the dancing world. It is both humbling and refreshing to see myself through their eyes, and I often find myself wanting to freeze time as these precious years go by far too quickly!
As for my passions outside of my family and the studio, I am embarrassed to admit that my daily escapes are fairly simple: I am addicted to reality tv and secretly long to be one of the next “Housewives” (oops, secret’s out!)and I use every spare minute to either clean my house, workout or cut coupons, (sad, but true)! If only I could find a way to incorporate all three into one fun-filled activity!
All in all, my life is filled to the brim but I wouldn’t have it any other way!
