On stage.

When Juliana was in JK, her class performed in the school Christmas concert.

Not Juliana.  She went on stage with her class and then sat, like a statue, for the entire song.

When Juliana was in SK, her class performed the chicken dance for the parents.

Not Juliana.  She marched, silently, around the circle with the kids but only because James M. kept pushing her.

When Juliana was in Grade 1, she practiced her class's song day in and day out at home - actions included.  On concert day, the class lined up in a row and performed.

Not Juliana.  She pursed her lips and sat on her hands to avoid the temptation of the actions.

In Grade 2, I forgot to bring my video camera to the concert so I asked my friend if he would mind taping her for me.  He wondered "why?"  A logical question...

So, you can understand how it is that now, when I see her sing, act, or dance for an audience of any size, my heart swells with pride.

This weekend my heart swelled plenty.

The end of dance season always means a recital and it brings me back to the days of my mom doing my hair, letting me put a little colour on my eyes and cheeks, and I can still smell the little trial size Avon lipsticks that she let me use.  And, oh, the fun of the costumes!

Last Saturday it was my turn to watch my girl get ready.  We did hair and make-up.  She put on her costume, packed her bag, and was off to the Music Hall ready to dance her heart out.  And to smile - that was her teacher's only request of her after the rehearsal - smile!

The afternoon show was outstanding - she smiled and she danced big.  And I was delighted to see her do a little solo in her hip hop dance - while she practiced her dance many, many times at home, I had never seen it in formation so it was a big surprise to see it on stage!

She had a few more fans at the evening show - all three grandparents, and Peter (who seriously made it back from work and into his seat only 1 1/2 dances before she came on), Sheldon and me.  There were bouquets of flowers afterwards and lots of proud words and hugs.

She'll be back to dance again next year - jazz and hip hop again, but she's talking about adding tap to her repertoire.  I can't wait!