Family Spotlight: Michaela

Name: Michaela J.
 
Dancer at SRL: Colby J. (and Me)
 
How did you get started with Irish dance?
 
My best friend signed us both up for the adult class, and kept going back even when she had to stop; and she signed Colby up for his classes after his interest in joining the adult classes.
 
What did you want to be when you grew up when you were little? Why?
 
I actually wanted to be a dancer (or gymnast) when I was kid! I always loved watching them move, and thought it was so graceful and beautiful.
 
How did Colby get started?
 
He would sit in during the adult class I was in when I didn’t have a sitter, and eventually he started peeking into class and joining in learning the steps with us. After the adult session ended, we signed him up for his own class!
 
How did you pick your dancer’s name?
 
When we were coming up with names, his dad suggested it as a potential girl’s name; but I didn’t like it. Weirdly enough, I liked it as a boy’s name, and it really sounded nice. It’s also a joke that we named him after Colby Jack cheese, as we met at culinary school and both enjoy food.
 
What benefits do you get out of the adult class?
           
I enjoy the social aspect, as someone who didn’t get out much after moving here, it’s nice to have somewhere to go and people to interact with while learning the fun of Irish dance. I also like that I can go through some of the steps with Colby while he’s learning; it’s something new and fun for both of us!
 
What do most people not know about you?

Probably a lot, I’m not really one to open up much! I guess one thing would be that I like pickles on my tacos. Also, I really enjoy baking, and went to school for baking & pastry.
 
How do you think joining in has positively affected Colby?

It’s been great for working on his balance as well as giving him a way to learn something fun that he enjoys.
 
If you were a fictional character, which one would you be? Why?
 
I can’t say anyone specific, but probably a witch or magical being, because who wouldn’t want magical powers?!
 
Why do you think people dance?
 
It’s a great way to express themselves, and to let loose.
 
What’s the most important quality to have in life?
 
I guess I would have to say perseverance, and empathy. But honestly, it’s hard to choose.
 
This post is part of a series. Meet our last spotlighted parent, Christina H., here. Check out the blog every Monday and Thursday for more posts about Irish history, dance culture, community news, and spotlights on our dancers, staff, and families—among other fun projects! And don’t forget to dance along with us on both Facebook and Instagram.

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