2016 was a rough year. Just in the last week, the world lost two amazing women, who were also two of my favorite Hollywood actors. Carrie Fisher and Debbie Reynolds were an inspiration to me. Princess Leia showed us that we can be strong and feminine at the same time. The way Kathy Seldon (Debbie Reynolds’ character in Singin’ in the Rain) teases Don Lockwood (Gene Kelly) as she’s driving him to Beverly Hills is my go-to when I’m searching for my Foxtrot character. I love the way she playfully puts him in his place and firmly stands up for herself, despite the fact he is a famous (and therefore intimidating) celebrity.

There were many more losses throughout 2016. There was a lot of struggle.

But I was challenged the other day to remember my wins from 2016, the things I’m grateful for. Challenge accepted.

2016, I want to say thank you for the following:

1. My first silver competition. Even though I could afford only a few entries, I was able to compete in Silver Smooth at the California Open in 2016. AND I managed to place first and second in my events!
2. I published the first two books in the Dance Diaries series. It’s been a long-time dream of mine to be a published author. 2016 saw that happen!
3. I started a new day job that paid a little more and allowed me to work remotely for two months. I’m grateful my new company cares so much about their people that my boss didn’t hesitate to approve my request to work from Pennsylvania so I could be with family during a challenging time.
4. Teacher and his pro partner tied the knot yesterday in an absolutely gorgeous wedding. I am so grateful to be able to witness their union. Plus I got to see Teacher and my dance friends again after a month and a half! I even got to dance with Teacher a little, which I had been really missing! I’m still in PA for a couple weeks, so it was great to have the chance to see everyone.
5. I joined the Momentum ’17 challenge. Even when I wasn’t making progress on the topic of the week, actively thinking and working on my goals for my writing, dancing and the Girl with the Tree Tattoo inspired me and helped bring clarity to those goals. It has definitely helped me build up some momentum for 2017!
6. Connections with other dancers. Whether online or in person, I’ve connected with some amazing people and ballroom dancers, both professional and amateur.
7. You! I am forever grateful to my readers. Your support motivated me to not give up and keep going, even during a rough year with far less dancing than I would have liked.

So now the challenge goes to you! What wins did you experience in 2016?  What are you grateful for?

Happy New Year!