Every new beginning brings with it similar anticipation and uncertainty. But just as a dancer doesn't start from scratch for each performance, we draw from the past to meet the challenges of each of our new experiences. As this new year progresses, we will repeat past events and actions but also experience new ones and have new ideas. Can we bring a fresh perspective to both old and new, enhancing and building upon what has gone before? I certainly hope so. For a dancer, previous lessons and rehearsals are the foundation for every advance into more complex and satisfying performance. Throughout the rest of life, too, we are constantly given opportunities to bring new depth to what has gone before.

 

A new year inspires us to plan, resolve and dream, while promising its fair share of the unexpected and unplanned. On the stage, some surprises are welcome and exciting, such as a double pirouette turning into a triple, or a balance held for a precious second longer than before. Others are much less welcome and require professionalism, confidence and the ability to think on your feet and keep going without interruption. Fortunately, in our everyday and professional lives, we usually have more time to react to the more unwelcome surprises, to plan an appropriate and elegant response to situations that go against our plans. On stage and off, both welcome and unwelcome surprises are opportunities for growth and enrichment.

 

At Russian Pointe, we are planning and anticipating many exciting events. February and March will be filled with trade shows across the nation. Pointe shoe trunk shows continue at our authorized retailers' locations. Enriching seminars and glittering receptions will be held at the Boutique on Michigan Avenue in Chicago. And, we are preparing amazing new collections of pointe shoes and Russian Pointe tees.

 

I look forward to traveling through this year with you. I am thrilled that life is full of surprises. I wish for you an abundance of pleasant and positive experiences, and the strength and grace to meet the difficult ones. Let's join together to overcome challenges and celebrate joyful moments, both planned and unexpected.