Reflecting on 2020 seems like a monumental task. Summoning the headspace to even write this blog post is a challenge, if I’m being honest. This year we were closed for four months, and I went the longest stretch of time since college without setting foot inside ABDC. We held over 50 virtual recitals, put together over 100 recital packages, and scheduled probably thousands of zoom meetings. We’ve performed twice on zoom for Robbins Brook, purchased more Lysol wipes than we thought possible, and have had zero cases of COVID at ABDC since re-opening in July. On a personal level, 2020 started with the permanent loss of hearing in my left ear, I was pregnant during a global pandemic, and gave birth to a beautiful baby girl as the world tumbled around us.

Where to even begin to make sense of this year? The unfairness of it all. The time lost with family and friends. The Groundhog’s Day-like feeling as the world literally shrank around us. Creativity that I usually reserve for class and choreography turned into procedures and protocol-combing through guidelines, air purifier reviews, and a 6 by 6 grid.

I like to have a reason for everything, to make sense of it all. An answer for every question. If nothing else, this year being one big topsy-turvy roller coaster ride has definitely taught me to hold on tightly to what’s important. To let go of what isn’t helpful. To look for the small moments, and recognize the big ones as well. I’m grateful that Andy gets to be home every day-to put Piper down for naps, to dance party with us in the kitchen at lunch, to take walks with Mooney. I’m thankful for all the teachers, students, and families at ABDC for their resilience, trust, and support. I’m in awe of all the first responders, health care workers, and essential workers who’ve put their lives at risk every day. I’m grateful to have a home to be quarantined in, to have food on the table, and friends who are a phone call away.

My wish for the new year is that we can take with us all the valuable lessons that 2020 taught us into 2021. That we can reevaluate how and where we spend our time. That we can take seriously the need to work together, as a human race, to protect our planet and each other. And that we continue to dance-to express ourselves, to share a piece of ourselves, and to reignite our creativity in this new year.

We’ve survived 2020, but the hard work doesn’t stop here. On we march-chins up, hearts and minds open. I wish you all a very happy New Year-one filled with light, love, and laughter. That’s a wrap, 2020!