On Thursday, we had a blast watching Daniel perform with his dancing partner, Natalie!
After just three weeks of practice, we all got dressed up and headed out for a night of fun. Daniel has been heading to Fred Astaire dance studio nearly every day to practice for this showcase. He had a blast, helping to pick the upbeat music for his number, and dancing all over our house as he worked on being more fluid and perfecting his "Latin Hands."
The event was held to benefit the Fisher House, which provides a home away from home for families of military members during extended hospital stays. Daniel took ballroom dance in college, and jumped at the chance to have free lessons, a great time, and benefit an amazing cause. He got paired with Natalie, who is truly a wonderful instructor and such a sweet person! She was very patient when Potatoes and I stopped by to watch practice, and when Potatoes inevitably wanted to join Daniel on the dance floor.
The night of the show, Xander got all dressed up in his three piece suit from Grandpa and Grandmomma and Daniel took a moment to come out and greet us before the show.
Lauren joined us as Potatoes's date. She is so good with him, and both Zoey and Potatoes immediately took to her, so I felt very confident adding a new sitter to our home. She was so great in helping wrangle Alexander so that he sat (fairly) well through the show and I was still able to enjoy it. At intermission, she snuck out and took him home to bed.
Paula joined in on the fun
MY ERA family really showed up! Kelly and Rik both came out with dates, and Paula accompanied me. We had a great time in our VIP seats, which included the after party following.
While he sat well for most of the acts, when Daniel got on stage, Potatoes yelled, "That's my daddy! I go dance with daddy!" and tried to jump up and go dance. Between Lauren and myself, we were able to contain him and minimize the interruption.
I tried to take pictures during the show, but the lighting did not allow a good shot, so when Daniel came on, I opted to just enjoy.
The show was wonderful. It was a mix of professionals, including international Latin champions Manuel & Natalia, the Fred Astaire instructors, students of Fred Astaire, and some "stars" from the community, including the one and only Daniel Martin.
The show stealer had to be the elderly married couple who danced two numbers, both of which included numerous lifts and twists, all of which caused an audience-wide intake of breath. I don't want to guess at their ages, but if Daniel and I can be ballroom dancing, and possibly manage the lifts and twirls they were doing, at half their age, I will be super impressed. Even if we could do it now, I would be thrilled!
Daniel got to meet Manuel & Natalia at the after party
It was a wonderful event, and I truly hope we have more dancing in our future!
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