How do you make memories?

What do you remember from the holidays?
The moments fly by so fast. It's busy and it's a blur.  But when all is said and done, the memories remain. They live on and become tradition.  I hope they were good, happy ones for all!

My family is big on making memories. We have many simple but cherished holiday memories that got  started by doing something one year and then repeating it the next year and the next. Suddenly it's tradition ... and looked forward to, which is fun.

Fun and ... bleep! Ok, moment of truth: there's a lot of yin and yang to all  this tradition making. Keeping up can be exhausting. Each year seems busier. If I don't keep up the tradition, what'll happen? Will somebody be disappointed or hurt?

But, how can we make room for the new, if we never let go of some of the old?
Note to self: it's okay to let go of a grown over tradition. Hey, even Disney stopped the Submarine Journey (remember?) to replace years later with the new Finding Nemo ride. Its cool.

Our family's latest, newest tradition surrounds our local Nutcracker. We were so excited when our Dance Studio started performing it three years ago. In year one, my daughter danced the role of Snow Queen and we all were very proud. Then in year two, Tom and I joined the act as parents in the Party Scene. Added a whole new dimension to our lives for a number of weeks! I know my husband never ever thought he'd be dancing a Minuet onstage in a BALLET. At least he doesn't have to wear tights.

Now we've danced our second year. Part of the joy is being privy to rehearsals. I love watching the parents and children having fun together. There are dads who have been lifting dancers for many years. They're good sports who enjoy a laughing, joking camaraderie among themselves while being very dedicated.  The small children flit about and seem to be lost in the moment. The boys love playing naughty boys and the girls love being little ballerinas.

 The older dancers make you sit up and pay attention. Each dancer has auditioned for her role and worked since August. Each one. It is a lot of work. And stress too.  I watch my daughter's concentration and dedication with wonder! She's now dancing the role of Sugarplum Fairy. I'm only beginning to understand some of the anxiety that can accompany dancing a solo. On performance night, it's all on their shoulders: being the vision & making the magic. Striving for perfection is a lot of pressure on a young girl's shoulders.

However, a good AUDIENCE makes it all worth while. An attentive and  appreciative audience melts away the stress and makes a performers heart glow. A full house is bliss.

My soapbox for the day: LOCAL doesn't just mean produce. It also means musicians, actors, dancers, stagehands: all people who are doing something they love and will share it with you. Local theater and arts create stronger, more satisfying communities.

Don't hesitate. Just go! It's simply win-win.
 
What's your favorite way to support your local arts community? What kind of memory does this make for you?