IT IS NEVER TOO LATE TO FOLLOW YOUR DREAM

                  Gay in action 

In the photo above, my sister is doing what she loves to do -- dancing! 

She dances in competitions and in showcases with her instructor, and she comes home with awards. She laughs and says it's not hard to win because she's not competing with young women, but with others in her age category. However, few of the dancers fall into her category. I don't know anyone who can do what she does at her age or even much younger. But Gay said there is a woman in her 90s who continues to go out and dance. 

Gay is a winner because she practices and learns many dances to compete and participate. I asked her if she gets nervous, and she says not when she dances. 

I remember the young girl who was shy and would not speak in front of a group, but I also recall the young woman who choreographed a dance, created her own costume, and entered the Miss Albany contest. A man who headed a dance group in our hometown was present, and he was impressed. He invited Gay to join his group. She danced with them until the group disbanded. 

She joined the Modern Dance Club at the University, and she danced as often as possible.

Last year, Gay wore a red dress 

                Gay earned a Master's degree in Counseling.

She has certainly needed to use those skills with me during the past couple of years as I moved and became overwhelmed with downsizing and selling my house. She has always been there when I needed her, and I don't know how I would manage without her. She has the temperament of our mother. I wish I did.

I am so happy she is strong and enjoying life. It was just a few years ago that she began taking dancing lessons. Before too long, her husband began taking dancing lessons as well. He doesn't dance in competitions like she does. She found a terrific teacher, Chris, and says she enjoys simply taking lessons.  

Dancing is a wonderful exercise, and it is especially good for older people. It helps with balance, posture, and flexibility. It sure beats going to the gym, I think.

Gay and Stu, her kind and caring husband, go out with friends, sing in the church choir, and often take me out to dinner or lunch.

Although it was difficult for me to leave my home in the mountains, I am blessed to have a home with them and blessed that they both love Lexie. They take her to the dog park or for walks at a park nearby. 

I am grateful that I have and always have had a loving family. I am sorry for anyone who doesn't have close family members. We might disagree, have arguments, or even get angry with each other, but in no time, all is forgotten, and we are laughing together. I hope you find love and laughter in your world and hug someone you love this week.