A very large part of my life at the moment is encompassed by dancing. Miss Highland Dancer has been dancing since she was 4. That’s like 8 years now. I signed her up for dancing because she was the quietest little kid around.
This girl (she would be about 5 in this picture) wouldn’t say boo to a goose. It is scary to think she was like that but then there is a family history there too.
I was quite similar as a child and very very shy although we know that’s not true nowadays, I was terrified as a kid. It was’t until I moved overseas that things changed and I had to step out of my comfort zone …..so how many times a day.
It was terrifying. This is why I chose to start her earlier so she would have time to build her confidence and develop the ability to express herself freely in her own time. Besides, she is quite arty so I thought dancing would be a great medium to get her started.
Anyways, it was a great idea (at the time) although I don’t think I really knew what I was getting myself into. I learned fast and quick in the world of highland dancing. I picked up tips about competitions, what to expect. I also worked out much to my dismay that my job had suddenly changed to psychologist, shopper, hairdresser, maid, confidence builder, training chief and chauffeur or i think the current term is Uber.
Miss Highland Dancer began competing in 2012. It has been the only thing that she has continued to do over the years. We tried soccer, hockey, gymnastics and swimming but nothing stuck like dancing. The process has been slow and steady and stressful at times. Quite a lot of times). I reckon this is one of the reasons I have grey hair. It’s been a tough old life. Purchasing outfits, the practicing (I become the enemy) is painful and traveling. O-M-G so much traveling.
We travel all over the country to compete. We had a competition last weekend in Marton & this weekend we will be in Whangarei for another one. Highland dancing is all year round.
Although there is a massive commitment to this sport- I just look at the child I have now and think – crikey this is my kid. My positive out of all this is simply that I have a kid that loves what she does and as a parent I will move mountains to make her dreams come true. Seeing her happy is all the good I need today. 
If you wanna know more about Highland dancing in New Zealand , just Click here or google Scotdance NZ. You can also see international events at different sites in each country. Check this out Events. There is so much happening in highland dancing around the world!! It’s a neat thing to be part of, grey hair and all!!
Happy dancing peeps!! Stay positive.
Rosie 🌹
Life’s Rosie 