Shannon Says: Growing Up & Moving On

This past weekend I took part in my last Lariette competition EVER. That's it I'm done. Lariettes is no longer part of my life. It was a bitter sweet moment to see it all end. I've come so far from JV Silver Stars freshman year, to three years of Varsity. I never imagined I would be part of such a fun, crazy team or make the friends that I did.

Being part of this team taught me so many things. I learned how to be a leader, but how to also be a follower. I learned how to cope with criticism and how to give feeback in a calm way. (thats a hard one for me (i have no filter)). I learned how to be a true friend and it is really sad to think this is all ending.

While at the two day competition, lots of tears were shed and as I looked around the circle at the people I was leaving, I felt so accomplished. I feel as though I really left my mark with the senior class. I finished something that consumed my life all through high school. And while it was happening, I was so ready to be done, but now it seems as if the team is moving on and getting ready for next year and I can't join them. My life is suddenly so calming. It's weird.

While dance and Lariettes were a bit of an escape for me, I am happy to close that chapter of my life. It definitley helped me grow as a person, but it is time for me to grow up and find new things that I love. I will forever be greatful for the friendships that I've made and all the things Stralow and Hoff taught me. I'll miss you Lariettes. Thanks for a great ride.