Vivian's Other Birthday Dance

This dance was on her actual birthday, but at her friend's birthday party.  I walked in after a work meeting to find her dancing with just one other child in the midst of the party, as happy as could be.  It makes me think of the song "I Hope You Dance."  As a parent (& a teacher), children are so innocent and you just hope they don't lose that spontaneity and ability to enjoy every minute.  I hope she is always able to dance with no inhibitions.

"I Hope You Dance"

I hope you never lose your sense of wonder,
You get your fill to eat but always keep that hunger,
May you never take one single breath for granted,
God forbid love ever leave you empty handed,
I hope you still feel small when you stand beside the ocean,
Whenever one door closes I hope one more opens,
Promise me that you'll give faith a fighting chance,
And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance.

I hope you dance....I hope you dance.

I hope you never fear those mountains in the distance,
Never settle for the path of least resistance
Livin' might mean takin' chances but they're worth takin',
Lovin' might be a mistake but it's worth makin',
Don't let some hell bent heart leave you bitter,
When you come close to sellin' out reconsider,
Give the heavens above more than just a passing glance,
And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance.