by Mary Serico
Happy Valentine’s Day! It may still feel like winter outside, but for those of us who love gardening, February 14th marks the beginning of planning our summer gardens as we eagerly await the arrival of spring. Even if Mother Nature isn’t quite ready to cooperate, we know that warmer days are coming. And for me, this time of year is also a reminder of how certain events and milestones become markers in our lives — helping us recall when things happened, whether it’s a special vacation, a major life event, or an unexpected turning point.
One of my biggest milestones? The day I started dancing. Back then, Anthony (Adi and Georgi’s son) was just a newborn, and his birth coincided with us stepping onto the dance floor for the first time. Now, as Anthony celebrates his 18th birthday, I’ve realized I’ve been dancing for a lot longer than I thought. For years, I’d casually say, “I’ve been dancing for about 15 years,” but apparently, my math skills were a little off. Turns out, it’s been 18! Who knew dance lessons came with a side of time warp?
When I first started, I figured dancing would be a fun hobby for a year or two at most — something to try and move on from. Yet here I am, still taking lessons, still practicing, and still hunting for the perfect showcase songs. Running out of inspiration is not a concern; I already have five songs lined up! And each time, we try to push the envelope just a little more — so if you see Georgi in snorkel gear next year, don’t be surprised.
One of our most memorable showcases was set to “Lifeguard” by Blotto. Naturally, Joe picked the song, and Georgi and Joe played shoe salesmen dreaming of becoming lifeguards. We performed the number at a competition, and I’ll never forget the judges’ reactions when, mid-dance, Georgi and Joe ripped off their pants to reveal bright red board shorts. One judge even described it as “disturbing” — but nevertheless they loved it. It was our first competition, and with that performance, we reached another milestone in our dance journey. The photo below is from the “Lifeguard” showcase, and here is the link to the showcase (sorry for the poor video and the earworm you are sure to get).
Even after 18 years, I still feel like there’s so much to learn. If I had a nickel for every time Georgi reminded me to “look where you’re going,” “shoulders down,” or “don’t look at the floor,” I could probably buy a condo on the beach in Waikiki by now! But when I look back at my earliest dance videos, I can see just how far I’ve come.
I’ve also had the privilege of watching Anthony and his sister, Katherina, dance in competitions and at the annual Dancing Stars showcases. Their performances remind me that while I may never reach their level, that’s okay. What matters most is that I keep improving and, more importantly, that I’m enjoying every step of the way. I can’t wait to see what the next generation of dancers will teach me!
About Mary: Mary has been dancing since 2006. She loves dancing Cha Cha, Rumba, and Swing, but her favorite thing is to do showcases. With her husband Joe, they spend their time enjoying the retired life at the Jersey shore, golfing, traveling, and attending rock concerts.
