 January: the month of resolutions coming to light (or not so much) and a sense of newness. Myself, I decided to forego resolutions as such and keep painting away, as well as embellish the garden. With these rainy, grey skies, green foliage may seem like the last thing on the agenda, yet I like to plan in advance where I can. I'm already thinking about planting bulbs after the first frost and sharing the fruits of that labour. I find myself digressing ever so slightly. In relation to breaking out of a vegetative state, dance feels like the most fun alternative to conventional exercise. Getting up, making moves and staying warm...what's not to love?
 I thought back to my days at school, where I would get involved with many dance productions. I would suggest to friends that we should take part and we would always sign up. We'd find ourselves spending many hours rehearsing. On rare occasions there may have been too much on our plate. There was the 'Kaleidoscope' talent show where we were in both dance numbers as well as the steel band; involving many a quick change. Pushing ourselves to keep going, the excitement and nerves of performing dissipated once we'd taken part; it was all worth it. I look back now to find they're some of my fondest memories.
 We caught up recently, reminiscing on those fun days. It felt fitting that we went to watch La La Land, where the film exceeded my expectations. Taking in the fanciful footwork, (not to mention the monochrome tap brogues and 50's inspired fashion) Ryan showed flair on the keys. It inspired me to take the piano-playing up a notch. I heard he spent an intense 3 months in pre-production mastering the piano and it showed. Definitely one for the dreamers. The soundtrack is on repeat - City of Stars next on the list on melodies for me to play.
 Fashion has been continuously inspired by dance and the ethereal allure of ballet. The Marchesa S/S 17 collection was reminiscent of Swan Lake with layers of tulle and iridescent organza. Me and sis went to watch a performance of Swan Lake, where we appreciated seeing all the dancers move gracefully in sync. I haven't had the chance to practice ballet before. where it would be exciting to try something new. The ability to be on my absolute tip-toes though - that'd take some to time to perfect.
 The delicate nature of the dance contrasts with the physical demands of the art form. It can be likened to a swan paddling away under the water, with a carefree elegance on the surface. It's fascinating how precision and poise are evident with each movement. It's not everyday you'll find me pirouetting in the atelier... so I thought why not take my chance here? (Sure to increase after seeing Emma work her magic in La La Land).
 We're already a month into the new year and I'm considering new projects to start. This tulle skirt I created with soft pink layers reminded me of swaying ballerinas. Me and my mum decided to do a slightly-early spring clean, where we took out all the fabrics from the cupboard. A pile of beautiful pieces that I'd forgotten about accumulated on the floor, which would be perfect for dressmaking this year. Swathes of fabric ready to drape and pleat. I'm looking forward to putting needle-to fabric and sharing the results!
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