Dear Laurie,

The recital was phenomenal as usual.  You put on a spectacular show!  It is bittersweet for us this year though, with Isabel graduating from your studio.

I want to thank you.  My husband and I are extremely grateful for all you have done for Isabel over the past 9 years.  You saw potential in our wide-eyed 8-year old.  You patiently fanned that tiny flame into a full blown bonfire!  It has been a treat and an honor to watch her grow, year after year, to the beautiful young woman who can light up an entire stage.  She has grown in strength, confidence, discipline, and grace far beyond what we had expected.  

Laurie, you and your studio have been the perfect fit for Isabel and our family.  You have a great balance in your approach to your students.  First off, your technical training is top-notch, but you manage to make technical training and hard work fun!  Isabel has become a polished veteran at your studio through many years of this training, but she has been able to laugh at herself, be silly, and truly enjoy every class you have taught her.  Additionally, we appreciate that you have high expectations of your students’ effort, but you are a “stress free” environment.  Your studio became a place of great stress relief for Isabel.  I truly believe her childhood and teenage years were so pleasant in part because of Laurie Stream Dance.  I am also grateful for your flexibility.  I know some studios have a rigid approach.  We were so happy that you allowed Isabel to put her faith, family and school work ahead of dance.  It allowed her to truly LOVE dance.  And that love shines through her face and every move she makes on the stage.  Lastly, you allowed her (and each one of your students,) to truly shine as they are.  Each child comes through your studio door with their own personality.  You teach them the technique without squashing their self.  Instead of looking like robot dancers, you allow each of them to bring their own gifts and talents to the stage.  You foster them to let their personality shine through their movements, and you encourage them to be the best version of themselves.

We truly cannot thank you enough.  We will miss Laurie Stream Dance, but I know Isabel will be back to visit you.  God bless you Laurie.

Much love and gratitude,

Anne Marie