The ORG Spring Camp 2013

About two weeks ago I was invited to teach at The Organization's Spring 2013 Contemporary Camp. I was honored to be included in the eclectic lineup of industry and community powerhouses:

The ORG Spring Camp 2013 Flier

Established in 2010, The ORG is a junior team that participates and performs in various competitions in the dance community. What makes The ORG so unique is its dedication to philanthropy. It hosts workshops and dance camps throughout the year benefitting different charities; all the proceeds of The ORG Spring Camp 2013 went to Equality Now.

I was struck by the level of professionalism with which David Nguyen, The ORG's director, and the staff ran the entire event. From start to finish I felt as if I was a part of a well-oiled machine. There was a pre-class briefing, an in-class music supervisor, and even a post-class gift bag!

My class!

Here is the class footage that The ORG staff recorded and edited together, and this is another edited video that I put together for my own channel:

Thank you so much to everyone who came and danced with me, and a huge thank you to The ORG and David for having me! 

23 Years and Counting

Firstly, thank you to everyone who took the time to wish me a happy birthday. Every gesture whether grand or small is deeply appreciated. And as I sit in my sunny living room eating what seems to be my 4th vegan cupcake of the day, I can't help but wonder about the (in)significance of today.

While I love and unabashedly indulge in all the birthday hoopla (ie. my much anticipated Magic Mountain trip tomorrow), I don't think the day is just about me, the birthday girl, but also about those who shaped my character and personality. Because without them, we wouldn't have anyone to be celebrating.

So I want to take the time to include in all this birthday attention the people who have made the greatest influence in my life: my mom, my dad, and my older brother.

Without their love, I wouldn't know compassion. Without their strength, I would have no courage. Without their example, I wouldn't understand excellence. Without them, I would be nothing.

So a big THANK YOU for all the wonderful messages, gifts, and thoughtful words. Just know that today I won't only be celebrating me entering my mid-twenties, but also celebrating 23 years of being a member of an amazing family.