The adoption process and everything it includes caused incredible amounts of stress. Throughout the past year there had been many court hearings and meetings with the team of workers that were involved in the process. Our family had spent hours upon hours planning and prepping for the ultimate goal of complete unity.

My siblings and I began a tradition of dinner time dance parties. It seemed to be the only time of the day when we could forget about all the crazy events that consumed our lives. The world around us paused for a few minutes while we leaped and twirled around the kitchen. During those moments it seemed as if everything was right with the world and there was no pain or heartache.

We have continued this tradition even though the stress of the foster care system is now behind us.We sing and dance to the music. Our family loves to belt out the songs of any Disney movie and giggle at the lack of talent we have. I hope this tradition never ends.

We have gotten through many difficult situations by taking a break and having spontaneous dance parties. One of the quotes I live by says, “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, its about learning to dance in the rain” (Vivian Greene). My siblings and I have learned to dance in the rain together. I encourage everyone to take time out of their hectic schedules and spend time doing whatever makes them happy.