Today was Dillen's FIRST PERFORMANCE EVER held at the Del Mar Fair. With her class of 11 other dancers, all dressed up in a purple sequined costume (with tiara), she eagerly jumped up when it was her turn to dance "Happy Birthday Princess" - a cute little "tap" number choreographed by the one and only Miss Gina (truly the greatest gal ever!). Dillen's group was #10 in the line-up and it was hilarious to see her get antsy as she watched each group before her. At one point she stood up, walked over to me and asked, "Can I go dance now?!?" Too funny. After watching her today, it's apparent she enjoys being on stage and entertaining an audience. When it was over, she was all smiles. She and her great friend, Haley, took hold of one another and decided to celebrate by riding on some rides and eating some fantastic fried food. (Have you tried fried Oreo cookies? YUM!)

Though I am trying hard not to become a "stage mom," watching her today warmed my heart beyond words. Her comfort and enjoyment on that stage had me grinning from ear to ear.

The performance video is the first below (just click on the play arrow) as well as pictures. (Grandma Barbara, celebrating her birthday, joined us for all the fun. She and Roxy got along smashingly!)