When I enrolled my now twenty-five and a half year old daughter in dance class twenty two years ago, never did I think that I would be writing about her dance teacher nearly a quarter of a century later. For the first few years, dance classes were held in a mobile home out Grass Valley Rd, very cleverly renovated into a dance studio. Then we all moved to town. From day one, I was impressed with how Patrice’s teacher could control, direct and mesmerize a dozen or more 4 year olds without tears, tantrums or potty accidents. In the early years I’d sit in the changing room with other moms every week, while our tiny daughters were transformed into absolutely adorable, independent ballerinas and jazz dancers.
The girls loved dancing and their remarkable teacher, that much was clear. Many of the families we started out with were still “dance families” 15 years later as our girls graduated from high school. It was a beautiful journey to watch our girls grow up. Our girls became close friends as did we parents. Some of our girls developed into talented dancers, and all developed self-confidence, poise, the ability and willingness to step outside their comfort zones. In a world where learning to be a young lady can be considered an archaic quality, I can tell you that each of the families we got to know over the years, were delighted that their daughters were taught good manners and to behave in ways that promoted self respect and thoughtfulness.
The lady who accomplishes so much with young ladies from toddlers through high school seniors is one of my personal heroes. She is strong, gracious, funny, organized and one of the kindest people you will ever know. Her talents don’t stop with dance. Not only has she run the most successful dance studio in Humboldt County for over a quarter century, but she’s found time to raise an incredible family along with her husband Mike. Their three children are each remarkable and successful young adults due in no small part to their caring, involved, lead by example parents.
When my friend isn’t teaching dance, parenting or being a wonderful wife, she somehow has the time and energy to give back to our community in a very big way. She’s a very effective and popular city council member, and is the lay minister and on the board of our local United Methodist Church.
In case you hadn’t guessed by now, I’ve been writing about Theresa Mavity. She is quietly and gracefully one of the most impressive and talented women you will ever meet; but, I think the best part of Theresa is her down to earth nature, her willingness to meet people exactly where they are, her capacity to coax the very best out of others, and finally, her hilarious sense of humor.
When my grown daughter is having a bad day, maybe a colt has thrown her off, we’ve broken down or working cows has gone badly, she often refers back to lessons “Miss Theresa” taught her years ago. Perseverance. One step at a time. Don’t forget the basics. After 14 or 15 years in Theresa’s studio, one evening Patrice’s class needed a little wake up call on the basics and Theresa’s direction to her class has stayed with Patrice and never fails to double her over with laughter.
“Point your toes or I’ll break your feet”.
Well said Mrs. Mavity, well said.
Kris Stewart is a rancher in Paradise Valley, NV