“You don’t have time to be timid. You must be bold and daring”

— Lumière, Beauty and the Beast

I continue to be blown away by the process of pre-teen becoming a Bar or Bat Mitzvah. The weeks of extra classes, homework, language and life skills is rigorous, but they always come out on the other side this incredible, maturing young adult. Anna is no different.

She was quite possibly the sweetest most innocent little beauty I'd ever met when we originally began planning her big day, and just a few short weeks later she was standing confidently in front of her family and peers not just reciting what she'd learned, but teaching. She gained a wisdom and confidence in her lessons that made her stronger.

I'm hardly surprised though, Her Rabbi is incredible. When we were practicing the rehearsal at Kehillah Synagogue Rabbi Jen said, "Don't be afraid of losing your place or stumbling over the words. We are all here right beside you to help you through if you do. In fact, I'd rather you make a mistake to show you that it's ok and you will survive. Those who manage to go through it perfectly the first time don't get the life lesson of standing back up after they've fallen."

What incredible advice. Don't fear mistakes, but expect them and be excited about the wisdom you'll glean from them.

Her party was perfect of course. With not one, but TWO phenomenal DJs, DJ A-Minor and DJSK, and the Elevate Motivational Dancers, the dance floor was full all night. Annas family flew in from all over the country and were such a joy to celebrate with. Here's a few images from the celebration!