WA_thankful2_MAINTo celebrate Thanksgiving we asked our lovely models to share what they are thankful for this year. Here’s what they had to say!

Rachelle Di Stasio, American Ballet Theatre Studio Company

“I’m thankful for the life God has given me and to share it each day with my family and friends,  I’m also grateful for the gifts and talents I’ve been given to do what I love every single day…dancing with all my heart!”

Melissa Chapski, Ellison Ballet

“I am thankful for many things. I am thankful for my family for supporting me in all that I do. I am thankful for my friends for always influencing me in a positive way and being there when I need someone to talk to or relax with. I am thankful for ballet because it gives me such joy to be able to do something I love every day and be able to take the audience out of reality for those few hours that they are viewing a performance. I am thankful for my ballet school, Ellison Ballet, and my wonderful teachers there Ms. Forrest and Mr. Ellison for teaching me all that I know about my art and pushing me every day to be the best that I can be. I am especially thankful for my mom for always being there for me and pushing me to reach my dreams no matter what. Happy Thanksgiving everyone!”

Juliet Doherty, San Francisco Ballet School

“I’m thankful to be able to do what I love every day. It’s something that brings me so much happiness and I value each lesson it has to teach. Most of all I’m grateful to the many people who fill my life with their love, grace, and continual support!”

Mimi Tompkins, Ballet Arizona

“Thanksgiving is my all-time favorite holiday! Besides from the delicious autumn foods, it’s a time for the family to get together and count all our blessings. I’m thankful that I get to do what I love every day! Most people aren’t fortunate enough to live out their dream and I am truly thankful that I have gotten all the opportunities I have gotten so far. I am also thankful to have such a supportive and loving family. I reflect on these things nearly every day, but Thanksgiving is a time to remember how lucky we are.”

Kimberly Braylock, San Francisco Ballet

“I’m thankful that every breathing moment I am covered by God’s grace. Those moments enable me to focus on all my blessings, those of simplicity and decadence: to eat, breathe, sleep, AND dance in the “Land of the Free”; to have extremely supportive family and friends (boyfriend included); to make a living in what brings me joy (Ballet and DDS Modeling). Last of all, I’m thankful I can extend unto others the same Love and Grace given to me.”