When I started my dance journey at The Grizzly Rose in Denver, Colorado, I discovered an unexpected source of admiration—my boots. I was new to the scene but quickly picked up on the importance of a good pair of leather bottomed boots. Eventually, I got the inevitable question, “What brand are your boots?” My response, however, wasn’t a label but a heartfelt declaration— “I’m borrowing them. They’re my best friends!”

The puzzled looks I received were priceless. You see, these boots belonged to Jordan. My steadfast companion since the tender age of 6. Once purchased for her own line dancing era, they found themselves on my feet while I lived in her basement, navigating the aftermath of a divorce. Jordan and her then-boyfriend, Chris, graciously opened their doors, and together, Jordan and I realized our lifelong dream of being roommates—albeit under vastly different circumstances than we imagined.

As my passion for partner dancing quickly emerged, Jordan, always generous, offered her boots for my use until I invested in my own pair. It was in those boots that partner dancing became part of my life—they became irreplaceable favorites.

Returning them was bittersweet—a symbolic moment marking my transition to owning my own boots. I went with the Freebird Woodlands in beige and stepped into a new chapter while bidding farewell to my trusty borrowed favorites.

Jordan, if you’re reading this, thank you for your unwavering support. Your enduring love through my highs and lows, and your pivotal role in my journey to ‘getting my boots on the ground,’ will forever be cherished.