The dance floor lit up like the colors of a Fourth of July sky at the Renaissance Golf and Country Club. You could feel the music pounding. Guests gathered on both sides, clearing a path. Alyssa stood at the top of the grand stairs, waiting. A proud mom and dad danced their way down the path. Their son followed. The music changed, the crowd got louder. Finally, it was her moment. She was 13 years old. 

We kicked off the weekend Friday night with a private family session at the Temple. You could think of it as Alyssa’s dress rehearsal. She had been prepping for this moment for months. Now, as she posed in front of the Torah for a staged photo, it was all sinking in. Her smile illuminated the Temple. Her family looked on proudly, their baby girl was growing up.

Saturday morning’s brunch welcomed family and friends from all over. Excited to finally celebrate Alyssa’s milestone, which had been postponed due to Covid-19. But that was in the past. Masks on or off, social distancing or not, nothing was going to stop Alyssa’s loved ones from celebrating her! And of course, the real party would start later in the evening. 

The sun began to set over the green at Renaissance Golf and Country Club. Beaming bright like the Hollywood sign, Alyssa’s name sparkled in the golden light. Friends began to arrive. Hugs were given. Laughter was heard. And love resonated throughout the party. In true party fashion, speeches were delivered and tears were shed. I would be lying if I said I didn’t shed a tear or two myself. 

Alyssa and family, thank you so much for allowing me to be a part of such a milestone moment in your life. It truly brought me back to my own days in middle school, surrounded by friends on the dance floor. Not a care in the world except the here and now. Congratulations, Happy Birthday, and Mozel Tov!!