Nummy, Nummy, Shimmy, Choo-Choo

I'm a sweaty mess, but I feel good! I just spent the last hour practicing a new choreography, and I'm very close to nailing the footwork.

When I was a little girl, I went to dancing school like so many other little girls. I danced in tap and jazz, like many other little girls who got the thumbs down in ballet class. That was okay with me. I liked tap and jazz better *sticking out my tongue and sending the raspberries to all you tutus out there*

I wasn't graceful enough and I certainly wasn't built for it. But when it came to tap... well I could take down the house, literally. I tapped all the way to the chorus line--with the teenagers! But, I had to end my dance career when I went to a new school. I never quite got over it.

Between 7th grade and 36, I pondered going back to dancing school. I danced in the talent shows, went to all of the high school dances, and for 10 years, I religiously attended ladies night. I have never been afraid to get into the center of the dance floor and work up a sweat.

So, it really isn't too surprising that 3 years ago I started belly dancing. I'd always wanted to try it--but then there isn't much that isn't on my list of things to try before I die.

After months of seeing classes in the YWCA and Continuing Ed catalogs, I finally committed to going to one class. I was afraid at first. I was sure that I would be lead to the back of the room and asked not to return. Just like ballet. I could not have been more wrong. I highly recommend Aren's class at Shaw VPA. www.bellydancemirage.com

All my life, I've been holding in my tummy. Today, I'm pushing it out. When I shimmy, I'm glad that I jiggle like Jell-O. What started as something of a lark, grew into a great exercise and has blossomed into a full-blown commitment.

Sure, the costumes are beautiful, the music exotic, and it is an ego boost. But, it can be much more than that. I've discovered an appreciation for whole new cultures. I've become more comfortable with my body and developed some fantastic friendships. But, one of the things I believe is most profound is the new found joy I've discovered in just being a woman. This is the great celebration of woman-ness.

Just wrap a coin scarf around your waist and shake your hips. Once you hear those coins jingle, you'll feel like you’ve just heard the most delicious secret. And you will never be the same.