Personal History

In the late sixties and early seventies I danced on stage for bands. I was living in England at the time and led a very active lifestyle. After my first child I took up yoga for several years. After the second child we moved to Texas and the dancing and exercise dwindled. During this time, the mid seventies, I saw bellydancing for the first time. Although it facinated me, I thought my days of dancing were over and did not persue it.

In the late eighties, growing tired of weight gain and feeling unfit, I started exercising and went to work in an underwater show. I performed water ballet and played the part of a mermaid for five years before I again held a sedentary job. Then I spent five years in college before going into yet another sedentary job.

I missed my active lifestye physically and mentally. Several years later and much heavier, with deminished flexibility and shortness of breath; I descided to take up the bellydancing I'd always admired.

Shortly after I started bellydance lessons in 2000, I noticed increased mucsle tone and flexibility. As I continued, my breathing and stamina improved. Much to my surprise, I discovered a bellydance community that embraced all ages, sizes, and ethnic backgrounds; where dancers encouraged each other no matter their differnces. I discovered that bellydance is a world-wide phenonema (even in Japan)!

I started teaching bellydancing in 2004 as a way to share what I love. I found I enjoy the company of my students as well as the dancing. For all my past students, and those with me now - you rock!