An unexpected learning experience...

OK..remember I said I was going to try new things?

I've just booked a dance tutor to come into school over the summer holiday to teach three forms of dance to our students and parents - salsa, banghra and arabic (also known as belly dancing). I've already told some of my friends that I'll be brave and do the lessons when she comes in August.

Well...............she came in this afternoon.

She'd decided to bring all her paperwork and legal necessities in today, so while she was here offered to show me the belly dancing.


This lovely lady chose some arabic music from the very well stocked mp3 player on her mobile phone (embarrassingly, I've only got S Club 7 and Suga Babes on mine) proceeded to show me the hip movements, shoulder turns and various other undulations and obviously followed that with the dreaded words ....'come on Clare ...you try it !!'(and YES I know I've got the belly for it !!).

I took a deep breath...uttered several excuses...then tried it - after making damn sure all the doors were firmly locked with no chance of anyone coming to watch ! And I loved it. It's a very sensual dance to watch, and I can imagine that if you are very practised at it and know what you're doing it's a very erotic dance to perform for a special person.

I did the arm movements, the hip wiggle and the shoulder shimmy. I even had a go of the little finger cymbals !! It was actually one of the most enjoyable hours I've spent at school! I've also booked her to do a lesson as part of a staff social in a couple of weeks, so I'll have another try. And yes, when she comes back in August, I'll be having go again. I enjoyed doing it, so why not ? I've done it in private ...the next step - a big one - is to do it in front of friends.

At 2pm today I told a friend....I'm going to make myself have a go at arabic dancing this year.

At 4pm today .....I had *smiles

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