Ballroom Dance Friends

This weekend, those of us in the United States are celebrating Thanksgiving, and the unofficial beginning of the holiday season. Thanksgiving tends to be associated with overeating, football, shopping, and hopefully, family.

I am taking time this weekend to be aware of the many people and things in my life for which I am thankful. Here, particularly, I want to note my gratitude for the people I have met through dancing.  I've discovered ballroom dancers, on the whole, to be welcoming and friendly people. Many have become friends; some have married, some have moved, some have passed away. We've shared triumphs of executing new steps, joy at studio parties, laughter and fellowship at dinners and on road trips, nerves at performances, and top secret instructor information that no one's supposed to know.  

I am eternally grateful to have met you all, to know you a little, and dance with you a lot!  You are my dance family, and I love you all. You are a huge part of how "learning ballroom dance" has had such a profound impact on my life; on who I am. Thank you!

Unique Framed Tango Dancers Stamp and Quote

If you're looking for a truly unique gift for someone who loves ballroom, tango, Argentine tango, or milonga, take a look at this framed stamp and quote.

This artwork features a Japanese stamp depicting dancers in a classy and stylish tango pose. To the right is a quote by Havelock Ellis (who was an English writer, intellectual, physician, and social reformer), which states:

Dancing is the loftiest, most beautiful of the arts, because it is no mere translation or abstraction from life; it is life itself.

This tiny framed artwork is just 3.6 inches wide by 2.6 inches tall, and comes with both a magnet and a display stand. It's the perfect subtle hint of personal interest at the office, or where space is limited. Such a unique and thoughtful gift is sure to be treasured by those passionate about dancing.

Colorful Tote Bag Gift for Ballroom Dancers

This colorful totebag gift for ballroom dancers is both a fun and practical option!

A silhouette of a couple in a waltz or foxtrot pose on a green background is surrounded by multi-color shooting stars on this canvas tote bag. With 22" fabric handles and bottom gussets, the bag measures 18"x15"x6".

The rainbow of colors used here add zip and fun personality to this bag. It's the perfect size for a trip to the library, the farmer's market, or the dance studio!

My Humble Introduction to Ballroom Dancing

You might be wondering how I got started in ballroom dancing.  I dare say my story is somewhat typical, at least to a point.

A local dance studio offered two free lessons, by way of making cold calls. I received one of those calls in the spring of 1998. I accepted the offer and went to my first lesson a few days later. Yes, I was nervous, but also excited. I had been in bands and choirs through school, but had never done any dancing - not even as a little girl.

My first instructor was kind and patient, and had a long wavy ponytail down his back. He seemed to enjoy his work, and I enjoyed learning from him. From day one, when all I knew was a clunky basic box step and an underarm turn, I was immediately smitten with ballroom dancing. I knew I'd be back for more. Fast forward three studios, seven instructors, seventeen years, and innumerable new friends later, I still can't imagine life without ballroom dancing.

Blown Glass Christmas Star Tango Dancing Ornament

Check out this retro blown glass Christmas star tango dancing ornament! Its a perfect gift idea for your favorite dancing friends and family.

This Christmas ornament features a formally dressed couple in a tango pose in front of a glittering gold star. It's about 4.5 inches tall and even comes gift boxed!

What a great way to acknowledge a passion for dancing. Fond memories of Christmas and dancing will swirl together each year when this is hung on the tree.