Emerald Belly Dance

09/02/2026

Hey everyone, it is back to belly dance class time! I hope that you made some great summer memories with family and friends. I have been doing a lot of soul searching, meditation and talking to councilors. The result= I need to watch my PTSD triggers and keep going to the VA support groups and the big one, I am going to live more in line with my values and priorities. Of course dance is huge for me, along with healthy movement and a desire to help others move better and be stronger, and being a good steward of the environment is VERY IMPORTANT. So to help align actions and values, I have reapplied to be a substitute teacher at the Environmental schools in Amherst and Appleton. What good is it to have a degree in environmentalism if I don't share it with the next generation? I have also applied to the Tech college for Physical Therapy Assistant program which will be starting next fall and; I am taking Pilates teacher training in 2 weeks.

The other big thing is that I really dislike "social" media, I am a huge ass introvert! I know, can you imagine an introvert and a Middle Eastern dancer!!! So what that means is that I will use FB for posting of classes and events and occasional posts. I will not be on it all the time, the best way to get a hold of me is through the FB messenger if you are in one of the groups or text. Better yet, we could talk after or before a class or over tea. There is no substitute for eye contact and human connection. Even huge ass introverts need human connection. Just not 859 strange people wanting to be my "friend". Scary!

Dance classes are going to be in Appleton at The M Effect studio, in Amherst at the Jensen Community Center, and New London at Longevity Nutrition. And hopefully in Oshkosh if there is a day that works with the studio and myself. More to come on that.

I am feeling like I am making headway and hope to keep moving in a positive direction. Change comes slowly like a lazy river or fast like the rapids, you got to just go with the flow.
Thanks, I appreciate all of you for understanding.

Kelly

07/21/2026

I'm sorry that I have not been posting or replying. Honestly, my depression is kicking my ass right now, and I don't have the energy to do anything. When I do feel up to something, I would rather be outside with the dogs and chickens, digging in a garden. I am still dancing, and I will be back in September to teach in Appleton and Amherst. Dance has always been an anchor for me throughout the worst of times, and it always will be. Being able to dance and express my emotions through movement is so healing; I am able to feel the Universal energy flowing around me.
I hope that everyone enjoys their summer.

06/30/2026

A fun new song, maybe for the fall choreography??? I also found a great translation of it. It is always good to know what you are dancing to.

Tebaa'N Tebaa'N Lyrics Translation (in English) - Sherine https://lyricsraag.com/tebaa-n-tebaa-n-sherine-translation/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-0RUAQAMUac&list=PLME9drm1zCz9qnG8Jr_IFgyDT17IQHrd0&index=1

06/25/2026

I remember making my first costumes. That was before the time on the internet, so no tutorials, the only fabric shop was Hancock ( I miss them) or JoAnn (and they're gone now too) and a lot of trial and error. And you couldn't just jump online and buy a costume either. We have it so easy now. For those that like to DIY, here is a quick bra cover.
https://youtu.be/NAWEserr31E

06/23/2026

An absolutely amazing look at Arabic music. Alaa is so talented. I hope you enjoy

Here are 42 of the most popular Arabic songs in history from before...

06/22/2026

Since I can't be creative do dance right now, I had a tooth pulled and now a dry socket. I thought I would do some infusing. I'm making a lemongrass and basil oil and an orange and cranberry balsamic vinegar. I thought the lemongrass would go great with rice noodles and veggies. I can't wait to taste the results.

06/18/2026

Hey all I'm working on my fall routine — should I make it modern pop or Golden Age vintage? I'm leaning toward Golden in honor of the passing of Suheir. What do you think?

06/17/2026

Summer is just starting, and already I feel like I am behind on the garden/landscaping around the house. So little time and so much to do, new music to find, new dance moves to practice, costumes to sew...new dark green skirt coming soon. And costumes to sell before Egypt trip.

06/17/2026

Shahrzad is such a great dancer and a wonderful teacher. I can't wait to get back to Egypt to study with her in person. They say the more, the merrier, whose up for Egypt next fall?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3PjVbaHRv1o&list=PLw-y2zjI9VvFo8l9bacQehtCCrQnYUs2V&index=16&pp=iAQB8AUB0gcJCQ0LAYcqIYzvsAgC

06/11/2026

I know it is over a year away, but I've started thinking about what to bring to Egypt. I think I'm going to go very minimalist. I know from last time I will need lots of room for shopping, so I'm axing the soap, shampoo.... and will get it there. I LOVED the shampoo I got last time. They have really nice products and cheaper than here. Same with clothes, I loved buying the dresses from the market and they are so comfy. I just need a toothbrush and deodorant and an empty suitcase!!