Our Lindy Instructors
Making a new friend!
Thanks to Sam for the photos and for organizing such a good time for all!
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Showing posts with label Rave. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Rave. Show all posts
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Fauxmance
Last nite I was watching Superstars of Dance and commented on the connection between many of the dance partners (couples) by using this term. Perhaps you have heard it used before but maybe not and perhaps you are wondering what I'M EVEN REFERRING TO...
So today I thought I'd share with you one of my fave fun sites to visit to stay on the cutting edge of urban culture...click here! You can even subscribe to get a word of the day emailed to you to dumb down your vocab and gain more street cred.
The next time you are listening to gangsta rap or hip hop and you want to know what Soulja Boy means when he sings about how he's gonna 'Superman dat ho' - now you have a place to go with all the answers....and you're welcome.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Tattoo You
When I was a young teen I caught a glimpse of otherwise covered tattoos on the inner arms of a guy who worked at the local deli's counter. He was like me, a redhead, and the pale flesh on the insides of his arms was white as marble. The colored tattoos were a realistic spatial recreation of our solar system - extraordinarily and breathtakingly beautiful, not the old, thick and blurry lined, non colored tattoos that sailors typically sported on a bicep that i was too familiar with. I knew in that moment I wanted a tattoo.
It's been decades but my wanting has never waned. I have had a multitude of reasons for postponing making the commitment, and decided 'the year of forty was the time to bite the bullet. I started striking up conversation with people who had a high quality tattoo I admired, and after thinking I might have to travel a good 5 hours I was ecstatic to find a local artist with a several month wait list. I stopped by the shop which is well renowned in our area. Looked at the boards but found nothing I really was looking for. Talked to the shop owner and he gave me several of the artists tattoo books. Beautiful full sleeves, awesome and accurate portraits, truly amazing cover ups on sizeable tribal chest pieces - and the thing that sealed the deal... seeing work on a birthmark and over keloid scar tissue...two areas that some will not ink. These were so well done I decided that i could happy live with anything this guy wanted to put anywhere on my body - it was going to look great to everyone blessed with the gift of sight.
I had my consultation and brought in my inspiration pieces and notations of what I liked and disliked and without pointing out my favorite he says 'based on what you are saying I like this one' and points it out. So i knew we had a shared vision. Now my biggest concern was placement and i decided the rely on his judgment for that and i am so glad i did.
And to answer your questions: Yes, it hurts and here is why I chose what I did...
Swallows are a traditional old-school tattoo symbolizing enduring love that first appeared on sailors during the World Wars. Because swallows are known to always return home to San Juan Capistrano each year without fail, it was believed that sailors with a swallow tattoo would always 
return to their homes and families as well. Because swallows never fly too far from home, the sight of a swallow by a sailor was a symbol of hope; it meant they were close to land. If a sailor had the misfortune of dying at sea, legend had it that a swallow would carry his spirit to heaven. And if a sailor had a friend who passed away, he may get a tattoo of a swallow with a dagger through it's breast. But swallows are also an enduring symbol of love and loyalty, as swallows are monogamous creatures. They choose only one partner and will mate with them for life. Many swallow tattoos were modeled after the barn swallow native to Europe. Blue in color, with a long, forked tail, barn swallows are believed to represent the free blue sky and eternal happiness.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
December Plans
Wow, I know it is not yet Thanksgiving, but the pace of the year end is picking up already, as it always does...only 40 something days till Christmas and less till Hannukah.
If you have company coming into town and are looking for something new and fun to do, let me tell you about December 14th at the Safety Harbor Spa: Rungo Dance Academy is putting on a ballroom and latin dance show at 5 pm, and tickets are only $25.00 which also includes food and drink and a 45 minute private lesson in the studio.
I promise you will have a ton of fun and there are no high pressure sales tactics used. This is a family run business that has been around for 8 years and just like any business they are always looking for customers - but they only want happy ones, so the atmosphere feels lighthearted and like you are with family (the family that you want to be with not the ones you avoid!).
Once again I find myself dateless and looking for company - I have a few tickets if you are interested and available! Hope you can come, try something new, learn more about yourself and let me enjoy your company for an evening or two...
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Best Kept Secrets
I just learned about The Salon Professional Academy, a Redken training facility - and you know I love to share a good thing when I find it. Thanks go to a friend who has a friend schooling there in need of clients to complete her training hours, and so I thought I would drop by and find out more.
It is very spacious, bright and clean. It has the feel of an actual salon. Everyone is friendly and has an amazing haircut. The prices are phenomenal/inexpensive and all work is supervised so you can feel confident it will come out correctly. You will need to leave a little additional time in your schedule than if you went to a pro. I've been to the Aveda Salon and this was a much better experience
I had a set of pink and white acrylic nails allied for a mere $23.00 - if I had gone to my salon it would have cost me $60 plus the tip. All the money does go to the school, so please do tip your student when you go.
If you are in need of a facial this month (Nov.2008 only!) ASK FOR Evelyn Garcia and when you make the appointment give the reference Betsy Adams - an hour long facial will be $19.00 less a $5.00 off coupon and you can tip EVELYN THE $5 BUCKS!
contact info and prices here!!!
1. Manicure, Pedicure & Facial Combo ~ $35
2. 50% off Facial & Pedicure
We're proud of our services offered and look forward to pampering you!
Take advantage of our special pricing and top industry talent. All services are performed by students under the supervision of licensed professional educators.
Our Services Include:
Hair
Starting At
Haircut $9
Bang, Beard or Mustache Trim $6
Shampoo & Style $9
Thermal Ironing $6
Special Occasion Hair $19
Color & Style $19
Foil Highlights $29
Perm & Style $29
Relaxer $29
Skin care
Starting At
Facial $19
Makeup Application $9
Facial Wax $11
Brow Wax $9
Lip Wax $9
Chin Wax $9
Bikini Wax $19
Leg Wax $29
Back Wax $19
Underarm Wax $19
Nails
Starting At
Manicure $9
French Manicure $14
Pedicure $19
Polish Change $8
Paraffin Dip $6
Nail Art $4 per nail
Nail Repair $4 per nail
Full Set $19
Pink & White $22
Nail Fill $11
Rewhite & Fill $14
Nail Removal $8
Sunday, November 2, 2008
What's your sign?
Remember that old pick up line? Well some of you may find this entertaining, others may find it shockingly accurate!
I love the beginning of each month when I get a foreshadowing of all the opportunities that might present themselves in the coming days. This month I am on pins and needles as Susan's posting for November is not yet available!
check it out: astrologyzone
then get back to me with a comment about what you thought - I'd love to hear from you!
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Hair by Jay at Salon Allure
Life is good when it's a good hair day, and i am indebted to Jay (a/k/a "Blow-J") for that.
He has been doing my hair for a decade now - hard to believe. I found him thru word of mouth referral (always the best way to find services in my experience - and i have been known to stop people on the street and ask who does their hair...), after my prior haircutter (not used to working on naturally curly hair) decided to use a razor on me (razor + curly hair = frizz) for the first and last time.
Most women will agree that finding a new stylist is a major, and often traumatic event in their lives. I had moved and had little choice, but I can spare you from the same experience. While i do not color, i can testify to the fact that he does amazingly natural looking color. He loves long hair, so do not be fooled by my short 'do - I had to beg and plead for it and he's working on convincing me to grow it back but i love my short do way too much!!!
If you find yourself in need of a haircut or new style for the holidays, go see Jay. He is funny, easy on the eyes, and YES ladies - SINGLE!
Salon Allure is located at 26133 US Hwy 19 N. Ste 107 Clearwater This is at the intersection with Enterprise Road in the plaza with TGIF south of the mall and north of Fresh Market.
I am lo maintenance and he gives such a good cut it grows out so well for so long i only need to go a couple times a year...When you visit tell him Cathy said to say hello to 'Blow-J' and maybe you will get the story behind the inside joke....
Friday, October 31, 2008
Just Won't Burn
One of my favorite artist releases was guitarist and singer Susan Tedeschi's (click this link to watch the video ->)Just Won't Burn.
I picked it up on a fluke and loved every song on it. She almost won the Grammy that year, and I've gone on to buy her other releases. She has a voice that is a combination of Janis Joplin in it's raspy power and Bonnie Raitt in it's lyrical tone. She is a great story teller, and as an added bonus she is married to the uber talented Derek Trucks. This guy can jam. If you like blues - real R&B Guitar, not R&B hiphop then you will be blown away.
While she has her own band, she does tour with Derek's band, and I had the luxury of seeing them live... and here comes another chance - tickets on sale later today for a performance at The Tampa Theatre - one of my all time favorite venues.
First of all the architecture of the building is magnificent, it's 1920's, Nouveau, marble inlaid floors, dark solid hardwoods, and the theatre interior looks like a grotto and is about the size of an old time projection theatre. The ceiling has twinkle lights in the centers of a dark starry sky. So romantic to just sit there in a red velvet seat and watch a movie or listen to the Wurlitzer Organ.
The seating is small so there is not a bad seat in the house and there is a balcony, old time, meaning it's UPSTAIRS, an overhanging second level. Not a bad seat in the house! And there is a concessions stand where you can actually get a drink.
DEREK TRUCKS & SUSAN TEDESCHI
SOUL STEW REVIVAL
MONDAY, DECEMBER 29, 7:30PM
click here to order tickets
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Team Match
Sorry readers, no photos to share of the three studio judged dances at this time, if I get some from a friend I will upload them later. We had an early lead but did not take the first place trophy.
The lesson learned is sometimes it is good to break the rules you have set for yourself and do something you swore you would never do, because you just might enjoy yourself. Besides a new challenge of learning some basic dance steps this month, I have learned some things about myself which is always refreshing for a person who thinks they know themselves pretty darn well!
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
It's Official
My ballot has been cast in favor of Obama/Biden.
On a fun note, I purchased my first pair of ballroom dance shoes yesterday afternoon and broke them in last evening...I wanted a lighter shade that would blend in with my skintone and the floor but could not wait so I ended up with this coppery tone which looks pretty hot if i say so myself:
And yes, your toes ARE supposed to hang over the edge like that. They do not want to sole of the shoe to show and i've heard some dancers like to feel the floor with their toes. In Latin dancing you are primarily on the ball of your foot. This is a 3 inch heel, making me almost 6 ft. Fo'Shizzle!
These came from On Pointe Dancewear on Central Avenue in St. Pete Fl. They are made by Stephanie Ballroom:
Stephanie Professional Dance Shoes 92005, New Dark Tan *Real leather interior material for extra skin comfort. *Special exterior fabrication/satin made for WATER/OIL/DIRT RESISTANCE (3R = 3 Resistance) *Memory padding for super extra comfort, made with special padding material provides both comfort and long lasting (very strong and thick padding against decompression that last 5 times longer than every leading brand)
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Let them eat cake! Or Cookies!
I have 2 sites to rave about to meet all your sweet needs! If you have friends, family or clients that you need to get that perfect something for but you just don't know what here is a perfect idea:
Click to see it and believe it, then order it to taste it - YUMMMM!
Friday, October 10, 2008
She's Crafty....
Some of you from my generation will now be hearing in your mind's stereo a song of that name and with those lyrics (She's Crafty, and just my type...) courtesy of The Beastie Boys. One Beastie went to HS of the Performing Arts with my first BF and I got to meet him one nite at BAR in Manhattan...yes BAR was the name of the BAR...such was my brush with fame.
But I digress... I really want to share with you fellow blog lovers and papercrafters a link to a blog with some awesome photos, projects, and joie de vive of none other than Jules....if you frequent The Rouge (where I should be cropping now!) you probably know of Jules already.
Please pay Jules a visit and see her latest creation, featuring a vintage image and a lovely sachet bag that would make a nice gift item!
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Supporting the economy...
Today I did a number of my favorite things to do, go to an arts & crafts show, walk around out of doors, enjoy the weather, admire handicrafts and support a charity and a local artisan with my hard earned dollars. I love all things handmade and the people who make them. My purchase was this lovely thing:
It is made by hand, here in the USA, by Christine Nissley. She does not use a loom, and had some exquisite jackets, shrugs, ponchos, tops and scarves, most in vibrant colors with fantastic FRINGE (can you tell i love FRINGE?) and great textural yarns.
I fell for this because I had never seen a knit babydoll, and there is a ribbon tie that falls under the bustline and accents the waistline and has a long side slit where the ribbon falls. I find it very appealing, however the VIP is not crazy about my other knits and doubt he will like this one. The yarn is silk and pale pink and green.
Visit C&C Collectibles, Chrissie's Creations for somthing great all your own: 813-765-4645, cnissley@yahoo.com, chrissiescreation.etsy.com She is an accountant by day, this is her hobby craft. BUY USA!
One of a kind beautiful hand knitted wearable art made out of luxury yarns. This is a store where you can go from casual to elegant at the blink of an eye. Original designs and many one of a kind items. Custom orders are welcome for any size and color. Now is a great time for me to knit up some wonderful new designs. Please check back often to see the new wearable art that "Chrissie's Creations" has to offer. I will also be offering kits soon for some of my designs if you too are an avid knitter.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Let me introduce you
to BK Jackson! Bernard “B.K.” Jackson is a 16 year old saxophone sensation, who stimulates the soul with rejuvenating gospel and refreshing jazz. I have been eagerly awaiting this cd which arrived by mail today and I will be playing it tomorrow!
He is playing at this years Clearwater Jazz Festival in Coachman Park, opening act for Tony Bennett! This is a free outdoor event...check it out.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
The submissive....
At my last dance lesson I had a frank and open discussion with my instructor about what I knew about myself and how I thought I would learn best. I figured with his being younger and having just met me he might benefit from the 40 years of insight I gathered about myself. Being from NY himself and Italian to boot (at least that is how I attribute it - being from NY myself and living in close proximity to the same hood for a number of years), he had a theory all his own, which he shared with me:
the modern woman has a hard time being submissive and following the lead of the man, a requirement for a dance partner...
and he suggested I that I might not agree with him, but that I go home and think about it.
And that I did. I decided to arrive today with a new attitude, after all I AM PAYING HIM and for a young stud of 28 (sorry ladies, married if I have not mentioned that already) he has some keen insights into the ladies - probably from his years of experience working with them (the diff from the EVERYMAN here is he is actually LEARNING from his experience). So this babe (not THIS babe, the instructor) kind of shocked me (THIS babe) with how accurate this bold statement - drawn from his own personal experience- was.
I decided today I was not going to talk back, chime in, offer my 2 cents - unsolicited advice, what ever you want to call it. I was going to obey my master and see what I gathered from the experience. And you know what? It was my best dance lesson so far.
He wanted me to keep a connection with him, look into his eyes, and feel his lead with my body. So I did. And it WORKED! For the most part. And you know what, he said he enjoyed my 5 cents, or 25 cents input...you gotta love a guy who puts a higher price on you than you value yourself!
So ladies (and gentlemen, they have some amazing female instructors who can teach you to lead) if you have ever thought of taking up dance, I highly encourage you!
Technorati Tags: Troy,dance lessons
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Liquid Lunch with the Personal Shopper
Today was a fun day.
A couple weeks ago my friend *A* and I planned this day of shopping together to hunt for the perfect dress (and we did bag it, but she has asked me not to post it here yet and spoil the surprise) for her upcoming 20th reunion.
We also found some slammin' accessories, but the perfect shoe evaded us to to *A*'s teeny tiny shoe size (e-shopping on Zappos tonite) and the perfect bag is at a location closer to my home (I will find it tomorrow) than hers where we were shopping today. I do promise you a collage of 'the look" next week after it's unveiling on the red carpet. What fun to pile on the glamour!
And while I can't dish about the fashion finds just yet, I can share the delish diva dining experience at The Wine Exchange, an old favorite that just relocated up the block to double the footprint. They always have fresh, savory, well presented items paired with wine for you winos. As many of you who know me better already know, I stick to the liquor (I have my reasons one, being that you must first buy me a drink before I will share them with you...).
*A* had a pear and this was my Pomtini...after one of these you forget all about taking a photo of the cafe salad - assorted baby greens with hearts of palm and artichoke with a miso dressing and the delightful gnocchi (I <3 Carbs!) with sundried tomato....
Monday, September 15, 2008
I've been used hard today...
My pilates trainer moved to NYC and while I was ecstatic for her personally, I thought this might be the worst of all possibilities for my physique. You see, one of the things no one tells you about marriage is it can make you fat. So can your corporate job, eating out a big 2 hour lunch day after day, fine dining on the per diems and the expense accounts and the vendors tabs... who can go to Morton's and order a salad? I just don't have the willpower. After awhile it starts to catch up with you. sneakily - little by little. One day I finally put my foot down and said "Self - less talk, more action" and I did something I'd been thinking of doing for a long time - I called the studio to ask about a group class. I was convinced to try a one on one session, as much as I abhorred the idea of PAYING SOMEONE to spend time with me I can honestly say that it is the third best thing I ever spent my money on.(The first would be rent on my first apartment, the second being paying off my mortgage - that is very freeing.)
Well my trainer was SO GOOD you walk is, get a look over, and a plan is custom tailored for your bod based on what it needs that particular day. And if you keep at it you will not lose any weight (hey, muscle weighs more than fat right?) but you will see your clothes start to fit differently. And your parts that looked real good before look even better! If anyone in the city needs a trainer let me know and I will be happy to pass the digits.
So I had to find something else and I had taken some Yoga, but the place closed, moved, relocated and I could not find it UNTIL! So now I am looking forward to Mondays (how many people can say that?) when I go to Yoga Village and take Lisa Abernathy's Anusara class. She is totally awesome. Today she gave me some extra stretches and I am totally spent. If you want to give it a try, they have a great variety of affordable classes available all times and days.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
WINOS-SAVE THE DATE: SATURDAY 11-8 5PM
I went to this for the first time last year to meet up with some friends who had volunteered to work the beer tent (not bad people to know, huh?) and when the second shift relief volunteers did not show up they asked if I would mind pulling the tap (who, me? Obviously you have mistaken me for someone else.... let's see 1 for you, 2 for me...). If you were there you might remember me - I was the one wearing the Navy T-shirt that said 'NAUGHTY" in silver glitter (boy does the VIP hate that shirt!), taking tickets with my teeth and pouring the Blonde Ale asking why no one wanted a redhead that night...someone call me a cab home please...
I am CONVINCED it cannot be as much fun this year but it won't stop me from trying! Who's IN?
7th Annual Safety Harbor Wine Festival Presented by Dimmitt Cadillac
Saturday November 8, 2008 from 5-11pm
Description:
Enjoy a night of live entertainment throughout Downtown along with delectable foods, arts and crafts and of course, wines from all over the world. Proceeds benefit 5 local charitable organizations. Sponsorships and vendors booths available. Admission to the festival is free. There is a nominal charge for wine samples, beer, other beverages and food from area restaurants. Proceeds from the event will benefit local civic and charitable organizations including the Safety Harbor Neighborhood Family Center, Safety Harbor Lion’s Club, Safety Harbor Fire Fighters, Safety Harbor Scholarship Fund and The Safety Harbor Kiwanis Club.
Downtown Safety Harbor
Main Street
Safety Harbor, FL 34695
The City of Safety Harbor and the Wine Festival Committee announced plans for the 7th Annual Safety Harbor Wine Festival Presented by Dimmitt Cadillac. The Festival will take place on Main Street between Bayshore Boulevard and 8th Avenue on Saturday November 8, 2007. Festival hours will be from 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm. The evening’s events will include wine sampling from wineries all over the world, food vending from area restaurants, live entertainment on three stages and arts & crafts vendors. Admission and parking are free. Wines will range from $3 to $5 per glass.
The 2006 event raised over $36,000 for 5 local organizations. Over the past 5 years the Annual Wine Festival event has donated over $115,000 to local charitable organizations.
Included in the past festivities have been three stages of local Jazz, Rock, Blues and R&B bands at the main stage at the Gazebo in John Wilson Park on 4th Avenue and Main Street, a 2nd stage of entertainment located in the Brie Garden near 7th Avenue and Main Street and a 3rd stage of entertainment stage will be located in the courtyard of the new Harbour Pointe building on the Corner of Main Street and Bayshore Boulevard. Fine Arts & Crafts vendors display their wares along Main Street during the event as well as other sponsors booths.
Technorati Tags: Safety harbor,florida,wine,festival,main street,november 8th 2008,beer,music,charitable event
Shake N Shimmy....
Tonight I went with 2 girlfriends to Rungo Dance Academy for an open house. I was expecting to see the dance instructors give an exhibition, but we ended up involved in a group Merengue lesson and then we had to rotate partners several times and then they added the music. We actually had a lot of fun. The instructors are all very good at keeping you involved and moving and enjoying yourselves. So we are all going back for a lesson on Tuesday. If you go, you might ask for Troy. A/K/A the de-virginator. He breaks in all the new dancers, that is his specialty. He's been dancing there 8-9 years and will be very gentle with you if it's your first time or if you are just out of practice...
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Ban Thai
What better way to end a perfect holiday weekend then a delicious meal with a special somebody at a favorite local spot...
I tend to enjoy the ambiance of the privately run places over the chains. The place is wonderfully decorated with imported objects, the staff is dressed in traditional attire, and the background music will have you feeling like you have left the country. This family owns 2 places: The Chiang Mei in St. Pete and Ban Thai in north county:
1100 Central Ave
St Petersburg, FL 33705
2519 N McMullen Booth Rd # 505 at the N/E intersection with Enterprise,
Clearwater, FL 33761, (727) 724-2992 - Ban Thai does take away and sushi
I wish I were a vegan, but the Amazing Beef if just too good - I must succumb to it's powers over my tatebuds!
When there I was lucky enough to witness the monks, praying/chanting and performing a blessing. For a fun outdoor adventure, visit the Thai Temple on the other side of Tampa (near Brandon).
Really should have a photo for you - you will have to go see it for yourselves.
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