Thread: Hello from Austin, Texas!

Hi fellow Bhuzzers!

I'm Leeza, and I am based in Austin, Texas. I've been on Bhuz since 2010 I think, but I just now had a chance to learn how to navigate everything on here and am so glad I did.

I know a few of you through Facebook already, and some of you Texas gals I am proud to say we are a part of the same dance community.

I have danced in some way, shape or form my whole life, and finally found my way to belly dance. Ballet, tap and jazz as a child, I was a twirler all of high school, and did competitive Country & Western dance in college. (I am a Native Texan and all, ya know? )

I surprised myself when I realized how passionate I was about belly dance and the music, the culture, but then it all made sense. I've had a connection to the Middle East most of my life. My dad is in the oil/gas/construction industry, and he has worked and lived in Dubai off and on most of my life. My last visit there was 2002.

I have loved dance from the time I was a little kid and I see the phenomenal power of it everyday. Music and dance can always lift my spirits if I'm down! Anyone else have their significant other say, "You are cranky, you need to go to belly dance class!" ha ha ha

I thought about how to describe myself as a belly dancer for sometime, and would say I am a "slowly budding professional" who is very passionate about this dance and try very hard to find time for it in everyday life. The side of belly dance as a business is often complex to navigate, and I enjoy learning more everyday.

The only side of belly dance that has ever made me question myself is SEWING! I'm very envious of all you dancers/sewers who make your own gorgeous costumes. I've made ONE and had to have serious hand-holding the whole way through. HAHAHA You won't see me in my own handmade creations. LOL! I'm doing good to move hooks or sew on sequin trim!

I am also a graduate student in Public Relations working on my Masters, and I someday hope to combine the art of Public Relations with belly dance to bring more understanding of what it is to the general public. If that isn't possible, I want to combine PR & the arts in general.

If we are ever at the same festival, conference or event I look forward to the chance to meet more of you.

Happy Dancing, Happy Shimmies,
Much love,
Leeza

Woo, another Austinite!

Hi, Leeza.

Hi Leeza! *waves*

Hi, Ozma! Hi, Ndi-mi! Hi, Lauren!

*waves back*