[tahiradancer]

I had a fabo time. Loved meeting Liz, Mandy and everyone.

Poor BDSS's all had the Moroccan flu. Jilina tld me that she couldn't even talk during her workshop Friday! Adore just looked at me and said, We're all so sick.

But it didn't show in either the wrkshops or the show! everyone was incredibly impressed! The three girls I hooked up with on the train there were completely blown away by the weekend.

I was taking classes fom the UK teacers - Jacqui Jamal, khalad, Anne White (who is a doll!) Afra and Caroline Afifi. alot of beledi and Shaabi (which seem to be the prevailing styles inthe UK) Afra's Wings workshop was great!

I do have to say, though, that I may have been a bad influence in a few f the workshops. A couple of hte instructors said, things such as "We'll drag you Brits into the 21st Centrury!" and "Stop daning so very British" with a wink and nod towards me! Eeek!

Another Eek was my performance. It went fine. I danced to a piece by Azam Ali and Vas. Wore a Costless coin bedlah with a lavendar3 panel skirt and veil (Jes. the skirt was madefrom 2 saris. I'll get you phtos.) It was a very emotive piece. I was being self indulgent. Then I looked up in the balcony and saw Jil and Miles! EEEK!!!! Jilina later complimented me on my music choice. . . Should I be worried about my dancing?

Sunday I was so sore I couldn't do my first workshop. I sat in back and stretched. Completely my fault. I had taken 3 workshops and performed. Danced my backsire off Friday night after the show (Tamra Henna cornered me on the dance floor!) then went to the show, slept in three different beds in 4 days, drug bags through airports, subway and train stations. Why would I ever hurt? I don't need pain kilers, muscle relaxants and a hot shower! Bah! That teaches me to put aside my arrogance and my laziness and take care of myself!

I stayed in a B&B called the Feathers. It was cheap, clean and close to the venue. And had an ensuite bathroom. Those were the upside. The down were that the room was small, my mttress was a bit lumpy and there was no view. But I was barely there, so overall, not a big deal.

the Winter Gardens was overal functional. It is a faded beauty, an elderly Grand Dame in a '50's Chanel Suit. Still somewhat fashionable but a little frayed at the edges.

I most likely wont' be able to come next year (although the girls from the train have asked) as Justin is graduating the next wekend and there will be much to do in relation to his graduation and regarding our relocation.

{{{HUGS}}}