Dance entered my life at the same time as I was told my lifestyle would have to change due to a bad fall several years ago, causing several herniated discs, and recently becoming a type 2 diabetic.  Weight loss had become a major issue and how does one lose weight without exercise?

        When my husband and I went to an oldies dance, we saw some of Sherry Lynn's students and they were amazing.  With some discussion, we decide to sign up for the Beginner's Ballroom Dancing classes.  Little did I know, from that moment on, my life would be forever changed!

        After a few weeks of dancing, I discovered I wasn't nearly as tired as I had been and was able to move body parts I forgot I had.  Movement which was painful suddenly wasn't any longer.  Make no mistake about it, to dance well, you must make a commitment to practice and be willing to step out of your comfort zone.  I am proud to say, since I have started dancing, I have lost 56 pounds, something I was never able to do before.  My flabby legs are becoming muscular and my core is slowly but surely getting stronger.  I now look in the mirror and smile at the woman looking back at me.  No more conversations with the doctors about back surgery, my sugar levels are under control and if I must say so, dancing backwards in heels is getting easier.  Notice, I said easier, not graceful.

        But the most important thing dance has given me is my husband.  Although we are very happy, we had begun to grow apart, which was a concern for me with retirement near.  I just wasn't sure what was going to happen to us.  Dance has reminded us of the trust, passion and laughter we share.  Sherry and Brian have taught us to see our strengths as successes and our weaknesses as opportunities which have made us better partners on and off the dance floor.

        The final reason dance is important in my life is the wonderful friendships we have formed at the studio.  It is astounding how terrific everyone is.  No one has ever made me feel intimated or bad about myself.  I have only ever found encouragement and kindness.  I remember the first time I was asked to dance by one of the experienced dancers.  The look on my face told him everything I was thinking.  All he said was don't worry about what level you are, just follow my lead and ith will be fine.  I was dumbstruck by the ease in which I fell into the steps.  With that much encouragement, how can you not begin to believe in yourself and grow with confidence?

        So, at 56 years of age, dance at given me ------- wait for it - 5, 6, 7, 8 ------- the new and forever happily dancing backwards me!

Best Regards,
Barb Malcolm