Uhm Yeah, there's a certification for that!

Yeah, about this turning 40 thing and the bucket list...uhm, somewhere in between those two things I decided to teach dance fitness, i.e. Zumba. It's one of those things where you start the sentence with, "See, what had happened was..." I say that because I was never one to always dance (unless in the club back in the day) or attend any type of fitness class on a regular basis (not on your life, unless it was in my living room) or desire to teach (well, it was that one time that I thought I could teach African dance after taking an African-robics class). But, that's all in retrospect. We're talking about the here and now.

Yep, a year and a half ago, I walked into a Wednesday night Zumba class taught by Sara Bremer, not really knowing what to expect and I was hooked. It kind of put me in some kind of hypnotic trance or the music must have had some hidden messages delivered to the subconscious mind because all of a sudden I said, "I can do this. I'mma teach Zumba!" (I'm still wondering where that voice came from 'til this day!) I took a Zumba certification class and told Angie Acosta of Queen City Dancing Queen, "Okay, I'm certified, but I want to teach with your group." Yep, you know how the story went because I'm teaching with Ang and the QCDQ posse.

Yeah, about that... Uhm, here's the thing. I was supposed to be just teaching and having fun - but that is work! Learning choreo, being consistent, remembering stuff -did I tell you that as I've aged, my memory is starting to suck! Yeah, and now I'm accountable to lead groups of people all the while having an aging memory issue - and an getting AFAA Group Training Certification.

Hold up, what was that? Get a what? An AFAA Group Training Certification. Wait, who said anything about that? I just wanna dance! (You mean to tell me there's a certification to teach dance, too?) Yeah, who knew that I had to take that test. Fast forward and rewind back to last Friday - all day from 9-5:30. Certification Day. All. Day. Long. Here's the other thing...after spending the whole day going over muscles, figuring out what strength and stretch exercises to do for the practicum part of the test and breezing through a study workbook for the test and etc, and etc. - we start the test the last hour of the day. Someone should tell AFAA that college students have the agility and adaptability to workout all day and mentally exhaust themselves and still take an exam and someone should also remind AFAA that most of the participants were well beyond the collegiate age group! (Let me just say, I am not sure if I ate enough brain food because I was mentally exhausted by the time I took that test.) Side Note: The instructors for the day were absolutely wonderful and did their best to instill information into the participants.

Halfway through the test, I looked down at my answer sheet...(sigh) there were a lot of C's marked. Oh well... Let me just get back to dancing when things were not so complicated. Hey, I've got an idea! Maybe someone should make some music that subconsciously teaches all the muscle groups, nutrition, energy sources, fitness risks and benefits, etc (the etc. is everything you should know for the AFAA certification) and that way, while we're exercising our bodies our minds are getting plugged with information. Yeah? Yeah? You like that idea? It's yours, consider the first one free. If you make a million off of it, then I charge 20% for the idea. Good luck!

So, I told my gurl Erica that I wanted her to be in charge of making sure that I danced in a cage before my 40th. Promptly, she opened her day planner and without looking up said, "Done. We can do it on June...." That was it. Just like that. I asked Erica because she is young, full of life and truly knows how to have a good time. Trust me, I live vicariously through her Facebook photos.

The night started out with a blast at the Queen City Dancing Queen Prom. We had a fundraiser to help provide scholarships for those who need a little help. The attendance was low, but we had a blast. Plus, my special friend came and that meant a lot. But afterwards, the real event began...

Just like college days, a group of us piled up in a car and headed to the "spot." We fed our growling stomachs and laughed at all the private jokes. All in all, it was about 12 of us. Someone mentioned shots and that was foreign to me. "You don't do shots? You haven't taken a shot?" I hated to perpetuate any stereotypes so I kept my mouth shut from explaining that black folks don't often take shots. We like to buy one drink and hold on to it for the rest of the evening. "A shot is too fast to be spending all that money on," is what I pictured a sista saying with a hand on one hip and a roll of the neck. So, they got a shot or two for me. And yep, it works...trust me.

Just like Lil' Mama rapped, "Shawty was gettin' loose!" We slipped downstairs where the club was and took over the dance floor. Hesitation to approach the cage was wearing on me. Should I? But that's what I came here for, right? It's on my list! Soon, the right song hit and me and Diana, another dancer went in together.

I (and we) was (were) working the cage like a pro. No really, I was because someone said that. "You've done this before!" Uh no, I hadn't, but I've taken four pole dance classes at Tease Fitness! So, that's how I was able to move, but the shots helped me to relax and not be so self-conscious.

Finally, I was without inhibition and felt free to move about without the caring about any googley eyes. I can definitely mark it off my to-do list, but I just may have to add it again...just for the heck of it!

The Morning After

Ya'll, I'm sore. Who knew that my back (across my shoulders) would be sore? I expected my arms, but the rest of my body too? Come on, I wasn't venturing into pole dancing for the work out? Who does that? I strictly wanted to just tap into my sexiness.

Hey, guess what? It hasn't happened yet. My inner sexy goddess wasn't in the mirror this morning. She didn't show up as I cocked my head to the side and wiped crust away from my eyes. And, she didn't show up when I got out of the shower and looked at myself naked. But you know what? I still believe she's in me, maybe she's just not a morning person. Or, just maybe she needs more that one pole dancing lesson (it's a series of 6 classes). Or, maybe it takes more than just all of the dancing (Zumba, Dance Out and Urban Shimmy) I'm doing, but really looking at myself in the mirror and liking - no loving- what I see.

All of that is great - but what about the soreness?

Well, truth be told, I don't think this is the worst of it. I happened to wear leggings to my first class. I was told to wear shorts next time, "The shorter the better," she smiled innocently. But, what she didn't tell me (or the class) as she effortlessly flipped around, up side down, slid back down, and got back up sexy, is that we'll be walking away with pole burns. I was reminded of that as I read my friend's blog, thanks Sara!

She had the same experience during her pole dance class: trying to look sexy while being a virgin to the pole, then feeling the burning sensation as the pole meets skin and burns, as you attempt to slide down - while trying to look sexy. And, as my instructor as well as hers kept repeating, "Stand up sexy!" (In addition to "Keep toes pointed, ladies").

All day long I'm going to repeat "Get back up sexy." I won't be on a pole but as I get up from sitting down or bending to tie my shoes, whatever I'll be doing - just remember I'll be getting back up sexy.

Last Night I was officially "Bad Azz"

I'm telling you the truth! I was really kick-azz! You don't believe me? Listen...

I busted it out at Angie's zumba class. Since I've made it into the instructor training, I've got to learn the routines as well as how to effectively teach them. Angie had me on the stage right along with her. I worked out so hard that I caught a cramp! But, I pushed through it like Superwoman breaking out of a He-Man grip! I'm a grown woman and mother and I don't quit - NEVER! Ruhh!

Then, I was off to Bike Night with my cousin Shinell and Darrell, her hubby. They're both bikers and I'm a wanna-be. (I've got to wait until I get efficient health coverage before I buy my motorcycle.) So, Shinell was on her bike and I rode with Darrell. After giving me a quick run down on how to ride with him, I was officially ready with helmet (via one of Darrell's extra "Scarface" painted helmets) and biker's jacket (via Shinell's Carolina blue). Yep, hot! All I was missing was biker gloves and my own bike, of course.

The gun of the engine, the rumble from the motor moved through my legs and my hands wrapped around to the front of the bike (I was taught where to rest my hands). And, we were off! It was more than exhilirating! It was everything that I imagined! Soaring free down the road, wind wrapping around us, bugs splatted on the helmet eye shield! Wow!!! How could I effectively play it cool in my "bad ass" mode with a huge 32-teeth grin. Thank goodness the helmet hid my kiddie smile, otherwise I'd lose a few cool points.

Shinell and I walked around looking at other bikes...greeting other bikers. Her and her hubby knows everybody! One of their friends promised to ride me next week, but with a name like "Buck Wild," I think I'll pass. My life is way too important than to be riding on the back of a bike with hell on wheels. Besides, Darrell took charge and said, "If it's not with me, then you can't ride. Too many wild riders out here." He's right, I'll stick in my comfort zone and keep it with family.

Oh, and everybody has a biker name...B-More, Platinum, Off the Chain, Uh-huh Chocolate, Diva, Drama Queen, etc. I would need a name to accurately reflect me...hmmm, I've gotta think about that one. Any suggestions?

We ended the night by riding downtown to a hot spot. While we were bad biker chicks, we watched all the girls (and very few guys) walking to the clubs. The funny thing was how they looked so uncomfortable in their stilletto's and mini-mini skirts/dresses. They looked hot, if that's what you like, but Shinell and I were way too cool and fine in our laid back jeans, sneakers and biker jackets. Yeahhhhh, Eeyyyyyy, Whooaaa! (Sounding like the Fonze from Happy Days.)

I loved the freedom of the bike. I know its dangerous because there were some folks who were riding crazy as I witnessed with my own eyes. But, I want to live life to the fullest. I deserve that. So, don't be surprised when you see me cruising on my Harley, not rushing to go anywhere, but looking cool. I might not wave, not because I'm too cool, but because I'll be keeping my eyes on the road.

PS...I admire the relationship between Shinell and her hubby so much. As we were about to leave downtown he said, "I'm glad I'm married. Even though these girls (guys) look good, you don't know if they have a disease or not." Yep, I said...because you can't tell by looking at the outside package, and that's for sure.

Stay true to your spouse and live life to the fullest with the one you love!

It's On!!!

Oh dear, oh dear, oh dear

What could I do if it were not for fear?

Would I climb the highest mountain

or swim across the sea?

I have desires in my heart to try, oh,

so many things

To live life to the fullest and not

just in my dreams.

Oh dear, oh dear, oh dear

Woulda', coulda', shoulda' is our worst enemies

But mark my words this very day that

I will, I'll try and I must will

definitely lead my way.

I just made that up. :)

Auditions to teach with Queen City Dancing Queen was this week. I built all this nervous energy inside of me for no reason. I could do this! I've been dancing my heart out for the past year several times a week. But, fear was trying to paralyze me and honestly, I had nothing to fear (but fear itself and that's the truth.)

After my private audition on Monday, all auditionees were going to have to audition in front of a live class on Friday. We all would see who our competitors were. Although I believe that there is no competition in the spiritual world, what is meant for you will be for you. Being a spiritual person, I truly believe that if it is meant for you then forces will align correctly to make things work in your favor. Hmph! And, even while knowing this in my heart, I had the nerve to allow trepidations to creap in my spirit.

Well, enough of that. I did it! I auditioned and I rocked it! I danced to Boro Boro (a bhangra song) and Church by T-Pain. And, I took 'em to church as I pumped, jumped, shook my booty and all that! (See my blog about the Alvin Ailey dancers).

Everyone will know by April 30th if they're accepted in the instructor training program for QCDC. Stay tuned.

My New Family is a TRIP!

I've been going on and on about my blood family [working on my nerves], but as my friend Kesha taught me - we make our family. So anyway, I may have blogged about getting older and somewhere in between the lines, my new family read that I was suffering from a cold which has been lingering forever. As I walked in to Zumba class, Alice promptly asked, "What are you doing here?" She didn't just ask as if asking a question out of the blue. She asked with her eyes peering down at me as if she were wearing reading glasses and said it with a mother attitude. (I know, right?!) And then, the Amen Choir i.e. Torey backed her up, "Yeah, I was reading on her blog how she was sick and she needs to go home..." (They don't know that that is not an option because I am hardheaded...plus this is CIAA week!)

I'm telling you the truth, I definitely have a family - mothers and sisters - right here in Charlotte. And, they don't mind picking up on the family 'tude and keeping me in check with that type of nurturing love. From Alice and Torey in Zumba to Shinell down the street who has been checking on me to Kesha who keeps me lifted through our conversations and knowledge sharing. 

I can hear them saying, "All right, I don' told you to go head now..." Yeah, yeah...okay...I'm going. But, I love ya'll and the attention.

Sara's Gone...

Last Friday, I attended an event that held mixed emotions for all of the attendees. Sara, the exuberant-cute-pouty-faced-energizer-bunny said 'farewell' to Queen City Dancing Queen. She was faced with a wonderful career opportunity which required her to relocate, but wanted to hold on to her love of QCDC. We've all been at a crossroads, right?

I remember reading her status update on Facebook that read that she had to make a monumental decision. I didn't know what the circumstances were, but like many others I chimed in with my two cents. I answered: Dr. Ben Carson said he asks himself four questions when faced with a challenging decision, "What is the best thing that will happen if I do this? What is the best thing that will happen if I don't? What is the worst thing that will happen if I do this? What is the worst thing that would happen if I don't?"

In time, Sara made the decision to relocate and advance in her career. Who can blame her? But, we all will miss her motivating moves, booty shaking and overall cute factor. As friends stepped up to the microphone and wished her well, it was tear jerking to see how much she has made an impact on so many people across the board. People who never knew the joy of dancing, ladies who've given up on feeling beautiful and empowered, dancers who were inspired to join the ranks as Zumba instructors, and teachers who learned from her experience all shared their "Sara" stories. I felt a twinge of jealousy because I didn't have my special Sara story, but realized that I didn't need one to have been inspired by her. We wiped away tears and struggled to hold our trembling lips in as we wanted to be a little selfish and keep our Sara right here in Charlotte.

Thank you, Sara, for making an impact on so many of us. Thank you for helping us to free our inner Shakira goddess. We may not shake it like Shakira or bounce it like Beyonce, but by all means and determination we will shake it and bounce it the way you taught and pushed us to! May your journey inspire more women to live life to the fullest. I don't think I would have had the courage to want to become an instructor if it wasn't for you. Trust this step and know that your path will not only be a blessing to you, but to every single person you come in contact with.

Take care...Sara...Muah!

Darn It!

I was doing good with my nutrition and work out plan. I had my morning workouts and evenings full of Zumba (I'm a certified Zumba instructor, ya'll). But then, BAM! I caught a bug and was out for the count. And then, BAM the Girl Scout cookies came. Okay, let me admit it. I fell off the wagon. But starting Monday, I'm dusting myself off and getting back to work. It's on like Donkey Kong! (Remember when we used to say that?)

My motto: Don't quit - never, ever give up!

Damn, is this all I have?

I have just realized that I have no life! I go to work, homeschool my daughter, workout and that's about it. I need some die-hard-got-my-back girlfriends. That type of friendship that not even a man would come between. You know how we women all of a sudden get busy when we get a man paying us a little bit of attention.

My real die hard freinds are peppered in New York, Cinci and a slew of sorority sisters spread out all over. But, I need some girls here in Charlotte. I've got some friends, but our friendship hasn't yet marinated over the trials and turns that makes a relationship stand the test of time. Hopefully, they'll evolve more this year.

Outside of my QCDC Zumba family, my life is a little dull. It's not like I have the love of my life showering me with attention. But, on the other hand, I don't have a drama filled life full of jealousy and fussing, thank goodness!

Me and my NY girls!

Of course, I'm saying all of this as I'm loaded with wine watching yet another reality show, "Let's Talk About Pep!" Loving that she has her friends all surrounded at the table a la' "Sex In the City" style. Who cares if it is scripted? They look like they are having a lot of fun experiencing a care free life.

Maybe someone should scrpt my life.

Working out makes me feel alive!

As I've shared, I want to wear a bikini this year. Yep, that's my goal. So, this week, I've been working out to my Beach Body tapes while my Personal Training with Jackie tapes are on the way. Other than that, I Zumba with Queen City Dancing Queen!

Yep, Zumba keeps me young. Zumba is a dance inspired fitness exercise which encompasses merengue, salsa, reggaeton, hip-hop, samba, belly dance and bhanra. I was hooked with just my first visit. And, on January 16th, I go and get Zumba ceritified. Yay!

I go in there knowing that I will gyrate my hips, pop my booty and throw my back out. And, don't let them play one of my favorite songs! I'll drop my old butt to the floor like it's real hot! I feel younger than I am while I'm there for that one hour. It takes me back to my days at the club dancing all night long. The music and the moves make me feel sexy as I dream of showing my moves to a cutie one of these days. Trust me, I'm shaking it like Shakira and Beyonce!!! And no one can tell me any different...until those 23-27 year olds come poppin' their butts like they do it for a living!

Who the heck do they think they are? I mean, I've put in some years of experience and have earned the right to claim my spot of the Zumba exercise floor. And, I don't need some big booty girl who has a little more spring in her hips to try to show me out!

Now, let me get some Epsom salt for my darn bath!