Oh what a year it has been!

December is often a time for reflection. It's the end of the calendar year, the start of winter & a time for celebration and remembrance.

For me, the start of December marks the end of my first year on my cabaret dance journey. It was at the Moun of Tunis showcase last November that I did my very first restaurant performance. I honestly don't think I have ever been that nervous in my life....before or since!

It was the start of a great adventure and a year filled with performances, costumes, dancers & a ton of glitter.

I remember the night at Moun so vividly. My entire family came to the showcase, including my grandma. This was the one and only performance she saw me do before passing away this past July. I will always cherish that smiling, approving look she had on her face as she watched me.

I had about a month to prepare my routine and diligently spent that time choreographing a piece to a song I must have listened to 1,000 times. It was my goal to be fully prepared for that night. I knew the layout of the restaurant and had it all planned on when I would turn to face certain directions of the audience and when I would dance my way into the second room, etc... While I was filled with all sorts of jitters and stage-fright willies, I was prepared.

At least I thought I was.

In all my planning and preparations, it never occured to me that crowds in restaurants at showcases are just DYING to stuff dollars in my costume! Hmmm...that can really do crazy things to a choreography. But that's the point of showcases for a young dancer like myself. We have a great chance to learn.

As the choreography went out the window, I tried to just relax and enjoy the ride. When it was over, I snuck back into the dressing area and caught my breath. I made it.

Princess Farhana was back there and I was dying to get any kind of feedback on my performance from her. She probably said all kinds of nice things, but what I remember was she said I looked nervous.

No kidding!

That was a useful comment, because I now work hard at not letting any fears or doubts show in my face or on my body.

Overall, it was a monumental, unforgettable night in my life as a dancer.

Since that showcase, I have performed at over 30 events; showcases galore, haflas, my own parties, Middle Eastern camp & private parties. Each one of those performances has been fun, exciting and has helped me to grow and learn as a dancer.

I was thinking today that I am excited to see what happens in the coming year. Belly dancing is like a fine wine and I look forward to getting better and better over time!

Happy December.