I didn't find this dance form until the year I turned 40.  I took my first class in May, 2005 because I'd always been curious about bellydance and wanted to try it as a different form of exercise. By the end of my first class, I was hooked.  My instructor was part of the Neighbourhood Strays, which led me to take more classes from Andrea and other members of the Strays.  Learning from such great teachers further fueled my love of the dance.

When they asked the students if they would like to perform at Summerdance 2007, I was faced with a "do or die" situation:  I was scared to death as the day approached, and thought I'd pass out as we walked onto stage. But three seconds after the music started, I was caught up in the thrill of performing.   And it's been that way ever since.

In November 2007, I was invited to join the troupe.  I was honoured, and soon learned that I was among a group of intelligent, talented and wonderful women.  Since joining the troupe, I've performed at benefits for Heavenly Creatures, the Run for the Cure, the Relay for Life, the MS Society and more.  I've taught workshops to children with disabilities and danced in the Town Gazebo in Clarenville.  I've given workshops and, after shadowing our more experienced troupe instructors, I taught my first beginners class in the fall of 2008.  

Not only have I been privileged to learn from Andrea Kitta and Kristine Nolte, but I have also taken workshops with Carolena Nerriccio of Fat Chance Bellydance, Mira Betz, Monique Ryan, Audra Simmons and (a dream come true)  Rachel Brice. My bellydance bucket list includes more of the above, plus Colleena Shakti and Majda Anwar. 

My love of teaching and dance led me to open Wild Lily Dance Centre in September 2009 with former Neighbourhood Stray Vanessa Paddock.  I teach classes there from Beginners to Advanced, Bellydance, and gain great inspiration from my wonderful students.   I also get to feed my addiction to bellydance costumes through Jingles, our dance attire costume shop!  You can visit the studio at www. wildlilydancecentre.com.