> Why do people have to be so snide?

Insecurity, perhaps? envy? -- wish I knew... I suppose different people have different reasons, but that's their issue to get to the bottom of, not mine or yours.

Personally, I'm happy for people to notice that I'm doing things now that I didn't have time to do when I was very busy with other things like raising my family -- though I sure wouldn't like to hear it delivered in a snarky tone.

I have had some responses to me bellydancing ( starting at 59 now 65). I can always tell when people are uncomfortable with it, because they just smile meekly and don't know what to say. The ones who are cool, and cheering me on, will do just that. Sadly, there are alot of people who associate it with 'hoochie-cooch' or blantant seduction ( too many movies that sterotyped bellydancers!). And when you add our mature ages, hmmmm --- they really don't know what to think. It never ceases to amaze me how many older women are uncomfortable with their bodies too. I volunteer teach a 'bellydance excercise class at the local senior center sometimes, and have had some sneers sent my way. BUT, the women who attend the class end up loving it! I'm always one of the oldest women in my personal classes, both Tribal and traditional, and get alot of kudos and support from the younger women in class. We inspire them, so they say ---- so lets keep on doing just that --- Dance for Joy!

Thank you for the encouragement and support! The other day the daughter and g-children were over for dinner. Oldest g-dotr found a plastic bag with lots of pictures. One was of the two of us at the amusement park; taken before I lost weight and started coloring my hair. I swear I'm about 20 years older from the pictures now! The naughty daughter tried to sneak the picture so she could scan and upload it to facebook. I wanted to smack her!!! LOLOLOLOL

ah jealousy rears it's lovely head. Kind of crappy they said that to your mom - give her a few 'enlightening comebacks' for next time she hears something snarky about you!

We had a performance today at a private event that went really well. Practically everyone knew me or know who I am. It was funny the elders were the most positive. One man gave me a very enthusiastic thumbs up. Another lady, wearing her oxygen tank, talked to me afterwards in the restroom. She said she didn't hardly recognize me and aske me how long I'd been *envision her shimmying*. She was soooo cute! Ironically, the lady who I learned made the comment to my Mom looked down at her plate of chicken and mole thoughout the performance, so I was told. All in all, it was great!

This was really thought provoking. And emotion provoking.
I remember when under my arms started waving with me, when the skin around my eyes changed in texture and now the skin on the onside of my elbows and my neck.
But..
I am more beautiful than I ever was. And yes still sexual, I just don't have a need to advertise. I do have a need to exercise my sensuality through dance. I certainly don't have a need to tear any woman down for her needs. Maybe that can only come through maturity. I don't know. I'm just glad I'm me.
Till now I've had a FULL life with lots of responsibilities. Some of those are being picked up by my daughters. I let them become women this way. And now with more free time on my hands (not much but more) they let me stay a girl by balancing all that hard but loving work I put into raising them, with play.
Who sang this...
I'm a bitch, I'm a mother, I'm a child, I'm a lover, I'm a sinner, I'm a saint, I do not feel ashamed...
Well, I don't think we'd want it any other way ;D