I attended Belly Dance USA yesterday in Coos Bay. I was amazed at how laid back things were and what a buncha generally nice people. WOW. I have read about the retreats you do in Bridge in September and always have felt a little shy about attending. But now that I see how pleasant things are in a competitive environment, i don't feel so shy. Of course I understand that things might have been a little more tense behind the curtains. And OMG the vendors.. I got a silk caftan from Silk Lady but only because (wink wink) i will be going into the hospital for knee replacement at the end of July and they say to bring a robe of some kind that is easy to get into.. The caftan will be perfect and its sooo beautiful and soft. So thanks Mezdulene for bringing this wonderful event and the other belly dance events you do to southern Oregon.