As stated in "Legwarmers," dancing has always been an important part of my life, and I regret not continuing with my ballet when we moved back to America. I'm not as thin as I used to be, but at least I've retained my limberness and flexibility, which allows me to still do a lot of the stretches and warmups I used to do.

One of my favorite solos has ALWAYS been the Dance of the Dying Swan. The movements, the music, the strength it takes to show something so delicate looking... The women who are taught that dance and perform it are to me the epitome of grace.

This pic is the final pose of that dance, and is often taught simply as a stretch (just this part right here, I mean, and I only speak for myself. I was taught it as a stretch, but I don't know how many madams do this). But if you have a moment and would like to see this dance I'm talking about, watch it here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i6829uWfH-g