4097  Impact of dance, not necessarily tango

Date: Fri, 10 Mar 2006 09:17:37 -1200
From: Michael <tangomaniac@CAVTEL.NET>
Subject: Impact of dance, not necessarily tango

I watched "Dancing with the Stars." Below is an excerpt from
the blog of one professional, Louis van Amstel. I'm
motivated to post it because some criticisms about the
photos at a BA milonga. Some wrote the dancers didn't have
fun because of facial expressions.

While Louie's blog doesn't deal with facial expressions, it
describes the connection with his partner, Lisa Rinna. It
describes how she changed, not only as a dancer but as a
person. I suspect some of you might have gone through a
similar metamorphosis. I know I'm not the same person today
as when I started.

Michael Ditkoff
Washington, DC
Probably hit the quota today and will have to wait till
tomorrow to write more unless somebody gives me their email
address.

Louis: Dancer's Blog
2/18/06

Although Lisa and I were voted off last night I would like
to express some words of gratitude. The experience we have
had in the past few months has been an altering experience
full of life lessons for both of us. This show has given me
the opportunity to reveal the thrill of teaching and
learning, and also that two people can have the best time of
their lives being under a lot of pressure, whether they're
crying or laughing.

To see Lisa grow into the dancer she has become and her
determination to overcome personal fears has touched me
deeply -- and on top of that we have become friends for
life.

As long as I live I'll be thankful for her trust, her
ability to interpret my ideas as a dancer/choreographer and
most of all as supporting friend. She has not only opened
herself up, but me along with her -- she truly has made me
open up my vulnerable side.

I would like to thank all of the fans, friends and even the
non fans for watching Lisa's growth and support throughout
the past two months. We truly are thankful and you're the
reason why we do what we do. With all the ugliness going on
in the world, Lisa and I have tried our very best to share
our journey with you and give you inspiration.

Thank you,
Louis.