Thursday, June 3, 2010

Calling all Bellydancing Moms!

For those of you who don't already know, I am 6.5 months pregnant and expecting a little girl in late August.  I have not danced professionally since I started showing at about three months.  I am feeling very out of the game.  I performed at my student showcase, and I still teach my classes, but as far as gigs go.....I haven't been able to do any of those since February.  I am hoping to get back into performing shape soon after the baby is born, but that's not what's worrying me.  I feel like being a pro bellydancer is a constant game of keeping your name out there, staying in the public eye, and building your repuation.  And after all is said and done, I won't have done any of that for about a year! 

Ladies, I need to know how you do it!  How did you get back into gigging after the babies were born?  Was it totally different? I know I really can't go back to the levels that I used to, with multiple gigs each weekend - I was never home!  I will need to scale it back somewhat, I know.  But how to I even get back to the point where scaling back is an option?  How do I let everyone know "Ok world!  The baby has been born and I am ready to dance at  your parties again!  Come hire me!" :-)

How did you do it??  Share your tips, please!  And just for kicks, here's a picture of me from a gig a few years ago.  I forgot I had it!