[Lilypad]

I have a brass Portable PartyPole from PoleDanzer. I find it very grippy. It’s hot and humid where I live BUT then again my entire body is as dry as paper so I reckon the effect of climate is cancelled out.

P.S. I mean grippy compared to my studio’s chrome X-Perts. This is the first brass pole I’ve used.

P.P.S. One drawback of my pole, though, is that the bottom mount that I got is two inches high and about five inches in diameter. I can’t comfortably spin/slide all the way down to the floor unless I have a crash mat that is at least two inches high as well. But maybe that’s just for the removable (pure pressure and friction) poles; the permanent (screwed-in) mounts are probably less obtrusive.

YMMV. HTH!

[Lilypad]

Not so long ago, I couldn’t slide down either, but I was doing the spins wrong. I was gripping too tightly with my dominant hand and not doing much with the other hand. Now when I go into, say, a clockwise fireman, I remember to pull the pole towards me with my right hand whilst pushing the pole away from me with my left hand. That way I can spin for longer but still slide down easy peasy. ^_^ HTH!

[Lilypad]

*hugs* That’s horrible! I hope you get everything refunded, or at least be able to change dates without paying fees/fines. Just take heart in knowing that you are helping keep your community safe.

I know how it feels. My husband and I were supposed to go to Japan for our honeymoon last year. Then the tsunami and nuclear crisis happened.

[Lilypad]

Disclaimer: I do think social networking can be awesome. The amazingly supportive and civilised community here at Studio Veena is a shining example of social networking done right.

That said, I loathe Facebook with a passion. The fact that you got kicked out for a violation you didn’t even commit just makes you a badass in my opinion. I fully support you.

[Lilypad]

I’m with you, I think people feel obligated to talk to you thinking that you don’t want to feel alone, that it would be cathartic and help you heal, etc. But there are times when silence, isolation, and rest help more.

Pole-wise, you can channel all this emotion into your dancing. Pick music you love and just lose yourself.

[Lilypad]

You are a natural! You OWNED that crowd. Agree with everyone else, love the amazing energy and love the little flourishes. I have a pole crush on you, LOL.

[Lilypad]

Not the best example of Bean walking, but you get the idea: http://vimeo.com/5387949 (“Picture of You” music video).

And check out any Monty Python sketch with Gumbys in it. Like this one: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TSqkdcT25ss&feature=youtube_gdata_player

If the link doesn’t work, just search for Monty Python Twit of the Year in YouTube.

Enjoy!

[Lilypad]

^ LOL! This is by far the easiest spin for me. Now that I think about it, maybe it’s because of the Mr. Bean influence. I’m a total goof.

[Lilypad]

Congrats, Mechie! I’m sure you’ll get your strength back in no time.

Do you mean cut as in cut abs, or having a narrow, curvy waist?

The latter is probably genetics, I have friends who have tiny waists even though they’re plump elsewhere.

As for cut abs, lowering your body fat percentage is important. I’m less than 100 pounds but I have a body fat percentage of 27. A few years ago, I was 88lbs but with 33% body fat.

[Lilypad]

Thanks, moonflower! When I started the lessons, I thought my dry, rough hands would grip better. I was wrong ^_^;; Plus it doesn’t help that I currently have the upper body and arm strength of a bowl of pudding.

[Lilypad]

So glad you are all okay. What amazing luck, though of course luck = preparation + opportunity! BF and kitty are blessed because they have you looking out for them =)

I remember years and years ago, my first boyfriend died in his sleep while he was away at university… Luckily his sister was visiting him that weekend, otherwise days might have passed without anyone knowing.

Lessons learned
– Prepare for the worst
– Hope for the best
– Love like there’s no tomorrow
– Dance (and pole!) like no one’s watching

Hugs to you all!

[Lilypad]

I’ve been using Mooncup (UK) since 2007. LOVE IT, can’t imagine menstruating without it. Soooo convenient, especially when you’re traveling somewhere remote (no bins to chuck tampons or pads in) or expensive (I browse the feminine hygiene section just to gloat about the money I’m saving).

I’m ridiculously tiny, just barely five feet and 44kg, so size is not a problem.

The only problem with cups is that they work SO WELL that sometimes I forget I have my cup in… And not remember to empty it until maybe 16 hours later!