First off Moxie, I'm sorry your going through so many life changes at the same time. You mention that you've returned to school, have a new baby, single parent and a limited budget. I'm thinking - in terms of your budget, Is it possible that your school (community college?) has group dance lessons that are open to the public or a ballroom team of sorts? Do you have venues, like a nightclub or hotel, that may offer free group lessons? On several occassions we have experienced a certified instructor teaching in a variety of entertainment or hotel venues as well as in a studio setting. We would then get his/her card and sign up for several individual lessons which worked out great. Check out your local Recreation and Parks programs or Assisted Living centers where the public is welcome for dance lessons. Ask people you know, much like your doing here on this site. Check out the National Dance Council of America web site and click Directories - this will give you some instructor listings for MI that possibly you can speak with or e-mail. Also USADance.org has several chapters in MI that you might also want to contact. In all instances be realistic about your budget for dance lesson instruction, with yourself and your instructor. Many will work with you to assist you in achieving your own dance goals. Ditch the high-pressure sales tactics if you encounter any. Good luck and best wishes in your journey to re-establish your life.

moxie.butterfly - are you willing to travel as far as the Quad Cities? If so, you might try Two Left Feet in East Moline, and ask for Pam Rutherford. 317-698-6508. If you can't travel that far, maybe she knows of someone in your area who gives lessons.

moxie.butterfly - oops - sorry, missed the bit about MI. My earlier reference wasn't a MI location.

Moxie,

Even less expensive studios are expensive, so you may find private lessons out of reach at this time. At my studio, group lessons are $10 each, though there's a discount if you pay for a block. However, there are other alternatives to carry you over until your budget can afford more.

You said you were going back to school. Many schools have some form of dance program, including both programs for registered students, and adult education programs.

Also, many city and county community centers do some form of dance instruction.

While both the above are much cheaper than studio instruction, in general, I've found the level of instruction is not always up to the level of the studios, but please don't take that as a complete generalization. Still, be ready to ask many questions, because these are generally group sessions, and if you don't ask questions, then you won't get the attention you desire.

Here's yet another thought while you search for instruction. You also mention wanting to lose the depression weight. There are several older DVD's Video Tapes and such on the Dance Vision web site that are available for purchase. Your choice - start with social dance category (if it exists) or Bronze. Even better yet, for exercise purposes and to get your body moving until and after you find an instructor try out Core Rhythms. It is a package set of 4 DVD's that will provide enough variety in terms of dance exercise that you will be pretty happy with and you can do it at home, without busting your budget. There is no running, jumping or boot camp style exercise, everything is based on dance. Important things after having a new baby - to take it slowly then build up. I think you will like it very much in terms of an exercise routine with plenty of choices. You may even surprise yourself at how well you catch onto the latin rhythm!Wouldn't that be GREAT!