Little Girl Dreams


My first ballet teacher, Mrs. Houser, had a ruler she used to clap in her hand when we were at the barre. I was scared to death of getting whacked in the calf. The other girls in class said it didn't hurt, but I wasn't convinced. She wore caftans or long skirts in loud colors. Her graying hair was tucked high and loose with a comb and her low heeled shoes clicked when she walked. I was glad when she left.

My second teacher, Mrs. Moravech was dark and thin, always in a black leotard. She talked with such a thick accent that most of the time I had no idea what she was saying. I adored her. She told my mom I had great feet. Mrs. Moravech's daughter, Donna, was in my class. Donna was the only one my teacher ever yelled at. Sometimes Donna yelled back but I couldn't understand what she was saying either. I was devastated when Mrs. Moravech moved away. There were a few more ballet teachers but they never stuck around my small town for too long. The nearest ballet school was in Toledo and Dad said it was too far and too expensive. One of the girls in my class, Mary, went on to study at Toledo Ballet and eventually joined a ballet company.

8 comments:

  1. Sounds like you have lots of memories and a few regrets. Nice description of your ballet career.

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  2. Your voice is very strong in this piece. I can her the disappointment and regret. Did you follow your friend's career in the company?

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  3. Nice teachers,the best! I always try to be a nice (and funny) teacher.
    Bonnie

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  4. It's always so interesting to see what sticks in one's memories. You showed off these two distinct teachers so well, & I especially like the description of the second one, even though you couldn't understand her. Maybe because of that, or of the fact she didn't have a ruler?

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  5. My ballet days are so far behind me, I don't think I could remember the teachers' names if I tried. But I LOVE that you can--that you describe them with such accuracy and details.

    I still love ballet, love watching it, and I sally around the house now and again, my tunes playing loudly. . . especially when no one's looking.

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  6. I love your picture. Teachers have such a great impact on us. When we compliment our children, they seem to rise above. Glad you have special memories.MHG

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  7. Great "character" descriptions! YOu balanced the visual details with the emotional details. Your pic is priceless!

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  8. I like how you captured the contrast between two memorable teachers. I'm sorry that your little girl dreams had to end. (great title!)

    Kari
    www.sowingseeds.edublogs.org

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