To pull yourself up by your bootstraps means "to improve or become a success by one's own efforts." Here's the story of what I did to pull myself up by my bootstraps (the improvement part -- becoming a success is yet to happen):
Handlebar J's has a wonderful outdoor patio with fire pits ablaze on cold nights.Several months ago I realized I had become more of a spectator in life than an active participant, and that I was living a little too vicariously through my husband. At least twice a week, time was spent watching the hubby jam with other musicians at a favorite club or play with his band at some local watering hole. I play two songs with the band, and I really enjoy watching them or dancing to them but when I found that I was wanting to make "band decisions" I realized I needed to have something more in my life. It was time to find a hobby -- something that was more active than reading or knitting and something I could share with friends. I needed "to pull myself up by my bootstraps" as the saying goes and figure out something fun to do... bootstraps..boots..cowboy boots...western wear...western dancing...line dancing!
That's me in the white hat concentrating hard on learning new steps.The idea took root and I did some research. There are several local spots in Phoenix that teach the "how-to's" on a weekly basis. The great part is that you don't need a partner. Hubby likes to come and watch, but isn't keen on the dancing part. A margarita and fish tacos at Handlebar J's in Scottsdale on Tuesday nights keep him happily entertained while I'm dancing. Harold's in Cave Creek hosts dance lessons on Thursday evenings and if you want more practice, there's country dancing after the bull riding event on Fridays at the Buffalo Chip (across the parking lot from Harold's). There are several other places that offer country line dancing in the Valley as well, but these three are my favorites.
Cowboy hats are left behind with cards stating the name and date.
The crowd at Handlebar J's is a mix of young and old, tourists and locals, experienced and not-so-much, but everyone is there to have a good time and get a great cardio workout. 
Notice how we're all doing something different than the instructor (blonde in crocheted vest). Nobody seems to care how good or bad you are at this :)
Notice how we're all doing something different than the instructor (blonde in crocheted vest). Nobody seems to care how good or bad you are at this :)
If you'd like to learn line dancing and aren't in a city that offers lessons, check out the videos in the gallery at our teacher's website:
Couples' lessons at the Buffalo Chip in Cave Creek, Arizona
When I retire, I'm looking forward to many more opportunities for fun and games so I'd sure like to get some ideas from our readers! Please leave a comment telling me what gives you bliss on a regular basis, okay?
Love,
Heather
Beatiful pictures
ReplyDeleteThank you.
ReplyDeleteHeather
You guys can get down!!! that's awesome!!!!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Marissa. It's really fun to see the other people dancing up a storm! They're quite good and I aspire to be like them someday.
ReplyDeleteHeather
What a great idea. It looks like so much fun.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Marla. It is a lot of fun. If you're ever in the Valley, you can join up with us, okay?
ReplyDeleteHeather
Fun and guaranteed to burn calories! I need more stamina...haw,haw.. that's me huffing for my breath. ;D
ReplyDeleteTotally agree with you, Marianne! Maybe with more practice the stamina will increase??
ReplyDeleteHeather
Funny you are doing this - we were just talking about doing the same thing up here!
ReplyDeleteWhere would you take lessons in Mpls? You'd have no trouble learning the steps with your dance background!
DeleteHeather
Sounds like fun and a great way to get a little exercise. Thanks for joining the Open House party.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Sherry. I wasn't sure this fit your Open House rules, but I wanted to party with you so I took a chance!
ReplyDeleteHeather
The Foundation is already attracting huge interest and support and we believe it has a great contribution to make to the future of Irish Dance. For information visit Our Website website.
ReplyDeleteIrish dancing, huh? Maybe I'll try that next.
DeleteHeather
I need to move there immediately! I used to go two-stepping in my single days. The mister doesn't like to dance much so line dancing would be just great. Plus, I adore western wear.
ReplyDeleteReady to go with you when you move here. If you've done two-stepping, you'll be a natural with the line dancing!
DeleteHeather
My hubby and I love places like this!! We have always loved to dance!! Of course we grew up in west Texas with lotsa of old school Country and Western Music:) So glad you dropped by and glad I returned the visit. (now following via GFC) We are in the process of getting our little farm on the market and when it sells we will be in a Fifth Wheel full time:) We do own 160 acres in Texas to kinda have a home base but there is no house on it:) So we have no responsibilities just our Fifth wheel hooked up to a Volvo 610 Diesel truck!! Looking forward to getting to know you better:)
ReplyDeleteHave a great week!!
Evelyn, delighted to make your acquaintance. I will be following your adventures getting ready for travel and then once you're on your way. Most people just think about doing this; you and your husband are making it happen! So very cool. Stay in touch!
ReplyDeleteHeather
Thanks so much for sharing this fun post at Simple & Sweet Fridays. Everyone looks like they're having a good time. Happy Valentine's.
ReplyDeleteJody
Thanks, Jody.
ReplyDeleteHeather
You Go Girl!!
ReplyDeleteThat I will, Michelle. How's Nevada treating you? Are you still doing your blog??
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