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Gavin Doherty dress listed on ebay http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=190351379988&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT -- !, 15:20:54 11/20/09 Fri

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Broesler Feis Entries/Enter Early -- Entry Secretary, 12:10:16 11/20/09 Fri
Entries for the Broesler Feis received before December 15th will receive 10 FREE raffle tickets for exciting items like LOTD tickets and hotel stay, American Girl Doll, Basket of Cheer and more.

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In total agreement -- Sad Day for ID, 05:11:05 11/20/09 Fri
A teacher can suggest colours, styles, DM's etc but unless they are paying for it all themselves that is as far as it goes .. a suggection not an order.

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Replies:
- Sorry should be at the bottom post -- Sad Day for ID (Didn't mean new post to start), 05:15:17 11/20/09 Fri
- Totally agree. Why would one style fit all anyway? It just doesn't make sense. There are also those personalities that just can't handle or schedule the last minute arrival of certain brand dresses. (NT) -- not to mention price, 05:53:00 11/20/09 Fri
  - I agree that the TCs should not force folks to buy big name dresses. I do think, however, -- Irishmama, 06:54:11 11/20/09 Fri
    - Oh Dear God please -- Sad Day for ID, 07:58:43 11/20/09 Fri
- Irishmama you are so, so, very wrong.. -- Sad Day for ID, 07:48:03 11/20/09 Fri
  - I use many names here -- Sad Day for ID, 07:53:56 11/20/09 Fri
    - Feel free to disagree with me, always..this is a message board and all are allowed their opinions. Actually, I dont really even think anyone strongly disagreed with me. The bottom line is the parents have the final say- -- Irishmama, 10:51:45 11/20/09 Fri
- Most TCs only make suggestions, don't give orders. Understandably the parents who feel they have no choice are more likely to speak out on the boards. I do feel for them, but no one can spend your money but you. If people quit over this, it is a sad day for the TC's school, but only for ID in general if they have no other school to go to. (NT) -- Just say "no thank you" :), 07:48:21 11/20/09 Fri
  - You wouldn't believe the price you pay if you say no thank you. It can hurt the child and so many sadly sacrifice to do what the tc says rather than have the child suffer consequences.. (NT) -- Most don't quit over it, 08:33:31 11/20/09 Fri
    - I have said "no thank you" many times, and my dancer didn't suffer. If she did, we'd be gone. Life is too short. (NT) -- Take control, 09:07:07 11/20/09 Fri
- I am a mom and a TC. I have had strict rules and lax rules and honestly, the strict ones work better (more) -- mom and TCRG, 10:13:17 11/20/09 Fri
  - I couldn't agree more! (NT) -- Another TC, 11:08:42 11/20/09 Fri
  - You sound reasonable and sensible to me! (NT) -- A mom, 13:18:22 11/20/09 Fri
- Where does the fact that the student is representing the teacher and her studio fall into this? -- mp, 10:40:47 11/20/09 Fri
  - I think ppl are purposely forgetting that. Dancers are dancing under the school name & I do think TCs should have some say as to how they represent him/her. If you compete at an event, whether sports or academic, for your regular school you are told how to dress. As someone else said, both sides need to be reasonable & flexible, but TC should (NT) -- absolutely have final say, 11:53:44 11/20/09 Fri
    - When I have my own school, I will absolutely have guidelines for my dancers as to their appearance. I also want everybody who wants to dance to be able to. I want to work with each family to find the best solution for budget, personal preference, and how I want my school to be represented (NT) -- dancer, 13:33:09 11/20/09 Fri
Can I complain here for a paragraph? I don't mean this to sounds harsh or to any one dancer or school, I just see this so much and don't understand why?......... -- sick of excuse makers, 22:22:14 11/19/09 Thu
Why does everyone make excuses for themselves and/or their dancer for poor preparation, lack of class attendance, weak muscles, no improvement on flexibility, forgetting steps learned months ago, and why do they all feel the need to blame someone else?

You can increase flexibility, memorize your steps, become stronger, show up to classes you have committed to, and generally, it's up to you to be the one preparing yourself, not your mom or your TC. Yes, your TC teaches you, trains you, drills you, and hopefully encourages you. Your parents drive you to class probably. The rest is up to you, and your attitude, enthusiasm, drive and determination. Take responsibility for your own destiny!

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Replies:
- I agree. But why the need for the rant? Was there a previous post that countered this?? (NT) -- Mum, 02:18:07 11/20/09 Fri
  - Reason for rant - Some dancers and parents I know have already started blaming, and the O hasn't even happened. I realize these are just kids, but teach them that if they choose not to put in complete effort, they will not compete well. Instead, I see parents convincing their dancer it's not their fault they are unprepared but someone elses. (NT) -- life lessons, 08:20:43 11/20/09 Fri
    - I completely agree. I have thought for a while that ID has started to 'pander' to all kids . We're producing more and more spoilt brats because of this. Not everyone can be a winner (NT) -- Mum, 11:48:02 11/20/09 Fri
- this sounds like something that would come AFTER the O...as a teacher i understand this totally. -- ., 02:39:56 11/20/09 Fri
  - Well, they're kids. And they're not always going to practice as hard as you think they should. And they're not mini-adults who understand the consquences of their actions. In my observation, if a kid doesn't -- mo, 03:26:30 11/20/09 Fri
    - I completely agree with you. There are just kids after all. There is no reason to "blame" anyone after a bad day at a feis or the O. A well-prepared dancer can fall apart for no particular reason and do poorly. It isn't the end of the world and it doesn't mean they didn't work hard. No one is perfect. (NT) -- my take, 05:16:47 11/20/09 Fri
  - Well, I'm glad I could help to point this out then. (NT) -- OP, 08:23:10 11/20/09 Fri
- While the participants are kids, they are not too young to model good sportmanship.... -- JB, 07:40:37 11/20/09 Fri
  - Yes yes YES! (NT) -- :), 07:50:04 11/20/09 Fri
  - Very well said! I wish more parents understood this (NT) -- Thank you, 08:28:54 11/20/09 Fri
  - And YES! (my own two cents inside) -- :), 08:30:10 11/20/09 Fri
  - Absolutely! It is all about the journey, YOUR journey, and no 2 are going to be the same. You have to enjoy the trip and what you learned along the way, (NT) -- !!!, 08:53:00 11/20/09 Fri
    - I understand what the op is saying. We have a workshop in the summer & only my dd went to it from our school (more) -- :$, 10:44:57 11/20/09 Fri
- after many strong years in my dance school my TC started cutting corners and basically lost interest in teaching. I worked as hard as I could, rented studio time, drilled and stretched myself, but I still wasn't able to keep up to the high standard I have for myself. My TC let me down and I can blame her for my lack of preparation (NT) -- transferring tomorrow, 12:12:24 11/20/09 Fri
Dress Buyer here.... -- we're out here, 20:52:13 11/19/09 Thu
As a used dress buyer, please let me state my case also. I have/had 3 girls dancing, 1 in champs and 1 in grades and 1 retired. The one in grades will probably not make it to champs for many years (if at all) since she is more interested in other sports and I am truly not interested in pushing this sport. I've learned a lot about the ups and downs of being in a sport which is so separate from town (excessive driving) and school friends (much is missed, especially in the upper grades). So, that being said, all our dresses have been used except 1. And I've been through a lot of dresses (both bought and sold).

I am currently looking for a solo dress for the one who is still in grade levels. Our TC allows solos, period. That is not for anyone to judge us or our TC. Your school may be different and you may have gorgeous school dresses. We don't. Our ceili teams have simple skirts made, that's it. School costumes haven't been made in 10 years or more.

We're picky about the solo. Why, you may ask...we're just in grades! Well, it's because I want my dd to enjoy her dress and feel pretty wearing it. I already offered someone $600 for a non BNDM dress that is about 2 years old. WHY? Because we like the colors and it's pretty!!! (BTW...the offer was rejected). My dd doesn't like 90% of the dresses out there because she doesn't think they are pretty or the colors are not what she's dreaming about. And I'm not about to buy something just because dress sellers think she should be in a certain style since she is not 'champ' level (current dress is 3 panel but really pretty colors).

The truth of dresses is there used to be more girls coming up the levels to buy the old dresses. Solos could be worn in Adv Beg ...which meant more buyers. Now, it's Novice and above. The grade level pool of dancers has diminished drastically. High supply, low demand. And if they mess with Novice dancers wearing solos, all dress sellers will be screwed.

Sometimes it seems there is so much anger at the lower levels for not purchasing the champ's used dresses at 'decent prices'. It's crazy. Yes, it used to be easy to sell a champ dress but it isn't anymore and anyone who buys a dress banking on selling it to the grade levels at a 'decent price' is kidding themselves. If you purchase an extremely expensive dress, it is for your enjoyment, it's not an investment. I'm not obligated to help you with that cost. I know that when I buy a used dress and then use it for another year, that style will be even more 'ancient'. We don't have any levels below us to sell it to! So that's why I'm not looking at any used dresses that are over $600. I'm anticipating NOT being able to sell any dress that I buy these days. It's just reality. I still have 2 that I just lend out, I'm not even bothering trying to sell them anymore.

So please don't get annoyed at all the grade level dancers who want pretty dresses too. The newer styles are easier and lighter to wear. They are much more appealing. So many of the old fads were a little crazy (remember the fur and feathers and 'theme' dresses and clown collars...yes I remember them well). I also think there are some pretty ugly fads out there now and I think those dresses won't sell at all next year (no matter how expensive they were when people bought them).

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Replies:
- As a dressmaker, I've been happy to make a lot of relatively inexpensive dresses this year, mainly for lower grade dancers who want to move up, but who enjoy dancing and want a pretty new dress, not a used one. (NT) -- Happy dancers, happy DM!, 23:49:02 11/19/09 Thu
- well said i totally agree !!!!!! i couldn't have said it better, i'm in the same postition as you !! (NT) -- mom, 00:53:24 11/20/09 Fri
- OP-I find your post interesting, but am curious-more inside -- from a small dressmaker, 01:55:51 11/20/09 Fri
- yes iwould try a smaller dressmaker if the tc approved of the dress but!! -- mom, 02:56:00 11/20/09 Fri
  - How on earth can you fake embroidery using contrasting fabrics, I am intrigued. (NT) -- DH, 03:22:12 11/20/09 Fri
  - BNDM don't always incorporate lots of embroidery on dresses-I found a handful of Gavins with minimal embroidery -- very simple designs actually, 03:51:39 11/20/09 Fri
  - Actually, I find the opposite is true. The small DM's make each dress individual and unique. It is the Gavins that are simple cookie cutter and not worth the money. (NT) -- Small DM, 06:25:04 11/20/09 Fri
    - I agree with you! DD owned two used BNDM dresses, then we switched to new small DM OTRs and never looked back! We get newer styles at the same price or less than used, and there are so few of the DM's dresses around that we never see them locally. (NT) -- Small DM fan, 06:29:51 11/20/09 Fri
      - Oh you guys are giving me hope that the BNDM koolaid is finally being discarded. SNDM's can and often do make gorgeous dresses. The economy is tanking yet these BNDM's are still selling their dresses at champagne prices. I'm glad that you are starting to see the light. (NT) -- enc, 10:49:54 11/20/09 Fri
- lets not split hairs on this one ! you know what i mean !!! (NT) -- mom, 04:25:45 11/20/09 Fri
- What colors were you looking for? Have three dresses I would like to see someone (NT) -- wear., 05:09:57 11/20/09 Fri
- OP I totally agree with you. -- K, 05:26:28 11/20/09 Fri
- I so completely agree with the OP. I have always tried to find used dresses for my PW dd but have never ever been able to find her size in the right colours or style. So we've always gone with SNDM to get a pretty, up-to-date style and no one can accuse us of being over-the-top (inside) -- ecr'r, 05:28:19 11/20/09 Fri
  - my dd has been in Open for many year. I say if someone is in AB and wants to wear a solo - all the power to ya! why the big deal. (more) -- open mom, 05:56:36 11/20/09 Fri
- I agree with OP too! We are in grades and happy to get a solo because the DM of our school dresses is horrible! (more inside) -- mom, 05:53:39 11/20/09 Fri
  - so to keep you guys from wearing antiques we have to sell them to the lower levels or they sit around (lack of buyers) and we all lose. (NT) -- HELP TCs we need a break!, 05:58:22 11/20/09 Fri
  - In defense of the TCs... -- Old champ mom, 07:08:46 11/20/09 Fri
    - Very well said. (NT) -- mom/tc/dancer x 30 yrs, 08:54:45 11/20/09 Fri
    - Amen. (NT) -- Dancer & MAID, 09:12:51 11/20/09 Fri
    - Thank you for that! I wish someone had sat me down in the beginning (NT) -- and given me this good advice., 13:23:34 11/20/09 Fri
    - Very well put! However, I would like to add one more point if I may..... -- ., 14:19:23 11/20/09 Fri
- I have a blue 3 panel that we will be selling for cheap size 9-11. Email for pictures if interested. (NT) -- Anne, 11:09:59 11/20/09 Fri
- I have a blue 3 panel that we will be selling for cheap size 9-11. Email for pictures if interested. (NT) -- Anne, 11:11:09 11/20/09 Fri
Any words of wisdom on how to "fix" a blotchy spray tan? I'm wondering if using a lotion over the current tan will help even it out? It's not horrible, I'm just trying to make it look a little better. Thanks! -- tan challenged, 16:47:59 11/19/09 Thu

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Replies:
- I don't know how well it will work once it has started to blotch but moisturizing your "tan" regularly will help extend it and help to keep it more even. (NT) -- !, 16:53:04 11/19/09 Thu
- I would do another layer of tan - not necessarily spray, maybe another self-tanner, lightly? that may even it up a bit. (NT) -- not sure, never done spray b4, 18:30:36 11/19/09 Thu
- I've heard people say that tan towels are good to fix up blotchy tans. We don't use them, we use a spray. (NT) -- No name, 18:50:53 11/19/09 Thu
- Banana Boat spray. Spray it over the blotchy areas. Helps to even things out. (NT) -- Tanner Challenged., 21:00:15 11/19/09 Thu
- First....exfoliate really well then do what others suggested and retan. Soak in a tub for a long time. Exfoliate with a scrub and facecloth. If you didn't exfoliate really well prior to tanning, you'd be surprised how much of that layer of dead skin will come off. (NT) -- But must soak first., 05:23:40 11/20/09 Fri
- Swimming will help remove it. Also rubbing real lemons on it will remove it. Then you could start over (NT) -- Good luck, 06:21:34 11/20/09 Fri
In your opinion, what are the factors needed to gain a world medal? -- DD wants one next year!, 13:03:27 11/19/09 Thu

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Replies:
- Blog link inside. -- SRgirl, 13:22:57 11/19/09 Thu
- Very Nice! (NT) -- momma, 17:09:24 11/19/09 Thu
One more day to enter our Facebook contest! -- Ally and Nic, 07:46:46 11/19/09 Thu
Come vent about your stress on our Facebook fan page!

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Enter before midnight EST Friday November 21st for a chance to win one of TWO $25 gift certificates to http://www.iheartthatdance.com

Also, we are part of the Diddlyi Christmas Catalog:

http://mag.diddlyi.com/2009/11/gift-ideas-from-i-heart-that-dance/

There's a great deal on our in-stock items for Diddlyi members, and our shipping is always $10 flat rate in North America (contact us for a quote if you are overseas!)

Happy shopping, and good luck to those with upcoming Oireachtasi!

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Hard shoe -- feisdad, 06:19:07 11/19/09 Thu
Wtd--DD has noticed a long crack in her hard shoe tips,very nervous that it will not hold before the O. Have spent some time applying crazy glue to area effected. Are there any other suggestions out there other than re-tipping or buying new shoes, dd is totally against eitherof those options for fear of slipping. thanks for the help in advance

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Replies:
- there was a discussion about this a few days ago (found on 1st page of archives, pasted inside) -- hope this helps, 06:49:45 11/19/09 Thu
  - thanks for posting that previous post - I didn't see it the first time, but I have saved it for future reference (NT) -- thanks for you time, 18:55:47 11/19/09 Thu
    - glad to have helped! (NT) -- above poster, 03:45:41 11/20/09 Fri
- what about super strength black duct tape-around edges?would probably hold it -- together pretty well(more), 06:52:14 11/19/09 Thu
Dress market-just an -- observation, 06:07:23 11/19/09 Thu
now that some of the newest styles(tiered skirts/puffball skirts) are being added to dance-again pages-it almost makes paneled skirts look ultra-dated-even the multi-panels look out of fashion-very curious to see what the bndm have up their sleeves(sorry for the pun)for the O and Worlds stages.
wonder when the older 3 panels will start to drastically drop in price-and multi-panels will most likely follow suit soon after
US dollar is becoming weaker by the day

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Replies:
- Just sold a Siopa 3-panel for $200. I currently have a Elevation 2-piece that is a "Faux 4 panel". I'm dreading to think I'm going to have a hard time unloading that one also. (NT) -- NYMom, 06:15:28 11/19/09 Thu
  - I know the style you mean. I just sold an Elevation 2-piece that was a true 4-panel, came out just after the faux 4-panels. I paid $1730 for it last year, dd wore it for 13 months, then we listed it for $950 and sold it 3 months for $800. (NT) -- good luck, 16:18:52 11/19/09 Thu
- it a big problem !! as a mom looking to buy a new seconhand dress !! -- mom, 07:21:42 11/19/09 Thu
  - Huh? (NT) -- ., 07:58:03 11/19/09 Thu
  - I knock a lot more than a few hundred off our used dresses, and most are well under a year old. If you don't know what I paid for it, how can you assume the amount that was knocked off? (NT) -- sheesh, 09:30:57 11/19/09 Thu
- I have a modern dress for sale for 3 months. No bites. What ever happened to looking for use dresses for lower levels? (NT) -- Frustrated Mom, 08:28:42 11/19/09 Thu
- Now dancers in the novice level think they need the new, flashy dress so they get them made. Used to be you earned that dress in Open and up. (NT) -- glad I unloaded when I did, 08:45:19 11/19/09 Thu
  - I have 3 opw dancers. All got used 3-panels. Not ALL novice dancers think they need new, flashy dresses. One we just got 2 months ago. (NT) -- practical & on budget, 10:30:07 11/19/09 Thu
  - I have a prelim dancer in a second-hand 3 panel. She's worn it since Novice -- wore it in PW and will wear it in prelim until she outgrows it. (NT) -- BudgetMom, 15:22:30 11/19/09 Thu
- I sold DD's soft skirt, multipanel dress a last month for $600. Would rather take a hit than have it sit under the bed. What bothered me more than the price was that it was for a girl who had just gotten into Novice. (NT) -- Oh well., 08:58:05 11/19/09 Thu
- thats the way it is !, when you make it to novice , or intermediate your expected in our dance school to have a big named dress !!!! its not the parents it the teachers -- mom, 10:11:06 11/19/09 Thu
- thats the way it is !, when you make it to novice , or intermediate your expected in our dance school to have a big named dress !!!! its not the parents it the teachers -- mom, 10:12:37 11/19/09 Thu
  - Not every school is like that. Our school must be OPW to wear a solo dress and TC encourages parents to buy (NT) -- the first one used, 11:18:27 11/19/09 Thu
    - Ours too, but I'm sure we've all seen girls in Adv Beginner & Novice wearing former 'champ level' dresses. At our school, also must be in OPW and TC will not allow parents to buy champ level solos - believe that the dress should go with the level of accomplishment, like a badge (NT) -- ., 12:37:39 11/19/09 Thu
  - I think putting these lower level dancers into these champ dresses just drags their dancing down. When my dd came through the levels you could tell the level of the dancer by the dress they wore. Not to be rude because we have been there but they should not be in a champ dress if they are not champs. (NT) -- 2cents, 12:36:20 11/19/09 Thu
- Last weekend at a feis I noticed several PWs had better dresses than my Open dancer. (NT) -- darn, 11:13:45 11/19/09 Thu
  - That's killing the re-sale market for dresses and making the BNDM's rich. I hope the issue gets addressed at teacher's meetings. It IS an issue, the exhorbitant expense is driving people out....which leads to lower enrollment and less tuition for the schools. (NT) -- riverdance bubble is over..., 11:17:36 11/19/09 Thu
    - I hear what you are saying, but I don't think more rules are the way to fix it. Only parents with a backbone can say NO. We have, aren't spending a ton on costuming, and DDs are doing fine. (NT) -- Buck stops here, 16:20:02 11/19/09 Thu
      - I totally agree. Parents are adults: just say no. (NT) -- We can change it!, 22:28:35 11/19/09 Thu
    - I think it will be addressed...more -- ID MOM, 18:33:11 11/19/09 Thu
  - Have to agree - but the thing is, you can dress 'em up in the newest and fanciest; judges are going to expect more out of them - have seen that, too. Novice and PW parents need to be aware that even if TC okays a new BNDM, it might not suit a novice dancer. Just lines the DM's (NT) -- pockets, 04:16:51 11/20/09 Fri
- We very happily bought a 4 panel, hard skirt dress for my dtr going just into PW. No BNDM, fits like a dream, she loves it and looks beautiful dancing in it. We feel very lucky. It cost the same as some people (NT) -- are asking for 3 panels., 11:23:23 11/19/09 Thu
- My dd's dress is a 3-panel. She's nov/PW and I don't think she needs the latest and greatest. My personal preference is for 4 and 5 panels. I hate rah rahs (too pageanty) and don't love puffballs. So for those selling, don't give up hope! (NT) -- we're out here, 11:41:07 11/19/09 Thu
  - We sure are! Yes, more PWs are buying new dresses than ever before, but there are still plenty of us buying used. Just remember that the first puffball came out in 2006, which means it will be four years old in a few months! Don't assume that used and appropriate only means 3-panels. (NT) -- Used all the way, 16:18:21 11/19/09 Thu
- Our TC req'd all dances in PW (only school in our area) and it took my DD 18 mos to go from Novice to PW. When she made it I took pleasure in buying her the BNDM dress. She had earned it after having to dance in a school dress against so many solos! (NT) -- Say Yes To The Dress, 17:10:51 11/19/09 Thu
- My dd is going to her first O in a used three panel. It is her first solo dress and she loves it. We will be looking for another one soon due to growth. I will definitely look for used. (NT) -- Being Practical, 19:58:21 11/19/09 Thu
  - I'm sure she looks beautiful! Good luck, and have a wonderful time! (NT) -- Old-timer :), 13:22:16 11/20/09 Fri
- My dd got 3rd in the Oireachtas last year in a used 3 panel dress. (NT) -- Looked beautiful, 21:17:01 11/19/09 Thu
- Here is something that no-one has mentioned yet - The fact that some champ dancers get multiple dresses in a year is really what's flooding the market. When a dancer is getting a new dress for the O, for NANs, for Worlds that's 3 dresses for sale in one year. What ever happened to one dress per year? (NT) -- killing the resale market, 05:14:35 11/20/09 Fri
  - Whatever happened to keeping a dress until you really had grown out of it!!! (NT) -- not b/c a new trend came along, 05:34:13 11/20/09 Fri
  - Excellent point, I totally agree (NT) -- 100%!, 08:35:24 11/20/09 Fri
    - Here here! I agree also...things have gotten so out of control...I have to believe that as long as the dress fits well and looks nice the judges don't truly care what style it is (NT) -- vvv, 11:59:54 11/20/09 Fri
      - Sure, many people agree with you, but what you buy is up to YOU. YOU don't have to do something you feel is out of control, but if someone else wishes to, that is their choice. We have enough to worry about without everyone judging how anyone else dresses or chooses to spend their money. (NT) -- It's a free country, 14:04:32 11/20/09 Fri
Stunning siopa rince for sale...price includes worldwide shipping from ireland and dress bag!! -- seller, 05:05:45 11/19/09 Thu
http://www.dance-again.com/X527.html

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Replies:
- Your dress is just beautiful! To me, a perfect example of an Irish Dance dress! I'm sure you will sell it quickly! (NT) -- very nice, 06:53:26 11/19/09 Thu
- I agree! Beautiful and so Irish looking! (NT) -- good luck!, 05:34:56 11/20/09 Fri
IRISH DANCE TV -- from Ireland, 20:41:24 11/18/09 Wed
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m0ecT5oz3nM&feature=channel
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=segQy0RC8qU&feature=channel
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vZgyE0FRXq4&feature=channel
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PPYr-I6VyIM&feature=channel
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fN9OIP7BcLs&feature=channel

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Replies:
- sound would be good ! but i thought the little girls in the yellow dresses are so nice !! -- mom, 02:16:50 11/19/09 Thu
  - They all have sound for me. Try checking the volume controls on both the youtube screen and your computer. :) (NT) -- hth, 04:33:56 11/19/09 Thu
- More info on show -- link inside, 03:29:19 11/19/09 Thu
- Love that the first group is wearing more traditional dresses and natural hair! (NT) -- ; ), 04:24:31 11/19/09 Thu
  - those dresses are VERY modern compared to my first school dress, FYI (NT) -- ., 12:58:24 11/19/09 Thu
    - I guess by "traditional" I meant not pageant-like: no ruffles, feathers, animal print, etc.! (NT) -- : ), 13:20:57 11/19/09 Thu
Help, Please! -- Anyone?, 20:38:29 11/18/09 Wed
Dd now has 3 RAW blisters that may not heal by this weekend's big O. Now what do we do???? This is such a huge bummer and she is really down about it after working so hard all year...Has anyone had this happen to them? A
ny advice would be appreciated.

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Replies:
- Forgot to add...dd dances on Sunday. (NT) -- wr mom, 20:41:34 11/18/09 Wed
- My pro dd swears by the Spenco blister pads. They're cooling & protective. She can dance w/o pain even when blisters are raw & even bleeding. (NT) -- Uses them a lot, 21:42:04 11/18/09 Wed
  - They're Spenco 2nd. Skin (NT) -- Forgot to add, 21:43:27 11/18/09 Wed
  - Where do we buy them? Drugstore? Sporting Goods? (NT) -- Thanks!, 22:16:48 11/18/09 Wed
    - Pharmacies sell them. Bandaid brand is good too. (NT) -- Good luck!, 06:32:07 11/19/09 Thu
- I've BEEN HERE! I used the Band-aid brand blister patches. They made the blisters heal in days. (NT) -- good luck!, 00:36:04 11/19/09 Thu
  - Second the bandaid brand blister bandaids - key is to leave them on as long as possible - couldn't believe how fast it healed! Moleskin for any dancing between now & then (NT) -- ., 04:50:43 11/19/09 Thu
- LOOK ON THE ANTONIO PACELLI WEBSITE THEY HAVE STUFF (NT) -- mom, 02:17:56 11/19/09 Thu
- My guess is you might be in the US?......then try CVS, they may stock it near the bandaids or the burn meds... -- ma, 04:23:45 11/19/09 Thu
  - my dd also gets blisters on heels . have tryed everything all useless untill i put gauze squares cut to size a few of them and secure it with micropore tape. worked great and you can get both in a chemist. (NT) -- irish mum, 05:25:20 11/19/09 Thu
- This is a tip from ballet dancers that helped us... Put advil pills in a ziploc bag and crush completely into powder. (heel of hardshoe works well for this). Once it is in powder form mix with a few beads of water to make a thick paste. apply it directly to the... -- mom, 05:31:49 11/19/09 Thu
  - Do you think enough advil is absorbed through the skin that it might be a problem (overdose) if you were also taking advil or something similar by mouth? (NT) -- just cautious, 05:47:54 11/19/09 Thu
    - please, it would probably take one advil crushed and made into a paste, overdose??? are you being serious??? (NT) -- none, 06:08:49 11/19/09 Thu
      - The poster said overnight and several times during the day---that would be many pills. If already taking OTC around the clock for an injury the dosage could add up. (NT) -- wondering, 10:55:51 11/19/09 Thu
  - I suppose it is possible to use too much. Start overnight and see how it goes. Do not take oral at the same time. (NT) -- good lluck, 15:09:06 11/19/09 Thu
    - You can use 800 mg of Ibuprofen at a time and not overdose. If you used the meds on your foot every 6 hrs, and took two oral every six hours, it still wouldnt be enough to overdose. Also, the topical will not absorb like an oral medication. Much much less is absorbed thru the skin. I really wouldn't worry much about it.. -- RN Mom, 19:30:58 11/19/09 Thu
      - No, but you could risk an ulcer. (NT) -- Been there, 22:31:00 11/19/09 Thu
        
        In a couple of days? If your dd has a sensitive stomach, you wouldn't be giving it to her orally would you? Actually the topical would be much safer. Jusk skip the oral altogether (NT) -- Use good judgement, 04:09:10 11/20/09 Fri
- DD had huge blisters on her heels. Bought the thick mole skin. Cut a piece larger than the blister and cut a hole in the middle so the blister is not touched. Then taped over that. Worked great. The blister was protected and not being rubbed. She was able to dance. (NT) -- Hope that helps, 06:42:09 11/19/09 Thu
- When my dd had huge, unhealing blisters we soaked in Domboro (found near poison ivy meds). They healed up much quicker after soaking. (NT) -- feis mom, 08:17:22 11/19/09 Thu
- Second skin is the best stuff ever, covers blisters and feels just like a new layer of skin over them, takes away almost all the pain and makes them feel practically normal! (NT) -- Well worth searching chemists, 11:57:29 11/19/09 Thu
  - I second Second Skin (made by Spenco)! Podiatrist recommended. Feels SO soothing & I can dance w/o trouble. (NT) -- Yay for Second Skin!, 13:00:55 11/19/09 Thu
- Cut moleskin into squares, then cut a smaller square inside. Use are a little moleskin picture frame to frame the blister. This will keep friction of shoes off blister. Can tape with a horizontal piece of athletic tape it needed. (NT) -- SRgirl, 13:21:10 11/19/09 Thu
- Thanks everyone! We are encouraged and have our supplies. Trying to decide between just Band-Aid blister patches or NuSkin as well. Can't find the Spenco stuff...maybe not sold in CA? (NT) -- Thanks!!!, 16:00:11 11/19/09 Thu
  - Had lots of trouble with Nu-Skin & dancing. Go with the blister pack. (NT) -- Experienced, 17:31:24 11/19/09 Thu
    - I'd vote blister pack. If your blister has popped, the nu skin stings like you wouldn't believe. the blister pack forms a better protective bubble to heal it (NT) -- swear by them, 18:32:42 11/19/09 Thu
- DD always uses blister bandaids on blisters--works GREAT. (She votes "no" to nuskin) (NT) -- 9, 06:29:32 11/20/09 Fri
In Honor of Rose -- -, 17:54:53 11/18/09 Wed
Nice photo fom Eastern Canadian Oireachtas of Rose Fearon and Pat King
http://imageevent.com/rincepix/2009easterncanadianoireachtas/dinnerdance/rosespresentation?p=67&n=1&m=99&c=4&l=0&w=4&s=0&z=2

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Replies:
- ahhh... NICE! so beautiful (NT) -- ., 21:10:40 11/18/09 Wed
- Rosie looked absolutely stunning at the dinner dance! Many people were shocked that shes been teaching over 30 years! CONGRATULATIONS! and heres to another 30 more (NT) -- mw, 22:35:04 11/18/09 Wed
Just a quick question. I sold a dress and shipped it to its new owner. Sent tracking number and a quick note thanking them, hope they love it, etc. I know they got it as tracking confirmed but not a word, peep, etc. from them. Is this the norm or should they have at least dropped a note saying "got it", thanks, etc? Seems a little odd to me. -- I'd at least say thanks, 15:31:44 11/18/09 Wed

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Replies:
- It's a matter of common courtesy to acknowledge (at the very least) that they received the dress. I've always done the same thing- including a handwritten note with the very carefully wrapped dress. Just hold onto your tracking info as it's your proof of receipt. Print out the page online just to be safe. (NT) -- good luck, 15:44:11 11/18/09 Wed
- I'd email or call to confirm that it arrived. (NT) -- No name, 16:19:29 11/18/09 Wed
- Recently had the same thing happen. 2 weeks after confirmation of receipt I got an email apologizing for the delay. They just got busy with life and didn't get around to letting me know. Wait a bit and you will probably hear from them. (NT) -- just be a little more patient, 16:38:15 11/18/09 Wed
- I get an email from about 80% of buyers. I don't worry about those that don't write, provided I have followed the tracking and know the dress has been delivered. Everyone is busy and/or forgetful sometimes, and they've paid and done all the really had to. An email is nice but by no means essential. (NT) -- ., 17:20:57 11/18/09 Wed
- I think you should at least email and say "it fits, thanks" especially if you have offered a return policy and may be expecting the dress to be sent back (NT) -- common sense, 19:30:33 11/18/09 Wed
- We've always sent an e-mail with a picture of dd in the 'new' dress with our thanks. For dresses that we had to return because TC didn't approve of fit, etc. we've sent a thank you gift card for a restaurant/starbucks, for the time and trouble to send (NT) -- grateful buyer, 19:49:47 11/18/09 Wed
- Same thing happened to me. I e-mailed to see how it was, if they liked the dress, if it fit, etc. and eventually got a short response saying "yes". No mention of the extra's I had sent or any sort of pleasure with the dress. (NT) -- Odd., 21:23:37 11/19/09 Thu
- Just a quick question. -- janes, 21:38:24 11/19/09 Thu
Wow...what a response about Thanksgiving! -- CT dancemom, 14:09:51 11/18/09 Wed
I'm the OP on Thanksgiving. I had no idea I would hit such a raw nerve with my post. I would like to retract my "bah humbug" as it is annoying. And I did not mean to make anyone feel guilty that dance is taking them away from their families on a holiday. Mostly, I am sentimental and I like my holidays to be a certain way. But life does not always allow for that, does it? I would like to wish everyone--wherever you might be next Thursday--a lovely Thanksgiving.

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Replies:
- Thank you for the post. I want to second your wishes for a lovely Thanksgiving to all. May all those traveling do so safely, all those competing that weekend dance well, and, wherever you observe the day- (NT) -- enjoy it, 14:21:03 11/18/09 Wed
- I was going to respond to the original post but didn't want to get caught in the crossfire..in my opinion, family traditions are just that..traditions..more inside -- jeanne / head for the world, 14:40:09 11/18/09 Wed
  - I think I remember getting a headband from you at Tarrytown, the last year it was held there. We have our own family tradition of being in Philly for Thanksgiving. Next to being in Mass. it reminds us of what so many have done for all of us to enjoy this activity. I'm with you, Jeanne, but pass the chardonney (NT) -- See you next week, 14:48:34 11/18/09 Wed
  - re: traditions -- You are so right as usual!, 15:35:45 11/18/09 Wed
- DD & I look forward to spending Thanksgiving at O together. This year I have a new job & can't get off Friday so she will have quality time with Dad. I am missing her solo for 1st time but thankful I have a job. Thanksgiving with my son. It is what you make it. (NT) -- Happy Thanksgiving to all, 16:26:29 11/18/09 Wed
  - and you are so right - after all, many of the pilgrims who celebrated the First thanksgiving were here in the new world, very far from family and friends - that is the whole point - celebrate the circle around you who have helped you through challenges and adversity (NT) -- Happy thanksgiving to all!, 05:59:19 11/19/09 Thu
To the creative souls that make their DD's dresses: How do you handle the embroidery? I would love a new Bernina, but the 12k pricetag makes it a no go. -- Dancing Dance Mom, 12:12:22 11/18/09 Wed

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Replies:
- I've been seeing applique on the bodices of a lot of new dresses again, so you might want to go that route. Most machines can do a decent satin stitch to edge it. In fact, when the dresses became all embroidered, that took me out of dressmaking because I didn't want to spend the big bucks. (NT) -- dressmaking mom (former), 12:17:30 11/18/09 Wed
- Hire AnnD to do it for you! -- AnnFan, 12:47:16 11/18/09 Wed
  - I've used her designs (when I'm too busy to digitize myself) and they are wonderful. It just makes things so much easier. When I have time, I muck about with Embird and create my own and my machine is a Janome 350E... lots of re-hooping involved! (NT) -- :-), 15:13:11 11/18/09 Wed
    - And my point was... the Janome machine is not overly expensive, and probably an affordable way to start out. Someday, I'll get a superior one..until then...hoop hoop (NT) -- and hoop!, 15:15:01 11/18/09 Wed
- As long as you understand that even the 12K Bernina's don't come with ID embroidery inside just waiting to be stitched out. Thats a few years worth of learning curve. It can be done with patience and practice. (NT) -- or hire Ann!, 13:16:16 11/18/09 Wed
  - Images can be loaded with software. I have a machine that does that now, but can't do large scale work (NT) -- Home sewer, 13:47:47 11/18/09 Wed
- I have a Happy Voyager 12 needle machine. It is awesome and used it was $5K. I have a bernina as well and the stitch quality on the commercial is superior, cheaper and faster. (NT) -- look on ebay, craigs list etc., 14:57:02 11/18/09 Wed
  - Good to know - many thanks. Can you load images, like .sew or do you have to do it freehand? (NT) -- Dancing Dance Mom, 05:17:18 11/19/09 Thu
    - Oh no. It's a commercial embroidery machine. So you load up .dst files and off you go. It can do 12 colors and you don't have to do a thing. :) Love mine. (NT) -- Happy., 11:13:06 11/19/09 Thu
    - And to be clear, you do not simply "load images" into any machine. You are loading embroidery files that have been digitized. Some people do just load images into software that digitizes automatically, while others digitize manually for a superior file. That's the learning curve. (NT) -- ., 12:00:27 11/19/09 Thu
- I have a plain old stich & zigzag machine. I do all of it by myself. It take a long time and lots & lots of patience. (NT) -- ECR MOM, 15:14:30 11/18/09 Wed
- I do it the old fashioned way - hand guided satin (zig-zag) stitch. It takes a lot of practice, and never looks quite the same as machine embroidery, but if you're patient its doable and can look very professional. (NT) -- --, 16:15:47 11/18/09 Wed
  - Can you adjust the width of the stitches, from a point to a wide stitch, as you sew on your machine? (more) -- ., 08:14:03 11/19/09 Thu
    - Yes, I have an old industrial with a knee lever, so changing the width is pretty easy. It takes a good eye to keep it even though... I've also used an old machine with a lever to control the width as it sews. Not sure how/if it would work with a computerized machine. (NT) -- --, 19:24:51 11/19/09 Thu
- I do it manually on a "regular old" $400 sewing machine. It is time consuming, but from 15 feet away it looks the same as any other applique. I also have always used some hand embroidery (chain stitch) on my dd's dresses as well. (NT) -- time consuming!, 21:41:22 11/18/09 Wed
- Embroidery -- aretha, 21:47:28 11/19/09 Thu
Can anyone with experience please tell me how much a taylordresses custom dress costs? -- Thanks!, 09:30:47 11/18/09 Wed

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Replies:
- depends on age of the child etc but about 700 uk for a 11 yr old -- jj, 09:47:43 11/18/09 Wed
- these dresses are really good value xx (NT) -- mam, 10:15:02 11/19/09 Thu
Are a lot of dancers wearing white tape over their hardshoe straps at their O's / Qualifiers? -- Conflicted Mom, 15:36:05 11/17/09 Tue
My dd wants to, but I don't really love how it looks. Is it more popular in either older or younger age groups? Seems like just another hassle to worry about.

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Replies:
- We did it for NANS and a few feiseanna then stopped. Didn't see that big of a difference with (NT) -- or without..., 17:28:49 11/17/09 Tue
- i have fallen into the trap of the bndm, wig, makeup, tanning, but does anyone actually think a white piece of tape makes any difference whatsoever. After all the work and practicing can it possibly come down to a piece of tape (NT) -- please, 19:30:59 11/17/09 Tue
- we don't use white tape, but i do notice that black straps/laces/elastics look sloppy when not done right. (NT) -- just a warning !, 19:36:42 11/17/09 Tue
- I sure am using the white. I;m certain it will move my daughter uo in the rankings atleast by 10 places, even though she has straight feet and timing issues. (NT) -- you better too!, 22:36:30 11/17/09 Tue
  - Sorry for the typos. You know that was sarcasm, right? Are people insane? What are we cattle? (NT) -- Sorry, but it's the dancing!, 22:38:29 11/17/09 Tue
    - Our TC basically demanded the tape for the NAN's. I was thinking the same as you. So sick of some of this nonsense. I thought diamentes on socks was over-the-top! (NT) -- It only gets worse., 04:56:58 11/18/09 Wed
      - But the tape isn't over-the-top. It looks better than black straps or tape to keep the shoe secure (in that from the stage you can't see it). If you're absolutely sure the shoe doesn't need to be held securely you don't need it, but if ur dcr needs that extra tightness (NT) -- white is better, 08:44:11 11/18/09 Wed
        
        Then why not make the whole shoe white? Wait a minute, I might be on to something here. Everyone - pretend you didn't see this post. I'm heading off to corner the white shoe polish market. (NT) -- I'll make millions!, 11:27:32 11/18/09 Wed
        
        No, then you'd look like yolu were dancing in your socks and it would ony be a matter of time before someone tried soft shoe w/o the shoes, lol (NT) -- No name, 14:12:59 11/18/09 Wed
        
        I'm well aware of why the tape is used. And to me, it does not look "better" than a black strap. (NT) -- Which is my point., 18:05:59 11/18/09 Wed
        
        Then we'll have to respectfully disagree. Imo, the white tape does look better than the black strap because from the audience it's invisible. If you prefer the black strap, fine-everyone should do whichever they prefer (NT) -- which is My point, 07:12:38 11/19/09 Thu
- My daughter tapes her shoes to prevent slippage from her foot. The elastic bands are not secure enough for her. Does anyone know if this is acceptable in competition? (NT) -- Need to know before the O, 04:30:54 11/18/09 Wed
  - lots of dancers do this, it's fine. (NT) -- no worries, 04:36:06 11/18/09 Wed
  - Lots of dancers use black Electrical tape to their shoes. It doesn't leave a lot of gunk on your socks. (NT) -- mom, 06:36:39 11/18/09 Wed
- Is it white taper or are the straps dyed (NT) -- White straps, 04:38:17 11/18/09 Wed
  - I've always seen white tape. We don't do it, though. (NT) -- MAR mom, 04:40:40 11/18/09 Wed
- I think it gives a cleaner look. I like it. Though to think it makes a difference is (NT) -- rediculous., 05:48:51 11/18/09 Wed
- I don't know if the white makes a difference. My dd wraps so much black electrical tape around her hard shoe and it is noticable, but she does just fine. I think go for the "look" you like (NT) -- me, 06:18:19 11/18/09 Wed
  - I like the shoe-stays-on-my-foot "look". I use black electrical tape around shoe and strap to keep them on my feet, I do them neatly though so the tape only crosses the shoe, not my socks. (NT) -- U19 dancer, 07:33:13 11/18/09 Wed
- Some dancers need straps or tape to make the shoe feel more secure and black straps or tape can look pretty bad if not done exactly right-in that case, the white is a great idea-keeps the shoe secure (even if it's only a mental security for the dancer) and from the audience it's not really noticeable & gives a cleaner look (NT) -- jmo, 06:47:45 11/18/09 Wed
  - How do you wrap white tape so that it doesn't cross the black of the shoe? (NT) -- Confused, 09:39:46 11/18/09 Wed
    - The white tape is just to cover the strap so that it is not visible against the while sock. It is for cosmetic purposes only. (NT) -- silly idea imo, 09:57:22 11/18/09 Wed
      - Exactly! a strap covered in white tape does not hold the shoe any more securely than the black strap on it's own! IMO you can still see the white strap because it makes a ridge in the socks across the top of the foot so its still not invisible, we all know it's there!! lol. (NT) -- -, 11:35:02 11/18/09 Wed
- We just had our new BNDM dress delivered and it has matching embroidered strap covers to put over our hard shoe straps (NT) -- they are so cute, 13:47:06 11/18/09 Wed
  - I'm 99.99999% sure this is a total joke, but having seen the things I've seen these last 10 years in the world of Irish dancing I'm leaving just a little room for doubt!! (NT) -- !, 13:50:00 11/18/09 Wed
    - Darn!!!! I thought "what an brilliant idea - I love the idea of embroidered strap covers". Even though it was a joke, I'm off to make some. (NT) -- brill idea, 15:07:26 11/18/09 Wed
      - No you've got it all wrong. If you go off and do it, it is just some random "craft" mum thing and everyone will shun it. Now if Gavin goes and does it we will all be lining up and parting with our hard earned cash to get them. Don't waste your time till Gavin does it. then you have to copy HIS lead, HE is the designer extraordinaire!!!! (NT) -- according to dd's TCRG anyway!, 17:15:17 11/18/09 Wed
        
        Too funny! You're probably right! (NT) -- Lol, 18:08:19 11/18/09 Wed
- Glad to hear that others feel the same way- my little one thinks it might make a difference, and I might let her just for peace of mind. But I don't really think it matters much at all. (NT) -- OP, 13:58:52 11/18/09 Wed
  - The only difference is cosmetic, but if it makes dd happier, why not? (NT) -- No name, 14:14:43 11/18/09 Wed
- Where did this "Fashion Statement" start? (NT) -- ., 15:19:39 11/18/09 Wed
  - Doherty dancers - who else (NT) -- another fad, 18:01:42 11/18/09 Wed
- I actually hate this look. To me it makes the shoes look like old-fashioned grandma shoes. I like the black strap. (NT) -- ID shoes, 18:24:35 11/18/09 Wed
  - Like the white strap. To each his own, (NT) -- or do Gavin does. Free will., 18:58:30 11/18/09 Wed
- This is funny. I guess my DD is SOL. She has Shamrock laces that wrap like a softshoe. Loves them! (NT) -- :), 06:46:12 11/19/09 Thu
- white tape -- leeonas, 21:51:15 11/19/09 Thu
  - Probably when parents are willing to spend hundreds of dollars for custome-made shoes that their kids will grow out of. The hardshoes fit as well as they can for mass-produced items; as regular shoes, they fit fine, but some dcrs, not all have narrower ankles or just feel insecure in the shoe when dancing(more) -- No name, 06:38:54 11/20/09 Fri
Former dance mom's rant: WHY on a major holiday?? -- CT dancemom, 06:03:50 11/17/09 Tue
Now I know all of you in ID land are getting pumped about your upcoming O's. I am pumped to go watch my niece at the MARO. But I am not pumped about what this all means for my Thanksgiving! Since my niece steps off first thing Fri morning--my sister and fam have to travel on Thanksgiving and I cannot share dinner with them. We will have an early turkey day the weekend before--but we lose out on the holiday itself. I think it is dreadful that the ID world--which fashions itself as family-friendly--would ask this of people. Bah humbug!

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Replies:
- It must be their priority. If you are really concerned then address it with your sister. If you feel family should come first, then let her know that. (NT) -- She has a choice., 06:07:03 11/17/09 Tue
  - PLEASE don't let your sister know that family comes first-that's asking for a fight. While family comes first , you can get together any other day of the year. This is a non-issue. (NT) -- ., 12:40:07 11/17/09 Tue
    - Besides, her sister may say "yes, family comes first, and MY family wants to go to the O" (NT) -- and she'd be right, 08:50:51 11/18/09 Wed
- I'm sure if you email the Oireachtas committe, they will try to facilitate your needs and move the date. Given that the hotel has already been booked this year, it may be too late to change, but I'm sure they can work something out for next year. (NT) -- Customer focused!!, 06:12:01 11/17/09 Tue
- As someone who has stressed out over their families reaction to "why on major holidays" see inside..... -- btdt, 06:15:46 11/17/09 Tue
  - Very well stated. (NT) -- :), 11:26:28 11/17/09 Tue
  - there are also several oireachtasi on the continent. They cna't all be on the same weekend. The WRO is this weekend, not next. And its always on my sister's bday. (NT) -- ., 12:52:26 11/17/09 Tue
- We were surprised to learn last year, at our first World's, that it involved Easter weekend, which is a very holy season to us. (NT) -- just surprised, 06:39:58 11/17/09 Tue
- I agree that Irish Dance should not interfere with national holidays such but yet if you're involved in it you have no choice. No one wants to miss their O or the Worlds. We always make a point of catching one of the services over the Easter week but year after year I do feel that it is regretful to have comps on at this time (NT) -- me, 06:52:33 11/17/09 Tue
- re: thanksgiving -- maybe, 06:56:43 11/17/09 Tue
- plus, I miss all the Black Friday sales! (NT) -- darn, 06:59:56 11/17/09 Tue
- Oh please. We've done 15 Os and counting and have NEVER missed Thanksgiving dinner with the family-we have the car packed and head on down to Philly after dinner (dd has danced Friday am for the past few years). It's no big deal. As far as Easter, when we've been lucky enough that dd could dance at Worlds, again no problem(more) -- it's not all about you, 07:27:36 11/17/09 Tue
  - May I be frank? You are nasty. (NT) -- Thank you, 07:31:29 11/17/09 Tue
    - Thanks Frank!! (NT) -- My sediment too!!, 07:44:04 11/17/09 Tue
      - Words of wit from the (NT) -- bottom-feeders..., 10:48:00 11/17/09 Tue
  - Oh I see. It's all about you! Keep in mind that some people have a many hour drive which makes what you do completely impossible. I personally don't mind not being home. Over the past decade+, our tradition has shifted to Thanksgiving dinner at the same great little restaurant. But I had to chime in, because your attitude is completely obnoxious! (NT) -- Leave your attitude home!, 07:52:48 11/17/09 Tue
    - No, it's not all about me, it's about making the competitions convenient for all those participating, whether dancers, judges, musicians, etc. It's NOT about stay-at-home whiny aunts. If telling people who aren't even participating in any of the events to butt out is obnoxious, I'm proud to be! Again, (more) -- just telling it like it is, 10:31:39 11/17/09 Tue
      - As I said, I personally don't mind even though travel time absolutely precludes us from enjoying Thanks. dinner at home, as you can. We make our choice. But your assertion that it's "convenient for all those participating" is untrue. And it's very self-centered. You're one of the lucky ones. And the point is, no need to be so (NT) -- bullish & abrasive!, 13:01:04 11/17/09 Tue
        
        It may not be convenient re Thanksgiving, but it's convenient in other ways, like not having to take kids out of school & off work, and for musicians, TCs & judges (who we can't hold an O without) not having to miss their day jobs. BTW, I never regarded a 3 1/2 hour drive as making me "lucky". Sorry if I sounded abrasive,(more) -- it's wearing after a while, 07:00:18 11/18/09 Wed
  - This is out 10th Oireachtas and we live in the MW. We HAVE to travel all day Thanksgiving all these years since we don't live close by. Persionally, it's getting old missing Thanksgiving, but I wouldn't change it. (NT) -- not everyone lives close to O, 11:15:56 11/17/09 Tue
- It's not just Thanksgiving that you miss, how about July 4th for NANs and Easter for Worlds too. Don't worry, these are just your family traditions. Someday it will be something you look back on and laugh "why"!! (NT) -- ID crazy, 07:34:10 11/17/09 Tue
  - Newsflash: not all countries celebrate Thanksgiving at the end of November and not all countries celebrate the 4th of July. There are always Easter services during Worlds for those who observe. If those celebrations are more important to you than ID, then your choice should be clear: choose your activity. (NT) -- and live with your choice, 07:39:27 11/17/09 Tue
    - BUT... the OIreachtas that is on THanksgiving, IS in the US, where we DO celebrate THanksgiving... and the Nationals IS in the US a majority of the time, and we DO celebrate July 4th. So, I'm not sure what your point is? (NT) -- jus sayin', 08:48:09 11/17/09 Tue
      - Not all the O's are on Thanksgiving. WR is the week before. (NT) -- ..., 08:52:38 11/17/09 Tue
        
        She didn't say that all O's are on Thanksgiving, but pointed out that the one that is, is in the USA (NT) -- thanks, 08:54:09 11/17/09 Tue
        
        Actually, there's TWO in the US on Thanksgiving. In order to get enough judges & musicians, they have to be staggered thru Nov/Dec. Having the O on Thanksgiving means no kids have to skip school or leave school early to compete, unlike dcrs in other regions. No date will make everyone happy, but IMO Thanksgiving (NT) -- weekend works out great, 10:36:13 11/17/09 Tue
      - My point is that you are in the minority and the organisers aren't going to change things just to suit a few people who feel inconvenienced. Adjust, or choose (NT) -- another activity., 10:51:30 11/17/09 Tue
    - Your response makes no sense. See above poster (NT) -- thanks!, 08:52:29 11/17/09 Tue
      - The poster had implied that many people were not only missing Thanksgiving, but July 4th celebrations and Easter as well. In reality only a very small portion of Irish dance participants are potentially affected by this situation. (NT) -- the majority are not., 10:46:07 11/17/09 Tue
- The idea is avoiding the kids missing so much school, unfortunately, it then impacts holidays - fact is, you can make your "holiday" whatever day you want - it doesn't have to be on the 3rd Thurs of Nov - the important thing is taking time to be together (inside) -- Celebrate family every day!, 07:35:32 11/17/09 Tue
- Lots of families have to get creative about holiday scheduling, and for many reasons.. -- Aine, 08:17:15 11/17/09 Tue
  - I'm in the western US region, too, and we miss two days of school/work because my daughter dances on Friday and Thursday is a travel day. This is our sixth O and only one of those was close enough so that we didn't have to travel on Thursday. Thanksgiving weekend is starting to sound better and better. (NT) -- xxx, 09:00:21 11/17/09 Tue
  - Western US region too. We miss Thursday & Friday with younger dd AND Monday with older dd. This will be our 7th O & have had to travel for 5. (NT) -- No name, 09:26:39 11/17/09 Tue
    - I don't know that all schools would be so willing to allow students missing any more days - trying to work it out for worlds is hard enough. Long weekends just (NT) -- work better., 10:35:22 11/17/09 Tue
      - Exactly, but try explaining that to the OP and her supporters (NT) -- No name, 07:01:37 11/18/09 Wed
  - On this part of the thread, I have to note that I have friends with boys who travel with their hockey team, and they had to travel to 350 miles for a tournament game which was played at 9am Thanksgiving morning!!! Be grateful for what we do have. (NT) -- Well said, Aine, 10:36:49 11/17/09 Tue
  - Good post Aine, but be careful, you'll be labeled obnoxious for suggesting ways to deal with this O timing or that, Heaven forbid, people should have to make trade-offs or inconvenience themselves. Honestly, I LOVE the Thanksgiving dates and would hate to have to deal with O any other weekend (NT) -- MARMom, 10:41:07 11/17/09 Tue
  - Being a Navy family, we have had Christmas on Sept 28 because my hubby wouldn't be back until April. The date isn't the important thing, It is the time you make to be with your family. (NT) -- Dancing Dance Mom, 12:48:10 11/17/09 Tue
    - Please thank him for his service, and I also thank you and your kids for sharing him. (NT) -- happy holidays, 05:51:48 11/18/09 Wed
    - I agree. A date is just a number. It's spending time with those you care about that matters. Please thank your husband for his service. (NT) -- a MAR mom, 19:54:40 11/18/09 Wed
- thanksgiving was never a big deal for for us. it coincides with opening week for hunting and my native american father said we(natives) would've been better off if the pilgrams had starved! he was joking(a little). (NT) -- like using a long weekend, 10:48:46 11/17/09 Tue
  - Before everyone freaks out i don't share this idea. We need you to come to the casino. ;) (NT) -- ..., 10:51:43 11/17/09 Tue
  - Best post in this thread! Including the casino comment too. Thanks for lightening the mood (NT) -- Non-Native American, 11:06:58 11/17/09 Tue
  - He he! Agree...need a different perspective!! (NT) -- Even if it's a little scary :), 12:51:22 11/17/09 Tue
- From another point of view....I belive it is done this way because parents are off work, they can take less vacation days and more kids can attend. (NT) -- all in the way you look at it, 11:17:15 11/17/09 Tue
- So why don't the American regions get together and plan an alternating schedule so the same region doesn't always have the O on Thanksgiving. It wouldn't be that tough to do. Granted it would take a few years because of already scheduled hotels. (NT) -- just a thought, 12:29:53 11/17/09 Tue
  - Maybe because the majority of people are just fine with things the way they are. (NT) -- not broke, doesn't need fixing, 07:02:58 11/18/09 Wed
  - What a great idea! (NT) -- SR mom, 08:10:28 11/18/09 Wed
- OH BOY---'OP' you really opened up a can of worms... (NT) -- me, 13:33:07 11/17/09 Tue
  - Most of us stumbled into ID not knowing anything about anything. So the wigs, expensive dresses and majors on holidays are a bit overwhelming. To act like it's no big deal is naive. It is a big deal for most familes. (NT) -- m, 14:28:33 11/17/09 Tue
    - Yes, I agree! My husband hates that we're gone on Thanksgiving. At least we do the community run then a brunch so we get to see everyone before we hit the road. (NT) -- mk, 16:15:03 11/17/09 Tue
- **** Nurses - Doctors - People in hospitals and nursing homes - Military across the world - people unable to make it to where loved ones live etc. It's just another day but you can make any day special when all can be together. You make the day special with the people you are with - one or fifty (NT) -- Love the Spirit of ID Family, 18:54:51 11/17/09 Tue
  - I personally am grateful that we dont have to take more time off school in order to do the O. Thanksgiving is about my family, both personal and ID. We manage to share it with both, -- Irishmama, 04:03:08 11/18/09 Wed
- New England and the Southern Region have managed nicely for years without using Thanksgiving weekend. (NT) -- glad to be in NE, 04:39:15 11/18/09 Wed
  - The two biggest regions are the ones who have it over Thanksgiving, Mid Atlantic and Mid America. They need the extra days to get all comps in for theirs. Smaller regions can do it in two. (NT) -- Midwest mom, 05:35:11 11/18/09 Wed
    - NE region O is three days, including Friday. We have traditional set competitions, which can be quite large! (NT) -- :), 06:17:55 11/18/09 Wed
      - And all your kids dancing Friday have to skip school that day, and possibly Thursday for travel. The Mid-Atl O kids don't have to miss any school (NT) -- works for me, 08:51:57 11/18/09 Wed
      - The Traditional Set comps, like the four hands don't go on to World's and they can be optional for dancers to compete. Even when the four hands were cut way down last year, it was tough scheduling all the dancers for the MAt Region across 3 days. Now using add'l ballrooms for some comps to avoid a fourth day. (NT) -- big numbers, long days, 10:23:56 11/18/09 Wed
  - ...because their competitions are so much smaller!! (NT) -- a matter of logistics, 06:16:49 11/18/09 Wed
- I'll add my two cents because that's about all it's worth. I have done many O's and have had to drive as many as 6 to as few as 2 hours to attend. My family, although not always easy for them, always consult with me before they plan Thanksgiving dinner in an effort to make it possible for myself and my dd to attend. (more) -- thedoctordances, 06:14:37 11/18/09 Wed
- Just a small voice: it really would be nice to have it on the weekend before or after like other regions do--knowing that this means a day of school missed--it would be nice... (NT) -- ., 19:59:24 11/18/09 Wed
  - It can mean two days of school for those dancing Frida & two days off work for parents as well. Maybe ur dcr doesn't travel overseas yet, but for the many who do, who already have to miss school for Worlds, AI, GBs, etc., another 2 days missed, esp. when there's a long weekend the next weekend, wouldn't make many principals happy. (NT) -- or bosses either, 07:21:09 11/19/09 Thu
    - Yowza, no matter what, someone will end up unhappy no matter when it is. I will say this: this is my dd's very first O, after years of dancing (more) -- Home is where the heart is, 12:36:58 11/19/09 Thu
- Thanksgiving -- jjnme, 21:55:05 11/19/09 Thu
Recession has effected our family and we are doing all we can to keep the girls in ID. Heading to the Mid Atlantic O in a couple weeks and I have had to make both of their dresses... -- Question..., 11:30:25 11/16/09 Mon
U9 and U10 age groups, good dancers, work hard (totally self motivated...wish I could get them this motivated about their school work!) and as a mother, I do NOT want my children to have to worry about $$ and how it effects us grown ups. Making their dress is all I could do to get them to the O.

Any thoughts on whether or not the "homemade" dress will effect their overall results?

They are both prelim dancers and TC thinks they could end up near top-20 if they had "the right dress" - I know it's her job to make sure all her dancers look their best. We just can't swing it. The homemade option is all we have. Borrowing is not an option...only other ones from our school they could borrow from are already dancing, same competition as them.

Does anyone have experience whatever this will have an effect on their placements? I know the dancing is all that should matter but I also am not an idiot and understand when they are dancing 3 at a time, someone's gotta catch the eye of the judge... It likely won't be my kids but will they even get a look?????

[ Post a Reply to this Message ][Edit]

Replies:
- Our school has a WQ whose mother made her dress. It is beautiful. If you are a good seamstress (NT) -- no one will ever know, 11:40:39 11/16/09 Mon
- In my DD comp last yr, a girl in top 10 had a simple, I am sure homemade, dress. It looked fine, not out of date, just simple. She was in one of the younger age groups, I don't want to say which. I think their dancing and grooming and confidence will shine through; (NT) -- Best of luck!, 11:41:22 11/16/09 Mon
- it's the dancing that matters -- well done, 11:44:35 11/16/09 Mon
- I can't give you a definite answer, but I must say, Bless You! You are an awesome mom. I've always believed it was the dancing, not the dress, though others will disagree. If you can add crystals, do it. I always like the bling that crystals add.Good luck to your dancers. (NT) -- Nice post, 11:51:07 11/16/09 Mon
  - Let us know how they do! Best of luck! (NT) -- xxx, 11:53:40 11/16/09 Mon
- I make all of my dd's dresses.... -- JB, 12:24:24 11/16/09 Mon
  - Loved your post! Do you make your own patterns or do you have a source? (NT) -- Dancing Dance Mom, 13:42:36 11/16/09 Mon
    - I combine working with a purchased pattern and modifying and/or drafting parts.... -- JB, 06:27:31 11/17/09 Tue
      - Good to know. I wanted to make my daughter's dress when the time comes so we can share something special together. Thanks for the inspiration! -- Dancing Dance Mom, 06:36:27 11/17/09 Tue
- My students can't afford to buy $2000 dresses- mom's make them- usually get recalled (NT) -- never had a Gavin, 12:28:31 11/16/09 Mon
- yes we have the same problem at our dance school -- mom, 12:39:35 11/16/09 Mon
- Just make sure they feel their dresses are gorgeous and dance that way!!! (NT) -- Makes a difference, 12:49:36 11/16/09 Mon
- I have two DDs in Open & all their dresses have been Mommy Made - one DD made the podium & qualified for Worlds at nationals. Just wish that TCRGs could see that there is a special magic in having a truly personalized custom fitted dress! Happy Sewing! (NT) -- & don't forget the BLING!, 13:02:48 11/16/09 Mon
- If you're really afraid dresses look too homemade, are there any folks in your school who would be willing to lend, or "rent" you a dress? Often do this within our school (NT) -- Good luck!, 13:07:14 11/16/09 Mon
- I guess it depends on how good a dressmaker you are. Several DMs are also dancemoms, however, if I made dd's dress, someone would probably donate a dress to her to avoid embarrassing the school, if not the entire region. (If it can't be stapled, pinned or taped together, I'm lost) (NT) -- if u can sew, no problem imo, 13:52:09 11/16/09 Mon
  - I could have posted this, LOL! Sure, the dress has some impact, but there are some really bad big name dresses out there, & some really wonderful homemade ones. Just make sure your girls are proud of their dresses & love how they look. Don't let your insecurities rub off on them, & they will feel great, beaming every time they get a compliment. (NT) -- Feel great, dance great! :), 14:44:24 11/16/09 Mon
    - BTW, my DD wears a homemade dress, but it is second-hand and wasn't made by me! DD loves it, is proud to say her friend's mom made it. It contributes to her loving Irish dance, and to her confidence, so for us, it is the "right" dress. (NT) -- Good luck to you & your girls!, 14:48:49 11/16/09 Mon
  - Stapled, pinned or taped?? Isn't that what E6000 is for? (LOL) (NT) -- unskilled in same boat, 15:19:06 11/16/09 Mon
- ITS NOT THE MOTHERS WORRYING ABOUT HOW THERE DD LOOK ITS D TEACHERS -- mom, 13:52:49 11/16/09 Mon
  - Fortunately our TC is not like this. She doesn't care who made the dress as long as it is well-made (NT) -- and looks lovely, 16:14:22 11/16/09 Mon
  - Speak for yourself. I do worry about how dd looks up on stage, but it doesn't have to do with who made the dress as how it looks on her! If the dress fits well, is flattering to her figure and coloring, and doesn't look like something from 1955, I'm happy (NT) -- shouting doesn't make u right, 07:31:02 11/17/09 Tue
- Only if you let it (more inside) -- Feis mom, 13:54:05 11/16/09 Mon
  - can you really make them that fast? it's only around the corner. i guess a lot of coffee and stamina! enjoy it and treasure the memory! (NT) -- i'm jealous, 14:04:51 11/16/09 Mon
- My daughter recalled her first Oireachtas in a dress I made. I have had many offers to buy it. Husband won't let me sell it. (NT) -- They will be fine., 14:14:10 11/16/09 Mon
- AH ISN'T THAT NICE !! (NT) -- MOM, 14:23:33 11/16/09 Mon
- I've made both my daughters' dresses since they've been in OC. Both have worlds placement medals achieved while wearing a "mom original". I've always told them to make their dancing outshine the dress. (NT) -- hope that helps, 15:15:53 11/16/09 Mon
- IMHO, the dancing IS what counts, but do make sure their dresses are suited to a big stage. They can be simple but modern, ideally in one very bright color with neutral accents, and loaded with crystals, and your DDs will catch the judges' eyes and have a better chance to wow them with their dancing... -- Good for you!, 15:20:49 11/16/09 Mon
- At our Oireachtas last year in my daughter's group... -- Good Luck!, 15:22:52 11/16/09 Mon
- I've always worn homemade dresses. I've qualified for worlds every year since 1999, and have even placed on the blocks at nationals. (NT) -- Dancing, not the dress., 15:44:28 11/16/09 Mon
- I bought a used home made dress for my daughter. It is beautiful -- more, 16:17:46 11/16/09 Mon
- I have a dress you can borrow - if it fits - let me know if -- another option, 18:54:03 11/16/09 Mon
- If the dresses look well-made and are not cheap-looking or ill-fitting, it shouldn't affect their results. But if the dresses do look "home-made" then I think that their results could be affected, even if the judges don't conciously realize that they are doing this. Overall appearance almost as essential as the dancing. (NT) -- my opinion, 19:00:29 11/16/09 Mon
- I make solos and my dd says that they are not homemade, but handmade with love! (NT) -- love my girl!, 19:39:45 11/16/09 Mon
- Frankly at this point you don't have a choice -- unless someone will let you, 03:21:44 11/17/09 Tue
- They are young. Imho, it won't make a difference. It might when they are, say, 13 and 14. By then, if you still make dresses, your skill level will be up with other dm's. (NT) -- been there, 06:09:49 11/17/09 Tue
- The U8 winner at the ecro was sporting a dress made by her mother -- link to photo inside, 07:05:31 11/17/09 Tue
  - This dress is beautiful! It doesn't look homemade at all. (NT) -- ., 08:18:53 11/18/09 Wed
- This is a frequent problem -- Sad Day for ID, 07:22:12 11/17/09 Tue
  - Definitely some teachers. I saw a teacher "make" a family buy a dress that the dancer hated so much she cried while trying it on, while the parents (who also hated it) "sold" her on it. It was ugly and fit poorly. -- /, 07:41:17 11/17/09 Tue
    - Some TC's will do this to assist the person selling the dress. Especially if that family is part of the 'inner circle'. (NT) -- Made my own choices, 10:26:53 11/18/09 Wed
  - I personally wish there was a way to purge ID of judges who select on basis of "the look". (NT) -- They don't deserve their title, 07:59:33 11/17/09 Tue
  - Well said -- Sad Day for ID, 08:35:31 11/17/09 Tue
    - A lone voice of reason. (NT) -- ., 09:07:02 11/17/09 Tue
    - I disagree. A solo dancer is still representing the TCs school and the TC should have SOME input as to what the dcr looks like up on the stage. If the dcr looks awful (bad fit, ugly color combos, unflattering style, etc.) people won't say did you see Sally SO-and-So, they'll say "Did you see that dcr from the Whatsis School?!" (NT) -- Their school-part of their job, 09:24:38 11/19/09 Thu
  - I dont think you can finger any one entity for the dress problem -- Aine, 09:25:33 11/17/09 Tue
    - Again Aine, well said. -- Sad Day for ID, 04:29:22 11/18/09 Wed
  - Heartily agree. A great dancer will shine if wearing a potato sack and the most expensive dress won't cover sloppy beaters. (NT) -- Dancing Dance Mom, 10:24:51 11/17/09 Tue
- I also have a dress you can borrow...look at dance-again #433..the measurements are larger now and it fits my tall U9. email me. (NT) -- email inside, 10:43:20 11/17/09 Tue
- I n m h o i don't think that a home-made dress will make a difference, the only thing that can work aginst your children is the your choice of couler. With that said the talent of your DD's will shine through, so tell them to relax & have fun that will show through. Wish them good luck & mom you just might be the next gavin. (NT) -- Feis dad, 10:44:13 11/17/09 Tue
- I made my dd's dress she's U9...she looked gorgeous! Was top 15. (NT) -- good luck, 12:31:55 11/17/09 Tue
- I also have a dress you could borrow. -- Minimaid, 17:41:11 11/19/09 Thu
- Homemade Dress -- ME, 22:03:43 11/19/09 Thu