Knoxville food writer Mary Constantine is determined to master the salsa

Photo by Amy Smotherman Burgess // Buy this photo

Mary Constantine and partner Waldo Solano of SalsaKnox Dance Company work on their routine.

Dancing with the Sentinel stars

Photo by Amy Smotherman Burgess

Mary Constantine and partner Waldo Solano of SalsaKnox Dance Company work on their routine.

I've adopted a new mantra since agreeing to participate in "Dancing with the Knoxville Stars."

I can do this.

There are 20 good reasons why I should not be in this competition, and only one good reason why I am - East Tennessee Children's Hospital.

As I write this I have completed two dance classes with only 10 days left before the event. I hope to have at least four more under my belt by the time this is in print.

I can do this.

My instructor is Waldo Solano, a 35-year-old man who has the patience of Job. As I entered the Academy Ballroom for my first lesson I questioned my decision. I'm sure Solano did the same when he saw that he was paired with a 50-plus, pleasingly plump grandmother.

I can do this.

We are dancing the salsa - not the dance I would have chosen, but it seems appropriate since I write about food. By the end of the program I worry that some might wish I had brought salsa instead of danced it.

I can do this.

Solano has danced competitively for years and recently moved to Knoxville from Atlanta to establish SalsaKnox Dance Company (salsaknox.com). He teaches salsa every Thursday at Dance Dimensions and on Friday's at LaRumba.

I don't know the age or aptitude of his clientele, but I'm hoping at least one is as inept as I am.

I can do this.

My goal is to have fun, raise money for a worthy cause and put on as good a show as I possibly can.

I also hope to set an example for my sons and grandson that stepping out of one's comfort zone is a good thing.

So maybe one day, without question, I will hear them say - I can do this.

Mary Constantine may be reached at 865-342-6428.

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