“2026 Goals”

Changing Lives through Dancing by David Woodbury                                      

Arthur Murray Dance Studio Santa Monica

In 2025 I lost over 70 pounds. It was not easy and took a lot of work.

During the holidays in 2025 I gained back 10 pounds from many wonderful meals and celebrations. I let go a bit and enjoyed my eating.

Now, I am back on track already letting go of the gained weight. I found out at the end of last year that I needed more than just dieting, I needed more exercise. I know that I dance and participate in dancing during each week, but I needed more person exercise beyond the dancing. It seems harder to take off these 10 pounds than did the whole 70!

Now I have resumed walking again and I’m back to regular 2-mile walks. It is a great time to listen to my audiobooks. I completed 158 last year between books, audiobooks, and Kindle books, and I’m hungry with my new list for 2026! Combining walking exercise and listening to an audiobook is heaven for me.

I’ll keep you filled in one my return to my pre-December weight, then on to meeting my ultimate goal of 198 pounds! It is no longer easy and requires diligent work and good decisions each day. I enjoyed my holidays, but now it’s time to face the music and dance and be thinner and healthier. I’m on the right path as I type this blog and I’m back on track again!

My goals and resolutions are to reach 70 years this year in good health and a trim and fit body. To celebrate my 50^th year with Arthur Murray Dance Studios, still dancing and still being a co-franchise of our studio with Joel Rieck.

I want to be dancing as long as I can, and stay active in our studio. I don’t feel old and I’m an advocate for seniors to dance no matter what the age! Dancing is timeless and good for all ages and abilities.

Another goal I have is to provide the best in dance instruction here in Santa Monica at the Arthur Murray Dance Studio. To have a studio that is a safe place for ourselves, our staff and our students. A business that gives back to our community and is strong in our city.

My goal for you dear reader is that you are healthy in mind, body and spirit, and that you are happy in your life. That you feel fulfilled, loved, appreciated, and know that you matter in life. If you feel sad or alone, just walk through our doors at Arthur Murray and you will immediately have a new dance family who will love you and give you a great place to belong.

Keep on believing, receiving, giving and living!

Remember, it does get better and it will get better!

Thank you for reading and Keep on Dancing!

“Steps & Kicks in ‘26”

David Woodbury