Dancing kari

Hi
I’m Kari—graphic designer, wife, mom of three, and a late-blooming ballerina who discovered pointe dreams and pliés in her late 30s. I started ballet at 35 with zero experience, plenty of self-doubt, and a wild idea that it wasn’t too late to try something beautiful.
Spoiler: it wasn’t.
Now at 39, I’m documenting my ballet journey on YouTube through Dancing Poppies—a space where adult women chasing big, creative dreams are seen, supported, and celebrated (preferably in a stretchy skirt and with snacks nearby).
By day, I juggle client deadlines, carpool chaos, and the occasional existential crisis. By night, I show up at the barre in a messy bun and remember what it feels like to chase joy—on tired legs and hopeful toes.
Why Dancing Poppies?
Poppies are resilient. They bloom in wild, unpredictable places—just like
women who dare to try ballet after their 20s. Dancing Poppies is for all of us
who are blooming later, dreaming bigger, and stumbling a little as we go.
What You’ll Find Here
- Honest looks at adult ballet life—progress, pitfalls, pointe shoes, and panic
- Encouragement for women who feel “too old,” “too busy,” or “too behind”
- Interviews, makeup for dancers, behind-the-scenes vlogs, and lots of laughs
- A reminder that you don’t need to be perfect to be passionate
Whether you’re here because you dance, want to dance, or just love
watching someone else flail with grace—you’re in the right place.
Welcome to the barre. Let’s bloom, stumble, and dance through this, together.
🩰✨
Kari


