Second of all, Robert (and I agree) thinks it's time for a new bike. Stella is wonderful, but she's a very entry level bike, and I am ready to actually have a bike to race with. Psyched!
Monday, June 8, 2009
Quick Updates
First of all, even with my ridiculous bad-luck, I podiumed at Bonelli! I came in 3rd in my age group! I am sooo excited. I have not come close to Podium before, so it's a pretty rockin' feeling.
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Incredibly long Bonelli Tri Race Report - AKA, Bad Tire Karma.
I write long race reports. Sorry about that. This one is particularly lengthy.
I went into this race after having a colonoscopy on Tuesday (due to the WF stomach issues, but thankfully, nothing showed up on it!) and after a month of craziness, from Wildflower, to an 8 day stretch of working 10:00am-10:00pm, to not having a day off for a full month...so basically, I said, "I will show up at the start line, and whatever will be will be." With this attitude, I had the greatest time EVER. I wore my fabulous new outfit (as a graduation gift to myself, I got a custom outfit with my coach's company logo (which I lived by before I met him, and was the first thing that drew me to him) and most of my angels names written on the back - some are family, basically family, and some are people who I have never even met, but influenced me in amazing ways.
After a week of feeling really run down after the procedure, I had a lean beef burger and baked sweet potato fries, and a glass of wine for dinner. Went to sleep around 8:30 (though I got a wake-up call at around 9:00pm...) and woke up at 3:50, 30 minutes before my alarm. Got up, had my old breakfast of a smoothie with almond milk, peanut butter, agave nectar, cinnamon, vanilla, a dash of coffee, and a lot of ice, with a larabar and some salty crackers. (I just like salty crackers.) Drank about 2-3 cups of water in the three hours leading up to the race. When we got there, it took about 1 hour to check in (for a 300 person race - a wee bit disorganized, but hey, so am I!), set up transition, and hung out for a while with Colin. I really was relaxed and felt fine - I just wanted to have fun.
I did about 20 jumping jacks and did plank for 1 minute. Took in a gel about 20 minutes before my wave start, with about 6 oz water. Got into my wetsuit, and got ready to roll!
Swim
This swim felt great. First time, I seeded myself in the middle of the pack, which really helped. I had people to pace myself off, and all of my ocean swimming is definitely paying off, as I felt comfortable, happy, and really great. I wasn't 100% sure of the course, so I was definitely following people, but I was right up in it - I am still hesitant to swim over people, so got swam over a bit myself, which is something I have to work out. However, I felt fast, clean, and strong in this swim - just want to keep getting faster!
Stop being a wimp. Swim over people, stop being so damn polite - I don't blame the people who swam over me, and I am a fairly sensitive person, so I just have to do it! I wasted a lot of time trying to find clear water, which just doesn't happen when you aren't in the back.
This is probably my best transition yet. Ran my ass off out of the water (well, walked for a few moments, but whatever), caught my breath while getting out of my wetsuit (I had sprayed trislide on the outside legs of the suit itself, a tip from my fabulous boss at sporteve) to help it slip off faster, and it worked like a charm. Helmet and sunglasses on, no worries. This was my first sockless and gloveless race, and it made a huge difference. Got in the bike shoes, started running with the bike, and away we go.
Practice, practice, practice - I'm sure there are shortcuts I could figure out if I took the time. However, this was definitely a great transition.
Bike
According to my bike clock, my average pace was about 14.3, I believe. However, it's totally irrelevant. The first lap, I rocked. This was my first race almost entirely in aero, and I have been practicing a lot. It definitely paid off - I felt fantastic, only getting passed by the guys with the crazy tri-bikes and aero helmets. (Ok, and 1 or 2 people who looked like me...but really, only 1 or 2!) The only times I wasn't in aero was during the big descent and when I was eating (I should have stayed during the descent, but since this was also my first gloveless race, after a dear friend's recent wipe-out, I wasn't ready to risk the cuts from a fall) but even still, I hit 30 mph on the descents pushing as hard as I could. On the second lap, I zoom past one of the crazy aero-bike guys (!!) and I hear "BANG!" and I had a sinking feeling in my stomach, as I realized the bang was my rear tire. I wait till I'm out of the way of the riders, get off, get up on the sidewalk, and one of the aero-jackasses SCREAMS at me something about getting off the road...I wanted to show him the finger next to my ring, but I stayed calm. I felt like such a pro. I flipped Stella over, removed the rear tire, got the tire part of the way off (my tube was basically folded in over itself - a wee bit frightening!) checked to make sure nothing was in or on the tire (there wasn't, and this was about the 15th flat in three weeks, and I've gotten new tubes and tires...so I think it's time for new wheels!) replaced the tube, got the tire back on, checked to make sure the tube was tucked all the way in...and did this in about 3-4 minutes, which is really fast for me. I got out my (one-eek) spare cartridge, put in in the pump...and before I knew it, it had released all the CO2, but not into my tire. At this point, I was waving my arms, asking for help, for a spare cartridge, for anything, but no one did. For a solid 15 minutes. This was dissapointing, especially as if someone is stopped, I ALWAYS (this is one of my rules) slow down, and ask if they are ok. I am surprised that so few people, on such a small-town, inconsequential race, would do the same for me. However, finally, an official came along. He asked if there was anyone I could call (I am not sure, but this this may be against USAT rules, but this was an official asking, and I just needed to finish this damn race, and no one else was going to help me do it, and I just COULD NOT DNF) I called my boyfriend (IT WAS HIS BIRTHDAY, and he was there with bells on...what a beautiful man I am in love with!) who drove the car up with the floor pump. The official offered to carry my bike up the hill for me, which I knew was definitely against the rules, so I thanked him profusely, but declined. Colin came after about 15 minutes, I pumped up my tire, put it back on, and promptly lost my chain. After putting that back on (I was less slick with this than replacing the tube!!) I was back on the road - 40 minutes later. I did my best, and tried to make up some time, staying aero, passing a few people, etc. My legs were a bit sore by this point, from just stopping after working them hard. Unfortunately, because I was so far behind, they had opened up the road to traffic, and there were no officials there to help me, so I was basically suddenly on a training ride - had to follow red-lights, stop-signs, etc. Plus, the road was rather narrow, so I had to slow down significantly to not get hit by a car. My one error on the course was coming into transition - I saw the "slow down" signs and thought the transition was right there, but it was actually down a small hill, so I got off too soon and ran. Turns out, I had forgotten to restore my break tabs after the flat, so this was probably a good thing, or else that would have been a tricky (and possibly disqualifying) stop.
Carry two cartridges. Yes, Robert, I have learned my lesson. Get a better pump that is less finicky. Get new wheels. Be more aware of the quirks of a course. Besides this, I am so f***ing proud of myself, and so pleased with my performance, attitude, and professionalism, that that is basically all.
I came into T2 a bit embarrassed, as most people were packing up, etc. However, I ran in, racked the bike, took off my bike shoes, and started putting on my run-shoes. I sprayed on sunscreen, too - see, I learn my lessons, cough cough, Wildflower! The kid I was wracked next to had his first race ever today, so I asked him how it went. He asked me how it was going, and I said "I need a shaman or something to remove this bad race luck I have - this just kinds stinks!." Out of nowhere, an LA tri visored man comes, puts his hand on my head, and says "Lalalalala, bad race luck will be gone, lalalala...raise your left hand...bad luck, leave this woman!! Let her PR!! LALALALAL!! the bad luck is gone!" And he swiped his hand. I looked at him, and said "Thanks! Can I run now?' I LOVE the LA Tri club.
I probably wouldn't have chatted, but honestly, at this point, I needed the pick-me-up to get me through the run. The big thing I would have done, however, is put body-glide on my sockless feet, which I ALWAYS do, but it slipped my mind today. BIG whoops on that one.
Run
Since I have a half-marathon next Sunday, and I knew this race was NOT going to be a PR, I took it pretty easy on the run. Also, while I didn't think of this as trying something new on race day, I realized that I hadn't done any bricks since being comfortable riding in aero - guess what, aero uses WAY different leg muscles. This was also the first race that I have ever hammered a bike course. My hamstrings were true "BRICKS!" It took a solid 2 miles to get comfortable...and then, at around mile 2.5, I feel a pain in the bottom middle of my foot. Thinking it's a rock, I take off my shoe, and see the start of a blister. Dang. I put my shoe back on, and channeling my inner Sam McGlone (or aparently Chrissie Wellington!) just kept running, and said "I'll deal with the blister later." Coming out of one road, I got lost, and there were no volunteers to show me where to go, but I flagged down a park ranger, and asked. He sent me on the right way. The run was meh, but at least I kept running, thanked every single volunteer, and the few people I passed on the run, cheered them on as I past. Sprinted, smiling, and happy to the finish line.
Run faster. Put body glide on my feet. Practice bricks after being in aero.
Spaghetti and meatballs.
Mechanical difficulties, not enough aero-bike/run bricks, blister.
A very sweet, campy race. Not particularly well organized, but very sweet, fun, and a great way to spend a Sunday morning. Definitely would do it again.
Pre-race routine:
I went into this race after having a colonoscopy on Tuesday (due to the WF stomach issues, but thankfully, nothing showed up on it!) and after a month of craziness, from Wildflower, to an 8 day stretch of working 10:00am-10:00pm, to not having a day off for a full month...so basically, I said, "I will show up at the start line, and whatever will be will be." With this attitude, I had the greatest time EVER. I wore my fabulous new outfit (as a graduation gift to myself, I got a custom outfit with my coach's company logo (which I lived by before I met him, and was the first thing that drew me to him) and most of my angels names written on the back - some are family, basically family, and some are people who I have never even met, but influenced me in amazing ways.
After a week of feeling really run down after the procedure, I had a lean beef burger and baked sweet potato fries, and a glass of wine for dinner. Went to sleep around 8:30 (though I got a wake-up call at around 9:00pm...) and woke up at 3:50, 30 minutes before my alarm. Got up, had my old breakfast of a smoothie with almond milk, peanut butter, agave nectar, cinnamon, vanilla, a dash of coffee, and a lot of ice, with a larabar and some salty crackers. (I just like salty crackers.) Drank about 2-3 cups of water in the three hours leading up to the race. When we got there, it took about 1 hour to check in (for a 300 person race - a wee bit disorganized, but hey, so am I!), set up transition, and hung out for a while with Colin. I really was relaxed and felt fine - I just wanted to have fun.
Event warmup:
I did about 20 jumping jacks and did plank for 1 minute. Took in a gel about 20 minutes before my wave start, with about 6 oz water. Got into my wetsuit, and got ready to roll!
SwimComments:
This swim felt great. First time, I seeded myself in the middle of the pack, which really helped. I had people to pace myself off, and all of my ocean swimming is definitely paying off, as I felt comfortable, happy, and really great. I wasn't 100% sure of the course, so I was definitely following people, but I was right up in it - I am still hesitant to swim over people, so got swam over a bit myself, which is something I have to work out. However, I felt fast, clean, and strong in this swim - just want to keep getting faster!
What would you do differently?:
Stop being a wimp. Swim over people, stop being so damn polite - I don't blame the people who swam over me, and I am a fairly sensitive person, so I just have to do it! I wasted a lot of time trying to find clear water, which just doesn't happen when you aren't in the back.
T1
Comments:
This is probably my best transition yet. Ran my ass off out of the water (well, walked for a few moments, but whatever), caught my breath while getting out of my wetsuit (I had sprayed trislide on the outside legs of the suit itself, a tip from my fabulous boss at sporteve) to help it slip off faster, and it worked like a charm. Helmet and sunglasses on, no worries. This was my first sockless and gloveless race, and it made a huge difference. Got in the bike shoes, started running with the bike, and away we go.
What would you do differently?:
Practice, practice, practice - I'm sure there are shortcuts I could figure out if I took the time. However, this was definitely a great transition.
BikeComments:
According to my bike clock, my average pace was about 14.3, I believe. However, it's totally irrelevant. The first lap, I rocked. This was my first race almost entirely in aero, and I have been practicing a lot. It definitely paid off - I felt fantastic, only getting passed by the guys with the crazy tri-bikes and aero helmets. (Ok, and 1 or 2 people who looked like me...but really, only 1 or 2!) The only times I wasn't in aero was during the big descent and when I was eating (I should have stayed during the descent, but since this was also my first gloveless race, after a dear friend's recent wipe-out, I wasn't ready to risk the cuts from a fall) but even still, I hit 30 mph on the descents pushing as hard as I could. On the second lap, I zoom past one of the crazy aero-bike guys (!!) and I hear "BANG!" and I had a sinking feeling in my stomach, as I realized the bang was my rear tire. I wait till I'm out of the way of the riders, get off, get up on the sidewalk, and one of the aero-jackasses SCREAMS at me something about getting off the road...I wanted to show him the finger next to my ring, but I stayed calm. I felt like such a pro. I flipped Stella over, removed the rear tire, got the tire part of the way off (my tube was basically folded in over itself - a wee bit frightening!) checked to make sure nothing was in or on the tire (there wasn't, and this was about the 15th flat in three weeks, and I've gotten new tubes and tires...so I think it's time for new wheels!) replaced the tube, got the tire back on, checked to make sure the tube was tucked all the way in...and did this in about 3-4 minutes, which is really fast for me. I got out my (one-eek) spare cartridge, put in in the pump...and before I knew it, it had released all the CO2, but not into my tire. At this point, I was waving my arms, asking for help, for a spare cartridge, for anything, but no one did. For a solid 15 minutes. This was dissapointing, especially as if someone is stopped, I ALWAYS (this is one of my rules) slow down, and ask if they are ok. I am surprised that so few people, on such a small-town, inconsequential race, would do the same for me. However, finally, an official came along. He asked if there was anyone I could call (I am not sure, but this this may be against USAT rules, but this was an official asking, and I just needed to finish this damn race, and no one else was going to help me do it, and I just COULD NOT DNF) I called my boyfriend (IT WAS HIS BIRTHDAY, and he was there with bells on...what a beautiful man I am in love with!) who drove the car up with the floor pump. The official offered to carry my bike up the hill for me, which I knew was definitely against the rules, so I thanked him profusely, but declined. Colin came after about 15 minutes, I pumped up my tire, put it back on, and promptly lost my chain. After putting that back on (I was less slick with this than replacing the tube!!) I was back on the road - 40 minutes later. I did my best, and tried to make up some time, staying aero, passing a few people, etc. My legs were a bit sore by this point, from just stopping after working them hard. Unfortunately, because I was so far behind, they had opened up the road to traffic, and there were no officials there to help me, so I was basically suddenly on a training ride - had to follow red-lights, stop-signs, etc. Plus, the road was rather narrow, so I had to slow down significantly to not get hit by a car. My one error on the course was coming into transition - I saw the "slow down" signs and thought the transition was right there, but it was actually down a small hill, so I got off too soon and ran. Turns out, I had forgotten to restore my break tabs after the flat, so this was probably a good thing, or else that would have been a tricky (and possibly disqualifying) stop.
What would you do differently?:
Carry two cartridges. Yes, Robert, I have learned my lesson. Get a better pump that is less finicky. Get new wheels. Be more aware of the quirks of a course. Besides this, I am so f***ing proud of myself, and so pleased with my performance, attitude, and professionalism, that that is basically all.
T2
Comments:
I came into T2 a bit embarrassed, as most people were packing up, etc. However, I ran in, racked the bike, took off my bike shoes, and started putting on my run-shoes. I sprayed on sunscreen, too - see, I learn my lessons, cough cough, Wildflower! The kid I was wracked next to had his first race ever today, so I asked him how it went. He asked me how it was going, and I said "I need a shaman or something to remove this bad race luck I have - this just kinds stinks!." Out of nowhere, an LA tri visored man comes, puts his hand on my head, and says "Lalalalala, bad race luck will be gone, lalalala...raise your left hand...bad luck, leave this woman!! Let her PR!! LALALALAL!! the bad luck is gone!" And he swiped his hand. I looked at him, and said "Thanks! Can I run now?' I LOVE the LA Tri club.
What would you do differently?:
I probably wouldn't have chatted, but honestly, at this point, I needed the pick-me-up to get me through the run. The big thing I would have done, however, is put body-glide on my sockless feet, which I ALWAYS do, but it slipped my mind today. BIG whoops on that one.
RunComments:
Since I have a half-marathon next Sunday, and I knew this race was NOT going to be a PR, I took it pretty easy on the run. Also, while I didn't think of this as trying something new on race day, I realized that I hadn't done any bricks since being comfortable riding in aero - guess what, aero uses WAY different leg muscles. This was also the first race that I have ever hammered a bike course. My hamstrings were true "BRICKS!" It took a solid 2 miles to get comfortable...and then, at around mile 2.5, I feel a pain in the bottom middle of my foot. Thinking it's a rock, I take off my shoe, and see the start of a blister. Dang. I put my shoe back on, and channeling my inner Sam McGlone (or aparently Chrissie Wellington!) just kept running, and said "I'll deal with the blister later." Coming out of one road, I got lost, and there were no volunteers to show me where to go, but I flagged down a park ranger, and asked. He sent me on the right way. The run was meh, but at least I kept running, thanked every single volunteer, and the few people I passed on the run, cheered them on as I past. Sprinted, smiling, and happy to the finish line.
What would you do differently?:
Run faster. Put body glide on my feet. Practice bricks after being in aero.
Post race
Warm down:
Spaghetti and meatballs.
What limited your ability to perform faster:
Mechanical difficulties, not enough aero-bike/run bricks, blister.
Event comments:
A very sweet, campy race. Not particularly well organized, but very sweet, fun, and a great way to spend a Sunday morning. Definitely would do it again.
Friday, June 5, 2009
Ahh!
Wow, I really wanted to be one of the daily bloggers. So much for that this week.
After a fairly invasive medical procedure with a quick recovery time this past Tuesday, I am prepping to race this Sunday. After this insanely hectic month, with stress on every level, I plan on doing what I used to do - going out to have a freakin' great time. I am genuinely excited to be able to just go to a race knowing that I'm not really racing for any PR's, because my body just isn't there right now. However, perhaps the lack of stress will actually help my race - who knows? Regardless, I am really excited.
Also, I am PRACTICING TRANSITIONS on Saturday. I went to a transition clinic led by the phenominal Lori Christensen of Vixen coaching, hosted by my store. I will try racing with no bike gloves, and cycling sockless (I haven't practiced running sockless, so don't want to find out how that is) to save time. I am really looking forward to racing, and will try to write something more vaguely interesting soon.
Oh, PLEASE see UP. It's a breathtaking film. It made me laugh, cry, and fall in love with my boyfriend all over again.
Friday, May 29, 2009
Grateful and Relieved
Well, it's been two weeks since I've last made an actual blog post, and a crazy two weeks it has been.
First, I had the director's symposium I wrote about previously - it was an amazing, exhausting adventure that wrecked havoc on my training, since I was so busy the first week, and than it took till about this Wednesday to actually recover from the experience. But now I'm back, and very grateful. I have a race (Bonelli Olympic) a week from Sunday - I'm going to show up and see what happens, but after the insanity of the past two weeks, I'm releasing myself from any expectations about that one.
I've had the best time in training the past few days - Starting with the Ocean Speed Circuit on Wednesday, which was flat as a pancake and lovely, so I did four laps. Such fun. Then, that afternoon, I went to Palos Verdes to ride for a couple hours. I decided, "what the hey?!" and hammered as hard as I could for the first 10 miles - in my absolute hardest gear for 80% of it, and aero for 60%, which is a huge improvement. A ride that normally I pace at around 13mph I did in 15, and felt great.
Then of course, I got a flat tire. The week before, I had flatted repeatedly, so now carry a bunch of extra tubes with me.
Replacing air pump cartridges is necessary as well, apparently. Whoops.
A lovely man named Mickey pulled over, who (of course) had once owned a bike shop in San Pedro. I told him I was fine, to which he responded "meh" and took my tire, replaced the tube in approximately 15 seconds, and took my (empty) cartridge. When that didn't work, he gave me a ride back to town. Whoever said that chivalry is dead obviously has not met my friend Mickey, who now is a crane operator and motorcycle collector (he has over 300 - WOW. AHH.) He was truly one of those random angels that just comes, rescues you, and dissapears. He put my bike in my car, wouldn't leave until he was sure that everything was all together, and then left. Very special person, indeed.
Today, I did the Friday morning 6:00am ocean swim with the "big boys" coached by Gerry Rodrigues. He is a very well respected swim coach and is a lovely person. I was the slowest person there, but suprisingly, not by a lot. There was a group of speed demons, but also a few of us who were strong but slow. The workout consisted of an 8 minute run (I HATE running in my wetsuit, so it's great to practice that) followed by an 8 minute warm-up swim. Then, we went out around the booeys three times, the first time we had to run up the beach, around the life guard tower to the next life guard tower and back, and the remaining times just around the lifeguard tower. By the third time doing this, I was pretty tired - but somehow, when a good coach asks "ready to go out again?" My brain doesn't function normally, and so I just say "yeah!" and run harder than the previous times.
I am now completely exhausted. In the best possible way - the workouts that make me exhausted and want to cry are usually the most satisfying ones by far.
I love my life.
First, I had the director's symposium I wrote about previously - it was an amazing, exhausting adventure that wrecked havoc on my training, since I was so busy the first week, and than it took till about this Wednesday to actually recover from the experience. But now I'm back, and very grateful. I have a race (Bonelli Olympic) a week from Sunday - I'm going to show up and see what happens, but after the insanity of the past two weeks, I'm releasing myself from any expectations about that one.
I've had the best time in training the past few days - Starting with the Ocean Speed Circuit on Wednesday, which was flat as a pancake and lovely, so I did four laps. Such fun. Then, that afternoon, I went to Palos Verdes to ride for a couple hours. I decided, "what the hey?!" and hammered as hard as I could for the first 10 miles - in my absolute hardest gear for 80% of it, and aero for 60%, which is a huge improvement. A ride that normally I pace at around 13mph I did in 15, and felt great.
Then of course, I got a flat tire. The week before, I had flatted repeatedly, so now carry a bunch of extra tubes with me.
Replacing air pump cartridges is necessary as well, apparently. Whoops.
A lovely man named Mickey pulled over, who (of course) had once owned a bike shop in San Pedro. I told him I was fine, to which he responded "meh" and took my tire, replaced the tube in approximately 15 seconds, and took my (empty) cartridge. When that didn't work, he gave me a ride back to town. Whoever said that chivalry is dead obviously has not met my friend Mickey, who now is a crane operator and motorcycle collector (he has over 300 - WOW. AHH.) He was truly one of those random angels that just comes, rescues you, and dissapears. He put my bike in my car, wouldn't leave until he was sure that everything was all together, and then left. Very special person, indeed.
Today, I did the Friday morning 6:00am ocean swim with the "big boys" coached by Gerry Rodrigues. He is a very well respected swim coach and is a lovely person. I was the slowest person there, but suprisingly, not by a lot. There was a group of speed demons, but also a few of us who were strong but slow. The workout consisted of an 8 minute run (I HATE running in my wetsuit, so it's great to practice that) followed by an 8 minute warm-up swim. Then, we went out around the booeys three times, the first time we had to run up the beach, around the life guard tower to the next life guard tower and back, and the remaining times just around the lifeguard tower. By the third time doing this, I was pretty tired - but somehow, when a good coach asks "ready to go out again?" My brain doesn't function normally, and so I just say "yeah!" and run harder than the previous times.
I am now completely exhausted. In the best possible way - the workouts that make me exhausted and want to cry are usually the most satisfying ones by far.
I love my life.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Crazed
This week, won't get too much writing in, as I'm working for a fabulous theatre symposium festival thing in Pasadena, from 10:00am to 10:00pm.
Friday, May 15, 2009
Graduation!
Today, I became a college graduate. I received my B.A. from USC, with honors. I also received a $10,000 scholarship as a reward for my two year project, which was directing Aeschylus' Oresteia trilogy, including an original translation from the ancient Greek. It was an insane, exhausting adventure, which I am both deeply saddened and thrilled that it's over. There were so many amazing things that happened to honor this project, including school president, Stephen Sample, mentioning it in the main graduation ceremony! I know it sounds like I'm bragging, which part of me certainly is. However, I am also completely in awe and gratitude of the amazing people who got me there with this project, because they are really the testiment to the theatre.
Paul Backer, my professor, is perhaps the reason I went to USC, even though I didn't know it at the time. From day one, I felt completely drawn to him - he is basically who I want to be when I "grow up." He is cherished and adored by all his students, is a remarkably passionate professor, and I am so proud to be able to call him one of my friends. This past year, he battled severe pnumonia. While most professors would take leave for the semester, or at least get a substitue for a month, Paul (for better or worse for his health) was back within a week. He sees every student production, is a walking encyclopedia of the theatre, and is always there for me, and for his students.
I had a remarkable three casts, who all went on a crazy adventure with me. They did things that are totally "weird" with grace and dignity - they played with Greek verse, masks, dance, and all the crazy things that the Greek theatre requires. I am so thrilled to have gotten to know all the actors involved, and am so grateful for them.
I had a phenominal crew of people, including Danielle Horn and Sarah Morris, who designed the costumes, Rachel Kerry, who did all my publicity, and Becca Lynch, for managing the arrangements for the theatre for the entirety of the project. They really took so much on themselves with smiles on their faces, and were totally and completely brilliant.
Louise Abnee and Lexi Pappas were my two assistant directors, without whom, the show would not of happened. From everything for running scenes to getting food to making set pieces, the credit for the show really goes to them. They are remarkable, passionate, intelligent women, and I am so grateful to call them two of my dearest friends.
Finally, Emily Shearer, who was not only the dramaturg for the production, but translated the third and final installment. The scholarship was won by her as much as me, and with her beautiful poetry and elegant verse, she elevated the third installment to something so beyond theatre.
The reason I write this is beacuse this reminds me why I do theatre in the first place. It is not an "I" job. Without the 40 or so people mentioned above, I never would have been able to do this project. They all had such faith in me, and I had and have such faith in them and their brilliance. Theatre brings people who would normally never associate with each other together in a beautiful and remarkable way - trust is forced up them, and those who participate rarely dissapoint. I was so priviledged to meet and get to know so many truly magnificent artists, and I hope to work with most of them again in the not to distant future.
Today, I am so grateful for my beautiful niece, Livia Charles, my gorgeous sister and brother-in-law, Alysia Reiner and David Alan Basche, my aunt Marcia Cohen, my grandmother Helen Roseberg, and most of all, my parents, Terry and Bob Berenson. I also honor and remember the memory of my father, Charles Alan Reiner, who would have been so unbelievably thrilled today.
Now, to Roy's for drinks and food - tomorrow, an 8 mile run, and 10:00am - 10:00pm at the Director's Lab!
Paul Backer, my professor, is perhaps the reason I went to USC, even though I didn't know it at the time. From day one, I felt completely drawn to him - he is basically who I want to be when I "grow up." He is cherished and adored by all his students, is a remarkably passionate professor, and I am so proud to be able to call him one of my friends. This past year, he battled severe pnumonia. While most professors would take leave for the semester, or at least get a substitue for a month, Paul (for better or worse for his health) was back within a week. He sees every student production, is a walking encyclopedia of the theatre, and is always there for me, and for his students.
I had a remarkable three casts, who all went on a crazy adventure with me. They did things that are totally "weird" with grace and dignity - they played with Greek verse, masks, dance, and all the crazy things that the Greek theatre requires. I am so thrilled to have gotten to know all the actors involved, and am so grateful for them.
I had a phenominal crew of people, including Danielle Horn and Sarah Morris, who designed the costumes, Rachel Kerry, who did all my publicity, and Becca Lynch, for managing the arrangements for the theatre for the entirety of the project. They really took so much on themselves with smiles on their faces, and were totally and completely brilliant.
Louise Abnee and Lexi Pappas were my two assistant directors, without whom, the show would not of happened. From everything for running scenes to getting food to making set pieces, the credit for the show really goes to them. They are remarkable, passionate, intelligent women, and I am so grateful to call them two of my dearest friends.
Finally, Emily Shearer, who was not only the dramaturg for the production, but translated the third and final installment. The scholarship was won by her as much as me, and with her beautiful poetry and elegant verse, she elevated the third installment to something so beyond theatre.
The reason I write this is beacuse this reminds me why I do theatre in the first place. It is not an "I" job. Without the 40 or so people mentioned above, I never would have been able to do this project. They all had such faith in me, and I had and have such faith in them and their brilliance. Theatre brings people who would normally never associate with each other together in a beautiful and remarkable way - trust is forced up them, and those who participate rarely dissapoint. I was so priviledged to meet and get to know so many truly magnificent artists, and I hope to work with most of them again in the not to distant future.
Today, I am so grateful for my beautiful niece, Livia Charles, my gorgeous sister and brother-in-law, Alysia Reiner and David Alan Basche, my aunt Marcia Cohen, my grandmother Helen Roseberg, and most of all, my parents, Terry and Bob Berenson. I also honor and remember the memory of my father, Charles Alan Reiner, who would have been so unbelievably thrilled today.
Now, to Roy's for drinks and food - tomorrow, an 8 mile run, and 10:00am - 10:00pm at the Director's Lab!
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Special, Wonderful and Unique
Sometimes (often) I forget that I am really not special. I don't mean this in a bad way - I am completely special, just I am just as special as everyone else. What this does mean is that the rules do apply to me, such as:
Needed to eat to perform well. This one is such a challenge for me. I've always had a lot of food issues, and part of that was being able to disconnect my body from the need for food. So, the nutrition part of training has always been a huge challenge. However, without it - whadayaknow?! I go slower, I hurt more, I'm more tired, and cranky. I also need to accept that my body is mine, and not anybody elses, so if I get thirsty when I do 30 minute runs, it means I need to bring water with me, and not leave my water-belt in the car, just because theoretically you don't need to intake water or food on workouts less than an hour.
Sleep is actually not optional. I do work three jobs, plus 15-20 hours a week of training, plus boyfriend, plus friends, plus family - but to do all these things, I can't have only 4 or 5 hours of sleep a night. Even with 6-7, my body doesn't recover as well as it needs to. I am also nicer, friendlier, and able to work in a more positive way.
When I train better/harder/focus, etc., I do in fact get better. Since I come from a theatre background, I am used to things such as progress and growth being somewhat subjective. It also takes a huge amount of time to "hone your craft" and is truly a lifetime process. Triathlon is as well, but measureable improvement happens fairly quickly (as in, within a season) when I follow my plan, focus, recover, eat well, etc. It's always shocking - I have gone from an 11:30 mile to a 9 minute mile in less than a year, simply from following my plan and working my ass off.
My coach actually does know better than me. I think I know everything. I don't. When I listen to Robert, I don't seem to injure myself, overtrain, etc., and I do get better. Isn't that BIZARRE?! ;-)
Life Happens. No matter how much control and time management skills I think I have, sometimes I can't make my schedule perfect. I graduate tomorrow, and my family is in town for a scholarship I am recieving today. So, I probably am not going to be running today, and hopefully will find time tomorrow, but if I don't, c'est la vie. Even though this is my deep passion, I love training, and obviously don't want to miss workouts, the world really doesn't revolve around me, and sometimes, it's worth sacrificing a bit of fitness to be with my 89-year-old grandmother (who looks 60 and acts 30) who came here from Florida.
No, Life REALLY happens. Just an annecdote to rap up this blog - two days ago, I wanted to go swimming before work. I biked to the pool - I felt so superior to all the car bound folk.
'Look how easy it is to bike to work!' I thought. 'I'm so environmentally friendly, getting an extra workout in, and I really feel connected to the city of Los Angeles. Why doesn't everyone do this?' I get to the pool, get in, start to get dressed and realized I had forgotten my goggles and swim cap.
Which were sitting in the trunk of my car.
Update on two workouts:
Tuesday, did a 1 hour easy run at a 10mm pace.
Thursday, did a 1.5 hour bike on Westchester, 60% aero, at a 15mph pace. (YEAY, up from 13.6 three weeks ago for the same loop!) Bricked it with a 3.34 mile, 30 minute run, which is an 8.59 pace - WOOHOOO!!!
Today, Discovery Scholarship Ceremony, and family in from out of town. Tomorrow, graduation from USC!
Sleep is actually not optional. I do work three jobs, plus 15-20 hours a week of training, plus boyfriend, plus friends, plus family - but to do all these things, I can't have only 4 or 5 hours of sleep a night. Even with 6-7, my body doesn't recover as well as it needs to. I am also nicer, friendlier, and able to work in a more positive way.
When I train better/harder/focus, etc., I do in fact get better. Since I come from a theatre background, I am used to things such as progress and growth being somewhat subjective. It also takes a huge amount of time to "hone your craft" and is truly a lifetime process. Triathlon is as well, but measureable improvement happens fairly quickly (as in, within a season) when I follow my plan, focus, recover, eat well, etc. It's always shocking - I have gone from an 11:30 mile to a 9 minute mile in less than a year, simply from following my plan and working my ass off.
My coach actually does know better than me. I think I know everything. I don't. When I listen to Robert, I don't seem to injure myself, overtrain, etc., and I do get better. Isn't that BIZARRE?! ;-)
Life Happens. No matter how much control and time management skills I think I have, sometimes I can't make my schedule perfect. I graduate tomorrow, and my family is in town for a scholarship I am recieving today. So, I probably am not going to be running today, and hopefully will find time tomorrow, but if I don't, c'est la vie. Even though this is my deep passion, I love training, and obviously don't want to miss workouts, the world really doesn't revolve around me, and sometimes, it's worth sacrificing a bit of fitness to be with my 89-year-old grandmother (who looks 60 and acts 30) who came here from Florida.
No, Life REALLY happens. Just an annecdote to rap up this blog - two days ago, I wanted to go swimming before work. I biked to the pool - I felt so superior to all the car bound folk.
'Look how easy it is to bike to work!' I thought. 'I'm so environmentally friendly, getting an extra workout in, and I really feel connected to the city of Los Angeles. Why doesn't everyone do this?' I get to the pool, get in, start to get dressed and realized I had forgotten my goggles and swim cap.
Which were sitting in the trunk of my car.
Update on two workouts:
Tuesday, did a 1 hour easy run at a 10mm pace.
Thursday, did a 1.5 hour bike on Westchester, 60% aero, at a 15mph pace. (YEAY, up from 13.6 three weeks ago for the same loop!) Bricked it with a 3.34 mile, 30 minute run, which is an 8.59 pace - WOOHOOO!!!
Today, Discovery Scholarship Ceremony, and family in from out of town. Tomorrow, graduation from USC!
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