This week was a challenging one. Megan has been on antibiotics since friday of last week; and on monday they prescribed yet another medicine because after they did the long culture they found she had strep as well.
I don't know if it has been the illness or what; but her behavior at school changed dramatically this week. She went from being a really happy kid, participating in activities, playing with the other children; to a kid that cries all day for no apparent reason, does not participate, does not eat or does not play with others.
And I have been consumed with guilt. Guilt for being at work all day, guilt for wanting to take time for myself and train, guilt for a million reasons. And I by friday I was emotionally drained. It also does not help that we have entered the part of the month were my job becomes really busy and demanding, so I leave mentally exhausted. All of this makes me worried. Worried that there is something going on that I am missing. And when I try to "extract" answers from my child she does not provide them for me. And I have tried. Let her color, play pretend with dolls, ask open ended questions. She does not seem to realize that she was crying all day. She will tell me: Such and such did not let me play with such toy. And that is not a reason for her to cry ALL day, or is it? But yet, that is the only answer she will give me.
I reassure her that I will not get mad, or angry; that I am just concerned because I love her; but still I get nothing. And I am worried. My head is in a cloud and I am terrified that something big is going on and I am completely blind to it. And it drives me crazy! I hope I can get to the bottom of this fairly soon, for her sake and mine.
Training has been going good. I have managed to do all my workouts so far (except for friday's long run; which I have moved to sunday) and felt pretty good about them. I even felt wonderful at the pool, and that does not happen every day! I think I might finally be turning a corner when it comes to training. For now I will just keep at it, and with luck and hard work; when the time comes to put it all together, I will have a good day and be able to accomplish the goals I have set.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Cozy saturday
I went out this morning for the one hour run that coach had put on the schedule for me. After the husband videotaped my running and we sent it over to Liz, she gave me some feedback and some technique advice. I had every intention of putting it into practice on my trail run. So I went for it. It was more difficult that I thought. Re-teaching your body how to run is no easy task and it does require a lot of concentration. Making sure you step the right way, pushing off purposefuly, avoiding arm crossover. That seems like a lot, doesn't it?? All of that while trying to keep your HR at a decent level...
The trail run was nice; except for one minor detail. The temperature was sub freezing! And my knees felt it, a lot. So, instead of running for an hour I decided to cut the run short to spare my knees some pain. Liz mentioned that the next 2 weeks are BIG training blocks, and I want to make sure I am in tip-top shape to perform at my best.
After the run, I drank my recovery drink and went off to run a couple of errands before the husband left to go golfing. I hit my favorite bakery (Great Harvest Bread), got some bread and then proceeded to go to the 50 dollar store (Target... it seems that every time we go there we spend a lot more money than we intended). I got there, grabbed the things I came looking for and as I am opening my wallet realized: SHIT! I forgot my card at the bread shop. I called them and luckily it was still there; so I hightailed back (in the opposite direction I needed to go to get home) and got my card.
When I got home I had already made the husband 20 minutes late; so pretty much as soon as I walked in the door, he left. Showered, made coffee and now I am here; sitting down in my PJ's covered with a blanket and wearing my "fluffy socks" as Megan calls them.
This week was extremely weird. It was rest week, and i felt completely flat; exhausted and with absolutely NOTHING in my legs to get my anywhere. My eating has been good, so I did not understand what was up. Until yesterday; when I realized I had gotten my monthly visitor (sorry if tmi). I was not expecting it until wednesday! Sometimes I think it is stupid how the body gets so drained from doing something that it is supposed to do every single month. Know what I mean??
The husband came back from his trip on thursday evening. Megan and I were very glad to see him. Friday morning was going along just fine when I got a call from Daycare that megan had been crying all morning, complaining of a sore throat and an achy stomach. There had been some cases of strep at the school, so I thought it was prudent to make a doctor's appointment to get the munchkin checked out. The husband took her and it turns out she has "walking pneumonia". The doctor assured us it is not as bad as the name makes it sound. Some antibiotics and it should go away. I do feel a bit responsible about it though. After all, I missed the signs. Fever, phlemy cough, loss of appetite. I trully thought it was just a cold. I guess it is not "just a cold" if there is fever. If I had acted sooner she would be better by now, and that makes me feel responsible (and a bit of a bad mom). Lesson learned, next time (which will hopefully be a long time from now) I will know to act when the fever presents itself.
This afternoon, we are just chillin'. Enjoying the last 2 days of rest week. Some more coffee is in order, maybe a movie or two, a cozy blanket and a big dose of family time. Can't wait.
The trail run was nice; except for one minor detail. The temperature was sub freezing! And my knees felt it, a lot. So, instead of running for an hour I decided to cut the run short to spare my knees some pain. Liz mentioned that the next 2 weeks are BIG training blocks, and I want to make sure I am in tip-top shape to perform at my best.
After the run, I drank my recovery drink and went off to run a couple of errands before the husband left to go golfing. I hit my favorite bakery (Great Harvest Bread), got some bread and then proceeded to go to the 50 dollar store (Target... it seems that every time we go there we spend a lot more money than we intended). I got there, grabbed the things I came looking for and as I am opening my wallet realized: SHIT! I forgot my card at the bread shop. I called them and luckily it was still there; so I hightailed back (in the opposite direction I needed to go to get home) and got my card.
When I got home I had already made the husband 20 minutes late; so pretty much as soon as I walked in the door, he left. Showered, made coffee and now I am here; sitting down in my PJ's covered with a blanket and wearing my "fluffy socks" as Megan calls them.
This week was extremely weird. It was rest week, and i felt completely flat; exhausted and with absolutely NOTHING in my legs to get my anywhere. My eating has been good, so I did not understand what was up. Until yesterday; when I realized I had gotten my monthly visitor (sorry if tmi). I was not expecting it until wednesday! Sometimes I think it is stupid how the body gets so drained from doing something that it is supposed to do every single month. Know what I mean??
The husband came back from his trip on thursday evening. Megan and I were very glad to see him. Friday morning was going along just fine when I got a call from Daycare that megan had been crying all morning, complaining of a sore throat and an achy stomach. There had been some cases of strep at the school, so I thought it was prudent to make a doctor's appointment to get the munchkin checked out. The husband took her and it turns out she has "walking pneumonia". The doctor assured us it is not as bad as the name makes it sound. Some antibiotics and it should go away. I do feel a bit responsible about it though. After all, I missed the signs. Fever, phlemy cough, loss of appetite. I trully thought it was just a cold. I guess it is not "just a cold" if there is fever. If I had acted sooner she would be better by now, and that makes me feel responsible (and a bit of a bad mom). Lesson learned, next time (which will hopefully be a long time from now) I will know to act when the fever presents itself.
This afternoon, we are just chillin'. Enjoying the last 2 days of rest week. Some more coffee is in order, maybe a movie or two, a cozy blanket and a big dose of family time. Can't wait.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Inspiration
Yesterday Megan and I stayed home from school/work. She had been having a bit of a phlemy cough and I thought it was prudent to stay home and let her rest. Let me just say that the only time I changed out of my PJ's was to do a scheduled brick; and after that I went right back to wearing them.
The morning was a productive one; while I heard Megan play downstairs with a bunch of her toys (lately her favorite has been playing mommy); I went to my "creative space" and started a little "art" journal of my journey to Ironman later this year. Even though I am quite creative; when I saw the inspiration boad that Liz did with the magazine phrases I knew right away that this was a project that would suit me quite well.
So I started going through magazines and cutting up phrases and paragraphs that I enjoyed and somehow "spoke" to me; with the intention of accumulating a bunch of them to put in my little journal. As I said before (and if I haven't I'll say it now) scrapbooking is another one of the things I really enjoy; but lately it has taken third place (after family & training) simply because I do not have enough time to dedicate myself to it.
But yesterday morning was different. Here I was, at home, with a child that finally entertains herself (for the most part) and a bunch of free time. So I took out my magazine clippings, the journal that I was going to alter, some scisors, colored pencils, stamps, 3 different kinds of glue (because it is important what glue you use depending on what you are thrying to adhere) and went to work. Even though it is not the "best" of my creations, I am using the journal not only as a way to document the year leading up to the biggest race of my life; but also as a tool to practice letting go of things, to practice not being so self critical.
I am debating whether or not I will post the pictures of the journal here. Most likely I will, but I don't think I am ready yet. It will come, as everything does.
The morning was a productive one; while I heard Megan play downstairs with a bunch of her toys (lately her favorite has been playing mommy); I went to my "creative space" and started a little "art" journal of my journey to Ironman later this year. Even though I am quite creative; when I saw the inspiration boad that Liz did with the magazine phrases I knew right away that this was a project that would suit me quite well.
So I started going through magazines and cutting up phrases and paragraphs that I enjoyed and somehow "spoke" to me; with the intention of accumulating a bunch of them to put in my little journal. As I said before (and if I haven't I'll say it now) scrapbooking is another one of the things I really enjoy; but lately it has taken third place (after family & training) simply because I do not have enough time to dedicate myself to it.
But yesterday morning was different. Here I was, at home, with a child that finally entertains herself (for the most part) and a bunch of free time. So I took out my magazine clippings, the journal that I was going to alter, some scisors, colored pencils, stamps, 3 different kinds of glue (because it is important what glue you use depending on what you are thrying to adhere) and went to work. Even though it is not the "best" of my creations, I am using the journal not only as a way to document the year leading up to the biggest race of my life; but also as a tool to practice letting go of things, to practice not being so self critical.
I am debating whether or not I will post the pictures of the journal here. Most likely I will, but I don't think I am ready yet. It will come, as everything does.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Form
Yesterday I finally was able to get my husband to videotape both my running and my swimming. Feeling a little on the ridiculous side while at the pool, I got over it and did my planned 200 yards of swimming. Prior to that I got my long run out of the way and also got Todd to videotape my running stride.
My goodness! What a wake up call it all was. Not so much the swimming, but my running. It did not look pretty. And here I thought I ran pretty good.
After struggling to get the videos out of the camera and into a decent sized file, I shot them over to coach. The running one first and the swimming second.
The critique came in that order... While I must admit it was not pretty, and a blow to the ego, after mulling over it for a couple of minutes I decided that was exactly what I had asked for. I asked coach to look at my mechanics and provide me with some feedback as to how I can improve to become more efficient.
I am now armed with new running knowledge and a set of swimming drills that are "just for me". Focusing on the things that I need to improve upon will make me a better athlete; a more efficient one. I must admit, letting go of the old "comfortable" way of doing things is not easy. This new technique will require me to focus, be more present during the workouts and make sure that I give 100% if not more at each single one of them.
I had a rough week in terms of self esteem. I did a lot of thinking, I felt myself sinking in a hole; and instead of letting myself go down, down, down; I asked for help. I tend to internalize everything; keep to myself. Know what I mean? I knew this time around that I needed to be proactive and reach out. And you know what? It helped. Voicing my fears and concerns actually helped me overcome them and put them behind. Will they never happen again? Heck no! I am sure they will return. But I will be armed with all the tools that I know helped me this time around.
This morning I went to hot yoga and that practice actually helped re-inforce the things I came to terms with during the week. I was able to focus on myself and myself only and with each breath I became more aware of the things I hold dear in my heart. It was fabulous.
I am ready to start this new week and focus on improving myself; both athletically and spiritually. I have some focus words that I will write down and put in my mirror next to my inspiration board. Just as a gentle reminder of the good things, both the ones to come and the ones that are already here.
My goodness! What a wake up call it all was. Not so much the swimming, but my running. It did not look pretty. And here I thought I ran pretty good.
After struggling to get the videos out of the camera and into a decent sized file, I shot them over to coach. The running one first and the swimming second.
The critique came in that order... While I must admit it was not pretty, and a blow to the ego, after mulling over it for a couple of minutes I decided that was exactly what I had asked for. I asked coach to look at my mechanics and provide me with some feedback as to how I can improve to become more efficient.
I am now armed with new running knowledge and a set of swimming drills that are "just for me". Focusing on the things that I need to improve upon will make me a better athlete; a more efficient one. I must admit, letting go of the old "comfortable" way of doing things is not easy. This new technique will require me to focus, be more present during the workouts and make sure that I give 100% if not more at each single one of them.
I had a rough week in terms of self esteem. I did a lot of thinking, I felt myself sinking in a hole; and instead of letting myself go down, down, down; I asked for help. I tend to internalize everything; keep to myself. Know what I mean? I knew this time around that I needed to be proactive and reach out. And you know what? It helped. Voicing my fears and concerns actually helped me overcome them and put them behind. Will they never happen again? Heck no! I am sure they will return. But I will be armed with all the tools that I know helped me this time around.
This morning I went to hot yoga and that practice actually helped re-inforce the things I came to terms with during the week. I was able to focus on myself and myself only and with each breath I became more aware of the things I hold dear in my heart. It was fabulous.
I am ready to start this new week and focus on improving myself; both athletically and spiritually. I have some focus words that I will write down and put in my mirror next to my inspiration board. Just as a gentle reminder of the good things, both the ones to come and the ones that are already here.
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Buddies and workouts
Sunday morning and I sit here with my daughter the early riser. Now, I can understand the need for me to get up at 6 am to eat breakfast 2 hours prior to my 2 hour brick; but her?? She was up at 6:30. Ready to kick start her day with some hot milk and a waffle.
I had every intention of doing my brick yesterday but I woke up with a fairly bad migraine. I took over the counter medicine for it right away, but it did not help. After a couple of hours it had gotten so bad that I went to bed and took the prescription medicine. I try to stay away from it. I am not a fan of ingesting drugs if it can be avoided; but I do not think I had an option yesterday.
After laying down with my eyes closed for what seemed an eternity, the migraine finally started to subside. What a relief!!! Unfortunately it was already 4 PM and my body was wiped out! I took the rest of the day easier and after emailing coach I postponed the workout until today.
This past week was interesting to say the least. Work was hectic, busy and gave me my fair share of headaches; the weather was crazy (we even got snowed/iced in one day); and the workouts were pretty intense.
At work, since the merger is complete we were assigned a person from Corporate Finance to help us navigate throught the systems and such. They call this person our "buddy". Well, I am going to say that the word is indeed small. Of all the people up in corporate finance, i get paired with a guy, who not only is extremely helpful and patient; but who also likes soccer, my favorite sport to watch (he is also a fan of my Argentine Team); loves running and shares my sense of humor.
We work together quite well, share some jokes, talk smack and get the job done. Our small firm has been so focused on all the things we are having to do differently since the merger that most of the people have forgotten that the company that acquired us is working quite hard at making us feel comfortable as well. And we are a tough crowd to please. I have sat on countless conference calls where the air can be cut with a knife and the people are mostly on edge looking for ways to "attack" the other side. I have been that way for quite a while; but lately have been trying to cut people slack and put myself in their shoes. So I have been making a point of giving credit to people where credit is due. Since my "buddy" helped me tremendously I made sure that his boss knew how pleased I was with his help. It is only fair.
Training has been going well. I have managed to pretty much get ALL my sessions in; with the exception of one strength training routine, which might get squeezed in today while Megan takes her nap. Most of them have been indoors,, not only because it has been pretty cold outside, but also because I am making a point about staying safe. I do not want to run by myself outside at 5 am when it is dark and there is no one near by. The other night I went for a run after work, and it was starting to get dark; so even though I was in a very transited area I ran with my pepper spray in had; sans music.
We have started base training, so long runs have started, along with long bike rides and countless yards at the pool. The swimming is coming along, I think I might have discovered how to properly swim (yes it took me only 4 years ;-) ); and I will be working on that in the coming weeks. Next week I have a long swim that calls for 2x1000 continuous.... Should be interesting.
I have always loved biking, so I have no problem with spending time in the saddle. Even if it is indoors. Husband bought me the complete series of one of my favorite short lived Vampire shows and I have been watching those episodes each time I get on my bike. The new Tacx computer has proved to be awesome, the feedback I get from it is fantastic and it also offers much more resistance than my regular trainer; which makes more even more entertaining training sessions.
I think my running legs are finally starting to come back. I still feel slow, but as the year progresses and the sun starts coming out earlier and earlier, I will be able to run outside more and more; and that is the key to improve my running (I don't do as good on the 'mill).
So after a rough couple of weeks, I think I am finally able to gather myself, lift my head up and look ahead. For the next few weeks the road looks promising and challenging and I can't wait to get started.
I had every intention of doing my brick yesterday but I woke up with a fairly bad migraine. I took over the counter medicine for it right away, but it did not help. After a couple of hours it had gotten so bad that I went to bed and took the prescription medicine. I try to stay away from it. I am not a fan of ingesting drugs if it can be avoided; but I do not think I had an option yesterday.
After laying down with my eyes closed for what seemed an eternity, the migraine finally started to subside. What a relief!!! Unfortunately it was already 4 PM and my body was wiped out! I took the rest of the day easier and after emailing coach I postponed the workout until today.
This past week was interesting to say the least. Work was hectic, busy and gave me my fair share of headaches; the weather was crazy (we even got snowed/iced in one day); and the workouts were pretty intense.
At work, since the merger is complete we were assigned a person from Corporate Finance to help us navigate throught the systems and such. They call this person our "buddy". Well, I am going to say that the word is indeed small. Of all the people up in corporate finance, i get paired with a guy, who not only is extremely helpful and patient; but who also likes soccer, my favorite sport to watch (he is also a fan of my Argentine Team); loves running and shares my sense of humor.
We work together quite well, share some jokes, talk smack and get the job done. Our small firm has been so focused on all the things we are having to do differently since the merger that most of the people have forgotten that the company that acquired us is working quite hard at making us feel comfortable as well. And we are a tough crowd to please. I have sat on countless conference calls where the air can be cut with a knife and the people are mostly on edge looking for ways to "attack" the other side. I have been that way for quite a while; but lately have been trying to cut people slack and put myself in their shoes. So I have been making a point of giving credit to people where credit is due. Since my "buddy" helped me tremendously I made sure that his boss knew how pleased I was with his help. It is only fair.
Training has been going well. I have managed to pretty much get ALL my sessions in; with the exception of one strength training routine, which might get squeezed in today while Megan takes her nap. Most of them have been indoors,, not only because it has been pretty cold outside, but also because I am making a point about staying safe. I do not want to run by myself outside at 5 am when it is dark and there is no one near by. The other night I went for a run after work, and it was starting to get dark; so even though I was in a very transited area I ran with my pepper spray in had; sans music.
We have started base training, so long runs have started, along with long bike rides and countless yards at the pool. The swimming is coming along, I think I might have discovered how to properly swim (yes it took me only 4 years ;-) ); and I will be working on that in the coming weeks. Next week I have a long swim that calls for 2x1000 continuous.... Should be interesting.
I have always loved biking, so I have no problem with spending time in the saddle. Even if it is indoors. Husband bought me the complete series of one of my favorite short lived Vampire shows and I have been watching those episodes each time I get on my bike. The new Tacx computer has proved to be awesome, the feedback I get from it is fantastic and it also offers much more resistance than my regular trainer; which makes more even more entertaining training sessions.
I think my running legs are finally starting to come back. I still feel slow, but as the year progresses and the sun starts coming out earlier and earlier, I will be able to run outside more and more; and that is the key to improve my running (I don't do as good on the 'mill).
So after a rough couple of weeks, I think I am finally able to gather myself, lift my head up and look ahead. For the next few weeks the road looks promising and challenging and I can't wait to get started.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
RENT!!!!
Wow, wow, wow. That is how I left the theatre after watching my all time favorite musical: RENT. I have seen this musical once before when we lived in Minnesota, and I have watched the movie countless times; but what made this show extra special is that the 2 main characters: Mark & Roger, were portrayed by the actors from the original Broadway cast.
What a rush! It was a perfect night, a bit chilly, but perfect.
We started the evening with dinner reservations at about 5:15. I know, I know; a bit early, but if you have ever been to the Melting Pot, you know it takes at least 2 hours to eat all 3 courses. Just in case you didn't know, the Melting Pot is a fondue restaurant. I love fondue! We never eat it because it is kind of an expensive treat when you eat out; and a bit of a mess to make at home; not to mention that I do not have any of the necesary utensils (pots and skewers). This time we lucked out, and were able to go during Charlotte's restaurant week. Charlotte restaurant week is an event that comes around once a year, where the participating restaurants offer a 3 course meal for a fixed price. It is quite a deal if you ask me!
We got to the restaurant a bit early and were seated immediately. The booth we got was cozy and romantic. It was a small corner booth perfect for 2 people to snuggle up, but at the same time with enought space to eat comfortably. It must not be forgotten that this was a date night between the hubby and I.
The food was delicious, and after stuffing ourselves with 3 kinds of fondue, a salad, some wine and of course, water; we were ready to bolt and head to the theatre for the night's main event. I had sort of dressed myself up in a cute black jumper that I got for Christmas, but I had no luck with the shoes I put on. See, I do not wear skirts much, not to mention dresses; so all of my winter shoes are short boots that get hidden under pants; hence I had no cute winter shoes that go with a dress. Following me so far?? So I had to resort to my most wintery looking summer shoes. I know, confusing. Long story short, it was chilly, I was wearing a dress, with no stalkings (the broke during the day at work), and summer shoes. That spells: COLD.
We got to the venue and it was a full house. Every seat was taken, and there was a wide array of people. Young, old, dressed up, in jeans; you get the idea. We had pretty good seats, row O, towards the right of the stage. I would have loved to be closer, but can't complain of the view we had. We could see the entire stage.
After waiting for what seemed like forever, Roger (main guy #1) comes on stage, and the place just BURSTS into applause. Enter chills #1. Mark (main guy # 2) comes on stage shortly after and the applause gets more deafening. I was LOVING every minute of it. I could go on with extreme detail about this play; but I do not want to get you all bored with it.
Let's just say, it did not disappoint. I loved it. The performers poured their heart into each of the songs; and they threw in little "off script" bits to make it even more entertainment. I cried, yes, at the same exact spots that I ALWAYS cry; but it is one of those cries that does not make me embarrased. It is odd, because this play fills me. I know it sounds corny, but it speaks to my soul and makes me whole. It made me want to stay until the performers left the theatre to go and hug them and thank them personally for the wonderful play (as much as I wanted to be a groupie that night, I didn't).
I guess what gets to me is the message. People trying to accomplish their dream, following their hearts and being faced with some of life's thoughest times. Death of a loved one, the knowledge that you have an incurable disease, the realization that even though your ideals might not be the easiest ones to accomplish; they ARE there and not listening to them will not do you any good; fighting addiction; surviving. Friendships and relationships are the things that will get you through anything and everything. You get to chose HOW you want to live your life. Face the reality with a positive attitude, live each day to the fullest; or stay within yourself, angry and passive.
Each time I see this play, or the movie at home (which by the way, it does NOT come even close to watching it on stage) I am left speechless. I feel full of love, and much more appeciative of what I have and the relationships I have buit throughout the years.
The night was great. The best date (my husband), good food, a great show. Everything I could have asked for.
If you have the opportunity to go see RENT live, I say: GO. Do not think about it twice. You will leave the place feeling all warm and fuzzy inside. I know I did. And even today, a couple of days later, I am still feeling that way.
"There's only us. There's only this. Forget regret or life is yours to miss. No other road. No other way. NO DAY BUT TODAY"
What a rush! It was a perfect night, a bit chilly, but perfect.
We started the evening with dinner reservations at about 5:15. I know, I know; a bit early, but if you have ever been to the Melting Pot, you know it takes at least 2 hours to eat all 3 courses. Just in case you didn't know, the Melting Pot is a fondue restaurant. I love fondue! We never eat it because it is kind of an expensive treat when you eat out; and a bit of a mess to make at home; not to mention that I do not have any of the necesary utensils (pots and skewers). This time we lucked out, and were able to go during Charlotte's restaurant week. Charlotte restaurant week is an event that comes around once a year, where the participating restaurants offer a 3 course meal for a fixed price. It is quite a deal if you ask me!
We got to the restaurant a bit early and were seated immediately. The booth we got was cozy and romantic. It was a small corner booth perfect for 2 people to snuggle up, but at the same time with enought space to eat comfortably. It must not be forgotten that this was a date night between the hubby and I.
The food was delicious, and after stuffing ourselves with 3 kinds of fondue, a salad, some wine and of course, water; we were ready to bolt and head to the theatre for the night's main event. I had sort of dressed myself up in a cute black jumper that I got for Christmas, but I had no luck with the shoes I put on. See, I do not wear skirts much, not to mention dresses; so all of my winter shoes are short boots that get hidden under pants; hence I had no cute winter shoes that go with a dress. Following me so far?? So I had to resort to my most wintery looking summer shoes. I know, confusing. Long story short, it was chilly, I was wearing a dress, with no stalkings (the broke during the day at work), and summer shoes. That spells: COLD.
We got to the venue and it was a full house. Every seat was taken, and there was a wide array of people. Young, old, dressed up, in jeans; you get the idea. We had pretty good seats, row O, towards the right of the stage. I would have loved to be closer, but can't complain of the view we had. We could see the entire stage.
After waiting for what seemed like forever, Roger (main guy #1) comes on stage, and the place just BURSTS into applause. Enter chills #1. Mark (main guy # 2) comes on stage shortly after and the applause gets more deafening. I was LOVING every minute of it. I could go on with extreme detail about this play; but I do not want to get you all bored with it.
Let's just say, it did not disappoint. I loved it. The performers poured their heart into each of the songs; and they threw in little "off script" bits to make it even more entertainment. I cried, yes, at the same exact spots that I ALWAYS cry; but it is one of those cries that does not make me embarrased. It is odd, because this play fills me. I know it sounds corny, but it speaks to my soul and makes me whole. It made me want to stay until the performers left the theatre to go and hug them and thank them personally for the wonderful play (as much as I wanted to be a groupie that night, I didn't).
I guess what gets to me is the message. People trying to accomplish their dream, following their hearts and being faced with some of life's thoughest times. Death of a loved one, the knowledge that you have an incurable disease, the realization that even though your ideals might not be the easiest ones to accomplish; they ARE there and not listening to them will not do you any good; fighting addiction; surviving. Friendships and relationships are the things that will get you through anything and everything. You get to chose HOW you want to live your life. Face the reality with a positive attitude, live each day to the fullest; or stay within yourself, angry and passive.
Each time I see this play, or the movie at home (which by the way, it does NOT come even close to watching it on stage) I am left speechless. I feel full of love, and much more appeciative of what I have and the relationships I have buit throughout the years.
The night was great. The best date (my husband), good food, a great show. Everything I could have asked for.
If you have the opportunity to go see RENT live, I say: GO. Do not think about it twice. You will leave the place feeling all warm and fuzzy inside. I know I did. And even today, a couple of days later, I am still feeling that way.
"There's only us. There's only this. Forget regret or life is yours to miss. No other road. No other way. NO DAY BUT TODAY"
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