May 7, 2010
I’ve kept you waiting and that wasn’t nice.
But my first two-footed no-boot dance callback went splendidly! I was able to do a lovely pirouette on my right side, I rocked out the “Seventy Six Trombones” combo, I baton twirled my pièce de shoe rack as I slid down into a split, and I was asked to return for final callbacks in October! Hoorah, hoorah, what a lovely way to return to the world of the dance.
Not only are my feet feeling quite extraordinary, they are also looking rather elegant. I’ve done them up in an iridescent golden pink for their return to the public eye and also for my one true love’s upcoming return to New York.
Inspired by my “Music Man” experience, I am now quite looking forward to my auditions this week. I am a bit nervous for the tap one, so my physical therapist suggested I walk around my apartment in my tap shoes so my foot adjusts to the three inch heel. Bet my roommate and neighbors will love that one!
I think I’m going to tackle spin class tomorrow; I’m torn between that and biking up to 100th and Amsterdam to get something from the Michael’s craft store. I guess it’s silly to bike in place for an hour and then take the subway uptown five miles. I’m leaning towards just making the trek. Hopefully my bike can take it. I mean, I know that my legs can. By the way, my left leg extensions are killer. All that barre in my kitchen to keep my leg in shape totally paid off.
Nevertheless, my entire body is sore beyond belief from dancing for four hours yesterday. I made it through three separate dance combinations and cuts. And in between each one, I did about a million kicks and splits and kicks a la baton and splits whilst baton-ing. The dance is not as easy as we make it look.
So, tonight I’m taking it easy, gearing up for my bike marathon tomorrow and catching up on some guitar tunes. Jacques is wiped out from our speed racer walk to and from Union Square. Our new roommate is out on the town, putting us old biddies to shame.
Happy Friday!
Friday, May 7, 2010
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Twirling Ninja
Happy Cinco de Mayo, readers!
The ninja is back in business; kicking butt in spin class, cruising the bike lanes of Manhattan and rocking the musical theatre audition scene.
Today I had my first two-footed no-boot audition for the national tour of "The Music Man," and I got a callback for tomorrow. To...dance!!! Scary, I know. Well, I've been doing physical therapy now for almost two weeks, and it's going great. So, I'm going to do a little bit of the dance tomorrow, whatever I feel comfortable with, and perhaps I'll get to show off my mad baton skills which seemed to be of interest to the team. I've been practicing all afternoon with a piece of metal tubing I took off my shoe rack as I traverse the crowded streets of New York. Carefully.
I biked probably a cumulative 100 miles last week in my fervor at being able to move quickly again, but sadly the not-so-gradual leap in exertion gave poor old ninja bronchitis. Oh, 25. Clearly the year I join the elderly.
Also, folks. I'm headed back to the children's theatre scene with an appointment next week for Barney Live! (I kind of thought Curious George was cooler, as did my ten-year-old babysitting charge, but what do we know???) But Paul Frank doesn't make any cute big purple dinosaur sweatshirts with attachable headphones that look like monkey ears...yet. If they cast me, I may design my own line of hip "prehistoric and purple" wear.
The pup and I have done a fair bit of shopping as we return to our routine of long, fast-paced, New York style walks. He hasn't found anything that fits, but I got an awesome belt, a great pair of denim shorts, hiking pants (not really - they're super punk!). Oh and furniture! We've been furnishing the apartment since my old roommate moved out and the new one moved in. She totally likes Jacques better than me (so did the old roommate). They went on an exclusive excursion last night while I pointed and flexed and curled and stretched and then iced and watched "How I Met Your Mother" on DVD.
I head back to the gym tomorrow, and I now have permission to slowly start to run on the treadmill. Hoorah!! Hoorah!!
By the way, my physical therapy joint is full of Broadway dancers. They all talk about doing their shows and I'm dying to know which ones exactly, but it's not really cool to ask, plus it would destroy the illusion that I, too, am a Broadway dancer, and it's not that big a deal (But it so is).
I finished Drood, my research book for my upcoming show, and I now feel very well-prepared to read the script.
Countdown:
1 week til LOML (love of my life) returns
3.5 weeks til LOML and I go to Japan!
7.5 weeks til LOML and I start rehearsals for Spelling Bee and Drood!!!
All good things.
Well, enjoy your margaritas folks, Jacques and I will be taking it easy this Cinqo D.
Bronchitis + Broken Foot in not so distant past = potential for disaster.
Stay tuned for baton and dance updates!!!
The ninja is back in business; kicking butt in spin class, cruising the bike lanes of Manhattan and rocking the musical theatre audition scene.
Today I had my first two-footed no-boot audition for the national tour of "The Music Man," and I got a callback for tomorrow. To...dance!!! Scary, I know. Well, I've been doing physical therapy now for almost two weeks, and it's going great. So, I'm going to do a little bit of the dance tomorrow, whatever I feel comfortable with, and perhaps I'll get to show off my mad baton skills which seemed to be of interest to the team. I've been practicing all afternoon with a piece of metal tubing I took off my shoe rack as I traverse the crowded streets of New York. Carefully.
I biked probably a cumulative 100 miles last week in my fervor at being able to move quickly again, but sadly the not-so-gradual leap in exertion gave poor old ninja bronchitis. Oh, 25. Clearly the year I join the elderly.
Also, folks. I'm headed back to the children's theatre scene with an appointment next week for Barney Live! (I kind of thought Curious George was cooler, as did my ten-year-old babysitting charge, but what do we know???) But Paul Frank doesn't make any cute big purple dinosaur sweatshirts with attachable headphones that look like monkey ears...yet. If they cast me, I may design my own line of hip "prehistoric and purple" wear.
The pup and I have done a fair bit of shopping as we return to our routine of long, fast-paced, New York style walks. He hasn't found anything that fits, but I got an awesome belt, a great pair of denim shorts, hiking pants (not really - they're super punk!). Oh and furniture! We've been furnishing the apartment since my old roommate moved out and the new one moved in. She totally likes Jacques better than me (so did the old roommate). They went on an exclusive excursion last night while I pointed and flexed and curled and stretched and then iced and watched "How I Met Your Mother" on DVD.
I head back to the gym tomorrow, and I now have permission to slowly start to run on the treadmill. Hoorah!! Hoorah!!
By the way, my physical therapy joint is full of Broadway dancers. They all talk about doing their shows and I'm dying to know which ones exactly, but it's not really cool to ask, plus it would destroy the illusion that I, too, am a Broadway dancer, and it's not that big a deal (But it so is).
I finished Drood, my research book for my upcoming show, and I now feel very well-prepared to read the script.
Countdown:
1 week til LOML (love of my life) returns
3.5 weeks til LOML and I go to Japan!
7.5 weeks til LOML and I start rehearsals for Spelling Bee and Drood!!!
All good things.
Well, enjoy your margaritas folks, Jacques and I will be taking it easy this Cinqo D.
Bronchitis + Broken Foot in not so distant past = potential for disaster.
Stay tuned for baton and dance updates!!!
Monday, April 26, 2010
One more thing...
Let it be known that on this joyous first day of returning my sneaker to my foot, I braved the stairs at West Fourth Street in the rain to babysit for my two favorite fifth-graders in lower Manhattan.
That's all.
That's all.
NINJA RETURNS!
April 26, 2010
LE BOOT IS OFF!!! After six long and productive weeks, that stinking, stabilizing, surly-looking excuse for footwear has been banished to the corner with le crutches. They can all expect to return to the doctor on a less precipitous day.
But let’s return to celebration, shall we? Because I can return to the dance, slowly but surely, and I should be full-out, no-marking in two weeks. Woohoo!! I began celebrating immediately following my doctor’s appointment with an hour-long, 16-mile, bicycle marathon at Crunch. You know, my new place of employ. Oh, did I not mention I am now a dotFIT-certified Crunch personal trainer? Because I am. All last week, I learned various skills to take people from fat to fit, apathetic to athletic. I imagine these skills will be most beneficial to myself and my immediate circle. Thus far, my sister has been the luckiest one, reaping the most benefits from my newfound knowledge (she claims not to read this blog, but now I will know for sure!).
My week of training at Crunch was also a wonderful opportunity to try out my newly working foot and do some - drumroll, please - TWO-FOOTED ninja workouts! Sort of. For instance, they were teaching us how to do jumping squats. Leftie was not yet given the permission for such, so I increased the difficulty and did one-legged jumping squats! It’s true that subtracting a leg from many exercises makes them even harder. But I also did some leg presses, extensions, hamstring curls, all the necessary ranges of motion to prepare Leftie for this very exciting day.
I have an appointment for an audition in a few weeks where I will get to tap!! Fear not, it will be perfectly safe for Leftie at that time. I am also going in for physical therapy for the next several weeks. And rumor has it that broken and fractured bones heal stronger than they were before. I feel certain that Leftie will soon be unstoppable.
I’ve been continuing my guitar studies, they’re coming quite well. I picked up American Pie and Sweet Child of Mine this weekend while playing around with my younger brother’s electric guitar and rock collection. And I’m been reading a book called “Drood,” which has given me some insight for my upcoming production of “The Mystery of Edwin Drood.” So, yes, it is research.
As you may have guessed, I am entirely caught up on Lost and I don’t know how people bear the week-long suspense. It’s dreadful.
I would like to give a shout-out to my friend Danielle and my puppy Jacques for accompanying me on a day-long stroll about the city on Saturday. Mimosas, shopping acquisitions and good company aside, I believe it was highly instrumental in Leftie’s great progress. (A mere shout to Jacques for his lesser behavior. He knows what he did.)
I cannot wait for the rain to cease so I can clean up my bike and take the city by storm!
LE BOOT IS OFF!!! After six long and productive weeks, that stinking, stabilizing, surly-looking excuse for footwear has been banished to the corner with le crutches. They can all expect to return to the doctor on a less precipitous day.
But let’s return to celebration, shall we? Because I can return to the dance, slowly but surely, and I should be full-out, no-marking in two weeks. Woohoo!! I began celebrating immediately following my doctor’s appointment with an hour-long, 16-mile, bicycle marathon at Crunch. You know, my new place of employ. Oh, did I not mention I am now a dotFIT-certified Crunch personal trainer? Because I am. All last week, I learned various skills to take people from fat to fit, apathetic to athletic. I imagine these skills will be most beneficial to myself and my immediate circle. Thus far, my sister has been the luckiest one, reaping the most benefits from my newfound knowledge (she claims not to read this blog, but now I will know for sure!).
My week of training at Crunch was also a wonderful opportunity to try out my newly working foot and do some - drumroll, please - TWO-FOOTED ninja workouts! Sort of. For instance, they were teaching us how to do jumping squats. Leftie was not yet given the permission for such, so I increased the difficulty and did one-legged jumping squats! It’s true that subtracting a leg from many exercises makes them even harder. But I also did some leg presses, extensions, hamstring curls, all the necessary ranges of motion to prepare Leftie for this very exciting day.
I have an appointment for an audition in a few weeks where I will get to tap!! Fear not, it will be perfectly safe for Leftie at that time. I am also going in for physical therapy for the next several weeks. And rumor has it that broken and fractured bones heal stronger than they were before. I feel certain that Leftie will soon be unstoppable.
I’ve been continuing my guitar studies, they’re coming quite well. I picked up American Pie and Sweet Child of Mine this weekend while playing around with my younger brother’s electric guitar and rock collection. And I’m been reading a book called “Drood,” which has given me some insight for my upcoming production of “The Mystery of Edwin Drood.” So, yes, it is research.
As you may have guessed, I am entirely caught up on Lost and I don’t know how people bear the week-long suspense. It’s dreadful.
I would like to give a shout-out to my friend Danielle and my puppy Jacques for accompanying me on a day-long stroll about the city on Saturday. Mimosas, shopping acquisitions and good company aside, I believe it was highly instrumental in Leftie’s great progress. (A mere shout to Jacques for his lesser behavior. He knows what he did.)
I cannot wait for the rain to cease so I can clean up my bike and take the city by storm!
Monday, April 19, 2010
Ninja Walks
April 18, 2010
What’s been keeping me from updating the blog, you ask? One word - WALKING! That’s right, after four weeks of hobbling, hopping, cabbing and busing, I am now able to employ two feet on my daily excursions. My left one is still clad in this horrid boot cast, but it has been toeing an awful lot of ground nonetheless. The doctor gave me the okay on Monday, and it should only be another two weeks before I return to...the dance.
Where have I walked, you ask? First and foremost, to retrieve my long-lost pink-tailed puppy from his beautifying stay in the West Village. This morning, it was all along 26th Street waiting in line for the Spring Awakening National Tour audition. My newly earth-trodding foot stood its ground for eight hours before I got the chance to perform my first two-footed audition since the tumble. And, all across the East Village this weekend for drinks, brunches, dinners and a walking tour of the neighborhood for a potential subletter who wants mi casa while I am away in...
JAPAN! Yes, that wonderful boyfriend of which I speak, and I have planned an exotic getaway in June to Tokyo where we will be staying with my uncle, the artiste. You may be thinking this is fortuitous as I am surely quite advanced in my Japanese studies by now. But alas, the love of my life and I decided to enter the country of Japan with only our love to get us by. So, no Rosetta Stone, no Japanese for Dummies, there’s going to be a lot of pointing and gesturing on our twelve day excursion. I should probably learn the Japanese word for “vegetarian” (if such a word exists), as I am not sure how I would gesture my ethical objections to eating meat.
I’d like to give a shout-out to my friends for making my first weekend back on foot so much fun, and also the wonderful bartender at Croxley Ale’s for designing the Key Lime Pie Martini to have actual graham cracker on the rim of the glass. Brilliant!
Singing and guitar are also coming along quite well in spite of my newfound mobility. I have a new R&H song that’s kicking butt (just ask Jacques), and I’m also working on some 80’s material for an audition coming up. And my acoustic version of “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen is pretty sweet. Again, Jacques can attest to this. He and I have been having a lovely reunion of walks, tricks and treats this weekend. And even a little rough tug with his rope toy.
I start training at Crunch tomorrow (it seems redundant, training to be a trainer) - hopefully the first week won’t require any serious jumping or hopping. Leftie might not be ready for such exertion just yet. Although toe curling is coming along quite well!
Oh! Another bright spot of my weekend for you - a new hat! Surely the Facebook pictures will be coming soon and you can see my new acquisition. I figured nothing like a fantastic accessory up top to detract attention from an ungainly shoe down below.
Off to bed as an early day of training for training awaits. Adieu!
What’s been keeping me from updating the blog, you ask? One word - WALKING! That’s right, after four weeks of hobbling, hopping, cabbing and busing, I am now able to employ two feet on my daily excursions. My left one is still clad in this horrid boot cast, but it has been toeing an awful lot of ground nonetheless. The doctor gave me the okay on Monday, and it should only be another two weeks before I return to...the dance.
Where have I walked, you ask? First and foremost, to retrieve my long-lost pink-tailed puppy from his beautifying stay in the West Village. This morning, it was all along 26th Street waiting in line for the Spring Awakening National Tour audition. My newly earth-trodding foot stood its ground for eight hours before I got the chance to perform my first two-footed audition since the tumble. And, all across the East Village this weekend for drinks, brunches, dinners and a walking tour of the neighborhood for a potential subletter who wants mi casa while I am away in...
JAPAN! Yes, that wonderful boyfriend of which I speak, and I have planned an exotic getaway in June to Tokyo where we will be staying with my uncle, the artiste. You may be thinking this is fortuitous as I am surely quite advanced in my Japanese studies by now. But alas, the love of my life and I decided to enter the country of Japan with only our love to get us by. So, no Rosetta Stone, no Japanese for Dummies, there’s going to be a lot of pointing and gesturing on our twelve day excursion. I should probably learn the Japanese word for “vegetarian” (if such a word exists), as I am not sure how I would gesture my ethical objections to eating meat.
I’d like to give a shout-out to my friends for making my first weekend back on foot so much fun, and also the wonderful bartender at Croxley Ale’s for designing the Key Lime Pie Martini to have actual graham cracker on the rim of the glass. Brilliant!
Singing and guitar are also coming along quite well in spite of my newfound mobility. I have a new R&H song that’s kicking butt (just ask Jacques), and I’m also working on some 80’s material for an audition coming up. And my acoustic version of “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen is pretty sweet. Again, Jacques can attest to this. He and I have been having a lovely reunion of walks, tricks and treats this weekend. And even a little rough tug with his rope toy.
I start training at Crunch tomorrow (it seems redundant, training to be a trainer) - hopefully the first week won’t require any serious jumping or hopping. Leftie might not be ready for such exertion just yet. Although toe curling is coming along quite well!
Oh! Another bright spot of my weekend for you - a new hat! Surely the Facebook pictures will be coming soon and you can see my new acquisition. I figured nothing like a fantastic accessory up top to detract attention from an ungainly shoe down below.
Off to bed as an early day of training for training awaits. Adieu!
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Ninja Checkpoint
April 10, 2010
Well, it’s been one month since I had my little slip down those pesky stairs at West 4th Street.
Has it been the most productive month of my life? Let’s see. In the past four weeks I:
- Learned two new monologues
- Learned two new songs
- Learned five songs on guitar
- Cooked a dozen new meals (several of the matzoh variety)
- Did about fifty one-legged ninja workouts
- Took pictures of blossoming trees and sketchy East Villagers
- Watched three seasons of Lost (shameful, I know)
- Ventured out for one-footed drinking on several an occasion
- Made zero progress on the Japanese front as my mother reminds me
- Avoided any knitting or domestic-related activities
...and booked two shows for the summer at Papermill Theatre in New Hampshire with the love of my life!!
That’s right, I will be playing Marcy in “25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” and Helena in “The Mystery of Edwin Drood.” My man will be serving as the vice-principal in “Spelling Bee” which should fulfill my long-time fantasy of having a student-faculty academic affair! (TMI?)
So, the monkey thing didn’t work out, but I now get to play an awesome over-achieving middle schooler and perform in a choose your own ending murder mystery musical!!
And, P.S. I’ve overcome my fear of the underground and have ridden the subway the past few days with no great injury to myself or others. I made my way up to the Lincoln Center Library this morning to acquire some new music for my Rodgers and Hammerstein collection and spent the evening listening and singing.
I also have a few more proposals my two-footed neighbors have shared with me, that I would like to share with you:
“How ‘bout you let me put your feet in my mouth while I rub your ankles?”
(uttered while I was carrying groceries back to my apartment)
“I hope your leg gets better soon, ‘cause I know when you walk, you gonna set the street on fire!”
(coming back from my “Tommy” audition in my yellow ingenue dress)
Only two more weeks of crutches. Who knows where they will lead? Stay tuned.
Well, it’s been one month since I had my little slip down those pesky stairs at West 4th Street.
Has it been the most productive month of my life? Let’s see. In the past four weeks I:
- Learned two new monologues
- Learned two new songs
- Learned five songs on guitar
- Cooked a dozen new meals (several of the matzoh variety)
- Did about fifty one-legged ninja workouts
- Took pictures of blossoming trees and sketchy East Villagers
- Watched three seasons of Lost (shameful, I know)
- Ventured out for one-footed drinking on several an occasion
- Made zero progress on the Japanese front as my mother reminds me
- Avoided any knitting or domestic-related activities
...and booked two shows for the summer at Papermill Theatre in New Hampshire with the love of my life!!
That’s right, I will be playing Marcy in “25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” and Helena in “The Mystery of Edwin Drood.” My man will be serving as the vice-principal in “Spelling Bee” which should fulfill my long-time fantasy of having a student-faculty academic affair! (TMI?)
So, the monkey thing didn’t work out, but I now get to play an awesome over-achieving middle schooler and perform in a choose your own ending murder mystery musical!!
And, P.S. I’ve overcome my fear of the underground and have ridden the subway the past few days with no great injury to myself or others. I made my way up to the Lincoln Center Library this morning to acquire some new music for my Rodgers and Hammerstein collection and spent the evening listening and singing.
I also have a few more proposals my two-footed neighbors have shared with me, that I would like to share with you:
“How ‘bout you let me put your feet in my mouth while I rub your ankles?”
(uttered while I was carrying groceries back to my apartment)
“I hope your leg gets better soon, ‘cause I know when you walk, you gonna set the street on fire!”
(coming back from my “Tommy” audition in my yellow ingenue dress)
Only two more weeks of crutches. Who knows where they will lead? Stay tuned.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Ninja Scout at Large
April 5, 2010
What a delightful Passover (and Easter) weekend. Plenty more variations on the matzoh-caprese theme, including a wonderful omelette this morning, and a well-received matzoh brei at my friend’s Easter Brunch yesterday. I must say, however, the non-Passover brunch items were a bit tastier, the chocolates and brightly colored peeps, in particular. And guess who scored two eggs in the Sheridan Square Easter Egg Hunt? That would be the wiliest one-footed scout below 14th Street - yours truly. A shout-out to the strong gentlemen who carried me up and down the four flights of stairs for the egg-finding mission. An apology to those behind us for the delay.
After Easter brunch, I took my newly pink-tailed pup on a walk around the West Village where his festive tail was met with nary a long glance from the holiday revelers.
Today I discovered a way to go grocery shopping without the assistance of Fresh Direct. Three words: Canvas shoulder bag. I have always thought them to be a bit on the pretentious side, but at last I have a concrete use for one. Cumbersome cereal boxes and heavy canned items are no longer a match for me!
I threw my ankle and wrist weights into today’s ninja workout and was most satisfied. At the suggestion of the one I love, I did a horizontal faux running exercise, which was a surprisingly effective cardio workout. I targeted my obliques by putting on wrist weights and doing side bends with my arms extended. And I increased my quad workout by putting an ankle weight on for one-legged barre. Grande success!
I sang a bunch, some boring music theory exercises and then the song I’m planning to sing for an audition for “Beehive” next week. I’ve also got my callback for “Tommy” coming up, so I worked on that, as well.
Chinese with my friend Kira and then some marathon-style Lost watching this evening. Don’t judge.
What a delightful Passover (and Easter) weekend. Plenty more variations on the matzoh-caprese theme, including a wonderful omelette this morning, and a well-received matzoh brei at my friend’s Easter Brunch yesterday. I must say, however, the non-Passover brunch items were a bit tastier, the chocolates and brightly colored peeps, in particular. And guess who scored two eggs in the Sheridan Square Easter Egg Hunt? That would be the wiliest one-footed scout below 14th Street - yours truly. A shout-out to the strong gentlemen who carried me up and down the four flights of stairs for the egg-finding mission. An apology to those behind us for the delay.
After Easter brunch, I took my newly pink-tailed pup on a walk around the West Village where his festive tail was met with nary a long glance from the holiday revelers.
Today I discovered a way to go grocery shopping without the assistance of Fresh Direct. Three words: Canvas shoulder bag. I have always thought them to be a bit on the pretentious side, but at last I have a concrete use for one. Cumbersome cereal boxes and heavy canned items are no longer a match for me!
I threw my ankle and wrist weights into today’s ninja workout and was most satisfied. At the suggestion of the one I love, I did a horizontal faux running exercise, which was a surprisingly effective cardio workout. I targeted my obliques by putting on wrist weights and doing side bends with my arms extended. And I increased my quad workout by putting an ankle weight on for one-legged barre. Grande success!
I sang a bunch, some boring music theory exercises and then the song I’m planning to sing for an audition for “Beehive” next week. I’ve also got my callback for “Tommy” coming up, so I worked on that, as well.
Chinese with my friend Kira and then some marathon-style Lost watching this evening. Don’t judge.
Friday, April 2, 2010
Civic Ninja
April 2, 2010
Not only did I do my taxes today (an ideal activity for a very muscularly sore cripple), I also signed a petition to help a restaurant owner acquire a liquor license. That’s right, I am out and about taking full advantage of my right to pay taxes and drink in a public place. God bless America!
On a more musical note, I plugged in my old Casio keyboard this morning, dusted it off and went through some exercises from my tortured days in music theory class at NYU. They’re not half as bad as I remember them, and I think the practice is worthy of incorporating into my daily routine. I also sang through some of my songs and tried not to move my jaw. It’s considered bad form, believe it or not, to move your mouth too much while you’re singing. Let’s face it, I’ve got another few weeks stuck in my apartment, I might as well tackle the nitty gritty.
I succumbed to “Lost” for a large part of the afternoon, I will not disclose specifics.
I hobbled to Tompkins Square park around 3:30 to remind myself that I am not lost on an island, but in fact residing in (arguably) the best city in the world and, in the words of Avenue Q, “there is life outside your apartment.” I brought along my camera and have posted my findings for your viewing pleasure. I’ve become quite fond of that little device, and I’m starting to foray into editing my raw masterpieces on iPhoto. See if you can spot which ones have been edited...
Since most of my friends are either celebrating Good Friday or too cool to hang with their crippled pal, I spent my Friday night organizing the apartment. It had to be done. I also wrote to my uncle in Japan (he’s a famous artist there and a mentor to me), and I uploaded the pictures from my camera which you see before you. Tragically, I have yet to learn any of my uncle's photography skills, so try not to be too critical of my collection.
I practiced guitar and decided to print out the online tabs which I’ve been using, as playing with my computer between my legs has grown rather tiresome.
More “matzoh caprese” -like food items interspersed throughout the day. The combination of flavors has lost all appeal. Tomorrow night I’m going out for Indian food, a surprisingly Passover-friendly cuisine (if you’re cool with eating rice, that is, and I totally am).
Losing the energy to write -- matzoh lacks the power to sustain...
Lost Ninja
April 1, 2010
Good news on this sunny April Fool’s Day! The one-footed triple threat of the New York musical theatre scene is going in for a callback for “Tommy” next week. I spent some time tonight watching clips from the 90’s Broadway production, and I’m going to try and hit the library tomorrow to watch the whole thing.
I had a killer two-hour upper body workout at the gym this morning, followed by a two mile walk home on my crutches. It’s too nice out for cabs, though, as my sister said, I could just roll down the windows. Needless to say, my arms and the rest of me were largely incapacitated for the remainder of the day.
I made an awesome matzoh caprese salad, with matzoh (duh), green tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, avocado and chopped basil. I called it a “Jewish Italian tapas.” I also made a strawberry milkshake with my new egg beaters. Apparently, my apartment lacks a blender. Which is funny, because, that’s always been the primary kitchen appliance in my previous apartments. However, the egg beaters were sufficient and the milkshake was quite tasty.
Okay, okay, I have a confession to make. Yesterday I started watching “Lost.” And...it’s freaking awesome. I’m already halfway through the first season. Should I be ashamed of this? Can I call it acting research? See, it’s just that all the smart people I hang around are always talking about it, and I can only stand being a cultural alien for so long. I’ve always stood on my high horse and said I didn’t have time in my life to watch tv, but now I kind of do. Besides, reading a book (about fifteen bucks a pop) is a far more expensive hobby than watching Netflix (a delightful luxury subsidized in whole by my delightful boyfriend!). So, don’t try to stop me. I’m watching “Lost,” but I’m not giving up on any of my other more, well, productive activities.
I started playing “Lean on Me” today on guitar. I thought it would make a nice dedication to my trusty crutches. And, I bought a tuner (long overdue) and an adaptor for my keyboard, so I can start working on some ear training and pitch exercises. That’s right. I’m not some laze-about, tv-watching, crowd-following “Lost” junkie. What “Lost” and I have is strictly casual. And I’m about to go engage in some more. (And no, sadly, this is not some April Fool’s joke. I really have been sucked in. Goodnight.)
Good news on this sunny April Fool’s Day! The one-footed triple threat of the New York musical theatre scene is going in for a callback for “Tommy” next week. I spent some time tonight watching clips from the 90’s Broadway production, and I’m going to try and hit the library tomorrow to watch the whole thing.
I had a killer two-hour upper body workout at the gym this morning, followed by a two mile walk home on my crutches. It’s too nice out for cabs, though, as my sister said, I could just roll down the windows. Needless to say, my arms and the rest of me were largely incapacitated for the remainder of the day.
I made an awesome matzoh caprese salad, with matzoh (duh), green tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, avocado and chopped basil. I called it a “Jewish Italian tapas.” I also made a strawberry milkshake with my new egg beaters. Apparently, my apartment lacks a blender. Which is funny, because, that’s always been the primary kitchen appliance in my previous apartments. However, the egg beaters were sufficient and the milkshake was quite tasty.
Okay, okay, I have a confession to make. Yesterday I started watching “Lost.” And...it’s freaking awesome. I’m already halfway through the first season. Should I be ashamed of this? Can I call it acting research? See, it’s just that all the smart people I hang around are always talking about it, and I can only stand being a cultural alien for so long. I’ve always stood on my high horse and said I didn’t have time in my life to watch tv, but now I kind of do. Besides, reading a book (about fifteen bucks a pop) is a far more expensive hobby than watching Netflix (a delightful luxury subsidized in whole by my delightful boyfriend!). So, don’t try to stop me. I’m watching “Lost,” but I’m not giving up on any of my other more, well, productive activities.
I started playing “Lean on Me” today on guitar. I thought it would make a nice dedication to my trusty crutches. And, I bought a tuner (long overdue) and an adaptor for my keyboard, so I can start working on some ear training and pitch exercises. That’s right. I’m not some laze-about, tv-watching, crowd-following “Lost” junkie. What “Lost” and I have is strictly casual. And I’m about to go engage in some more. (And no, sadly, this is not some April Fool’s joke. I really have been sucked in. Goodnight.)
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Scalding Hot Ninja
March 31, 2010
This morning I bid adieu to the love of my life who left for the last five weeks of his tour. You will have my undivided attention once more.
I have been a busy love-struck ninja this past week. But my two-footed love and I met with much adversity from the forces of nature, transportation and the musical theatre gods.
Torrential rain, missed buses and anticlimactic auditions aside, it was a lovely week. I invented a new exercise/game on my crutches (a staple for the one-footed aerobic craze I intend to start, entitled “Core on Crutches”). Holding the crutches with one’s arms locked, the object of the game is to pick up the good foot from the ground and remain balanced mid-air for as long as possible. I discovered it in Whole Foods, perfected my technique at the Regal Cinemas in Times Square, and have been frightening food shoppers and moviegoers all week long! My record is around ten seconds.
I paid a trip to my wonderful orthopedist - he who loves to make the injured wait several hours for bad news - and got an update. 3-4 more weeks - BUT! - I can start putting a little weight on it. And, it turns out I can move my ankle! I guess I assumed they were all connected and my poor foot has lost all circulation from just hanging off the end of me for two weeks. It looks a lot more lifelike now with the frequent ankle rolls I have been incorporating into my busy days.
I had a great ninja workout today, with an emphatic one-legged barre to work my left leg (and ankle, now that I realize I can). And with putting a little weight on my foot, I can get back into my splits, which are still quite arresting.
In honor of Passover, I made a delicious matzoh-brei this morning (fried egg with matzoh, to be enjoyed with maple syrup) for myself and he who makes me hot apple cider with whipped cream and marshmallows.
I shall now relate an amusing story about said apple cider. After an arduous day of auditions, an unpleasant visit to the foot doctor, and a Passover seder where we were seated at the unruly teen’s table, my love and I settled into bed to watch a movie. It was a nice end to a stressful day. We had acquired the supplies for our fall-time treat of apple cider - cider, marshmallows, whipped cream. I had my first sip. Delicious, but very hot. My second, even better, with a melted marshmallow sneaking its way in to my mouth. My third, unbelievably HOT! And not in my mouth, but all over the crotch and upper thighs of my jeans! “Scalding hot va@#$%!!” I shouted out, but was too paralyzed by fear of (further) injuring my foot to move and my wrist remained in the downward motion of pouring the cider onto my person. Not until Chris urged me to stop pouring and start moving did I hobble my way out of the bed only to discover it had seeped its sweet, cider-y way into my blanket and sheets. He who makes everything right proceeded to do an impromptu laundry load while we watched “The Proposal” on Netflix. I tell this story to demonstrate several items: 1) I have the most wonderful boyfriend and am very lucky. 2) It is time I add “being less oblivious” to my list of goals. 3) Even at the time, it was really, really funny. Hot (scalding), but funny.
I would like to give a shout-out to my father for making the best food at Passover time. Oh, and speaking of genetic culinary talent, my angel food cake was greatly appreciated!
In musical news, I began learning “Love Story” by Taylor Swift on guitar today, and it’s coming along well.
I am off to the West Village to return my adorable pup to my dad’s apartment, and, of course, dig into some Passover leftovers. Happy matzoh, folks!
This morning I bid adieu to the love of my life who left for the last five weeks of his tour. You will have my undivided attention once more.
I have been a busy love-struck ninja this past week. But my two-footed love and I met with much adversity from the forces of nature, transportation and the musical theatre gods.
Torrential rain, missed buses and anticlimactic auditions aside, it was a lovely week. I invented a new exercise/game on my crutches (a staple for the one-footed aerobic craze I intend to start, entitled “Core on Crutches”). Holding the crutches with one’s arms locked, the object of the game is to pick up the good foot from the ground and remain balanced mid-air for as long as possible. I discovered it in Whole Foods, perfected my technique at the Regal Cinemas in Times Square, and have been frightening food shoppers and moviegoers all week long! My record is around ten seconds.
I paid a trip to my wonderful orthopedist - he who loves to make the injured wait several hours for bad news - and got an update. 3-4 more weeks - BUT! - I can start putting a little weight on it. And, it turns out I can move my ankle! I guess I assumed they were all connected and my poor foot has lost all circulation from just hanging off the end of me for two weeks. It looks a lot more lifelike now with the frequent ankle rolls I have been incorporating into my busy days.
I had a great ninja workout today, with an emphatic one-legged barre to work my left leg (and ankle, now that I realize I can). And with putting a little weight on my foot, I can get back into my splits, which are still quite arresting.
In honor of Passover, I made a delicious matzoh-brei this morning (fried egg with matzoh, to be enjoyed with maple syrup) for myself and he who makes me hot apple cider with whipped cream and marshmallows.
I shall now relate an amusing story about said apple cider. After an arduous day of auditions, an unpleasant visit to the foot doctor, and a Passover seder where we were seated at the unruly teen’s table, my love and I settled into bed to watch a movie. It was a nice end to a stressful day. We had acquired the supplies for our fall-time treat of apple cider - cider, marshmallows, whipped cream. I had my first sip. Delicious, but very hot. My second, even better, with a melted marshmallow sneaking its way in to my mouth. My third, unbelievably HOT! And not in my mouth, but all over the crotch and upper thighs of my jeans! “Scalding hot va@#$%!!” I shouted out, but was too paralyzed by fear of (further) injuring my foot to move and my wrist remained in the downward motion of pouring the cider onto my person. Not until Chris urged me to stop pouring and start moving did I hobble my way out of the bed only to discover it had seeped its sweet, cider-y way into my blanket and sheets. He who makes everything right proceeded to do an impromptu laundry load while we watched “The Proposal” on Netflix. I tell this story to demonstrate several items: 1) I have the most wonderful boyfriend and am very lucky. 2) It is time I add “being less oblivious” to my list of goals. 3) Even at the time, it was really, really funny. Hot (scalding), but funny.
I would like to give a shout-out to my father for making the best food at Passover time. Oh, and speaking of genetic culinary talent, my angel food cake was greatly appreciated!
In musical news, I began learning “Love Story” by Taylor Swift on guitar today, and it’s coming along well.
I am off to the West Village to return my adorable pup to my dad’s apartment, and, of course, dig into some Passover leftovers. Happy matzoh, folks!
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
A Ninja in New England...
March 24, 2010
Ninja’s in Massachusetts! My wonderfully sweet and charming boyfriend with whom I am vacationing has actually donned a new stage name for me and my one-leg status -- Peg Leg Jim!
Well, good news, folks. Peg Leg Jim got herself a callback for “Tommy” after that one-footed rendition of “Toucha Toucha Touch Me.” Tragically, her decaying foot will still be “en caste” for the dance callback, so fingers crossed that a pre-fall video of my dancing abilities will suffice.
The trip to Boston was rather eventful. Thanks to the delightful weather and skilled communication of Delta Airlines, he who brightens my rainy days got in a bit late on Monday, and after a high-speed car ride to the bus stop, we missed the bus by about ten minutes. So we boarded the even higher-speed Acela train with our Chinese takeout, luggage and angel food cake. [Sidebar: Angel food cake rocked! I’ve decided I am most successful in the baking department of kitchen duties (although I did prepare a delicious omelette for my blue eyed baby this morning).]
The weather in Boston has also been a particularly accommodating wintry mix, but no matter to me with my strong man who generously bestows piggy back rides! We had an audition yesterday in B-town which went rather well. We got to meet some of the Boston actors who are a rather different blend than New York thespians.
I think it’s nice how my broken foot helps others feel endeared to me. For example, walking down the street, strangers are inclined to shout out positive encouragement, like, “Keep going, honey, almost there!” and “It’s gonna be stronger when it heals” and the especially observant, “Sweetie, your leg gonna be okay!” Much thanks to all these well-wishers and no doubt others who will continue to root me on my one-footed way.
My gentleman and I saw “Alice in Wonderland” in 3-D last night with his family, and it was seriously, stupendously awesome. The chairs were positioned perfectly so I could prop up “le foot”, Chris and I indulged in our preferred cinema snack of popcorn and Reese’s Pieces, and the movie quite simply was visually intoxicating. I highly recommend it to all.
I decided against giving the good foot a pedicure, as I thought it might add to the other foot's its burgeoning inferiority complex. Asian ladies of Manhattan, get ready to blow out all the stops when my cast comes off. I’m expecting my toes to hit the streets of New York with a nice spring pink. Probably in flats.
Taco night tonight at Chris’ mom’s house - woohoo! Judging by her recipe for the Strawberry Mousse (more appropriately called Strawberry Snow in the family), I expect it will be quite tasty. Fear not, health-conscious readers, I will incorporate a one-legged ninja workout rather soon. Off to enjoy a sunny New England afternoon!
Ninja’s in Massachusetts! My wonderfully sweet and charming boyfriend with whom I am vacationing has actually donned a new stage name for me and my one-leg status -- Peg Leg Jim!
Well, good news, folks. Peg Leg Jim got herself a callback for “Tommy” after that one-footed rendition of “Toucha Toucha Touch Me.” Tragically, her decaying foot will still be “en caste” for the dance callback, so fingers crossed that a pre-fall video of my dancing abilities will suffice.
The trip to Boston was rather eventful. Thanks to the delightful weather and skilled communication of Delta Airlines, he who brightens my rainy days got in a bit late on Monday, and after a high-speed car ride to the bus stop, we missed the bus by about ten minutes. So we boarded the even higher-speed Acela train with our Chinese takeout, luggage and angel food cake. [Sidebar: Angel food cake rocked! I’ve decided I am most successful in the baking department of kitchen duties (although I did prepare a delicious omelette for my blue eyed baby this morning).]
The weather in Boston has also been a particularly accommodating wintry mix, but no matter to me with my strong man who generously bestows piggy back rides! We had an audition yesterday in B-town which went rather well. We got to meet some of the Boston actors who are a rather different blend than New York thespians.
I think it’s nice how my broken foot helps others feel endeared to me. For example, walking down the street, strangers are inclined to shout out positive encouragement, like, “Keep going, honey, almost there!” and “It’s gonna be stronger when it heals” and the especially observant, “Sweetie, your leg gonna be okay!” Much thanks to all these well-wishers and no doubt others who will continue to root me on my one-footed way.
My gentleman and I saw “Alice in Wonderland” in 3-D last night with his family, and it was seriously, stupendously awesome. The chairs were positioned perfectly so I could prop up “le foot”, Chris and I indulged in our preferred cinema snack of popcorn and Reese’s Pieces, and the movie quite simply was visually intoxicating. I highly recommend it to all.
I decided against giving the good foot a pedicure, as I thought it might add to the other foot's its burgeoning inferiority complex. Asian ladies of Manhattan, get ready to blow out all the stops when my cast comes off. I’m expecting my toes to hit the streets of New York with a nice spring pink. Probably in flats.
Taco night tonight at Chris’ mom’s house - woohoo! Judging by her recipe for the Strawberry Mousse (more appropriately called Strawberry Snow in the family), I expect it will be quite tasty. Fear not, health-conscious readers, I will incorporate a one-legged ninja workout rather soon. Off to enjoy a sunny New England afternoon!
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Ninjas Can Be Angels, Too
March 21, 2010
It was a good Sunday.
Despite my vow to lay in bed all day and give my weary arms a rest, I rose from my bed around 1pm and hobbled out into the world. I didn’t get too far before I realized I’d left my credit card at home and had to turn around. Clearly this was my weary card’s attempt at a day of rest. Also unsuccessful.
I met my sister at the grocery store to procure the items necessary for making angel food cake. Hopefully the sister of my beloved for whom this cake is a gift is not reading this entry. As the love of my life returns from tour tomorrow for an entire nine days (hoorah! hoorah!), we’ll be staying at his sister’s home in Boston. And what does his sister like in the department of baked goods? Angel food cake. A challenging project, I thought, and one worthy of my efforts on this lovely Sunday.
One tube pan, a set of egg beaters and (don’t tell!) box of Duncan Hines cake mix later, I forayed back to my apartment with grocery bags clanking at my wrists, eager to be released. It’s nice having egg beaters, they’re more efficient than a blender and it’s fun to watch them in action. I also made a fluffy little strawberry mousse to go atop the angel food cake, which should conveniently cover up some of the browner parts. My book du jour is “I Was Told There’d Be Cake,” a humorous collection of essays (New York Times bestseller!!), and I thought an appropriate selection for my day of culinary adventure.
I must say I’m surprised how many two-footed New Yorkers take cabs in such exquisite weather. I stood in line for a cab for about fifteen minutes today behind an able-bodied family of four apparently averse to walking or taking the subway. Well, perhaps they had had a bad experience. We were in the vicinity of West Fourth Street. Were that not the case, even I may have ducked underground rather than stand in the heat for a four-wheeled yellow savior.
My other foot is putting up a fight about the incessant hopping. I’ve put it on warning that further complaints will not be tolerated, but if it’s lucky it may get a massage from he who tells me angel food makes sense when I make it. Ah. I am beyond excited to see my tall and handsome leading man tomorrow. We have a Chinese food date scheduled for the afternoon and then a lengthy bus ride to the city which makes great donuts (Boston cream) and lousy baseball teams (just kidding!!).
I am off to contemplate giving my good foot a re-manicure. It’s not fair that it has to parade around in decay, and yet would not two incongruous feet look even more odd? LIke I said, off to contemplate.
It was a good Sunday.
Despite my vow to lay in bed all day and give my weary arms a rest, I rose from my bed around 1pm and hobbled out into the world. I didn’t get too far before I realized I’d left my credit card at home and had to turn around. Clearly this was my weary card’s attempt at a day of rest. Also unsuccessful.
I met my sister at the grocery store to procure the items necessary for making angel food cake. Hopefully the sister of my beloved for whom this cake is a gift is not reading this entry. As the love of my life returns from tour tomorrow for an entire nine days (hoorah! hoorah!), we’ll be staying at his sister’s home in Boston. And what does his sister like in the department of baked goods? Angel food cake. A challenging project, I thought, and one worthy of my efforts on this lovely Sunday.
One tube pan, a set of egg beaters and (don’t tell!) box of Duncan Hines cake mix later, I forayed back to my apartment with grocery bags clanking at my wrists, eager to be released. It’s nice having egg beaters, they’re more efficient than a blender and it’s fun to watch them in action. I also made a fluffy little strawberry mousse to go atop the angel food cake, which should conveniently cover up some of the browner parts. My book du jour is “I Was Told There’d Be Cake,” a humorous collection of essays (New York Times bestseller!!), and I thought an appropriate selection for my day of culinary adventure.
I must say I’m surprised how many two-footed New Yorkers take cabs in such exquisite weather. I stood in line for a cab for about fifteen minutes today behind an able-bodied family of four apparently averse to walking or taking the subway. Well, perhaps they had had a bad experience. We were in the vicinity of West Fourth Street. Were that not the case, even I may have ducked underground rather than stand in the heat for a four-wheeled yellow savior.
My other foot is putting up a fight about the incessant hopping. I’ve put it on warning that further complaints will not be tolerated, but if it’s lucky it may get a massage from he who tells me angel food makes sense when I make it. Ah. I am beyond excited to see my tall and handsome leading man tomorrow. We have a Chinese food date scheduled for the afternoon and then a lengthy bus ride to the city which makes great donuts (Boston cream) and lousy baseball teams (just kidding!!).
I am off to contemplate giving my good foot a re-manicure. It’s not fair that it has to parade around in decay, and yet would not two incongruous feet look even more odd? LIke I said, off to contemplate.
Fearless Ninja Underground
March 20, 2010
Oh, friends. We have a few phrases that need to be eliminated from further conversations between now and April 10th (due date for returned capacity of foot).
1. “Better than you!” (in response to “How are you?”)
2. “Is your foot feeling better?” (I’m ashamed to say I’ve taken to responding to this question, “It’s still broken. It should
be healed in 2 1/2 weeks. But it feels fine!")
3. Gasp! “Are you okay?!?!” (Not a dissimilar answer from above)
I know we all mean well. But it’s not a cold, it’s not a cut, it’s a broken bone. The pain is mostly emotional and probably won’t be better til the damn thing is off and I have a job. But alas...
I woke up at 7am to go to an audition on this beautiful sunny day.
I visited Barnes and Noble in pursuit of an economically priced Japanese learning book, but was persuaded by he who rocks my world to get the more foolproof (and costly) Rosetta Stone. I opted to abide by his sage words and leave B&N’s friendly Japanese for Dummies selection.
This afternoon, in protest of taking a third taxi, I broke down and took the subway. No, NOT the F/V! I’m staying away from that dangerous labyrinth for quite some time. I took the less fearsome 1 train from 23rd Street. Did the hippity hop method going down and up the stairs, and then some serious core work to stay balanced on the one foot. I somehow managed to hit the elusive Saturday afternoon rush.
Chinese food and college interview prep with my sister tonight. Cuddled my adorable newly-groomed pup. Our playtime has been somewhat limited due to his vast desire for hiding under the table and my minor inability to catch him. I’ve had to resort to sneakier methods like luring him out by opening the refrigerator.
I crutched almost all the way back from the West Village to my apartment, a staggering one mile, perhaps? As I hobbled past the cabs stopped in traffic, I knew my heart would have hurt more watching the meter than my arms if I pushed myself the extra distance. When are the Special Olympics held? I reckon I could fare well in a long distance crutch competition.
Ah, it is already Sunday, the day of rest. I am ready to observe.
Oh, friends. We have a few phrases that need to be eliminated from further conversations between now and April 10th (due date for returned capacity of foot).
1. “Better than you!” (in response to “How are you?”)
2. “Is your foot feeling better?” (I’m ashamed to say I’ve taken to responding to this question, “It’s still broken. It should
be healed in 2 1/2 weeks. But it feels fine!")
3. Gasp! “Are you okay?!?!” (Not a dissimilar answer from above)
I know we all mean well. But it’s not a cold, it’s not a cut, it’s a broken bone. The pain is mostly emotional and probably won’t be better til the damn thing is off and I have a job. But alas...
I woke up at 7am to go to an audition on this beautiful sunny day.
I visited Barnes and Noble in pursuit of an economically priced Japanese learning book, but was persuaded by he who rocks my world to get the more foolproof (and costly) Rosetta Stone. I opted to abide by his sage words and leave B&N’s friendly Japanese for Dummies selection.
This afternoon, in protest of taking a third taxi, I broke down and took the subway. No, NOT the F/V! I’m staying away from that dangerous labyrinth for quite some time. I took the less fearsome 1 train from 23rd Street. Did the hippity hop method going down and up the stairs, and then some serious core work to stay balanced on the one foot. I somehow managed to hit the elusive Saturday afternoon rush.
Chinese food and college interview prep with my sister tonight. Cuddled my adorable newly-groomed pup. Our playtime has been somewhat limited due to his vast desire for hiding under the table and my minor inability to catch him. I’ve had to resort to sneakier methods like luring him out by opening the refrigerator.
I crutched almost all the way back from the West Village to my apartment, a staggering one mile, perhaps? As I hobbled past the cabs stopped in traffic, I knew my heart would have hurt more watching the meter than my arms if I pushed myself the extra distance. When are the Special Olympics held? I reckon I could fare well in a long distance crutch competition.
Ah, it is already Sunday, the day of rest. I am ready to observe.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Return of the One-Legged Ninja
March 19, 2010
Devoted readers, I realize that 48 hours have passed since I last filled you in on the exciting life and times of Manhattan’s favorite (musical!) cripple. Rest assured, the lapse has been due to an upturn in activity and extreme calluses on my fingers from prolonged “jam sessions”.
As per my Irish repertoire, I did attempt the old standard “Danny Boy,” but the tune seems to call for something a little edgier than my acoustic guitar. Perhaps some bagpipes or an accordion? So, I forayed into Canadian repertoire instead! I’ve added the Avril Lavigne hit “Things I’ll Never Say” to my fast-expanding collection.
To be honest, I spent a good part of the day reading this book about the cult. I suppose the author was well-acquainted with techniques to rope you in, because it kept me inside for most of the beautiful day. However, just at dusk I set out on my crutches to meet a friend for dinner. By the way, my new policy is I walk to anything below 14th street. It’s valuable, albeit tedious and painful exercise. Anyway, I’m hobbling along and I suddenly see an entire billboard filled with posters advertising a free concert given by the very cult about which I’ve been reading! And, I see a young guy nailing up another poster! In horror, I asked if he was responsible for the mass of sky blue Sri Chimnoy Concert of Peace posters, to which he gave me a skeptical look and said, no, he was putting up some ska band poster. I think he may have thought I was a cultie! How mortifying.
I determined the absolute worst activity to do on one leg is laundry. Let me preface this by saying, I am very lucky to have laundry in my building. It could be worse. Now, changing the laundry from washer to dryer was unpleasant, as I had to do it practically item by item so my newly clean wardrobe didn’t end up on the floor. But getting the load back upstairs was my downfall. I am a person who likes to fold laundry in the laundry room. I saw no need to change this motif, and I also saw no need to use my crutches while in the building. Well, that left me with two towering piles stacked up against my chin, the remaining items in a bag swung over my shoulder, and much room for error on my return hop home. A few good tank tops were lost to the cause.
I hit the gym today and rather hard. The wide-gapped stairs didn’t scare me one bit, and neither did the fear of exhausting my arms beyond their capacity to crutch. I one-leg rowed and one-leg biked to gear up my good leg for its primary carrier status. The one-leg row is probably the best cardio I’ve found thus far.
I spent some time in the garden by the Church of St. Luke and took some high-quality pictures. I can’t post them, because I left my camera at my dad’s apartment where my dog, Jacques, was being given a bath in the sink and I commissioned pictures to be taken in my absence.
I realize the Japanese language procrastination has gone on too long. It will be amended tomorrow.
I also shopped at a thrift store on my way back from the gym. I think that is a testament both to my love of shopping and mastery of crutches.
Devoted readers, I realize that 48 hours have passed since I last filled you in on the exciting life and times of Manhattan’s favorite (musical!) cripple. Rest assured, the lapse has been due to an upturn in activity and extreme calluses on my fingers from prolonged “jam sessions”.
As per my Irish repertoire, I did attempt the old standard “Danny Boy,” but the tune seems to call for something a little edgier than my acoustic guitar. Perhaps some bagpipes or an accordion? So, I forayed into Canadian repertoire instead! I’ve added the Avril Lavigne hit “Things I’ll Never Say” to my fast-expanding collection.
To be honest, I spent a good part of the day reading this book about the cult. I suppose the author was well-acquainted with techniques to rope you in, because it kept me inside for most of the beautiful day. However, just at dusk I set out on my crutches to meet a friend for dinner. By the way, my new policy is I walk to anything below 14th street. It’s valuable, albeit tedious and painful exercise. Anyway, I’m hobbling along and I suddenly see an entire billboard filled with posters advertising a free concert given by the very cult about which I’ve been reading! And, I see a young guy nailing up another poster! In horror, I asked if he was responsible for the mass of sky blue Sri Chimnoy Concert of Peace posters, to which he gave me a skeptical look and said, no, he was putting up some ska band poster. I think he may have thought I was a cultie! How mortifying.
I determined the absolute worst activity to do on one leg is laundry. Let me preface this by saying, I am very lucky to have laundry in my building. It could be worse. Now, changing the laundry from washer to dryer was unpleasant, as I had to do it practically item by item so my newly clean wardrobe didn’t end up on the floor. But getting the load back upstairs was my downfall. I am a person who likes to fold laundry in the laundry room. I saw no need to change this motif, and I also saw no need to use my crutches while in the building. Well, that left me with two towering piles stacked up against my chin, the remaining items in a bag swung over my shoulder, and much room for error on my return hop home. A few good tank tops were lost to the cause.
I hit the gym today and rather hard. The wide-gapped stairs didn’t scare me one bit, and neither did the fear of exhausting my arms beyond their capacity to crutch. I one-leg rowed and one-leg biked to gear up my good leg for its primary carrier status. The one-leg row is probably the best cardio I’ve found thus far.
I spent some time in the garden by the Church of St. Luke and took some high-quality pictures. I can’t post them, because I left my camera at my dad’s apartment where my dog, Jacques, was being given a bath in the sink and I commissioned pictures to be taken in my absence.
I realize the Japanese language procrastination has gone on too long. It will be amended tomorrow.
I also shopped at a thrift store on my way back from the gym. I think that is a testament both to my love of shopping and mastery of crutches.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
When Irish Eyes Are Smiling...
March 17, 2010
Alas, it was beautiful weather, so I couldn’t be all that productive today, but I did take great strides (literally).
I walked on my crutches all the way from my apartment on 3rd and C to the Crunch Gym at Astor Place - that’s about seven avenues for those unfamiliar, a journey comprising maybe half an hour - for a second interview to be a personal trainer. I suspect my grace and balance on crutches was rather impressive, because I was awarded the job on the spot! I imagine picking up clients sans leg would be a bit more difficult, but I won’t face that challenge as I don’t start until my foot is healed.
An aside:
Would the drunk St. Patty’s Day revelers of the East Village kindly leave one-legged (albeit no less appealing) girls alone? While hobbling along, I was asked by middle-aged men in green not once, not twice, but three times if they could carry me to my destination!! No thanks, bud, I think I can make it there safer on my own. Let’s also keep in mind this was around 11 in the morning.
Once home and safely out of the midst of chivalrous leprechauns, I solidified my Cockney monologue for tomorrow’s audition, as well as the latest addition to my one-legged musical repertoire. I’m starting to wonder if I should offer up some one-legged pullbacks (tap step) when questioned about dance abilities?
I finished “The Brain in Love” - awesome!! - and am now onto “Cartwheels in a Sari,” a memoir of a woman who grew up being told she was the ‘chosen one’ in a cult. Now my parents told me I was the ‘A’ number one princess angel, and I never complained about that. It was likely what launched me into this incredibly exciting career as a performer! Thanks guys!
Well, I figured the St. Patty’s bar crowds would be a bit too much for me to handle. But I looked up the guitar chords for “When Irish Eyes are Smiling” and “Danny Boy,” and both look pretty doable. It’s on tomorrow’s agenda. I figure the Irish won’t mind me putting it off.
Alas, it was beautiful weather, so I couldn’t be all that productive today, but I did take great strides (literally).
I walked on my crutches all the way from my apartment on 3rd and C to the Crunch Gym at Astor Place - that’s about seven avenues for those unfamiliar, a journey comprising maybe half an hour - for a second interview to be a personal trainer. I suspect my grace and balance on crutches was rather impressive, because I was awarded the job on the spot! I imagine picking up clients sans leg would be a bit more difficult, but I won’t face that challenge as I don’t start until my foot is healed.
An aside:
Would the drunk St. Patty’s Day revelers of the East Village kindly leave one-legged (albeit no less appealing) girls alone? While hobbling along, I was asked by middle-aged men in green not once, not twice, but three times if they could carry me to my destination!! No thanks, bud, I think I can make it there safer on my own. Let’s also keep in mind this was around 11 in the morning.
Once home and safely out of the midst of chivalrous leprechauns, I solidified my Cockney monologue for tomorrow’s audition, as well as the latest addition to my one-legged musical repertoire. I’m starting to wonder if I should offer up some one-legged pullbacks (tap step) when questioned about dance abilities?
I finished “The Brain in Love” - awesome!! - and am now onto “Cartwheels in a Sari,” a memoir of a woman who grew up being told she was the ‘chosen one’ in a cult. Now my parents told me I was the ‘A’ number one princess angel, and I never complained about that. It was likely what launched me into this incredibly exciting career as a performer! Thanks guys!
Well, I figured the St. Patty’s bar crowds would be a bit too much for me to handle. But I looked up the guitar chords for “When Irish Eyes are Smiling” and “Danny Boy,” and both look pretty doable. It’s on tomorrow’s agenda. I figure the Irish won’t mind me putting it off.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Winners Make Their Own Luck
March 16, 2010
Note to auditioning actors: Get crutches.
Casting people are SO MUCH NICER!!!
So I get to my audition today for “Tommy” in Asbury Park, New Jersey. I arrive at the church where the auditions are being held, and I hear someone belting out “Proud Mary” from what seems to be directly below me. In fact, about seventeen stairs below me. I am told to wait until she is done before I make my belabored and noisy descent at the end of which I am greeted by a table containing most likely the director, producer and choreographer of the show. I hobble into the nearby holding room as quickly as possible. An auspicious beginning you may (and I did) think, but not for long.
By the time I was called, I was ready to hobble to the accompanist and hop center stage. I began singing “Toucha Toucha Touch Me.”
“I was feeling done in. Couldn’t win. I’d only ever kissed before...”
I guess something about seeing a very young-looking girl sing about being touched for the very first time whilst balanced on one foot and running her hands through her hair suggestively is pretty entertaining. The three men behind the table were cracking up. I would say it went well. After I finished, they asked if my parents knew where I was and would I please sing another song. See??!! I think the crutches help people see my talent in a completely new (and hopefully marketable!) light.
Now the stairs of Trinity Church in Asbury Park, New Jersey, were not the only stairs which I battled and conquered today. I also mounted the fifteen steep and generously spaced stairs leading to my fancy West Village gym.
Here’s my technique:
Hold onto the railing.
LOOK at the next stair and maintain eye contact (should have heeded that one last week).
Hop onto it.
It’s a fantastic cardiovascular warm-up! At the gym, I did a really neat balancing glute exercise where I stand on one leg (obviously), take a cable in one hand, a few feet away from the machine, and reach it down to my toe while extending my other leg back. It’s great until you realize one side of your bum is going to be quite sore in the morning. But for all you two-legged folk, just alternate.
Delicious Chinese in NJ with mi madre. Golden East Garden, you know how to make a one-legged girl smile. My fortune: “Winners make their own luck.” I like that.
Note to auditioning actors: Get crutches.
Casting people are SO MUCH NICER!!!
So I get to my audition today for “Tommy” in Asbury Park, New Jersey. I arrive at the church where the auditions are being held, and I hear someone belting out “Proud Mary” from what seems to be directly below me. In fact, about seventeen stairs below me. I am told to wait until she is done before I make my belabored and noisy descent at the end of which I am greeted by a table containing most likely the director, producer and choreographer of the show. I hobble into the nearby holding room as quickly as possible. An auspicious beginning you may (and I did) think, but not for long.
By the time I was called, I was ready to hobble to the accompanist and hop center stage. I began singing “Toucha Toucha Touch Me.”
“I was feeling done in. Couldn’t win. I’d only ever kissed before...”
I guess something about seeing a very young-looking girl sing about being touched for the very first time whilst balanced on one foot and running her hands through her hair suggestively is pretty entertaining. The three men behind the table were cracking up. I would say it went well. After I finished, they asked if my parents knew where I was and would I please sing another song. See??!! I think the crutches help people see my talent in a completely new (and hopefully marketable!) light.
Now the stairs of Trinity Church in Asbury Park, New Jersey, were not the only stairs which I battled and conquered today. I also mounted the fifteen steep and generously spaced stairs leading to my fancy West Village gym.
Here’s my technique:
Hold onto the railing.
LOOK at the next stair and maintain eye contact (should have heeded that one last week).
Hop onto it.
It’s a fantastic cardiovascular warm-up! At the gym, I did a really neat balancing glute exercise where I stand on one leg (obviously), take a cable in one hand, a few feet away from the machine, and reach it down to my toe while extending my other leg back. It’s great until you realize one side of your bum is going to be quite sore in the morning. But for all you two-legged folk, just alternate.
Delicious Chinese in NJ with mi madre. Golden East Garden, you know how to make a one-legged girl smile. My fortune: “Winners make their own luck.” I like that.
Monday, March 15, 2010
I'm Gimpin' in the Rain...
March 15, 2010
Really? Today is the “Ides of March?” ‘Cause, no offense, but the 10th was a whole heck of a lot scarier.
Anyhoo, today was a lovely day in New York City. I went on my first audition as a one-legged person and was rather well-received. It was for “Singin’ in the Rain,” so as I walked in on my crutches, I simply informed the director that I was a fantastic tapper, my cast would be off in a few weeks, and I couldn’t miss the opportunity to audition for one of my favorite musicals. I left my crutches at the piano, hopped center stage and belted out “I Can Cook, Too.” It seemed most appreciated.
I added a new song to my six-string repertoire! (six-string=guitar) “Brown-Eyed Girl.” As I mentioned to my heartthrob of a gentleman, I play it ironically since I am, in fact, a hazel-eyed girl. I hope my neighbors are noting the irony. I also worked on “You Belong...” and “Check Yes Juliet.” Watched the music video of the latter for the first time and confirmed my suspicions that I’m a bit old for the genre but remain undeterred.
I’ve been reading a book my friend Kira gave me (this is a ploy to see if she is reading), called “The Brain in Love.” It’s nonfiction by a prominent brain doctor, and it’s really neat. You can diagnose yourself and those around you and learn what natural supplements you can take to become more attractive/pleasant/etc. to those of the opposite sex.
My newly Cockney-ified monologue is staring to seriously rock. I am pretty psyched to show if off at my audition Thursday. Tomorrow I’m auditioning for “Tommy” in New Jersey, so I went over my audition pieces for that, as well. Seeing as one of my songs is “Toucha Toucha Touch Me” from Rocky Horror where I move around quite a bit, some revisions were necessary. I am also excited to see my mom tomorrow after my audition and have some of New Jersey's finest Chinese food.
Oh! I watched “The Pajama Game” on Netflix (even better than going to Lincoln Center and watching a Broadway show on video!). It has some great dancing, and Doris Day is very charming with her hands on her hips for most of the musical numbers. Sid is kind of creepy, though, the way he strong-arms Babe into kissing him, but I guess it was a different time.
I finished the evening with a 30-minute, '80's themed one-legged ninja routine, and incorporated the resistance bands on loan from my tall Lithuanian prince to do some bicep curls, tricep extensions and chest press. I did these balanced on one foot, which added a nice hamstring workout, to boot.
I'd like to give a shout-out to the creators of Fresh Direct for a) being so thoughtful, and b) delivering such fresh oranges and ripe avocados to my door. You guys rock.
Sleep calls. Night!
Really? Today is the “Ides of March?” ‘Cause, no offense, but the 10th was a whole heck of a lot scarier.
Anyhoo, today was a lovely day in New York City. I went on my first audition as a one-legged person and was rather well-received. It was for “Singin’ in the Rain,” so as I walked in on my crutches, I simply informed the director that I was a fantastic tapper, my cast would be off in a few weeks, and I couldn’t miss the opportunity to audition for one of my favorite musicals. I left my crutches at the piano, hopped center stage and belted out “I Can Cook, Too.” It seemed most appreciated.
I added a new song to my six-string repertoire! (six-string=guitar) “Brown-Eyed Girl.” As I mentioned to my heartthrob of a gentleman, I play it ironically since I am, in fact, a hazel-eyed girl. I hope my neighbors are noting the irony. I also worked on “You Belong...” and “Check Yes Juliet.” Watched the music video of the latter for the first time and confirmed my suspicions that I’m a bit old for the genre but remain undeterred.
I’ve been reading a book my friend Kira gave me (this is a ploy to see if she is reading), called “The Brain in Love.” It’s nonfiction by a prominent brain doctor, and it’s really neat. You can diagnose yourself and those around you and learn what natural supplements you can take to become more attractive/pleasant/etc. to those of the opposite sex.
My newly Cockney-ified monologue is staring to seriously rock. I am pretty psyched to show if off at my audition Thursday. Tomorrow I’m auditioning for “Tommy” in New Jersey, so I went over my audition pieces for that, as well. Seeing as one of my songs is “Toucha Toucha Touch Me” from Rocky Horror where I move around quite a bit, some revisions were necessary. I am also excited to see my mom tomorrow after my audition and have some of New Jersey's finest Chinese food.
Oh! I watched “The Pajama Game” on Netflix (even better than going to Lincoln Center and watching a Broadway show on video!). It has some great dancing, and Doris Day is very charming with her hands on her hips for most of the musical numbers. Sid is kind of creepy, though, the way he strong-arms Babe into kissing him, but I guess it was a different time.
I finished the evening with a 30-minute, '80's themed one-legged ninja routine, and incorporated the resistance bands on loan from my tall Lithuanian prince to do some bicep curls, tricep extensions and chest press. I did these balanced on one foot, which added a nice hamstring workout, to boot.
I'd like to give a shout-out to the creators of Fresh Direct for a) being so thoughtful, and b) delivering such fresh oranges and ripe avocados to my door. You guys rock.
Sleep calls. Night!
Sunday, March 14, 2010
I'm Just a One-Legged Ninja in Love
Happy rainy Sunday!
Did you know how much the physically (temporarily) disabled love rain? It adds wonderfully to the constant challenge of staying atop one's crutches and causing no further damage to one's already weakened person.
Well, a slightly hungover gimp trekked out in the rain yesterday to go see the love of her life, keeper of her heart, blessed giver of piggyback rides. It was well worth a little water from which I was mostly shielded anyway by a pink Fruit Roll Up raincoat from H&M.
Now, even a ninja gimp in love can manage to fulfill her ninja duties. For instance, I spent some time with my new monologue from "The Lucky Spot," a play by American playwright Beth Henley. I've got an audition coming up where I need a Cockney accent, so I decided to do a little dialect work on that one and get it ready to go.
I also did my one-legged ninja workout in the hotel room while my flame eternal was out doing his show. And...can we talk about how much my one usable calf is hurting? It appears my ninja workouts have been a little too effective. I added into my routine yesterday some butt lifts, leg lifts, and kickbacks from a one-legged (duh!) plank position. I also came up with a really great exercise using my crutches: With my good leg firmly on floor, I kick the knee of my other leg up to my chest and do a little crunch motion. I don't want that other quad or hamstring wasting away. I've already accepted that my left calf will pale in comparison to its counterpart, but that's where the asymmetry ends. I’m really psyched to hit the gym and do the rowing machine one-legged, I think that should be pretty intense.
Guitar is going well - full fledged blister on my left middle finger! Please, if that finger thinks it’s getting any attention, it has another thing coming. I played on despite its nagging, and now have another song under my belt - “Check Yes Juliet”, by We Three Kings. So, partially because I have darling, exceptionally bright and charming siblings in their teenage years, and partially because I don’t know how to work an iPod and therefore said siblings have to do this for me, I have something of a taste for punk-ish music. Okay, I may like it more than I let on, but as a newly-25 year old person, I feel the need to be discreet with this information.
I am heading over to meet my sister in a little while to cook something (take note this is an original list item!), most likely of the vegetarian Asian persuasion. That is my favorite cuisine and the one in which I am most adept, but I will not limit myself to this genre at the next culinary opportunity.
Oh, I also learned about time-exposures (photography thing) from the handsome boy who makes me smile all time. Basically how to take really cool pictures at night by messing with the aperture. Know what that is? I do. When I get good, I’ll post some examples and maybe even some tips.
Stay dry, folks, and watch out for wet leaves. They’re a real nightmare.
Did you know how much the physically (temporarily) disabled love rain? It adds wonderfully to the constant challenge of staying atop one's crutches and causing no further damage to one's already weakened person.
Well, a slightly hungover gimp trekked out in the rain yesterday to go see the love of her life, keeper of her heart, blessed giver of piggyback rides. It was well worth a little water from which I was mostly shielded anyway by a pink Fruit Roll Up raincoat from H&M.
Now, even a ninja gimp in love can manage to fulfill her ninja duties. For instance, I spent some time with my new monologue from "The Lucky Spot," a play by American playwright Beth Henley. I've got an audition coming up where I need a Cockney accent, so I decided to do a little dialect work on that one and get it ready to go.
I also did my one-legged ninja workout in the hotel room while my flame eternal was out doing his show. And...can we talk about how much my one usable calf is hurting? It appears my ninja workouts have been a little too effective. I added into my routine yesterday some butt lifts, leg lifts, and kickbacks from a one-legged (duh!) plank position. I also came up with a really great exercise using my crutches: With my good leg firmly on floor, I kick the knee of my other leg up to my chest and do a little crunch motion. I don't want that other quad or hamstring wasting away. I've already accepted that my left calf will pale in comparison to its counterpart, but that's where the asymmetry ends. I’m really psyched to hit the gym and do the rowing machine one-legged, I think that should be pretty intense.
Guitar is going well - full fledged blister on my left middle finger! Please, if that finger thinks it’s getting any attention, it has another thing coming. I played on despite its nagging, and now have another song under my belt - “Check Yes Juliet”, by We Three Kings. So, partially because I have darling, exceptionally bright and charming siblings in their teenage years, and partially because I don’t know how to work an iPod and therefore said siblings have to do this for me, I have something of a taste for punk-ish music. Okay, I may like it more than I let on, but as a newly-25 year old person, I feel the need to be discreet with this information.
I am heading over to meet my sister in a little while to cook something (take note this is an original list item!), most likely of the vegetarian Asian persuasion. That is my favorite cuisine and the one in which I am most adept, but I will not limit myself to this genre at the next culinary opportunity.
Oh, I also learned about time-exposures (photography thing) from the handsome boy who makes me smile all time. Basically how to take really cool pictures at night by messing with the aperture. Know what that is? I do. When I get good, I’ll post some examples and maybe even some tips.
Stay dry, folks, and watch out for wet leaves. They’re a real nightmare.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Drunk Gimp Ninja
March 13, 2010
Drunkie got gimp!!! Yes folks, it’s true. Ditched the list for the night and went to a bar a full avenue away in the rain. Reckless? Perhaps. But surprisingly, bars are rather ideal places for gimps. Once you’re there, you just sit and drink. There’s no moving around unless you’re at a bar in the Meatpacking district where dancing is mandatory. The imbibing is good for the afflicted part of the body as well as the soul of the gimp. And, there’s no guilt in taking a cab home! Yep, even if it’s an avenue away. So, all in all I’ve concluded bars are a very welcoming environment for the injured.
Now don’t get the impression I’ve become a full-time hooligan. I spent a good part of the day yesterday working on my list with gusto. I now have two guitar songs in motion, “You Belong With Me,” and, okay, just go ahead and groan, “Time of Your Life.” You know, it’s like the number one song people expect you to play if you play guitar, so I figured why not get it out of the way. And it’s actually fairly easy, too, which is awesome.
Guess who’s the hottest thing on the one-legged workout scene? Oh, that would definitely be me. I worked out for about 40 minutes one-legged and worked up quite a sweat. I started out with one-legged jumping jacks. Guess what? An even better workout than the original! Then I did some one-legged running in place. Alright, that’s a really ridiculous-looking one, especially with your chest low and arms pumping. Then your classic jumping back and forth over an imaginary line (very similar to my indoor method of transport). Some one-legged squats (elementary) and then a one-legged barre! Not to be confused with my evening activity. I was also able to stretch a bit and even do a split with my left leg, keeping my gimp foot on a pillow. And then of course, tons of abs and some arm stuff. One-legged pushups are also a keeper, by the way. I am a one-legged force to be reckoned with, if I do say so myself.
Oh - my camera! My upcoming photography career! Yes, yes. I spent a couple hours in the morning reading over the manual, which I found to be rather thorough and intricate. So I’ll be going over some of my questions with that loving, dedicated, wonderful boyfriend you heard about earlier when I see him today! He is not only all the aforementioned things, but the best photographer I know. One really neat feature I did learn, though, was “light-colored person” and “dark-colored person.” It is my understanding that using one of these tools you can make people in your pictures look lighter or darker. What a riot! I have serious aspirations for great work involving this feature.
Sang a bit, practiced for some of my upcoming auditions which I intend to go to one-legged. I found that singing one-legged can actually be a bit liberating. Like, you don’t have to go anywhere. You don’t need to step forward to make your point or back in retreat or add in some cutesy little dance step if the song mentions it. You can just - what a concept - act. I will have to remember this when I regain use of leg numero dos.
Well, I have an awesome day ahead of me in which I get to see my amazing boyfriend who is in Pennsylvania today. I will no doubt be adding new one-legged activities to my list.
Drunkie got gimp!!! Yes folks, it’s true. Ditched the list for the night and went to a bar a full avenue away in the rain. Reckless? Perhaps. But surprisingly, bars are rather ideal places for gimps. Once you’re there, you just sit and drink. There’s no moving around unless you’re at a bar in the Meatpacking district where dancing is mandatory. The imbibing is good for the afflicted part of the body as well as the soul of the gimp. And, there’s no guilt in taking a cab home! Yep, even if it’s an avenue away. So, all in all I’ve concluded bars are a very welcoming environment for the injured.
Now don’t get the impression I’ve become a full-time hooligan. I spent a good part of the day yesterday working on my list with gusto. I now have two guitar songs in motion, “You Belong With Me,” and, okay, just go ahead and groan, “Time of Your Life.” You know, it’s like the number one song people expect you to play if you play guitar, so I figured why not get it out of the way. And it’s actually fairly easy, too, which is awesome.
Guess who’s the hottest thing on the one-legged workout scene? Oh, that would definitely be me. I worked out for about 40 minutes one-legged and worked up quite a sweat. I started out with one-legged jumping jacks. Guess what? An even better workout than the original! Then I did some one-legged running in place. Alright, that’s a really ridiculous-looking one, especially with your chest low and arms pumping. Then your classic jumping back and forth over an imaginary line (very similar to my indoor method of transport). Some one-legged squats (elementary) and then a one-legged barre! Not to be confused with my evening activity. I was also able to stretch a bit and even do a split with my left leg, keeping my gimp foot on a pillow. And then of course, tons of abs and some arm stuff. One-legged pushups are also a keeper, by the way. I am a one-legged force to be reckoned with, if I do say so myself.
Oh - my camera! My upcoming photography career! Yes, yes. I spent a couple hours in the morning reading over the manual, which I found to be rather thorough and intricate. So I’ll be going over some of my questions with that loving, dedicated, wonderful boyfriend you heard about earlier when I see him today! He is not only all the aforementioned things, but the best photographer I know. One really neat feature I did learn, though, was “light-colored person” and “dark-colored person.” It is my understanding that using one of these tools you can make people in your pictures look lighter or darker. What a riot! I have serious aspirations for great work involving this feature.
Sang a bit, practiced for some of my upcoming auditions which I intend to go to one-legged. I found that singing one-legged can actually be a bit liberating. Like, you don’t have to go anywhere. You don’t need to step forward to make your point or back in retreat or add in some cutesy little dance step if the song mentions it. You can just - what a concept - act. I will have to remember this when I regain use of leg numero dos.
Well, I have an awesome day ahead of me in which I get to see my amazing boyfriend who is in Pennsylvania today. I will no doubt be adding new one-legged activities to my list.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Ninja Training, Day 1
March 12, 2010
Day One of ninja training was a success.
I learned a monologue from a play called “The Lucky Spot.” I haven’t read the play yet, so perhaps that could be a new item for my list.
I went over my guitar chords and found my fingers were much more willing to play an F chord than they were during my first attempt at the instrument. Alright! Score one for fingers, zero for toes. I’ve got “You Belong With Me” almost down. I think when my foot is healed, I could be the next Taylor Swift, so I’m gearing up.
I hit up the Union Square Barnes and Noble and after a while got sick of the elevator and used the escalator. I highly prefer the hippity-hop method of one-legged movement to the crutch method and thus I was able to navigate the escalator. Crutches in one hand, escalator ramp in the other, one small hop, and I was free of that archaic shaft plagued by designer strollers and babies. Sweet! (A passerby didn’t realize the achievement my escalator-riding represented and “informed” me there was an elevator. I proudly - okay, haughtily - told him I didn’t need it, but thanks for the tip).
Now, I realize pleasure reading wasn’t on my list, but I mean, it’s an essential. It’s like my version of tv/video games. No, it’s not productive in the sense of creating something, but I am expanding my brain, aren’t I? I expect no judgement there. It’s also not like I’m reading trash. I am a New York Times Bestseller kind of gal.
I did pick up a Japanese language book, but it was pretty heavy and looked rather complicated, so not to say that I’m crossing Japanese off the list - I WILL NOT CROSS ANYTHING OFF THE LIST - but I deemed it a project for another day. A day when I have no other books in my hand and can devote all my energies to those beautiful but incomprehensible Asian symbols.
Sum total of list items for the day: 3! (blog, guitar, monologue).
And, my dad bought me a camera for my birthday, so I can get started on my photography aspirations quite soon. I may even look over the instruction manual tonight. I don’t think I have ever read an instruction manual for an electronic item in my life. I guess having two functional feet proved too great a distraction.
The birthday is finally over, it’s just after midnight, and I feel I am entering my 25th year a more well-rounded if not more physically able human.
I’ll be accepting song requests for guitar performance - but nothing with a B chord, I haven’t got that one down yet.
Sleep well.
Day One of ninja training was a success.
I learned a monologue from a play called “The Lucky Spot.” I haven’t read the play yet, so perhaps that could be a new item for my list.
I went over my guitar chords and found my fingers were much more willing to play an F chord than they were during my first attempt at the instrument. Alright! Score one for fingers, zero for toes. I’ve got “You Belong With Me” almost down. I think when my foot is healed, I could be the next Taylor Swift, so I’m gearing up.
I hit up the Union Square Barnes and Noble and after a while got sick of the elevator and used the escalator. I highly prefer the hippity-hop method of one-legged movement to the crutch method and thus I was able to navigate the escalator. Crutches in one hand, escalator ramp in the other, one small hop, and I was free of that archaic shaft plagued by designer strollers and babies. Sweet! (A passerby didn’t realize the achievement my escalator-riding represented and “informed” me there was an elevator. I proudly - okay, haughtily - told him I didn’t need it, but thanks for the tip).
Now, I realize pleasure reading wasn’t on my list, but I mean, it’s an essential. It’s like my version of tv/video games. No, it’s not productive in the sense of creating something, but I am expanding my brain, aren’t I? I expect no judgement there. It’s also not like I’m reading trash. I am a New York Times Bestseller kind of gal.
I did pick up a Japanese language book, but it was pretty heavy and looked rather complicated, so not to say that I’m crossing Japanese off the list - I WILL NOT CROSS ANYTHING OFF THE LIST - but I deemed it a project for another day. A day when I have no other books in my hand and can devote all my energies to those beautiful but incomprehensible Asian symbols.
Sum total of list items for the day: 3! (blog, guitar, monologue).
And, my dad bought me a camera for my birthday, so I can get started on my photography aspirations quite soon. I may even look over the instruction manual tonight. I don’t think I have ever read an instruction manual for an electronic item in my life. I guess having two functional feet proved too great a distraction.
The birthday is finally over, it’s just after midnight, and I feel I am entering my 25th year a more well-rounded if not more physically able human.
I’ll be accepting song requests for guitar performance - but nothing with a B chord, I haven’t got that one down yet.
Sleep well.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
My Month as a One-Legged Ninja
March 11, 2010
I may have said once I’d sooner eat my foot than write a blog.
I lied.
My foot is broken, and writing a blog definitely seems more appetizing than eating my slowly decaying, throbbing and altogether troublesome foot. It’s the left one.
One day after I found out I’d been cast as an immediate replacement for Curious George in the National Tour of Curious George Live and two days before I was supposed to leave on that tour, I tripped down about seven stairs at West 4th Street station because I saw some other idiot running in anticipation of catching a train that wasn’t even there. That’s the thing with the F train. We loyal riders always run to catch it on the off chance that it is there, because if we miss it, we could be waiting for hours. I tripped over my boyfriend’s super long pajama pants, crunched my foot in the five inch heels I was wearing and watched my Nalgene go rolling across the dirty subway floor. And thought how glad I was that Nalgenes are indestructible. Unlike my foot. It’s broken. Can’t dance or jump for four weeks. And that was sort of the main job description of being Curious George in a musical.
That was yesterday.
Today is my birthday.
It’s going well.
Now, there are plenty of people in the world with far sadder tales to tell, but to be honest thinking of the people swept up by tsunamis or living on a few crumbs a day oddly enough does not brighten my mood.
So while I was hobbling in the shower this morning (first shower ever with a broken foot!!), I thought of how I could combat the immensely negative thoughts clouding my newly-25 year old head.
Write a blog.
Well, that’s not entirely it. See, as an actress with an extremely dedicated, loving, wonderful (and thus time-consuming) boyfriend and an equally dedicated, loving, wonderful (and thus time-consuming) family in the city, there’s not much time to pursue the many hobbies that I have sort of begun over the years. For instance, there was the summer I started learning guitar, and only learned about four chords before I decided my hands just weren’t big enough and abandoned my efforts. There was another summer where I was planning a trip to Japan to visit my uncle and took up Japanese. The only thing I can remember today is “Where is the basement?” Chika-shitsu wa, doko desu ka?
Now, my project for these four weeks of broken foot is to take some of these hobbies I never quite mastered and revisit them. And maybe even start some new ones. I’ve always thought knitting was horribly old-fashioned, but I suppose I could be persuaded to get into that. It is a really great time-killer! Photography also does not (heavily) rely on the use of one’s feet. I think this is a good opportunity to work on my singing and monologues which often get pushed to the side and quickly re-memorized before auditions. And I’ve probably said about fifteen times in the past five years that I was going to go watch a video of an old Broadway show at Lincoln Center and have yet to experience this phenomenon.
Unfortunately, I am not a tv or video game person, so I cannot rely on these pastimes to occupy my injured hours. So, I’ve had to result to productive activities that will stimulate me and enrich my days as I let the third metatarsal in my left foot return to its original locale. Friggin’ vacation-hungry little shit. Just kidding!! This will not be a ranting blog, hopefully just a mildly entertaining and somewhat inspirational one.
My list thus far of things to do before April 10th:
- Write a blog. (Done!)
- Play guitar
- Re-learn Japanese
- Learn a new song and get really good at it
- Learn 3 new monologues
- Go to Union Square on a nice day and take some art-y photographs
- Go to Lincoln Center and watch...hmm...maybe Rocky Horror? Not sure yet.
- Make a home-cooked meal with my sister
- Do a sewing project. Not sure I want to commit to knitting, since I still think it’s lame, but I once made a sock monkey and that was fun. I’ll probably steer clear of monkeys, though.
- I can’t think of a tenth thing, but am very much open to suggestions.
There’s my list, and I will be expanding it and keeping you updated on my progress in adhering to it.
I am also going to be coming up with ways to exercise one-legged. I realize my foot may atrophy, but I am determined to keep the rest of my highly exercised self at least up to par. Any recommendations or suggestions on that front would be much appreciated, as well.
I hope you enjoy my blog and contribute as you see fit. They say, “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” I say, “When life gives you a broken foot, kick life in the face (with your other foot) and become a ninja.” Well, maybe I can work on my slogan over the next few weeks, as well. Happy reading. Walk safely.
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