Come Sail Away…

Some people are drawn to the desert, some to the mountains, and others to the sea. I certainly enjoy all these types of terrains but its water that restores me.

I have lived my entire life in California and gratefully 20+ years minutes from the Pacific Ocean. Whether driving or walking if the ocean is in view, I will always take the opportunity to look at it.  It never disappoints.

Every New Year since I was 19 I make a new goal for the year. Its not so much a resolution as it is a proclamation. Instead of trying to give up something, I try something new. This year was belly-dancing. I’m by no means any good, but I did learn a new appreciation for those who are experts at this dance form. And maybe I burned a few calories. Bonus.

The previous year I set my intentions on the ability to do one pull up. It’s a very challenging exercise for women. And I must confess I’m still trying to achieve this goal. Along with speaking French. AGH.

Fifteen years ago I could not decide between sailing lessons or a stand up class. I flipped a coin, heads came up and well I have been doing stand up comedy ever since. And I am eternally grateful. Comedy has been the most amazing, magical journey more than I could have ever expected. It has given me the opportunity to travel the world, meet wonderful people and most of all help the world including myself laugh more. And trust me, we all need to laugh more. A lot more!

Since that coin toss somehow sailing has always still been lurking in the back of my brain waiting for its turn.  Life has a way of circling back to the things we need. Life has presented me with the opportunity to sail weekly with not just one but two sailing instructors. Looks like the stilettoes will have to sit on the dock while more sea worth footwear takes me around the harbor.

New Years showed up early this year for me.

Laura

 

Stripper Shoes, Pole Dancing & New Years Resolutions

It has been noted that some of my fabulous shoes seem as if they might be more worthy of the pole than the venues I sport them. I always respond with a smile and “yes”, furthermore many of my shoes might be better suited for over the shoulder activities as well.  Another smile as they figure this one out. But really why should strippers get all the fun shoes? My feet want to rock the stage even if I decide not to go sans clothing.

Pole dancing classes have been an on again off again trend for many years now. I admit I have taken a few classes. Honestly, I will do anything that looks more fun than running or actual sit ups. (Which by the way – traditional sit up are really not good for your back.) What I can tell you is the pole is hard work and the people who choose to participate in this form of dance for exercise are getting a great workout. I have now seen poles in several people’s houses. I know they are always a bit embarrassed to confess that they participate in this ‘sport’. But I applaud them. They found something they love and they are enjoying their workouts. I can see how explaining the pole in your living room to a visiting grandma might be an awkward family moment however.  On the plus side a dance pole can be picked up new for less then $100. Way cheaper than a stationary bike or treadmill and its way harder to hang your laundry on the pole.

Honestly, I wish I could pole dance well. Those aerial moves are truly impressive and if I have that kind of upper body strength I could finally claim one of my on going New Year’s challenges – to be able to do one pull up—I am hopeful this year it will happen. Ok, off to the gym to workout doing things way less fun than pole dancing, but I plan to wear my pole dancing shoes, just to make it more interesting.

Laura