Today is the 3M Half Marathon. When I moved to the States in 2000 I couldn’t run for more than 12 minutes at a time. Less than a year later, with the help of AustinFit, I had run and raced every distance, from 5k to 10K, half marathon and finally the marathon.
It was only after I finished the marathon, that I realised what I’d achieved. Sometimes I need a reminder of how far I’ve come. And not just the 26.2 miles.
Today’s show gets a ‘good’. Not because last night’s was bad, but because I had more fun with it, I knew what to expect and I was able to fix some of the issues that had bothered me last night. And I ad-libbed a little, probably to my director’s horror, but just little things here and there. Probably not a good idea as it meant I lost my place a few times, but I think all the characters had a good time.
While I was rehashing the show last night over a few beers, a comment was made that I should step back and look at the achievement of writing and performing an hour-long show. I think I brushed it off with an ‘oh yes, absolutely right’ comment, but it didn’t really sink in till later.
When I was training for the marathon, it didn’t seem like a big deal. There were lots of us doing it, I was just part of the group. The enormity of the increasing mileage and the ultimate goal got lost in the daily routine and the schedules.
This show started out as a 10 minute performance piece at a workshop in Fresno, CA. It’s evolved and grown and been through so many drafts that it’s easy to forget where it, and I came from. I think I can honestly say I’m proud of it. As my friend Joy stated on Facebook,
“I’m really excited for you and I say “whatever” with a handwave and all to anyone who just calls it ‘fine’.”
Eight years ago I didn’t know anyone in Austin, it was just me and Erik. Now I have the most supportive, fun and diverse group of friends that I could ever imagine. That’s why Austin feels so much like my home. If you are judged by the company you keep then I can’t be too bad.
This is getting very maudlin and un-British. Where’s the sarcasm where you need it? I just wanted to say thank you to everyone for helping me find my place here. I feel pretty lucky and would hug you all, if it didn’t make me feel a little icky and uncomfortable.