I am riding home on a 242 bus listening to every girl jam I have and charging my phone on my laptop. That certainly feels like an accurate picture for life in London! It’s my 28^th birthday! A year ago I quit my job (that I loved), produced a sold out opera that seemed impossible with some damn fine collaborators, gave notice at my beloved apartment, sold my stuff and hit the road.

I’ve been more risky! Shocked everyone (including myself) with my scholastic achievements! I’ve taught more lindy hop classes, tasters and quality of movement workshops then any other year. I have given some of my best performances to date and become an international cabaret performer. Drunk some great cocktails. Laughed with new and old friends. Shared my contagious love of the high five with several Brits. Went to numerous operas, movies and events. Ran mixers for awesome people in London. Made a piñata and danced on a bar top in Copenhagen.
My internal monologue often starts with “notes from the field” or “and today our heroine accomplishes the impossible, cinnamon rolls without measuring cups”. It has been beguiling, daring and a very tender year. The weird thing is that it feels like the beginning…
And no, I’m not drunk, or high, or in la la land. I’m just proud. I’m scared. I’m excited. I’m ready.

London (and this year) brings out the best in me. It demands me to be open to things I never even dreamed for myself. For the coming year my hopes include: warm hugs, joyful celebrations, challenging moments and great meals shared with great people. I aim to only say ‘sorry’ when I’m really sorry, support my friends as they reach for greatness and value all our good health.

27 was pretty f@#$ing epic. 28 is full of promise. Let’s create something beautiful guys! Happy birthday to me!