From the Inside Out

They say that time flies when you are having fun. I guess that means I’ve been having lots of fun lately! Between work, church, rehearsals at McKinney Repertory Theatre, and training for the MS 150, I scarcely remember the month of April. It’s a good fuzzy blur of activity.

As I sit writing this blog, the world is eagerly awaiting the marriage of Kate and William. The festivities will take place at 5 am local time on Friday, but for me, I’m anticipating another momentous event. An event that will also start in the wee hours of the morning. It may not be as big as the wedding of a prince, but it holds tremendous meaning for me. It’s the MS 150 ride on Saturday and Sunday. I’m both excited and intimidated, but despite my conflicting feelings, I’m eager to get it started.

If you’ve been reading my blog, then you know I’ve been training for a long time for this ride. I even survived a crash and fall on my last ride the Sunday before the event. In spite of the soreness, I’m moving forward. I’m pushing through it, and I’m ready to go.

There’s only one more day left! Wish me good luck, sunny skies, and warm, dry weather.

We awoke early yesterday and drove to Lancaster for the 13th annual Lancaster Country Ride. It was my first time to participate in this ride, and I found it to be a big challenge! The cycling routes traversed a variety of terrain, from flats to rolling hills, miles of bluebonnet fields, and some really challenging climbs. Add in the 25-35 mph winds, and the path became downright difficult! Even though the ride was trying, it was still good training for the MS 150 and our upcoming cycling trip in Prague.

Waiting at the starting line for my first 42-mile ride!

Gary and Kari resting after one of the long climbs

Shetland ponies and goats

We also saw camels and zebras on the ride…pretty bizarre sight to see in the middle of the nowhere.

One of the few flat stretches on the ride

The group — five miles from the finish line!

After battling the winds and the hills (my archenemies), I was completely exhausted. The finish line has never looked so good before! My legs complained for the rest of the day, reminding me of how brutal a 42-mile ride can be with strong wind resistance and uneven terrain. At the end of the day, I’m really glad that I completed the ride, but I could’ve done without the wind. I’m going to go get some more rest now.

Mark your calendars because it’s back! The tale of the “Last Chance Inn” continues at McKinney Repertory Theatre in May. Familiar characters from Hartburn Hotel will return in this “popcorn tossing” melodrama that guarantees laughs and entertainment for all ages. The latest saga, Blame it on the Pony Express, opens on May 13 for a two week run.

I will be reprising my role as Ivory Keyes, and I have to say that I’m really excited about stepping back into her shoes. She’s a fun character, plus I get to put my piano skills to use when playing Ivory. Joining me will be a host of other actors playing the roles of many of the beloved characters from the previous play. We have an outstanding cast who will bring those characters to life. Our first rehearsal, a read through of the entire play, was held tonight and laughter was abundant. It’s going to be a great show. I can’t wait!

Here’s your first glimpse of the diorama depicting our stage, the interior of the Last Chance Inn.

Did you notice my tiny, tiny piano? It’s SO cute!

A close up view of Ivory’s piano

My view from across the table looking at a couple of the cast members and our director

There aren’t many things that will get me out of bed at 6 am on a Saturday. Most of you know that I am not a morning person, and since I don’t have children, I’m one of the lucky few who get to sleep until noon on most Saturdays. The only thing that will get me up that early is (1) travel or (2) organized bike rides.

Saturday started early as we prepared to go downtown for the annual Tour Dallas Bike Ride which begins at Dallas City Hall, continues around White Rock Lake, and returns to City Hall for the big finish. We arrived downtown around 7:30 and lined up for the 30-mile ride.

Our view from the starting line-up

At 8 am, the ride kicked-off with the singing of the national anthem and then we were on our way along with 3,000 other riders.

Quick photo op before getting started

Recumbent bikes

The day was perfect including bright sunny skies, warm weather, and not much wind. Even though I despise getting up early, this ride is totally worth it. We traveled through the heart of Dallas, rode down Swiss avenue, and then headed towards White Rock Lake. Our first rest stop, where we fueled up with carbs and water, was located at the bath house center on the lake about 15 miles from the starting line.

First Break Point - check out the guy with the prison jersey. Classic!

Taking a quick break before the next 15-mile stretch

Fifteen miles later, we arrived back downtown, happily crossed the finish line, and took part in the celebration which included food, entertainment, and LOTS of water!

Dallas City Hall — The end of the ride

We had a great day, and it was one of the best rides in which I’ve participated so far. Next up is the MS 150 at the end of the month.

To learn more about the MS 150 (and how to sponsor me — if interested), click here.