Is anyone still using Pinterest? Given the recent interest in discussing gender norms, inclusivity, and LGBTQ+ issues in the lindy hop scene, it seems to me like it would be good to spread around positive images of people dancing in non-traditional roles. So I created a new Pinterest board called "Ambidancers." Enjoy!
A Message from Frankie Manning (and Spuds) on Frankie’s 103rd Birthday: Keep Laughing
I love this SwingNation video short on the occasion of Frankie Manning’s 103rd birthday. Frankie had many talents, including one of the most infectious laughs ever. I never grow tired of hearing it. Learn more about Frankie Manning on his website.
Climb On! Fun Morning Climb at Planet Granite
Yesterday morning I got up mad early to get to Planet Granite for my second rock climbing experience. Being there at 7am is so different from going in the evening. The place is nearly empty, the morning light streams in through the giant windows, calm music is playing. So much nicer for a newbie like…
I Climbed a Wall Today. It was Awesome.
Tonight I went indoor rock climbing for the first time. It was a little scary but mostly awesome. The thing I remember not liking about the last time I tried rock climbing (outdoors) was the mental strain of trying to solve a problem while you were physically getting more and more exhausted. I just found…
It’s Time to Rename the “Jack & Jill” Dance Contest
I wrote an opinion piece over on Yehoodi.com on why we should rename the Jack & Jill dance contest to something more inclusive. Read it all here!
May the Fourth be With You: On Fan Culture and Real World Rebellion
My friend DJ posted to his Facebook wall this excellent summation of why fan culture matters in an our current era of aspiring autocrats and empires. I got his permission to repost it here. Remember, when you're rolling your eyes at all the people posting about "May the 4th be with you", think about what that actually…
My First Urban Dance Battle!
Urban dance has many facets and manifestations — club dancing, sessions, cyphers, workshops / classes, crews, performances, and jams. One aspect of urban dance culture I've never really been that interested in is battling or competitions. It just never interested me as a fairly non-competitive person. I enjoy going to battles and contests. Watching people…
Running, Dancing and Eating my Way Up a Mountain (Twice)
I run, dance, and eat healthy for a lot of reasons. One of the most important is that all those activities help me feel strong and capable. I have a good understanding of what my body can do, what my strengths and limitations are. I have pushed my body to be as close to its peak potential…
NYT: An Hour of Running May Add 7 Hours to Your Life
The New York Times reported recently that researchers had found that running for as little as five minutes a day may add years to your life span. Scientists scrutinized several health studies conducted at the Cooper Institute in Dallas and found that runners tend to live longer, up to three years longer, than comparable non-runners,…
African Penguins, Elephants and Termites, Oh My!
Going on an African safari is something that has long been on my bucket list. Finally getting to South Africa to see animals in their native habitat was beyond amazing! Here's some of the highlights. Penguins We saw African penguins on the beach! (In case you didn’t know, African penguins are a thing.) Just a…