Tired and Happy

So very tired today, but decidedly happy. My friend Laura came from South Carolina to see my premiere last night for the Storyline project in Winston Salem, and we all (myself, Rob, Mackenzie and Laura)had a wonderful time. I got to show Laura around the city, and she even took my yoga class. I introduced her to many, many people throughout the day, as I ran into just about everyone I know while she was visiting.

Last night was indeed, nerve racking, as I premiered my first documentary film, "Art for the Living." I was backstage, hoping that no one was leaving the theater as they watched the film! I don't think anyone left, and they even clapped! There were also a few "whooo's!" That made me feel a little better. The dancing was the easy part! The piece, "Words Apart," went pretty well. As always, one cannot ever perform a piece completely, absolutely perfect, so there were a few minor mistakes, but no one seemed to notice. We got a standing ovation...I'll take it! There were so many more people there than I expected. probably the biggest turn out I have ever seen for an art event I have performed for in Winston Salem. The Storyline Project has definitely reached many members of our community in a special, intimate way. I love the way sharing stories brings communities and individuals together. It shows that we're all not so different, after all. We all share similar experiences, and can learn from experiences we have not had.

Laura and I did find some time to talk about our upcoming collaboration. We have decided that since our piece is ultimately about identity, we need to first identify our selves, for ourselves, and for each other. To that end, we have decided to be pen pals for the rest of the summer, even though we will see each other a few more times before our next school residency. I find pen-paling to be an incredibly intimate way to get to know someone better. Not only do you get their words, but their handwriting, their doodles and art works, and anything else they might send. It also means that some real time and thought has been spent. Writing a letter is much more involved than writing an e-mail. I'm very excited to write my first letter this week!

Today, on to much rehearsal...Linda's first, mine next. I think I will begin on some of the quilt material that is to happen on the floor, with the sewing of an actual quilt. Should be fun!

~Cara