Iron Maidens
Business first. New job? Great. Really great. I’m busier than I’ve ever been, but I’m learning like crazy and getting things done and forming a good relationship with my boss, which has historically been one of my professional weaknesses. Also, I look smoking hot in a suit, and that’s good for everyone.
In the week before I started, I realized I was falling into another old pattern of mine. I blame monogamy – every time I get into a relationship, especially in an area where I’m relatively “new” (I haven’t even lived on the mainland for 2 years), my boyfriend becomes my only friend. Now, don’t get me wrong. I love Matty, and I hang out with him as much as I can. But eventually, you realize there’s going to be a night where you want to do something and he’s busy or tired and then you’re stuck, and you feel like a loser.
So I turned to google and craigslist and whatever else I could find, to seek out something to do on my own. I would have taken anything, and inquired about several book clubs, wine tastings, and even a tarot-card reading group.
And then on a whim, I joined a rugby team. (Based on the shock of people I tell about it, apparently, this is something not many people do on a whim.)
I’m not a terribly UNathletic person. I’m a sporadic runner, generally just active and energetic, and would probably classify myself as “a little out-of-shape.”
So I was completely unprepared for the pain after my first practice. We just did some calesthenics, a little running, and ran some drills. No big – even had a good amount of downtime. I don’t know if it was getting hit or what, but generally, I am sore for 2 days after a major workout. My first practice was on a Thursday, and it was Monday before Matt could even touch me, I was aching so much.
Of course, it’s been better since then. Lots of drills and stuff, but I’m not too clear on how to actually play the game.
Because I’m in the beginning of a new job, I’m still in the benefits probationary period – that means no health insurance for another couple of months. Last night, as I watched one girl and then another head to the bench because they got hurt, it occurred to me that I had better ask if I’ll actually be playing in Saturday’s GAME ONE, because if so, I might think about picking up some independent health insurance.
I took aside one of our team leaders and quietly asked. “It’s not big deal and I’m okay with it either way, but am I actually playing in the game on Saturday?”
Her eyes got wide and then she and 4 other girls nearby who overheard all stated, “YES,” and I think they were a little shocked I even asked, adding, “We need you!”
So, I have a position (lock, 2nd row front line) and a plan (buy some quickie health insurance and some real rugby shorts before end of week).
Now, I just have to figure out how to play rugby.