What brought you to Bumbershoot Aerial Arts?
Honestly - I have no idea, I don't remember at all, I think I was just looking for something new and exciting and somehow I stumbled on Bumbershoot.
What is your favorite apparatus to work on?
I feel most comfortable on sling - I love the hybrid of stability and flexibility. I also love spinning and swinging which draws me to Lyra. I don't think I can pick a favorite between Lyra and Sling.
What is your favorite thing about Bumbershoot?
The People! Bumbershoot is without a doubt the most welcoming place I have ever walked into. Coaches, experienced students, and new students are all so friendly and supportive. It is 100% a positive, judgment-free zone but you still get pushed to your limits - I cannot imagine any other place that would have such an eclectic and warm mix of amazing humans.
What kinds of things do you do when you aren’t hanging in the air?
I find myself being one of those people who can never be too busy. My day job is quite consuming - I currently work at Anheuser-Busch as an Engineer. I love the company, my colleagues, and what I do - it is a great industry to be in. Outside of work I am involved in the Marching Arts (Drum Lines, Color Guards, and Bands) as a teacher, director, board member - etc. The Marching Arts were really where I flourished as a performer so I always try to stay involved in some way. Lastly, I spend a significant amount of time at home - catering to the every need of my two lovely (yet spoiled) long-haired dachshunds Albert and Gilbert - many would say I'm obsessed with them - They would be correct!
What is your favorite dessert?
Anything with Chocolate in it!
Do you have a favorite memory from class or performing?
The day I got my first pullover on slings, I felt like it was never going to happen and when no one was looking it just happened. I was hanging there upside down waving my hands in the air - which was really towards the ground :) - and yelling "OMG guys that just happened -- it really happened." The combination of strength, body awareness, and removing mental blocks for aerial tricks is so unique that sometimes things just happen when you least expect it.
What classes are you taking next session?
Lyra 2/3, Slings 2, and Silks 1 - its a lot crammed into a week but I just can't choose anything less.
What is your philosophy of aerial and life?
I've always tried to live a life with no regrets - I wouldn't say I'm always successful but I try. One thing that I have picked up at Bumbershoot that I have transferred to other areas of my life is to not compare myself to others - My development is my own journey and we all have a different journey to follow.