Explore 2019: Tennis

It's humbling -- and essential -- to try new things as an adult. Sometimes you'll crash and burn and sometimes you'll discover a new passion.

Last summer Jon and I decided to try playing tennis (inspired by a great experience Laurel had thanks to some dear friends) and it ended up becoming our favorite physical activity. After spending several years identifying as a runner it was pretty magical to tap into a sport where there's so much lateral movement and hand-eye coordination, and also where Jon and I are laughing and cheering each other on pretty much continually.

Since the summer I have been thinking about taking a lesson but have ultimately not followed through because I have assumed that: 1) it won't be fun playing with anyone other than Jon, 2) tennis clubs are snooty, and 3) the teacher will tell me I'm horrible and make me feel bad about myself. (I think #3 is really the root of the issue, given that I used to be a semi-professional violinist and the training on this path involved regular berating that sometimes left me in tears.)

When Morra invited me to play tennis last night I decided to EXPLORE (my #2019 word) and say yes. Were all of my aforementioned assumptions top of mind? YES. But I decided to get over myself and go. And OMG IT WAS THE MOST FUN THING EVER. Not only was Cheryl a lady coach (yay, lady coaches!) but she was perfect -- direct, instructive, and supportive but not unnecessarily effusive (I'm 45, people, I don't want to be coddled). She gave me some great tips and I have to admit that I was relieved I could keep up with Morra and the other clinic participant (I was seriously worried about being the weak link) and also admittedly felt a little wave of pride when Cheryl told me I track the ball well and have good court mobility.

Thank you, Morra, for helping me explore. Friends/colleagues who play together stay together!