So, as many of you might already know... I joined roller derby. I've joined The Dodge City Rollers, an enthusiastic rookie team here in Cumberland BC. I've since become a little obsessed, promoting roller derby, watching roller derby, even making roller derby art like the picture below: I haven't given up on the Madonna and Child Project, in fact I may have a roller derby madonna to add to the lineup, but I'm just finding I have some new interests in my life. It's been quite a revelation that my body is still capable of something so physical. Childbirth took such a toll on my body and my energy levels that I almost felt like I would never get my old athletic body back. I felt like that was ok- I was willing to make that sacrifice for my kids, I was willing to give up my body for the bodies of my children. What a revelation to realize I don't have to make that choice! It's been amazing to realize that I can sometimes make myself a priority, to make sure I have a life outside of my children. Here are some before and after photos of my progress. I have not lost much weight mind you, because I'm building a lot of muscle, but I've lost a lot of belly fat. If this doesn't inspire you to join roller derby I don't know what will. This photo is from April 5th, when I was already feeling pretty good about my progress. This is April 15th- only 10 days later. Maybe my bikini days aren't over after all! So... if you ever wonder about pursuing your own interests, putting yourself first occasionally... if you ever feel guilty like I did for wanting to spend a little time away from your kids... just do it. I find I have so much more patience, so much more joy to offer my kids since I started taking care of myself. If roller derby hasn't saved my soul it at least saved my sanity!
4 Comments
I think this is so cool Kate! And especially neat that you're doing it in Cumberland where I grew up! Actually I grew up all over the Comox Valley, but I spent grades 4-6 in Cumberland. Isn't it a great little town? I have a couple of friends doing Roller Derby. It scares me a little - all that gritty female energy, but it does look like fun and it's probably the coolest sport around.I love the nicknames everyone has. Anyway, I get what you mean about taking care of yourself and getting out of the house and away from the kids. While it isn't exercise, I've started volunteer work and it fills my soul in a different way. Take care!
Reply
Hello Kate
Reply
7/12/2011 01:21:58 am
Khairun- my art only gets done when my kids are sleeping! I agree, I just can't do something like art with my children awake. It's just not possible. It's something that has to wait until evening, and I tend to get very little sleep because of it. As for roller derby- I use my husband and my mother as caregivers to do that. That way I have time every week just for myself. Thanks for taking the time to write!
Reply
6/24/2012 10:52:47 pm
nice art dear i love you post. thank you so much for share here.
Reply
Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
Leave a Reply. |
A blog on art, roller derby and life.
Kate HansenI'm an artist and mother of two in Courtenay, BC. I've completed a project called the "Madonna and Child Project," and I'm now working on a series of roller derby inspired drawings. In my spare time I play roller derby with the Brick House Betties. Archives
November 2012
Categories
All
|