San Jose Nationals

I got to spend a great weekend absorbed in some very fine skating.  This was the first time I went to one of these events by myself, which was sort of weird but not entirely bad.  Each of the four disciplines produced new National Champions that we can be proud of.

And I got to see my young friend Tim LeDuc skate pairs with his partner Cassie Andrews.  Tim used to help me at his club competitions in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.  Even then as a young kid he was a warm and delightful person, now he's matured into a stunning young man.  This was their first year at the Senior level.  It's going to be lots of fun to see them in a couple of years.

I also spent a great night in a Hilton in Santa Clara, all by myself in a big king sized bed, room service and a bottle of champagne.  It was heavenly.  I spend most of my time being responsible, even though I love every minute of it but every now and then I need a night like that.  I call it a healthy dose of ass kissing.

Now I'm back to my oh so responsible but excellent life.  Back to my dogs, business, house, friends, shooting, creating and a very satisfying relationship in the making.

Peace

Power and Grace

I forgot I took some photos during the Pairs event.  It's really hard to get a good shot but this one turned out pretty damn nice.  This is John Coughlin and Caydee Denney.  She was National Champion with her partner in 2010 and he was National Champion with his partner in 2011.  They've only been training as a pair for about five months.  They look terrific and have a chemistry and energy that is very exciting.

Go Team USA!

Weird and Wonderful

We went walking in between events in Ontario and discovered these strange trees growing all along the boulevard.  The trunks were covered with spiky little protrusions which were very hard and very sharp. Further on we saw the same tree with these gorgeous flowers in bloom.  It was pretty windy, the flowers were dancing all around, blurry pic.

Anyone know what they are?

Peace

Skate America 2011

We are loving every minute of being together and watching some great skating.
Peace