Skating goals for 2007:
* Land a loop consistently!!!
* Land a flip consistently!!!
* Get a lutz!!!
* Get a good camel spin and MAYBE a camel-sit.
* Skate FASTER and prettier!!!
* Skate with more CONFIDENCE!!! The fear factor is starting to crack a bit. I'm not as afraid on falls, but I got a ways to go to finally conquer that fear.
* STAY HEALTHY
* Start on Silver Moves
* Get a good start on back sit
* STAY HEALTHY
* SAVE $$$ for AN. I don't know which one. I'm hoping for Chicago, but it's likely I'll end up going to whichever one is in 2008. (I hope it's at Ice House at Hackensack, NJ!)
* SAVE $$$ for new boots. My purple ones are getting old and I may or may not get new ones. I might just fill in the tougue to get a bit more support in 2007, but I definitely need to start saving for new purple boots.
* And did I mentioned STAY HEALTHY??? :-P
Other Matters:
One of them is that I had a curiousity to take up ice dancing to improve on my FS skills. The big surprise for me is that primary coach was totally AGAINST it. Secondary coach was originally all for it but had a third coach in mind for me and added that she wants this third coach to "motivate me to get more speed by pulling me along." But after she found out that primary coach was not happy about my wanting to take ice dancing, she dropped the idea and told me to not pursue the third coach. (Well, she was sorta for it. She only wanted me to work on speed, flow, edge quality stuff and not on learning patterns, which is exactly what I wanted to do!) So juggling between the two of them ended up being a "soap opera" in itself. I ended up abandoning the effort. *rolleyes*
So why is Primary coach is against it? One reason is that he has tried out ice dancing and had a bad experience with it. Another reason is that he was upset that secondary coach did NOT talk to him about my going to a third coach, especially since he's "perfectly capable of doing the task she wants the third coach to do." (He then demonstrated how "perfectly capable of doing the task" he was. YIIIIIKE!!!! =:-O )
The other concern he had was that he really, REALLY wanted me to start getting those jumps and spins. He does NOT want me to be distracted by working on other things other than getting those jumps and spins. Needless to say, I'm NOT happy with what he wanted me to do b/c I do NOT want to lose the skills that I've worked so hard to gain for Bronze Moves. I want to continue with the momentum and if anything, push for even MORE speed and flow!
The other problem is setting goals. I ended up writing down the goals that I want to accomplish. Even though I'm glad I got the list down, the timing for writing this list of goals was REALLY BAD b/c I had health (flu), work and family (as in my upcoming trip to NYC) obligations to deal with.
Given that, if I were lucky to score a lesson with Moves Guru in Hackensack (doubtful from what he's been telling me), it's looking like he will be put into doing jumps and spins instead. (Though I hear he's also really good with spins so I have some use for him for that... ;-) ) If I don't get a lesson with Moves Guru, though I would be sad that I won't get to see him this year, it's not going to be as much of a disaster as it was last year when I was preparing for a Moves test!
That said, my concentration is on getting a couple of lessons with Emanuele and do my get-together. But if I get a lesson with Edward as well, it would be great! We'll see.
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Monday, November 06, 2006
A Very "Bronzed" Birthday! :-D
(Note: I wrote variants of this post on RSSIR, CAS and skatingforums on my birthday, which was two days ago...)
Okay, I'm not just here to toot about my 39th birthday today! I'm here b/c I've been keeping a secret from most of the people on this board and other boards, but now I can let the cat out of the bag! :-D
This morning at around 7am PST (and right on my birthday too!!!), I took my Bronze FS test and PASSED!!! I have been quiet on just about all the boards I usually have been on b/c I wanted to concentrate on getting this test done and not stress over it. Passed with all three judges too (barely though... EEEEK!!! ) I currently don't have the forms right here with me. (I asked to have it copied and sent to me this time.) I got lots of feedback and I know what I still need to work on.
Primary coach tells me that I passed by coming up to me with the forms and yelling "HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!" I said excitedly "I PASSED?!?!?! " He said "You passed!" I yelled "HOLY S***!!! OMG!!! " (And then realizing that someone else was stepping out to test and I have kids around! Oops!!! *blush*) But what a wonderful, WONDERFUL birthday gift I got today!!! Thank you, Skate Gods!!! *bowing to Skate Gods*
And to boot, primary coach is very happy b/c he got all three of his students testing...and passing... thru a combination of FIVE tests (both moves and FS in the case of his other two students.) It's a VERY, VERY good day for the primary coach, lemme tell 'ya!!! GO "TEAM JKo!!!" :-D
I also want to take this time to thank my net friends on all the boards I'm on!!! You guys are all GREAT!!! Also, thank you to all my coaches (past, present AND holiday) for making me work and believing in me even though I didn't believed in myself enough that I would ever see this day!!! Thank you soooo much for putting up with me trying to get thru the journey to finally be eligible to go to Adults National! :-)
Okay, now that I've got everything out of the way....
I'M GOING TO ADULTS NATIONAL!!! I'M GOING TO ADULTS NATIONAL!!! YAAAAHOOO!!! WOOOOO HOOOO!!! :-D :-D :-D
(Now crashing onto bed from lack of sleep b/c of nerves this morning...)
Saturday, August 05, 2006
Passed Bronze Moves! OMG!!!
I am still recovering from the shock that I've finally defeated this monster of a Moves test this morning!!! OMG!!! OVER FOUR YEARS in the making!!! It's SUCH A HUGE MONKEY off my shoulders and believe it, I'm very thankful this particular test is done! When I found out I passed this test, I CRIED on my test forms!!! It was an overwhelming experience, lemme tell 'ya!!!
Next test up is Bronze FS... I have no clue when I'm testing this one, though if it were up to my primary coach, it would be at the next test session!!! *rolleyes*
Additional nots: Motto for my test session today: "SKATE B****!!!!" *evil grin* (A quote from one of the other coaches at my rink... he was trying to get me to skate angry enough to get some speed! God love him for his chutzpah!!! LOL!!!)
Primary coach's way of congratulating me "You better be jumping tomorrow! You're testing Bronze FS in September!!!" (Me: "Ummmm... don't I need a consistent THIRD single jump first???" =:-O )
The notes below are my test notes for this test session! Enjoy reading it! Those of you reading this and working on Bronze Moves, I hope this helps you to prepare for your test! :-D
Time to collapse in a heap somewhere...
========
Well, no surprises here!!! The butterflies in my stomach were definitely going full force here!!! I was skating "angry" on the first, second and fourth move. I didn't expect to pass on the power 3's. They were sucky to start and we all knew that going into the test and I concentrated on the first, second and fourth move to make up for it. 5 step mohawk was the wildcard move for me.
I had no retries to do!!!
Forward Perimeter Crossovers:
No surprises here! I had trouble during the warm up... and I really needed to slow down long enough to watch out for those toe pushes...
Judge 1: 2.5 - nice speed but steppy and toe pushes. Good extensions, but POINT YOUR TOES!!!
Judge 2: 2.5 - maintained flow throughout; extension fine; watch out for toe pushing; work on push under
Judge 3: 2.6 - maintained flow and power; extension OK
Back Perimeter Crossovers:
The "some flat edges on strokes" is partly b/c I was dealing with the ditch! The knee bend part is the part I'm concerned about... since in practice it wasn't that bad...
Judge 1: 2.5 - Again, excellent speed for level. Need to push through more. More knee bend and get off those toe picks!!!
Judge 2: 2.4 - Would like to see more knee bend, sit back more on blade to get less toe scraping.
Judge 3: 2.5 - maintained flow and generated power throughout; some flat edges on strokes
Forward Power 3-turns:
Yeah, yeah! I know this moves for me SUCKS!!! Almost killed myself on the 2nd half of the move! NEXT!!!
Judge 1: 2.4 - Good power/flow for level. Turn is OK - not on toe but back edges on toe/ leaning forward too much
Judge 2: 2.4 - Cautious, need stronger push and edge into 3 turns
Judge 3: 2.4 - Flow OK, Shallow lobes, on toes on 2nd half
Alt Back Crossovers to BO Edges:
VERY VERY happy about this move! Jay said it was my BEST move out of this test!!! It's a bit slow for me, but as long as I kept the flow, I was happy!
Judge 1: 2.6 - Good speed/flow -> NOW you are NOT on toes!!! GOOD!!! BUT POINT TOE on free leg!!!
Judge 2: 2.5 - Maintained flow throughout, some scratchy on crossovers. Extension good
Judge 3: 2.6 - maintained flow and power; good ice coverage; good upper body control
5 step mohawks:
This was the wild card move... but thankfully I focused on the other moves to make up for this one! I needed it!!! I concentrated on KICKING thru the extensions!!! But I still have to work on those nasty mohawks!!! But WHEW, I got a passing mark from Judge 1!
Judge 1: 2.5 - Excellent lobes -> Scratchy on mohawk. Don't look down!!! POINT TOES!! Good speed.
Judge 2: 2.4 - edge quality of step 3, 4 and 5 OK Extension OK. Need to work on smoother transition in mohawks
Judge 3: 2.4 - Maintained flow & control; Some MOH hopped; Extension OK
Overall Total:
Judge 1: 12.5
Judge 2: 12.2
Judge 3: 12.5
Passing average: 2.5
Passing total: 12.5
Next test up is Bronze FS... I have no clue when I'm testing this one, though if it were up to my primary coach, it would be at the next test session!!! *rolleyes*
Additional nots: Motto for my test session today: "SKATE B****!!!!" *evil grin* (A quote from one of the other coaches at my rink... he was trying to get me to skate angry enough to get some speed! God love him for his chutzpah!!! LOL!!!)
Primary coach's way of congratulating me "You better be jumping tomorrow! You're testing Bronze FS in September!!!" (Me: "Ummmm... don't I need a consistent THIRD single jump first???" =:-O )
The notes below are my test notes for this test session! Enjoy reading it! Those of you reading this and working on Bronze Moves, I hope this helps you to prepare for your test! :-D
Time to collapse in a heap somewhere...
========
Well, no surprises here!!! The butterflies in my stomach were definitely going full force here!!! I was skating "angry" on the first, second and fourth move. I didn't expect to pass on the power 3's. They were sucky to start and we all knew that going into the test and I concentrated on the first, second and fourth move to make up for it. 5 step mohawk was the wildcard move for me.
I had no retries to do!!!
Forward Perimeter Crossovers:
No surprises here! I had trouble during the warm up... and I really needed to slow down long enough to watch out for those toe pushes...
Judge 1: 2.5 - nice speed but steppy and toe pushes. Good extensions, but POINT YOUR TOES!!!
Judge 2: 2.5 - maintained flow throughout; extension fine; watch out for toe pushing; work on push under
Judge 3: 2.6 - maintained flow and power; extension OK
Back Perimeter Crossovers:
The "some flat edges on strokes" is partly b/c I was dealing with the ditch! The knee bend part is the part I'm concerned about... since in practice it wasn't that bad...
Judge 1: 2.5 - Again, excellent speed for level. Need to push through more. More knee bend and get off those toe picks!!!
Judge 2: 2.4 - Would like to see more knee bend, sit back more on blade to get less toe scraping.
Judge 3: 2.5 - maintained flow and generated power throughout; some flat edges on strokes
Forward Power 3-turns:
Yeah, yeah! I know this moves for me SUCKS!!! Almost killed myself on the 2nd half of the move! NEXT!!!
Judge 1: 2.4 - Good power/flow for level. Turn is OK - not on toe but back edges on toe/ leaning forward too much
Judge 2: 2.4 - Cautious, need stronger push and edge into 3 turns
Judge 3: 2.4 - Flow OK, Shallow lobes, on toes on 2nd half
Alt Back Crossovers to BO Edges:
VERY VERY happy about this move! Jay said it was my BEST move out of this test!!! It's a bit slow for me, but as long as I kept the flow, I was happy!
Judge 1: 2.6 - Good speed/flow -> NOW you are NOT on toes!!! GOOD!!! BUT POINT TOE on free leg!!!
Judge 2: 2.5 - Maintained flow throughout, some scratchy on crossovers. Extension good
Judge 3: 2.6 - maintained flow and power; good ice coverage; good upper body control
5 step mohawks:
This was the wild card move... but thankfully I focused on the other moves to make up for this one! I needed it!!! I concentrated on KICKING thru the extensions!!! But I still have to work on those nasty mohawks!!! But WHEW, I got a passing mark from Judge 1!
Judge 1: 2.5 - Excellent lobes -> Scratchy on mohawk. Don't look down!!! POINT TOES!! Good speed.
Judge 2: 2.4 - edge quality of step 3, 4 and 5 OK Extension OK. Need to work on smoother transition in mohawks
Judge 3: 2.4 - Maintained flow & control; Some MOH hopped; Extension OK
Overall Total:
Judge 1: 12.5
Judge 2: 12.2
Judge 3: 12.5
Passing average: 2.5
Passing total: 12.5
Monday, July 31, 2006
Testing this Saturday...
Well, the good news, I'm on the test schedule for this coming Saturday and I'm the very first testing coming off the test session. So I'll have a chance to finally be rid of the Bronze Moves test once and for all!!!
Bad news... the test rink has been having problems with a ditch that's at least an inch deep and 2 inch wide and at least a quarter of the rink in length. How is ANYONE gonna test with THAT!?!!? =:-O
Bad news... the test rink has been having problems with a ditch that's at least an inch deep and 2 inch wide and at least a quarter of the rink in length. How is ANYONE gonna test with THAT!?!!? =:-O
Took another tumble... :(
Last Tuesday I took a rather nasty fall down 4 steps of stairs at my office. Thank goodness the fall happened on a carpeted and well padded stair well. Nothing much was damaged besides a fat lip (which was temporary), rug burns (on the nose and lip), sore front tooth (but tooth were not knocked loose), bruise on the thigh, and a very shaken nerves!
The bad part though, is that I don't remember much of the fall. I mean I remember going down the stairs like I normally do. But I don't remember missing the steps and I don't remember any of the fall other than my hitting my face. I've been having major woozy spells just prior to the accident. (Probably just heat exhaustion, but I'm also getting my blood check out for stuff that might make me faint.) I had my EKG and blood pressure check and that's fine!
I should know more by next week. But right now, the only thing left of the accident are scars from the rug burn and still sore (but not as much) tooth.
Nothing is keeping me from skating though. I've already gone back twice and am skating as steadily as I've always have.
The bad part though, is that I don't remember much of the fall. I mean I remember going down the stairs like I normally do. But I don't remember missing the steps and I don't remember any of the fall other than my hitting my face. I've been having major woozy spells just prior to the accident. (Probably just heat exhaustion, but I'm also getting my blood check out for stuff that might make me faint.) I had my EKG and blood pressure check and that's fine!
I should know more by next week. But right now, the only thing left of the accident are scars from the rug burn and still sore (but not as much) tooth.
Nothing is keeping me from skating though. I've already gone back twice and am skating as steadily as I've always have.
Friday, July 21, 2006
Monday, June 26, 2006
NYC Trip American Express Commercial
Trip - One scary ride on a plane struck by lightening!!!
Wedding gift for my brother-in-law and his new wife = $55
Birthday gift for my mother-in-law (who just happened to have a birthday around that time) = $78
A pack of 10 AA Batteries for said b-day gift = $??? (probably somewhere between $5 to $8...)
Father's day gift for my father-in-law = $25 (he doesn't want much!)
Car rental for the week = $??? (You REALLY don't wanna know...) =:-O
The picture on this blog entry = PRICELESS!!! :-D
ETA: Whoever owns that camera for that shot... the date on that camera is off 6 days!!! ;)
Friday, June 23, 2006
Test Chair Frustation and Angst
The not so nice part of this trip: the Saturday that I was in NYC was the morning I was scheduled for a test session! I was supposed to have been signed up on June 3rd. The test chair didn't have room for the June 3rd test session and automatically put me on a newly created June 10th test session and DID NOT TELL ME ABOUT IT!!! Didn't ask me if I wanted the test session even. And he threatened to forfeit my test fee if I didn't make the test session then. I had to sic my coaches (and one of the coaches sic the club prez on the test chair.)
To add insult to injury, the guy STILL did NOT make a copy of my test forms from my test last October so I could see what I have to do with improve AND give a copy to both my coaches so they would also have a list of things to work on with them to improve! When I asked the test chair about it after not getting it for a month, his reply was "What do you want it for? Wallpaper!?!?!" in a very callous tone!!! I WANT to push to get this test chair pulled out... but it's possible that b/c of this that *I* would have to take over the post (which is NOT what I want either!!!) But what choice do I have left to get thru to the board that we need to get rid of this test chair? If it wasn't for the fact that I really need to pass a bunch of tests within the year, I would have considered going to another skating club and make sure the club prez knows my disappointment in what's going on in the testing process!!!
And yes, I'm FURIOUS just going thru this!!! This should have NEVER HAPPENED!!! If he had just asked me if I would take this test session before putting me on the list, it would have been a different story! But NOOOO!!! I had to hear about it THRU THE GRAPEVINE!!! (A client of my primary coach told me the news!!!) =:-O
I expect to be in the July 1st test session. If not, I will have another talk with my coaches and have them find out what's going on! Needless to say, I will push on both the club prez and whoever's the new VP is. I do NOT deserve this type of treatment!!! I never EVER provoked him to do this! If he thinks this is a justifiable way of treating the testers on his test sessions, he's gonna end up LOSING members in the skating club b/c of HIM!!! And THAT in itself will kick out this sorry excuse of a test chair!!!
ETA Update: I am NOT on the July 1st test session either! I have sent email to the test chair asking when am I schedule to test again. Just in case he raises issues about having to pay for my test fee, I have cc'ed the email to both my coaches PLUS our club prez, who is well aware of the issue, since he mentioned in an email that he would talk to this test chair with him.
Needless to say, I am QUITE frustrated with this test chair and the situation! I hope that our club prez can step in and settle the issue once and for all! I've been with this club for a long time and worked VERY HARD to pass this test... and I feel ready for it now!!!
ETA Update 2: BIG communication gap betwen test chair and me on when I was coming back to skate from my knee injury. It's been resolved and I'm on for the August test session! (I hope!!!)
To add insult to injury, the guy STILL did NOT make a copy of my test forms from my test last October so I could see what I have to do with improve AND give a copy to both my coaches so they would also have a list of things to work on with them to improve! When I asked the test chair about it after not getting it for a month, his reply was "What do you want it for? Wallpaper!?!?!" in a very callous tone!!! I WANT to push to get this test chair pulled out... but it's possible that b/c of this that *I* would have to take over the post (which is NOT what I want either!!!) But what choice do I have left to get thru to the board that we need to get rid of this test chair? If it wasn't for the fact that I really need to pass a bunch of tests within the year, I would have considered going to another skating club and make sure the club prez knows my disappointment in what's going on in the testing process!!!
And yes, I'm FURIOUS just going thru this!!! This should have NEVER HAPPENED!!! If he had just asked me if I would take this test session before putting me on the list, it would have been a different story! But NOOOO!!! I had to hear about it THRU THE GRAPEVINE!!! (A client of my primary coach told me the news!!!) =:-O
I expect to be in the July 1st test session. If not, I will have another talk with my coaches and have them find out what's going on! Needless to say, I will push on both the club prez and whoever's the new VP is. I do NOT deserve this type of treatment!!! I never EVER provoked him to do this! If he thinks this is a justifiable way of treating the testers on his test sessions, he's gonna end up LOSING members in the skating club b/c of HIM!!! And THAT in itself will kick out this sorry excuse of a test chair!!!
ETA Update: I am NOT on the July 1st test session either! I have sent email to the test chair asking when am I schedule to test again. Just in case he raises issues about having to pay for my test fee, I have cc'ed the email to both my coaches PLUS our club prez, who is well aware of the issue, since he mentioned in an email that he would talk to this test chair with him.
Needless to say, I am QUITE frustrated with this test chair and the situation! I hope that our club prez can step in and settle the issue once and for all! I've been with this club for a long time and worked VERY HARD to pass this test... and I feel ready for it now!!!
ETA Update 2: BIG communication gap betwen test chair and me on when I was coming back to skate from my knee injury. It's been resolved and I'm on for the August test session! (I hope!!!)
Thursday, June 15, 2006
NYC trip - Summer 2006
I have just returned from my trip to NYC. I had an emergency trip to make... and the carrot was... FREE PLANE TICKETS!!! *evil grin* It's the first time the entire in-laws (including nieces and nephews...) got together in THIRTEEN YEARS!!! The sad part is... giving my father-in-laws failing health, we feel the next BIG get together will be at a funeral. :-(
Flying in was tough. We had a layover that ended up being about 4 hours long in Chicago Midway Airport b/c of bad weather in the East Coast. I got in about 10pm Eastern Time!!! =:-O
Saturday I spend at Staten Island with DBNY, her dear husband, and ISk8NYC. I had sk8pics/Pat as a surprise guest and we all skated together. I felt bad for Pat b/c the ice was much more crowded and I guess it was too crowded for her to wonder out in the open. For me -- well, it's something I have to learn to get used to it and I still have problems with it.
Saturday evening thru Monday night was spent with my in-laws. I got to meet my BIL's new wife for the first time! I wish I had more time to get to know her then but I was quite distracted with a nephew and niece that I haven't seen in about 10 years. They were little kids the last time I saw them! They're now YOUNG ADULTS!!! (The niece just graduated from high school and has already turned 18. The nephew is in college and leave on his own.) I also was distracted by hubby's twin sister's 2 year old daughter! As far as that little niece is concerned, it's all about her!!! (Even her cousins know that.) I also learned at that point that she's bee potty-trained and has a little toilet seat of her own attached to the grownup's toilet seat! It's also nice to get to know the two nephews from the oldest SIL. It's weird to watch them grow to handsome young gentlemen from being, well, two boys!!! Needless to say, just thinking about it brings tears to my eyes!!! :`-)
Tuesday morning, I spent with my NYC coach, Emanauele and got all sorts of gossip about his recent TV show "Skating's Next Star" and little "behind the scenes" comments. And as for my lessons with him, it's like old time! We just have a wonderful time together and I feel at peace when I'm on the ice with him. (With the exception of when I had to lean deep into my forward crossovers. Even when he was there to hold on to me, THAT was scary!!!) But overall, he was a big highlight of my trip!!! :-)
After my lesson, hubby and I went to a place called Ciao! for brunch. I liked the seafood pasta I had, but it's too expensive for my taste. Hubby had trouble with dairy with the omelette. He thinks they put milk into the egg mixture.
Tuesday night we spend at my parents-in-law's home with my husband's twin sister and her family! The 2 year old niece is just adorable!!! :-) I look forward to watching her grow up little by little! :-)
Culinary highlight: This deli near the home I was staying at! They have this begal sandwich with eggs "over hard" with either ham, sausage or bacon!!! Surprising part is that it went GREAT with my usual raisin bagal!!! Gives it an extra unusual "sweet" kick! Really goes great with hot coffee and OJ!!! :-) Hubby is now currently trying to duplicate the sandwich in our own home!!! The only thing missing... the family's DOG Maggie to help me finish up any scraps of extra bagel (b/c the begal is just too much calories and "bulk" to my stomach and it's fun to play with the dog by making him jump or chase for the piece of scrap! :-) (I settled for eating half the begal bread and "low carbing it." :-)
Meanwhile, back at my job were a bunch of software developers working their butt off to get a software release out, including a guy that was supposed to leave the company by the time I came back. He stayed an extra week to help get this project done and train the new developers on the Development Framework. Obviously, I felt guilty... and when I came back, I put in as much as I possibly can into getting this project to "go live" to the public! As of today, the project is on its 3rd day "gone live!" We did it!!! And I wish the departing coworker good luck on his new venture as a telecommuting developer! :-D
I also had to deal with even MORE test session issues with our esteemed test chair. I'll post another post on this...
Flying in was tough. We had a layover that ended up being about 4 hours long in Chicago Midway Airport b/c of bad weather in the East Coast. I got in about 10pm Eastern Time!!! =:-O
Saturday I spend at Staten Island with DBNY, her dear husband, and ISk8NYC. I had sk8pics/Pat as a surprise guest and we all skated together. I felt bad for Pat b/c the ice was much more crowded and I guess it was too crowded for her to wonder out in the open. For me -- well, it's something I have to learn to get used to it and I still have problems with it.
Saturday evening thru Monday night was spent with my in-laws. I got to meet my BIL's new wife for the first time! I wish I had more time to get to know her then but I was quite distracted with a nephew and niece that I haven't seen in about 10 years. They were little kids the last time I saw them! They're now YOUNG ADULTS!!! (The niece just graduated from high school and has already turned 18. The nephew is in college and leave on his own.) I also was distracted by hubby's twin sister's 2 year old daughter! As far as that little niece is concerned, it's all about her!!! (Even her cousins know that.) I also learned at that point that she's bee potty-trained and has a little toilet seat of her own attached to the grownup's toilet seat! It's also nice to get to know the two nephews from the oldest SIL. It's weird to watch them grow to handsome young gentlemen from being, well, two boys!!! Needless to say, just thinking about it brings tears to my eyes!!! :`-)
Tuesday morning, I spent with my NYC coach, Emanauele and got all sorts of gossip about his recent TV show "Skating's Next Star" and little "behind the scenes" comments. And as for my lessons with him, it's like old time! We just have a wonderful time together and I feel at peace when I'm on the ice with him. (With the exception of when I had to lean deep into my forward crossovers. Even when he was there to hold on to me, THAT was scary!!!) But overall, he was a big highlight of my trip!!! :-)
After my lesson, hubby and I went to a place called Ciao! for brunch. I liked the seafood pasta I had, but it's too expensive for my taste. Hubby had trouble with dairy with the omelette. He thinks they put milk into the egg mixture.
Tuesday night we spend at my parents-in-law's home with my husband's twin sister and her family! The 2 year old niece is just adorable!!! :-) I look forward to watching her grow up little by little! :-)
Culinary highlight: This deli near the home I was staying at! They have this begal sandwich with eggs "over hard" with either ham, sausage or bacon!!! Surprising part is that it went GREAT with my usual raisin bagal!!! Gives it an extra unusual "sweet" kick! Really goes great with hot coffee and OJ!!! :-) Hubby is now currently trying to duplicate the sandwich in our own home!!! The only thing missing... the family's DOG Maggie to help me finish up any scraps of extra bagel (b/c the begal is just too much calories and "bulk" to my stomach and it's fun to play with the dog by making him jump or chase for the piece of scrap! :-) (I settled for eating half the begal bread and "low carbing it." :-)
Meanwhile, back at my job were a bunch of software developers working their butt off to get a software release out, including a guy that was supposed to leave the company by the time I came back. He stayed an extra week to help get this project done and train the new developers on the Development Framework. Obviously, I felt guilty... and when I came back, I put in as much as I possibly can into getting this project to "go live" to the public! As of today, the project is on its 3rd day "gone live!" We did it!!! And I wish the departing coworker good luck on his new venture as a telecommuting developer! :-D
I also had to deal with even MORE test session issues with our esteemed test chair. I'll post another post on this...
Saturday, May 06, 2006
Badboy for Web Testing
Yes, the name is Badboy, as in "This Badboy can go up from 0 to 60 in 6 seconds flat!" But this is not a car! This is a Web UI testing/verification tool!!! I've been using it for over a month on one of my projects at my company and, so far it's working out quite well. It's also ironic that in this case, I can easily record and play back most of the stuff that I've tested. I've made relatively few manual changes from the record playback.
Version 1.6 final just came out recently. Check it out and see if you guys like it! :)
Best part about this tool...it's FREE to very low cost ($40 for a single license, which is enough for my use...)!!!
(Disclaimer: I do not work for Badboy nor do I have any affiliations with Badboy! Just a very happy customer so far...) :-)
Version 1.6 final just came out recently. Check it out and see if you guys like it! :)
Best part about this tool...it's FREE to very low cost ($40 for a single license, which is enough for my use...)!!!
(Disclaimer: I do not work for Badboy nor do I have any affiliations with Badboy! Just a very happy customer so far...) :-)
Testing Bronze Moves on June 3rd...
Hopefully, third time's the charm!!! But I don't know... I have some concerns over some of the moves I've been working on for the test still. I hope those things will work itself out by the time I take the test.
Secondary coach seems ready to get me to focus on taking the test. Primary coach is VERY confident that this time I would pass it and has asked me to start thinking of what I want to work on during the summer. (Obvious choice would be the Bronze FS test, of course.) ;-) I hope that Debbie S's recent passing of her Bronze Moves test is good luck for me. :-)
Secondary coach seems ready to get me to focus on taking the test. Primary coach is VERY confident that this time I would pass it and has asked me to start thinking of what I want to work on during the summer. (Obvious choice would be the Bronze FS test, of course.) ;-) I hope that Debbie S's recent passing of her Bronze Moves test is good luck for me. :-)
Monday, April 24, 2006
Silver Belle @ Pacfic Coast Sectionals.
I didn't do too bad at Sectionals. I aborted the flip jump again though, which really pissed me off, since I've been landing them pretty much all week!!! But otherwise, it wasn't a bad program at all. I got a Silver medal out of my Sectionals debut and I'm happy for it. The best part is that I got more of a cheering section than the Gold medalist! (Well, that and I got to meet TIMOTHY GOEBEL just a few hours before my competition.) ;-)
Adult Pre-Bronze Freestyle Skaters competing at USFS Adult Nationals
If you support this cause, please sign this online petition!
Everything about the petition is addressed in the petition letter.
Everything about the petition is addressed in the petition letter.
Friday, April 21, 2006
Skating's Next Star! :)
My wonderful coach from NYC, Emanuele Ancorini, is on a skating reality TV competition show called Skating's Next Star.
Sadly as of this posting, he was eliminated at this week's show. He was one of the last 4 skaters. The competition was supposed to be a guy and a girl getting cut each week, with the finale being that a guy and a gal was supposed to go against each other in the finale. Well, the judges couldn't make a decision which girl to cut and they liked the girls better than the guys, so they said "Screw the guys!" Both Emanuele and Dusty (who I think is the male "DIVO") were cut.
I already emailed him about this, but...I'm proud of Emanuele for making it as far as he did in this comp! I could only dream of skating half as beautifully as he does someday. (Actually, both him and Edward actually. Edward also has gorgeous edges and form to DIE FOR... but I digress....) When I think of Emanuele's skating, he's the ROCK STAR of figure skaters!!!
The most interesting experience I have regarding this show is having to read about all the blog entries about Emanuele being "a hottie!" Yes, he's a beautiful man (both inside AND out... I've felt very comfortable with him when I'm with him.) It's weird for me to get into the "he's a hottie" thing simply b/c he's my coach. Then again, I've long since talked myself into believing that 1) I'm married and I'm here for my husband's family, 2) he's my coach and I have professional guidelines to follow, 3) even if we'd just met and we both were single, he's WAAAAAAAY out of my league -- he would never be interested in a girl like me and 4) His life and work is in NYC. Mine is here in the San Francisco Bay Area! 5) I need a great skating coach and friend more than I need a man at this time in my life!!! :-P
But I want him to know (if he's reading this) that I've always had great respect and care for him. But with this show, I see more that I like about this person than the coach I see on the ice and I count my blessings to have a wonderful guy like him in my life! :)
Sadly as of this posting, he was eliminated at this week's show. He was one of the last 4 skaters. The competition was supposed to be a guy and a girl getting cut each week, with the finale being that a guy and a gal was supposed to go against each other in the finale. Well, the judges couldn't make a decision which girl to cut and they liked the girls better than the guys, so they said "Screw the guys!" Both Emanuele and Dusty (who I think is the male "DIVO") were cut.
I already emailed him about this, but...I'm proud of Emanuele for making it as far as he did in this comp! I could only dream of skating half as beautifully as he does someday. (Actually, both him and Edward actually. Edward also has gorgeous edges and form to DIE FOR... but I digress....) When I think of Emanuele's skating, he's the ROCK STAR of figure skaters!!!
The most interesting experience I have regarding this show is having to read about all the blog entries about Emanuele being "a hottie!" Yes, he's a beautiful man (both inside AND out... I've felt very comfortable with him when I'm with him.) It's weird for me to get into the "he's a hottie" thing simply b/c he's my coach. Then again, I've long since talked myself into believing that 1) I'm married and I'm here for my husband's family, 2) he's my coach and I have professional guidelines to follow, 3) even if we'd just met and we both were single, he's WAAAAAAAY out of my league -- he would never be interested in a girl like me and 4) His life and work is in NYC. Mine is here in the San Francisco Bay Area! 5) I need a great skating coach and friend more than I need a man at this time in my life!!! :-P
But I want him to know (if he's reading this) that I've always had great respect and care for him. But with this show, I see more that I like about this person than the coach I see on the ice and I count my blessings to have a wonderful guy like him in my life! :)
Lots to catch up on...
Adult Sectionals, trying to pass a proposal for Pre-Bronze FS skaters to go to Adult Nationals, trying to pass my Bronze FS test.
I'll post more soon...
I'll post more soon...
Wednesday, February 15, 2006
Borland bought Segue Software
From the Segue Software Press Release:
(Personal note: WOW!!! Heidi Gilmore is STILL there!!! :-D )
SEGUE SOFTWARE, INC. (TICKER: SEGU, EXCHANGE: NASDAQ-SCM) PRESS RELEASE
Segue Software to Be Acquired by Borland Software for $8.67 Per Share
LEXINGTON, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 8, 2006--Segue Software, Inc. (NASDAQ-CM: SEGU), a leader in Software Quality Optimization(TM) (SQO(TM)), today announced that it has signed a definitive agreement in which Borland Software Corporation (NASDAQ NM: BORL) will acquire Segue.
Under the terms of the agreement, Borland will acquire all of the outstanding shares of common stock of Segue in a one-step transaction for $8.67 per share in cash. This represents a premium of 25% over the closing price of Segue's common stock of $6.92 on Tuesday, February 7, 2006 and a 36% premium over the average price during the last 90-day trading period. The transaction is valued at approximately $100 million.
"Rarely do two companies share such a strong vision for transforming their industry," said Joseph Krivickas, president and chief executive officer, Segue Software. "Borland and Segue have been partners for several years, helping our customers overcome the challenges that cause project failure and poor software quality. By bringing together our products and teams, we can help customers ensure higher standards of quality and service while systematically reducing the costs associated with rework and maintenance."
"Segue's quality optimization products and services will add significantly to our growing portfolio of application lifecycle management solutions," said Tod Nielsen, president and chief executive officer, Borland Software. "This is a natural extension of our focus in helping customers move beyond development and into successful delivery of business value via critical software initiatives."
The transaction has been approved by the Boards of Directors of both companies. The merger is conditioned upon the approval of Segue's shareholders and other customary conditions. Borland has also entered into voting agreements with certain significant Segue shareholders who own an aggregate of 21.5% of Segue's outstanding shares and who have agreed to support the transaction. The transaction is expected to close in the second calendar quarter of 2006.
Borland Conference Call Information
Borland will hold a conference call and webcast to discuss recent announcements, today, Wednesday, February 8, 2006, at 2:00 pm EST. To access the live webcast, please visit the Investor Relations section of Borland's website at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled time to download any necessary audio or plug-in software. A replay will be available approximately two hours after the conference call ends and will be available until February 23, 2006, at 12:00 am PST. Please dial 1.800.405.2236 or +1.303.590.3000, passcode 11050769, to access the replay. The archived webcast will also be available on Borland's website at www.borland.com.
About Segue Software
Segue Software, Inc. (NASDAQ-CM: SEGU) is a global expert in delivering solutions to define, measure, manage and improve software quality throughout the entire software application lifecycle. Segue's Software Quality Optimization(TM) (SQO(TM)) solutions help companies reduce business risk, ensure the deployment of high quality software and increase return on investment. Leading businesses around the world, including many of the Fortune 500, rely on Segue's innovative Silk family of products to protect their business service levels, competitive edge and brand reputation. Headquartered in Lexington, Mass., with offices across North America, Europe and Asia, Segue can be reached at +1.781.402.1000 or www.segue.com.
WHERE TO FIND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE MERGER:
This communication may be deemed to be solicitation material in respect of the proposed acquisition and subsequent merger (the "Merger") of Segue Software, Inc. (the "Company") by and into a wholly-owned subsidiary of Borland Software Corporation ("Borland"). In connection with the Merger and required stockholder approval, the Company will file with the SEC a preliminary proxy statement, a definitive proxy statement and other relevant materials that will contain important information about the Merger. Investors of the Company are urged to read the proxy statements and any other relevant materials filed by the Company because they contain, or will contain, important information about the Company and the Merger. All documents filed by the Company with the SEC may be obtained for free at the SEC's website at www.sec.gov. In addition, the documents filed with the SEC by the Company may be obtained free of charge by directing such request to: Doug Zaccaro, Treasurer, Segue Software, +1.781.402.1000 or from the Company's website at www.segue.com or by emailing questions to SegueandBorland@segue.com. Such documents are not currently available.
The Company and its executive officers and directors may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the Company stockholders in favor of the Merger. Information about the executive officers and directors of the Company and their ownership of the Company's common stock is set forth in the proxy statement for the Company's 2005 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, which was filed with the SEC on April 28, 2005, and in Item 10 of the Company's Form 10-K which was filed with the SEC on March 25, 2005. Investors may obtain more detailed information regarding the direct and indirect interests of the Company and its respective executive officers and directors in the Merger by reading the preliminary and definitive proxy statements regarding the Merger, which will be filed with the SEC.
This press release may contain forward-looking statements,. Forward-looking statements are statements that contain predictions or projections of future events or performance, and often contain words such as "anticipates", "can", "estimates", "believe", "expects", "projects", "will", "might", or other words indicating a statement about the future. The Company notes that any such forward-looking statements are subject to change and are not guarantees of future performance, and that actual results may differ materially from any such predictions or projections, based on various important factors and including, without limitation, the Company's and Borland's ability to consummate the transaction; the conditions to the completion of the transaction may not be satisfied, or the regulatory approvals required for the transaction may not be obtained on the terms expected or on the anticipated schedule; and the parties' ability to meet expectations regarding the timing, completion and accounting of the merger; the possibility that the parties may be unable to achieve expected synergies and operating efficiencies in the merger within the expected time-frames or at all and to successfully integrate the Company's operations into those of Borland's; such integration may be more difficult, time-consuming or costly than expected; revenues following the transaction may be lower than expected; operating costs, customer loss and business disruption (including, without limitation, difficulties in maintaining relationships with employees, customers, clients or suppliers) may be greater than expected following the transaction; the retention of certain key employees at the Company, the ability of the Company to continue to achieve positive cash flow and sustain profitability in this difficult economic and business climate; the ability of the Company to close large enterprise orders; the Company's transition to a new management team; the timing and success of introductions of our new products; market acceptance of recently-introduced products (including SilkCentral Test Manager 8.0) and updated releases; the effectiveness of our additional distributors and resellers; growth in license revenue; new products and announcements from other companies; the Company's continued access to capital; and changes in technology and industry standards. Additional information on the factors that could affect the Company's business and financial results is included in the Company's periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Segue and the Segue logo are registered trademarks and Software Quality Optimization and SQO are trademarks of Segue Software, Inc. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.
CONTACT: Segue Software, Inc.
Heidi Gilmore, +1-781-402-5873
heidig@segue.com
SOURCE: Segue Software, Inc.
(Personal note: WOW!!! Heidi Gilmore is STILL there!!! :-D )
SEGUE SOFTWARE, INC. (TICKER: SEGU, EXCHANGE: NASDAQ-SCM) PRESS RELEASE
Segue Software to Be Acquired by Borland Software for $8.67 Per Share
LEXINGTON, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 8, 2006--Segue Software, Inc. (NASDAQ-CM: SEGU), a leader in Software Quality Optimization(TM) (SQO(TM)), today announced that it has signed a definitive agreement in which Borland Software Corporation (NASDAQ NM: BORL) will acquire Segue.
Under the terms of the agreement, Borland will acquire all of the outstanding shares of common stock of Segue in a one-step transaction for $8.67 per share in cash. This represents a premium of 25% over the closing price of Segue's common stock of $6.92 on Tuesday, February 7, 2006 and a 36% premium over the average price during the last 90-day trading period. The transaction is valued at approximately $100 million.
"Rarely do two companies share such a strong vision for transforming their industry," said Joseph Krivickas, president and chief executive officer, Segue Software. "Borland and Segue have been partners for several years, helping our customers overcome the challenges that cause project failure and poor software quality. By bringing together our products and teams, we can help customers ensure higher standards of quality and service while systematically reducing the costs associated with rework and maintenance."
"Segue's quality optimization products and services will add significantly to our growing portfolio of application lifecycle management solutions," said Tod Nielsen, president and chief executive officer, Borland Software. "This is a natural extension of our focus in helping customers move beyond development and into successful delivery of business value via critical software initiatives."
The transaction has been approved by the Boards of Directors of both companies. The merger is conditioned upon the approval of Segue's shareholders and other customary conditions. Borland has also entered into voting agreements with certain significant Segue shareholders who own an aggregate of 21.5% of Segue's outstanding shares and who have agreed to support the transaction. The transaction is expected to close in the second calendar quarter of 2006.
Borland Conference Call Information
Borland will hold a conference call and webcast to discuss recent announcements, today, Wednesday, February 8, 2006, at 2:00 pm EST. To access the live webcast, please visit the Investor Relations section of Borland's website at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled time to download any necessary audio or plug-in software. A replay will be available approximately two hours after the conference call ends and will be available until February 23, 2006, at 12:00 am PST. Please dial 1.800.405.2236 or +1.303.590.3000, passcode 11050769, to access the replay. The archived webcast will also be available on Borland's website at www.borland.com.
About Segue Software
Segue Software, Inc. (NASDAQ-CM: SEGU) is a global expert in delivering solutions to define, measure, manage and improve software quality throughout the entire software application lifecycle. Segue's Software Quality Optimization(TM) (SQO(TM)) solutions help companies reduce business risk, ensure the deployment of high quality software and increase return on investment. Leading businesses around the world, including many of the Fortune 500, rely on Segue's innovative Silk family of products to protect their business service levels, competitive edge and brand reputation. Headquartered in Lexington, Mass., with offices across North America, Europe and Asia, Segue can be reached at +1.781.402.1000 or www.segue.com.
WHERE TO FIND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE MERGER:
This communication may be deemed to be solicitation material in respect of the proposed acquisition and subsequent merger (the "Merger") of Segue Software, Inc. (the "Company") by and into a wholly-owned subsidiary of Borland Software Corporation ("Borland"). In connection with the Merger and required stockholder approval, the Company will file with the SEC a preliminary proxy statement, a definitive proxy statement and other relevant materials that will contain important information about the Merger. Investors of the Company are urged to read the proxy statements and any other relevant materials filed by the Company because they contain, or will contain, important information about the Company and the Merger. All documents filed by the Company with the SEC may be obtained for free at the SEC's website at www.sec.gov. In addition, the documents filed with the SEC by the Company may be obtained free of charge by directing such request to: Doug Zaccaro, Treasurer, Segue Software, +1.781.402.1000 or from the Company's website at www.segue.com or by emailing questions to SegueandBorland@segue.com. Such documents are not currently available.
The Company and its executive officers and directors may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the Company stockholders in favor of the Merger. Information about the executive officers and directors of the Company and their ownership of the Company's common stock is set forth in the proxy statement for the Company's 2005 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, which was filed with the SEC on April 28, 2005, and in Item 10 of the Company's Form 10-K which was filed with the SEC on March 25, 2005. Investors may obtain more detailed information regarding the direct and indirect interests of the Company and its respective executive officers and directors in the Merger by reading the preliminary and definitive proxy statements regarding the Merger, which will be filed with the SEC.
This press release may contain forward-looking statements,. Forward-looking statements are statements that contain predictions or projections of future events or performance, and often contain words such as "anticipates", "can", "estimates", "believe", "expects", "projects", "will", "might", or other words indicating a statement about the future. The Company notes that any such forward-looking statements are subject to change and are not guarantees of future performance, and that actual results may differ materially from any such predictions or projections, based on various important factors and including, without limitation, the Company's and Borland's ability to consummate the transaction; the conditions to the completion of the transaction may not be satisfied, or the regulatory approvals required for the transaction may not be obtained on the terms expected or on the anticipated schedule; and the parties' ability to meet expectations regarding the timing, completion and accounting of the merger; the possibility that the parties may be unable to achieve expected synergies and operating efficiencies in the merger within the expected time-frames or at all and to successfully integrate the Company's operations into those of Borland's; such integration may be more difficult, time-consuming or costly than expected; revenues following the transaction may be lower than expected; operating costs, customer loss and business disruption (including, without limitation, difficulties in maintaining relationships with employees, customers, clients or suppliers) may be greater than expected following the transaction; the retention of certain key employees at the Company, the ability of the Company to continue to achieve positive cash flow and sustain profitability in this difficult economic and business climate; the ability of the Company to close large enterprise orders; the Company's transition to a new management team; the timing and success of introductions of our new products; market acceptance of recently-introduced products (including SilkCentral Test Manager 8.0) and updated releases; the effectiveness of our additional distributors and resellers; growth in license revenue; new products and announcements from other companies; the Company's continued access to capital; and changes in technology and industry standards. Additional information on the factors that could affect the Company's business and financial results is included in the Company's periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Segue and the Segue logo are registered trademarks and Software Quality Optimization and SQO are trademarks of Segue Software, Inc. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.
CONTACT: Segue Software, Inc.
Heidi Gilmore, +1-781-402-5873
heidig@segue.com
SOURCE: Segue Software, Inc.
Sunday, February 05, 2006
Christmas Trip 2005 - Skating
This week I had plans to stay two weeks, so I was thinking two lessons with each of my coaches out there.
What ended up happening was I got two lessons with the coach in NYC and only one with the Moves Guru in Hackensack! I came down with a nasty flu and was out most of the second week at NYC and I was told not to skate until I was well. I was sad that I couldn't make my second lesson with Edward. I also am sad that I didn't get to meet Frank Romero, who I met thru RSSIR and are net friends on skatingforums.com ( and is a student of Edward.) We also tried to get in a third lesson with Emanuele to cheer me up from missing Edward when I was well enough, but, alas, Emanuele was sick with the same flu too! LOL!!! However, I was very VERY happy to see the coaches out there.
Coach in NYC Chelsea Piers - Emanuele:
Well, when I first went to him in 2004, I had such a good time learning some basics and some technical stuff that I said to myself I would come back again when I visit NYC again. Well, I'm back in NYC and as promised, I called him to arrange a lesson. It was just as much, if not even more fun as it was in 2004! This year we went over fixing my crappy crossovers again. He definitely had a lot of patience going thru this with me since I have crappy crossovers!!! At one of my lessons, we went over power pulls and loop jumps. He smack my free leg with his glove when I touched down on my loop jump. (I was two footing my loop landings again. *rolleyes* ) And I managed to at least get my power pulls a bit smoother. (I haven't done power pulls in a LOOOOONG time!!!)
He also took a look at my spins and said that "There's always something to improve on in spins, but for now, let's leave your good spins alone. They're fine for now." KEWL!!! Hopefully the next time I see him, I'll be working on sit spins next!
On the second lesson, we aimed towards going thru the 5 step mohawks and he fixed a minor problem with "presenting" myself right at the beginning. He said I need to extend my free leg more and we went thru this over and over. And at times I get it and at times I don't and I'm glad he has patience and a sense of humor. (Oh, yeah! You'll need it with me, buddy! LOL!!!) The best part is that when I DO finally get it, he's quite enthusiatic about it and will let you know right away. Very encouraging and positive coach!
His parting comment to me (besides "See you next year!") was to learn to skate and constantly "spell check" myself w/o judgement. If I don't get something right at that moment, continue on and try to correct myself the next time. The point he's trying to get to me is "don't beat myself up when I get something wrong." Of course, kinda hard when I'm used to having very strict coaches who beats me up verbally (but in such a funny way that I can't beat them up b/c I'm laughing too hard. Don't worry! My current coaches at home are just great!!!) :-P
Funny note: When I first started with Emanuele in 2004, one of the first thing he complimented on is that I'm brave for an adult skater. Of course, I told him "Oooooh... please tell my two coaches what you just said. I think you'll love their response to that. LOL!!!" (I have a rep for being a BIIIIG chicken! Boc boc boc...)
Hackensack, NJ: - Edward
My only gripes about this trip were 1) that it was QUITE crowded. So many kids!!! and 2) It was difficult to get to via public trans.
Edward is very militaristic and very strict, but he has this way about him that made me have confidence in my skating... if I do exactly what he tells me to!!! LOL!!! Anyway, I did tons more basics (crossovers mostly.) And this guy's got a method for alt. crossovers on the Pre-Juv test. (Obviously, I won't give it away on the net. You'll have to take him as a coach to find out.) He breaks everything down to small pieces and amkes me work on those small pieces before he would even let me try the big thing! Even arm position... I did arm and head/waist "switching" (directions) in isolation and he was nit-picky about it. EEEEK!!!
I have TONS of tips on my Bronze Moves to take home and work on though! And off ice... he's a real SWEETHEART!!! Love the guy!!! I plan on being back with him when I visit again. But probably we're gonna work on basics rather than moves itself, so I have a better foundation when I do work on moves. We'll see when the time happens, I guess.
And White Manna made a statement for me. LOVE THOSE BURGERS!!! LOL!!! Gotta love it when a teenage boy plays food critic and gives a place his THUMBS UP!!! LOL!!!
Prospect Park, Brooklyn - Dinah!!! :D
I had a great time with Dinah, though I wasn't happy with the crowds or the ice itself. (It was outdoor ice and cold. The ice was way too hard for me!.) Dinah in this case is NOT my coach, but is a coach there. We showed off my mohawks (which she says it's much better than last year.) I also got to meet a slew of adult skating friends of hers. But her main attraction for her -- my purple boots!!! :D
We went out for dim sum afterwards where I got to meet her two DD's and one of the DD's friends. They weren't as daring on the food as Mom was, but did like the stuff I've picked for them. Sadly the one drawback to our trip was that both Jim and I were becoming quite sick throughout the day. We managed to work out a deal where if I filled up Dinah's gas tank for her van, that we would get a ride home back to Valley Stream with her. She gladly took the offer. Best part is that both she and I can gossip about stuff. (Even better, my hubby and her got along well too. Hubby has never really liked a lot of my friends before on first impressions, but this one she did like b/c she's mature and intelligent, yet kind.)
I really wished I got more skating in with the coaches, but I'm happy with what I got anyway. And I look forward to my next trip to see my in-laws! I definitely want to see Emanuele and Edward again! BOTH are just sweethearts!!! I have a soft spot for them every time I think of those two!!!
What ended up happening was I got two lessons with the coach in NYC and only one with the Moves Guru in Hackensack! I came down with a nasty flu and was out most of the second week at NYC and I was told not to skate until I was well. I was sad that I couldn't make my second lesson with Edward. I also am sad that I didn't get to meet Frank Romero, who I met thru RSSIR and are net friends on skatingforums.com ( and is a student of Edward.) We also tried to get in a third lesson with Emanuele to cheer me up from missing Edward when I was well enough, but, alas, Emanuele was sick with the same flu too! LOL!!! However, I was very VERY happy to see the coaches out there.
Coach in NYC Chelsea Piers - Emanuele:
Well, when I first went to him in 2004, I had such a good time learning some basics and some technical stuff that I said to myself I would come back again when I visit NYC again. Well, I'm back in NYC and as promised, I called him to arrange a lesson. It was just as much, if not even more fun as it was in 2004! This year we went over fixing my crappy crossovers again. He definitely had a lot of patience going thru this with me since I have crappy crossovers!!! At one of my lessons, we went over power pulls and loop jumps. He smack my free leg with his glove when I touched down on my loop jump. (I was two footing my loop landings again. *rolleyes* ) And I managed to at least get my power pulls a bit smoother. (I haven't done power pulls in a LOOOOONG time!!!)
He also took a look at my spins and said that "There's always something to improve on in spins, but for now, let's leave your good spins alone. They're fine for now." KEWL!!! Hopefully the next time I see him, I'll be working on sit spins next!
On the second lesson, we aimed towards going thru the 5 step mohawks and he fixed a minor problem with "presenting" myself right at the beginning. He said I need to extend my free leg more and we went thru this over and over. And at times I get it and at times I don't and I'm glad he has patience and a sense of humor. (Oh, yeah! You'll need it with me, buddy! LOL!!!) The best part is that when I DO finally get it, he's quite enthusiatic about it and will let you know right away. Very encouraging and positive coach!
His parting comment to me (besides "See you next year!") was to learn to skate and constantly "spell check" myself w/o judgement. If I don't get something right at that moment, continue on and try to correct myself the next time. The point he's trying to get to me is "don't beat myself up when I get something wrong." Of course, kinda hard when I'm used to having very strict coaches who beats me up verbally (but in such a funny way that I can't beat them up b/c I'm laughing too hard. Don't worry! My current coaches at home are just great!!!) :-P
Funny note: When I first started with Emanuele in 2004, one of the first thing he complimented on is that I'm brave for an adult skater. Of course, I told him "Oooooh... please tell my two coaches what you just said. I think you'll love their response to that. LOL!!!" (I have a rep for being a BIIIIG chicken! Boc boc boc...)
Hackensack, NJ: - Edward
My only gripes about this trip were 1) that it was QUITE crowded. So many kids!!! and 2) It was difficult to get to via public trans.
Edward is very militaristic and very strict, but he has this way about him that made me have confidence in my skating... if I do exactly what he tells me to!!! LOL!!! Anyway, I did tons more basics (crossovers mostly.) And this guy's got a method for alt. crossovers on the Pre-Juv test. (Obviously, I won't give it away on the net. You'll have to take him as a coach to find out.) He breaks everything down to small pieces and amkes me work on those small pieces before he would even let me try the big thing! Even arm position... I did arm and head/waist "switching" (directions) in isolation and he was nit-picky about it. EEEEK!!!
I have TONS of tips on my Bronze Moves to take home and work on though! And off ice... he's a real SWEETHEART!!! Love the guy!!! I plan on being back with him when I visit again. But probably we're gonna work on basics rather than moves itself, so I have a better foundation when I do work on moves. We'll see when the time happens, I guess.
And White Manna made a statement for me. LOVE THOSE BURGERS!!! LOL!!! Gotta love it when a teenage boy plays food critic and gives a place his THUMBS UP!!! LOL!!!
Prospect Park, Brooklyn - Dinah!!! :D
I had a great time with Dinah, though I wasn't happy with the crowds or the ice itself. (It was outdoor ice and cold. The ice was way too hard for me!.) Dinah in this case is NOT my coach, but is a coach there. We showed off my mohawks (which she says it's much better than last year.) I also got to meet a slew of adult skating friends of hers. But her main attraction for her -- my purple boots!!! :D
We went out for dim sum afterwards where I got to meet her two DD's and one of the DD's friends. They weren't as daring on the food as Mom was, but did like the stuff I've picked for them. Sadly the one drawback to our trip was that both Jim and I were becoming quite sick throughout the day. We managed to work out a deal where if I filled up Dinah's gas tank for her van, that we would get a ride home back to Valley Stream with her. She gladly took the offer. Best part is that both she and I can gossip about stuff. (Even better, my hubby and her got along well too. Hubby has never really liked a lot of my friends before on first impressions, but this one she did like b/c she's mature and intelligent, yet kind.)
I really wished I got more skating in with the coaches, but I'm happy with what I got anyway. And I look forward to my next trip to see my in-laws! I definitely want to see Emanuele and Edward again! BOTH are just sweethearts!!! I have a soft spot for them every time I think of those two!!!
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