Colorado Photos 2

After finally figuring out how to get my photos off of my camera's internal drive, I was able to post the last slide show from Colorado. Enjoy! (Keep an eye out for Chunky the traveling monkey. I take her on all of my trips!)

I'm back! Actually I was home at about 6:30 pm yesterday, but had to run to the Skating Club of Lake Placid's Annual Banquet. Now I can finally post!!

Thursday and Friday were basically just one extended fuzzy blur. We were on the go from 8 am Thursday morning until 10 pm Friday- approximately 40 hours. Even now, it feels like an entirely different reality, as if it didn't even happen. But it did! This is how the last of my journey went.

Thursday my mom and I were up at 8 am. There was lots to be done, and very little time to do it! We had to pack up by 12 pm and get breakfast. After a quick but delicious breakfast at Adam's Mountain Cafe (did I mention it? Fantastic, healthy food in Manitou Springs) we went back to the hotel to pack. This trip we overpacked (as usual) so ended up sending 3 boxes of clothing and souveneirs home! The rest went into two huge suitcases, a large duffel, a big carry on bag, my purse, a briefcase, my laptop case, and my skate bag! We are certainly expert travelers ;)

The first thing we wanted to do was to explore Miramont Castle. The day we went for tea there (by the way, there are photos of that in the slideshow too), we were informed by the waitress that there were tours every day until 4. Unfortunately it was almost 4 that day, but my mom and I did make it back the last day. It was a beautiful castle, built by a French priest for his mother. The two moved there for him to minister in Manitou Springs. The big mystery is that he disappeared overnight after only 5 years living in the castle. After his disappearance, his mother moved back to her native France, and the Sisters of Mercy moved in and cared for Miramont. Apparently one of the nuns hung herself there; yet another unpleasant aspect of the castle's history. After becoming apartments, then sitting dormant for a while, the building was eventaully supported by the community and underwent restoration.

According to the guide at the welcome desk, Miramont is one of the most haunted sites in Colorado. Various paranormalists have visited, as have "Haunting" TV shows. She even had a book at the desk with suspicious photos taken by guests. She said some had orbs (balls of light) while others had figure spirit shapes. I took some photos myself (with no flash) and spotted some "orbs" I thought, although I am not sure if that is true or not.....There were other testomonies in a book in a castle. Being somewhat skeptical, I am not sure if they are entirely truthful.

It was a beautiful castle- I am glad I visited. For more on Miramont Castle, visit their website at www.miramontcastle.org.


Then it was time to finish up in Manitou Springs- we wanted to explore a bit before hitting the road. We walked a little bit, exploring the unique shops. Manitou's main street is a lot like Lake Placid's Main St, except with a a lot more Native American crafts and Wild West themed shops and galleries. Again, we didn't buy too much (mostly because everything was expensive, but also because any purchases we made were going into my purse, since there was no room in any of the suitcases!) but we did find some small unique things. I had previously been saving my money for Boulder, because I had heard how cool it is, and how it had a Church Street-like pedestrial shopping mall. But I had spoke to a shopkeeper in Old Colorado City who had told me that basically anything that you can buy in Boulder, you can buy in Manitou or Old Colorado City, much cheaper. It turns out she was right.

Anyway, we were finally done around 3 pm, and were ready to head towards Boulder, which was the next spot on the itinerary. We at least wanted to see it, since we had heard it was a cool town. And our flight wasn't until 12:55 am, so we figured "why not?".

After hitting two hailstorms between Manitou and Boulder (the weather is even more unpredictable in Colorado than in Lake Placid- during our 10 day trip we had witnessed 3 hailstorms and one snowfall)we finally got to Boulder at around 6:30.

Boulder is really neat, but a little too urban to me. I was expecting something like small town Church St. Instead, Boulder was more like the urban, stylish version of a pedestrian mall. I was glad I had taken the shopkeepers advice- the huge Pearl Street was more commercialized and chain filled than I had expected. Instead of the Peace and Justice store and independantly owned boutiques, there was Billabong and American Apparel. Don't get me wrong- Church Street has some chains too, but I still like it's individuality and personality. Pearl St was cool, but far to bustling and impersonal for me.

There was, however, a cool shop right next to the sushi restaurant we went to. It was Goldmine Vintage clothing, and it was much like the Second Hand Shop, but for regular clothing, and much bigger. The clothing was truly retro- some of the clothing looked like it had come from the closets of the Brady Bunch! There were flowery tops, vintage dresses, bell bottoms, leisure suits, and other funky vintage styles. I didn't buy anything, but it was cool to look.


After sushi, we went back to the airport. Even though our flight was not until 12:55 am, we had to return the car by 10 pm. Luckily the Denver airport is nicer to sit in than JFK. I amused myself by surfing the net and transporting myself through the airport on the moving sidewalks (so cool- like the ones on the Jetsons!)

Our flight from Colorado to JFK took 5 hours on the clock, but was actually 3 hours (because of the time zone change). Then we had a layover in JFK for 3 hours! By the time we got to VT it was around 11 am.

As soon as I arrived home there was the SCLP annual banquet. It was good to see everyone again.

The only bad thing about returning home is no ice. The Olympic Center will not have ice again until June 15th. So until then it will be biking, dryland, working out, and the occasional visit to Burlington to skate.

So that's it for my travels right now- I will be going to NJ to see my grandparents for my birthday (the 26th). I will post whenever anything exciting happens!

Enjoy the weekend!

LP SKATER

PHOTOS FROM COLORADO!

Finally, I got these photos posted!

Well, I am finally here. Actually, I was in Colorado Springs late yesterday afternoon, but after a room change to the nearby town of Manitou Springs CO (long story) and spending most of the day searching for a room, I didn't get a chance to write anything. Add to that a tough time receiving an internet connection, and it was tough to post. But now I can comment on my adventures so far.

I found it difficult to move out of Denver. During the 5 days I was there, I started to get acquainted with the hotel. Strolling on the 16th Street Mall in the sunshine, (or in the case of one morning, snowflakes). Eating sushi at Sonodas or Tokyo Joes, awesome salads at Mad Greens, or sipping tea at Peets Coffee and Tea. I was even missing the crowded Free Mall Bus that went up and down 16th.

But sometimes change is good. One of my dreams was to visit Colorado Springs since I heard of the World Arena, where some of the best skaters train. Plus, I always wanted to see the Rocky Mountains. So since a flight home right away would cost over $200 per person, we decided to stay a little longer and do some sightseeing.

I met lots of interesting and friendly people, both in Governing Council and out. I also learned a lot-already looking forward to next year!

Colorado Springs and the surrounding area is very cool too. I had no idea how many things there were to do in Colorado!! Already I have climbed Pikes Peak, (in a car of course), strolled in Garden of the Gods, went shopping in a funky former wild west town, drank Yerba Mate in a cafe, had tea in a castle,ate sushi,skating at the World Arena, visiting US Figure Skating Headquarters & World Figure Skating Museum and Hall of Fame, and explored Anasaze Cliff Dwellings. And it isn't even Thursday yet!!

The first day we were here (Monday) we decided to ascend Pikes Peak, which was only a few minutes from our hotel. After stocking up on water (the high altitude is very dehydrating), we prepared to climb. Luckily we had a rental- I don't think our car would have made it! Up and up we went, passing resevoirs, the occasional mammal, and even a bigfoot crossing sign (apparently the infamous creature has been spotted on Pikes Peak on numerous occasions. Not during our drive though). Thoroughout the drive, we were slightly perturbed to discover that there were no guardrails in spots, and some of the roads were dirt. Of course, unlike the racers in the PIkes Peak Climb, we went slow and steady up, as we did not want to fall off the side. Finally, after about an hour of driving we were there, at the snowy summit. The temperature dropped 30 DEGREES from the base of the mountain to the top. My mom and I had opted not to take any altitude sickness pills, after many locals told us we most likely would not need them. Well, upon getting out of the car, both of us felt lightheaded, dizzy, and fatigued. 14,000 feet is no joke! After fighting the headaches and tiredness, we walked around a bit on the summit, admiring the awesome view. Despite the difficulty breathing and other various altitude side effects, the visit was totally worth it.

Yesterday we visited the Garden of the Gods. The gorgeous nature park is dotted with huge red rock structures, plants, small animals (like bunnies) and lots of athletes. Like Lake Placid, Colorado seems to be an active state- almost everywhere I went, including the Garden, there were scores of runners, bikers, and other activities going on. Walking through the Garden, checking out the amazing rock faces, and watching college students climbing up one of the rocks and attracting park security in a helicopter (true story- definitely do not try this at home) was truly an experience.

We also went shopping yesterday. Old Colorado City, the former capitol of Colorado and true "Wild West Town" is now quite a little shopping district, with a few blocks of restaurants, attractions, and cute, funky stores and boutiques. I spent sparingly (Colorado is expensive) but got a few nice unique things.

Towards the beginning of our sojourn in Manitou Springs, we found a uplifting cafe called The Mate Factor Yerba Mate Cafe that makes- you guessed it- the Latin American tea beverage Yerba Mate as well as some healthy salads, sandwiches, and baked goods. They even carry natural soaps and other body care products! Apparently it is a company with cafes all over the place! With a positive vibe, great mate (rhymes with Latte!) and open 24 hours a day 6 days a week, this is one of my favorite places. Reminds me of Dobra Tea!(Check out old posts to read more about Dobra).

My mom and I fit in a lot of touring yesterday- one of the unique experiences we had was having tea in Miramont Castle. Perched on a hill above Manitou Springs, the castle is a gorgeous traditional castle, which now houses a museum and a tea room. We decided to have lunch and tea in the historic building. It was an interesting experience. We had tea, scones, fruit and veggies, and victorian finger sandwiches. The best part was wearing awesome victorian style hats!!

We found lots of delicious sushi while in Denver and Colorado Springs. While in Denver, we found a great sushi place called Sonodas. Located on Market Street, it was some of the best sushi I have ever had. We met some very kind, helpful, and interesting people there. Above in the slideshow is a photo of our helpful hostess Clair. And in Colorado Springs, we ate at a big sushi place on North Academy, where the sushi was good and the staff very helpful. Colorado has great sushi!

Today I skated at the World Arena. It was the first day I could do it, since the other days were taken up by trying to find rooms and fitting other places into the itinerary (so much to do, so little time)! But I finally got to skate today. The rink was very impressive, and it was good to skate again. I even managed to get a lesson with Kathy Casey, an Olympic Coach whom I met when I was about 10 and who helped me land my single axel. What did she help me with now? My double axel of course!

I also managed to visit US Figure Skating Headquarters, the Olympic Training Center, and the World Figure Skating Museum and Hall of Fame.First was the training center. We took the tour, which was really cool. The tour went through the rehab clinic, the shooting range, Swimming facility, outside the dorms, and to the weight room. It was very impressive to see where the Olympic Athletes train. Although I was informed that the Colorado Springs center houses the summer athletes mostly- most of the Winter Athletes come to the good old Lake Placid training center!

Next was the figure skating museum and hall of fame. Actually located in USFS headquarters, I was able to see two of the places I most wanted to see. The museum was very impressive, with lots of skating artifacts, costumes, and information about the history of figure skating. Very informative and interesting!

Also on Tuesday, we visited the Anasaze cliff dwellings. They were minutes from Manitou Springs and an amazing sight. The homes of the indians were very well planned and cleverly made- although they were probably cold in the winter! One of the most interesting exhibits.

Well, those were my adventures of the past few days......I plan to put up some more photos! They will be posted soon.

LP SKATER

Technical Difficulties.....

Hi All-

I promised yesterday that I would be able to put photos of Governing Council and Denver up on the post, but I seem to be having difficulties with my photo files. So, I will try from another location (my internet connection is weak) on Tuesday and will most likely have the photos up then. I will also have comments on Governing Council and my adventures in Denver!

Stay tuned!

LP SKATER

Governing Council Days 1 & 2

Whew- the past few days here in Denver have been a whirlwind! When I haven't been in meetings or seminars, I have been eating my 3 squares a day during the breaks. Doesn't leave too much time for blogging!

But a lot of exciting things have been happening here in Denver. I attended seminars yesterday. The topics ranged from "collegiate skating" to "Growing Skating". Today was the first part of the annual meeting, where decisions for the coming year are made.

It was a great meeting where a lot of things were accomplished. The most exciting moment came at the beginning, after the President Ron Hershberger addressed the delegates. Of course, the keynote speaker was listed on the agenda but the person was not listed. He announced this skater as "one of the greatest skaters of all time that I am sure you will recognize". Haven't guessed yet? It was Michelle Kwan, who happens to be attending University of Denver nearby! It was a thrill to see her in person and hear her inspiring speech.

You can read about Michelle giving the opening speech at:

http://www.usfigureskating.org/Story.asp?id=41437

Included in the story is a link to Windows Media Player to watch her speak. Great!!

I fully agreed with what Michelle said today. Skating should truly be about the "Journey" and not necessarily about the medals. That should be the basis of skating- enjoying every moment and doing your best.

Tomorrow is the rest of the annual meeting. I will update on that, (as well as my adventures in Denver) tomorrow. I do have a bunch of photos to share, which I will also post.

Signing Off,

LP SKATER

Governing Council

Hi Everybody-

I am here in Denver- expect updates later!!

LP SKATER

En Route to Denver!

Hey Everybody-

Finally, after a week of packing and planning, I am sitting in JFK airport waiting for the flight that will take my mom and I to Denver. It is amazing how crowded and chaotic JFK is, even at 7:51 in the morning!

Expect the next post to be either tomorrow or Friday- nothing happening until then.

LP SKATER

PHOTOS FROM FRED

I seem to be on a photo kick this week.......

I found some more photos on my computer today that I forgot to post from Adult Nationals 2008. I know it's over a week late but........here are some more fun photos!!

Fred was one of our volunteers at Adult Nationals, and managed to take some photos:

The Banner in the 1932 rink.

The morning shift at registration, (from L-R): Marianne, Linda (my mom), Fred, Jack, me, and Alison.

The next couple of photos were meant to be in my "memorable moments" post section, but I forgot to include them. Here they are!

There were lots of famous characters treading the halls last week; including Jack Sparrow! I managed to capture 2 of his skating counterparts (although I am sure there were more)!

David Lecrenski, looking intimidating in his Jack Sparrow attire.

Melanie Black, the winner of Adult Ladies Artistic/Dramatic III Group A, looks ready to go steal a pirate ship....if she gets her skates off first!

Little Sophie was probably the youngest ice sweeper present at Adult Nationals. Throughout the week the skaters got to know her, and she had her own flock of fans (the other skaters)! It wasn't long before the crowd would chant her name as she picked up the "loot". Good Job to Sophie, and all of our wonderful ice sweepers. You did a great job!

I would like to thank everybody who helped out at this event- without you it would not have gone so smoothly!

THANKS......

1. To our registration staff- you guys helped organize, answer questions, register people, return music, and sell results.

2. To the ice monitors, who watched the ice during the competition and practices.

3. To the runners, who tirelessly ran back and forth with results to the Accounting Room and on the posting route, (some of you took the job literally!!;) ) sometimes between several rinks at a time!

4. To the ice sweepers, who skated A LOT to help pick up gifts thrown by adoring fans.

Thank you to all of you- your help was really appreciated!

There are more Adult Nationals backstage photos @ http://www.icenetwork.com/. Check it out!

ENJOY!

LP SKATER