"Oh, what a feeling!"

This morning I had the privilege of spending an hour on the ice with my pro-partner, Coach Chris, with whom I am competing at Worlds with the Willow Waltz and Hickory Hoedown. It was a fabulous way to start the day, allowing me to leave the rink feeling as though I had accomplished something while having fun at the same time. Doesn't get any better than this in skating, at least not for me.

Coach Chris is a fabulous ice dancer. He is also a good partner because of his height and stature; in short, we are compatible in terms of looking well-matched on the ice (except for the age thing, of course). What I love about Coach C is his wonderful sense of humor (we do spend lots of time laughing, which is great for me), his belief that I can do these dances, a positive mental attitude, and great instruction skills. I am also able to take 'positive criticism' from him in a way that truly improves my ice dancing.

By way of an example, he pointed out that when we did the Willow without the music on, I did the dance well, with good flow, but when we danced to the music, I became a "frightened little turtle" (his phrase, if I am quoting him precisely). He was absolutely right! I wasn't offended by this observation on his part; rather I appreciated his insight and ability to communicate a need for correction.

We spent a good deal of time on the Hickory today as we hadn't worked on it much last session. I am feeling pretty good about this dance, although it's still isn't as ready for competition as I would like, or I suspect he would like either. Good news is we still have time to work on the dance.

Gosh, there is so much information that my head is just spinning, but it was an immensely productive and enjoyable session. My inner ice dancer was very much present on the ice. There is really nothing in skating quite like being in the arms of a male ice dancer and knowing that you can do things you can't do when you solo dance (which I don't do as my act of skating *civil disobedience* as I express it). It was embarrassing when Coach C asked to see a pattern of the Willow by myself. I think I looked at him like he was asking me to fly to the moon. I had to tell him I don't solo, which he just took in stride and we moved on to do the dance together.

I'm getting so excited about competing in dance with Coach C! I have a lovely dress and a magnificent pro partner who is this incredible ice dancer and with whom I feel comfortable, secure and safe. No matter what my standing at the end of the competition, I know I will feel like a princess out on the ice dancing with Prince Charming. Can't wait.

My best skating buddy watched us dance for a few minutes. Her advice to me: 'SMILE!" She is absolutely right, too. It does make so much difference in terms of presentation and expression.

Onward we continue!