Well, first and foremost, I anticipated finding more time and energy to update my blog through out this competition. Afterall, both my hotel and the Patterson ice rink has free wi-fi available from anywhere.
But as is the norm for most competitors here, the social aspect takes over and takes up much of your time. When I originally had gaps in my schedule-of-events-I-must-see, those were quickly filled with new friends I had to cheer on, dresses to try out, stories to catch up on, etc.
It must go without saying, that the LOC (local organizing committee) rocked. They deserve a much needed vacation and rest after all of their hard work — many of the chairs pulling 12-18+ hour days this week *volunteering.*
TUESDAY:
Tuesday was a practice-only day for all competitors, and as more competitors arrived in Grand Rapids through out the day there were more and more reunions abound.
I LOVE the ice here: very hard, “fast”, “springy” ice — especially for a sand based rink. It’s very cold in the stands, but not as freezing as originally portrayed. Once a competitor, the rink it’s self is chilly, but it’s bearable to be ing a sleeveless dress by end of your warm-up. There’s also a great central lobby here at the Patterson Arena that overlooks both rinks, and is kept very warm.
My practices went well. I enjoyed a silver solo dance practice where I was sharing the ice with some very sweet and very strong Group B skaters. I really enjoyed this since I competed in the other group of Silver Solo Dance. They did play 6-7 versions of both our 14-step and Silver Tango, so it was a great opportunity to get used to the music. For the freeskate practice, they did limit it to 15 skaters which seems to be the appropriate amount. Music was played on a first come first serve basis, and this seemed to work fine for the 30-minute sessions as no one seemed to have any issues getting their music played.
More to come once I have time to finish typing! 
