Aug. 8, 2011

I can't believe it's already August! This summer has been long, hard, challenging, fun, and exciting. I've spent a lot of hours in the gym and outside the gym to get in shape and to get to the point where I am today. It's been an adventure and I've been very lucky enough to have had Fig (Associate Head Coach John Figueroa) by my side the whole way. He is amazing and I couldn't have done this without him.

I also have the best teammates in the world. They have been there for me from day one: cheering for me in the gym, supporting me, making me smile when I needed it, and letting me rest and sleep when that was necessary (which was pretty much most of the time)! They have also worked hard in the gym which has motivated me even more. I love these girls and I know we're going to have an amazing year!

My journey is far from over. This is where it starts. I left for Shenzhen, China on Sunday morning, and will be competing in the University Games in about a week! I'm kind of nervous, but also really excited. I spent the last week training with Fig in Michigan for a camp. It was a lot of fun. I wasn't on the exact same schedule as the campers but I still trained with them. There were about 100 girls at the camp. It was a challenge to have that many people around me, but it also made me focus. I also got to work with some of the best coaches in the country. One of them was Deana Parish. She's an amazing lady that really knows her stuff. In only a couple of days she not only changed my dance, choreography, and attitude, but she also made me think.

Even though my old coach will be in China with me, it will be very strange not having Fig by my side. This is my first international competition in 2 years! I know it will be tough to get use to the new time and the new equipment, but I feel strong and ready.

Watch out China, here I come :)

Go Tigers! (and Norway=))