tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79395300933389128942024-03-18T09:40:51.019-05:00Jennifer ComeauxAuthor and Figure Skating FanaticJenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01039134485577549064noreply@blogger.comBlogger497125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939530093338912894.post-29794873566363913912019-02-02T20:14:00.001-06:002019-02-02T20:14:48.100-06:002019 U.S. Nationals<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Another Nationals in the books! This was my 19th, and the overall level of skating was the highest I've ever seen. My first Nationals was Boston in 2001, which was during the height of the Michelle Kwan era. After Michelle's retirement came the era of Meryl Davis and Charlie White's genius ability. Now we have transitioned into the Nathan Chen era, where we are being treated to a type of athletic talent that we have never witnessed before. It was an honor and a privilege to be in the building for his performances in Detroit.<br />
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There were so many awesome performances last week. The junior free dance is always one of my favorite events, and this year it presented an abundance of riches. The Greens brought beautiful precision, while Nguyen/Kolesnik brought explosive passion. In the championship free dance, McNamara/Carpenter captivated me with their quiet yet emotional performance, and Chock/Bates lit up the entire building with their infectious joy.<br />
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Here are all my photos and videos from the event!</div>
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<a href="https://photos.app.goo.gl/Fu6TKuKtMfHndvqb8" target="_blank">Thursday Photos</a><br />
<a href="https://photos.app.goo.gl/bZzeAFwz2eAv5fvS6" target="_blank">Friday Photos</a><br />
<a href="https://photos.app.goo.gl/ZRarcUL5a9Jh4vLt9" target="_blank">Saturday Photos</a><br />
<a href="https://photos.app.goo.gl/btrC82p4NvVZUNbx5" target="_blank">Sunday Photos</a>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01039134485577549064noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939530093338912894.post-38743253363635485412019-01-27T10:00:00.000-06:002019-01-27T10:00:06.836-06:00CROSSING THE ICE Free on Amazon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjVlDMCu8oW_FthYP_M7gvYfX1Ztja2CMfpc9GL_W1gO5ZUIX8XqD2UwwVNbNlKd5tr9_PHTJbB9bqao2wKcQH_mJDXQix-S9lRe5_3w0_NwNQ6G3szTwa3PFw8W0YdoLe9SBuq14HTL9H/s1600/Crossing+the+Ice+cover-Amazon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1029" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjVlDMCu8oW_FthYP_M7gvYfX1Ztja2CMfpc9GL_W1gO5ZUIX8XqD2UwwVNbNlKd5tr9_PHTJbB9bqao2wKcQH_mJDXQix-S9lRe5_3w0_NwNQ6G3szTwa3PFw8W0YdoLe9SBuq14HTL9H/s320/Crossing+the+Ice+cover-Amazon.jpg" width="205" /></a></div>
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For the first time ever, CROSSING THE ICE is available for free on Amazon! The sale only lasts a few days, so hurry and download the book to your Kindle now! => <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Crossing-Ice-Book-1-ebook/dp/B00MDXMQIQ" target="_blank">FREE BOOK</a>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01039134485577549064noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939530093338912894.post-88974190659002705002018-10-26T10:24:00.002-05:002018-10-26T10:24:43.109-05:00LIFE ON THE EDGE Free on Amazon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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For the first time ever, LIFE ON THE EDGE is available for free on Amazon! The sale only lasts a few days, so hurry and download the book to your Kindle now! => <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Life-Edge-Book-1-ebook/dp/B01LHVM1AW" target="_blank">FREE BOOK</a>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01039134485577549064noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939530093338912894.post-55959085664990482352018-10-23T19:38:00.002-05:002018-10-23T20:52:58.860-05:00Skate America 2018<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It feels like forever since I've blogged about a skating competition, but I hope to get this site going again this season! I didn't attend Skate America last year for the first time in eleven years, and I missed it so much. I was so happy to get back to the event again this year in Everett, Washington. The skating was up and down as it usually is for the first Grand Prix event of the season, but it was still such a fun experience.<br />
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It was a beautiful, sunny afternoon when I arrived in Everett on Thursday, so after a quick lunch at The Habit Burger Grill (OBSESSED with their Tempura Green Bean), my sister and I stopped at the Evergreen Arboretum to get fall foliage photos before we hit the Seattle Premium Outlets for some big bargains (a North Face jacket for $35? Yes, please!) We followed that up with a dinner of yummy fried clam strips at Scuttlebutt Brewing Company on the water. You can see my pics from our sightseeing <a href="https://photos.app.goo.gl/SVYi87ma4mKSu47V8" target="_blank">here!</a><br />
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Friday was a slow morning since practices didn't start until noon, so we did a leisurely lunch at The Valley Organic Deli a few blocks from the arena (highly recommend!). We made it to the arena for the start of the second group of pairs where we met a friend we don't get to see often, and I stayed for the men's and ice dance practices. Nothing much notable happened, but I just loved hanging out in the rink, chatting about all things skating. It got me pumped for the short programs that evening.<br />
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Before we headed to the arena for the evening session, we did dinner at Romio's Pizza and Pasta (portions were way too big) and then stopped at the Funko HQ store around the corner. I had no idea Funko's headquarters are in Everett before I spotted the store, and I'm so glad I saw it. It was absolutely adorable! We took a quick tour of the store to take photos and then went back on Saturday to look more closely at all the merchandise. If you're in the Seattle area and love looking at this kind of stuff, I definitely recommend a visit. You can see all my photos from the store <a href="https://photos.app.goo.gl/dB1NFt9XfsfMffc87" target="_blank">here.</a><br />
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The pairs short program didn't bring much excitement with most teams making mistakes of some sort. The highlight for me was the German team of Minerva Hase/Nolan Seegert. Their program to "Say Something" was clean and had so much visible emotion. I love Ashley Cain/Timothy LeDuc's short program and was bummed they didn't skate it cleanly. They know how to really sell the choreography.<br />
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The men were a bit of an improvement over the pairs with a few standout performances. Nathan Chen's short program last year was brilliant and I thought it would be hard to top, but Shae-Lynn Bourne has given him another gem in "Caravan." Even with the mistake on the quad, it was still an outstanding performance. The only area where I'd like to see Nathan improve is in his shoulders. It's bugged me for years that his shoulders are up in his ears a lot. His fancy feet luckily distract from it, but I still want him to focus on strengthening that part of his posture.</div>
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I discovered Julian Zhi Jie Yee's skating while watching the Autumn Classic this year, and I was doubly impressed seeing him live. His "To Build a Home" short program was stunning. He has so much speed! Another short program hit was Matteo Rizzo's "Volare." I dubbed him the "Italian Jason Brown" because he doesn't need a quad to have a gorgeous, complete performance. He's so smooth and secure in his skating. A skater who did have quads in his program was Vincent Zhou, and it was disappointing that the score didn't reflect the performance because it was a beautiful one. He projected the emotion of the Muse song wonderfully.</div>
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After another visit to The Valley Organic Deli for lunch on Saturday, it was off to the arena for the start of a long day of competition. The pairs were up first again, and this time Ashley and Tim delivered the full package. Ashley's landing on the throw Lutz was the best I've ever seen from them, and the regal music fit their style with their long lines. I also enjoyed the young team of Nica Digerness/Danny Neudecker. Nica reminds me of Caitlin Yankowskas, and Danny complements her lyrical style well. I've been dying for someone to skate to "Let It Go" by James Bay, so I was all in for their long program.<br />
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Nathan was of course the star again in the men's free skate. The music "Land of All" isn't my favorite because of the maudlin sound, but his outstanding quads combined with the high-energy step sequence near the end keeps the energy up. His triple Axel is in the best shape that it's ever been, so I hope that keeps up as he adds more quads to his program this season. I've also never been a fan of the music from <i>Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon,</i> but I thought Vincent did a nice job with the tension of the piece and maintaining the intensity from beginning to end.<br />
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We finally got to the ladies and dance Saturday night with the ladies up first. The ladies roster was the strongest of all the disciplines, so I expected the most from them, and they delivered in the short. Satoko Miyahara and Marin Honda were the highlights for me, but overall it was strong night. Marin and Satoko both float across the ice, but I thought Marin's personality made her performance even more memorable. She has an intangible quality that draws the audience in.<br />
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Megan Wessenberg was a pleasant surprise for me, skating with great speed and power that I wasn't expecting. I also enjoyed Polina Tsurskaya, who I think has the best flow and jump height of all the girls that have come out of Eteri's camp.<br />
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I don't have many thoughts on the rhythm dance because the tango is my least favorite rhythm. My favorite performance of the night was by Lorraine McNamara/Quinn Carpenter. I appreciated their technical precision and the tension they had in their movements.<br />
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The final day began with the Friends of Figure Skating breakfast, where we got to watch interesting Q&A sessions with Jimmy Ma, Ashley and Tim, and Nathan. Ashley and Tim did a great deep dive into their partnership and how open and honest they are with each other about their thoughts and feelings.<br />
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After the breakfast there was only a quick break before the final competition session, kicked off by the free dance. There were a number of performances I enjoyed. Karina Manta/Joe Johnson started the event with a thoroughly entertaining "Sweet Dreams" free dance. Loved the side-by-side dance break where they gave us the feel of dancing in the club. The British team of Lilah Fear/Lewis Gibson also brought the club atmosphere with their disco medley program. I hadn't seen this team before, and they won a new fan. Not only was the music great, but their elements were done with ease. I also enjoyed the second British team of Robin Tweedale/Joseph Buckland. They showed a completely different style with their <i>Ghost</i> free dance, but it was lovely and engaging.<br />
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Lorraine and Quinn again provided my favorite dance of the event with their contemporary, lyrical program. They are so secure with each other from skating together for twelve years, and I think that comfort is serving them well as they explore new genres. In the past I found their skating a bit unrefined and I didn't see a great connection between the two of them, but since they've moved up to the senior level I've seen such a huge improvement in both areas. This free dance in particular really highlights the growth they've experienced as performers and as partners who aren't afraid to show emotion to each other. With their expert technical skills and blossoming performance skills, I see only amazing things on the horizon for these two.<br />
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My thoughts on Madison Hubbell/Zach Donohue's <i>Romeo and Juliet</i> free dance aren't quite so rosy. I'm a big fan of "Kissing You," which makes up a large part of the music, but I don't think this program and this theme fit them at all. I think the theme is a better fit for a younger team. Madi and Zach have so much maturity in their skating that I don't really believe them in the roles of Romeo and Juliet. Last year's sultry free dance is more appropriate for their style in my opinion. I know they can't do the same type of program every year, but I don't think this choice was the best for them. I would've preferred they branch out into something like their "Believer" exhibition from two years ago. It would be different from the usual "sexy" style but still edgy and exciting.<br />
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Unfortunately, in the ladies free skate they didn't live up to the standard set in the short program. Marin Honda had a meltdown in her long program, but her fellow Japanese competitors Kaori Sakamoto and Satoko brought their A-games. They were two of the few with clean programs. As I said earlier, tangos aren't my thing, but Satoko's tango was so elegant and intricate that I bought into it. Regarding music, I could've done without the <i>Burlesque</i> choice by Sofia Samodurova. That movie soundtrack needs to die and be buried.<br />
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Here are the rest of my photos from the event!<br />
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<a href="https://photos.app.goo.gl/v6ZqfhTLLCCbrR3E9" target="_blank">Friday Events</a><br />
<a href="https://photos.app.goo.gl/nsvd89A9jqSYb3N76" target="_blank">Saturday Events</a><br />
<a href="https://photos.app.goo.gl/GUmTan6oLRgnavht9" target="_blank">Sunday Events</a>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01039134485577549064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939530093338912894.post-5513236908535644322018-05-17T19:39:00.000-05:002018-05-17T19:44:12.076-05:002018 Stars on Ice<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've attended the Stars on Ice show in Anaheim the past three years, and I've never seen the Honda Center as packed as it was last Saturday night. The Olympic year boost plus the popularity of Adam Rippon and Nathan Chen brought the fans out in full force. The third level of the arena was practically full!<br />
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Before I get to the show, I must mention some fun moments from the rehearsal. The number of skaters practicing with their music was less than previous years, but the ones who did provided a lot of entertainment. Meryl Davis and Charlie White played the music for their fast program, and they were flying around the ice. Charlie in particular seemed to be in quite the hyper mood, chatting with all the skaters on the ice. Nathan Chen also did a run-through, and he put one thousand percent energy into all his footwork. He also nailed a couple of quads. The funniest part of the rehearsal by far was the group practice for the ice dance program. Karen Chen stood in for Ashley Wagner as Nathan's partner, and she wasn't well-versed in the steps as you can see in this video. 😂<br />
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The show started with a high-energy bang with the opening number to P!nk's "Raise Your Glass." Meryl and Charlie always stand out in the group numbers for me. With their touring and show experience, I think they have a way of going full out, no abandon in all the group choreography.</div>
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The highlights of Act I for me were Vincent Zhou, Karen Chen, Nathan Chen, the girls' number, and Meryl and Charlie.</div>
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I was highly anticipating Vicent's "Take on Me" program choreographed by Josh Farris, and it didn't disappoint. Vincent hit all the clever moments, including a dab in the middle of the program and a full split at the end that both made the crowd go wild.</div>
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I think Karen is at her best in show programs where she can let go and show off her wonderful speed and flow. The song "Never Enough" was perfect for her style.</div>
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The girls' number to "Dream" was a quiet, beautiful program featuring Karen, Ashley Wagner, Mirai Nagasu, and Bradie Tennell. It let each girl take a turn in the spotlight and show off their elegant lines.</div>
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Nathan doesn't have to jump to provide an entertaining performance, but he still graced us with a beautiful quad in his "Back From the Edge" program. He's so quick on his feet and can really dance on the ice. I love how he throws himself into every step.</div>
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Meryl and Charlie closed the first act with a program that had me smiling from beginning to end. Skating to "Hold My Hand," they filled the arena with their infectious energy. The way they move across the ice with so much ease, as if they are on a dance floor, is truly incredible. I loved Randi Strong's choreography for them - it suited them perfectly.</div>
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My highlights from Act II were the dance group number, Jason Brown, Bradie, Adam Rippon, Ashley, and Meryl and Charlie.</div>
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The second half started with another fantastic group number. This one set to "Shape of You" featured Meryl and Charlie, Madison Hubbell and Zach Donohue, and Ashley and Nathan. It was ice dance-themed, so I watched Ashley and Nathan for most of it to see how they would fare. They more than held their own! I love seeing skaters out of their element, so it was a treat to watch Ashley and Nathan dance in hold together.</div>
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Jason had a sprained ankle, so he couldn't jump or do his gorgeous Russian splits (I missed these most of all!), but he still provided a thoroughly entertaining performance that was one hundred percent Jason. The song "Can't Stop the Feeling" was the optimal vehicle for him to have a party on the ice and bring us all into it with him.</div>
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Bradie's program to "This Is Me" was also a great choice for her. She has an elegant power to her skating that I find very enjoyable to watch. The security of her jumps also makes it enjoyable because there's no fear of blemishes marring the performance.</div>
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The loudest ovations of the night came during Adam's reprise of his short program to "Let Me Think About It," and they were SO deserved. Adam amped up every move in the program and sold it like nobody's business. It truly felt like we were in a club, losing ourselves on a pulsating dance floor.<br />
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Ashley created an entirely different mood with her "La La Land" program. She drew me in with her attention to the details of the choreography and her visible affection for the music. I wish we'd been able to see her compete with this program for an entire season.<br />
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My favorite program of the entire night came near the end of the show - Meryl and Charlie's "Elastic Heart." They used a long, red scarf throughout the program, weaving it between each other and using it with great musical effectiveness. It was obvious how emotionally involved they were in the performance, and the audience was right there with them, hushed and captivated. Meryl and Charlie have grown into such amazing artists. Their artistry goes beyond what their feet are doing on the ice.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgveRjimNwRMif6E4Id3vk7D385Ion5mO7zGlEenjCX2xdjuORwEn5Epx9I9JpN6Mk2sfKe9yN-NIBlt-uD_nyN55LuDReDeb8oxB5VRt-Q3t8IZiPK4PG3uSt5oVb8X80NSTJqSNVOIZ6U/s1600/IMG_5705.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgveRjimNwRMif6E4Id3vk7D385Ion5mO7zGlEenjCX2xdjuORwEn5Epx9I9JpN6Mk2sfKe9yN-NIBlt-uD_nyN55LuDReDeb8oxB5VRt-Q3t8IZiPK4PG3uSt5oVb8X80NSTJqSNVOIZ6U/s320/IMG_5705.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Overall the show was a fantastic two hours of entertainment, and I hope the tour continues for many years to come! Here are all my photos from the show => <a href="https://photos.app.goo.gl/siUFb3ljVA4y2HnG3" target="_blank">PHOTOS</a>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01039134485577549064noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939530093338912894.post-20265338715161575012017-09-19T21:03:00.000-05:002017-09-19T21:03:16.117-05:002017 U.S. International Classic<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8-HjVYlYKy1L5qsM0LPzyTDzhnR2jraSPwSq5gogWk-gbK8Tocpp_-tVuChHkvYkKSjH7iKRnFw26RVjyYDmGDCdXKKIK9PNztn4kQBhicOm_USLOu9fvCvc6Rz7UDIGI8XD8udi4sYpB/s1600/IMG_4508.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8-HjVYlYKy1L5qsM0LPzyTDzhnR2jraSPwSq5gogWk-gbK8Tocpp_-tVuChHkvYkKSjH7iKRnFw26RVjyYDmGDCdXKKIK9PNztn4kQBhicOm_USLOu9fvCvc6Rz7UDIGI8XD8udi4sYpB/s320/IMG_4508.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Happy Olympic Season! The fun began this past weekend in Salt Lake City, site of the annual U.S. International Figure Skating Classic. I always love attending this competition every year because it means getting the first look at the skaters' new programs (thankfully there are some who haven't taken the recycled route this year that many have chosen). Salt Lake City is nestled in such a beautiful setting, and it's such an easy city to navigate that the experience is always enjoyable. My only request for next year is for USFS to give us more time between the afternoon and night sessions to eat dinner. We had to do a 20-minute mad dash to Noodles & Company on Thursday evening to grab food and bring it back to the arena.<br />
<br />
I'll take a look at each discipline and give some thoughts I have on each:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Pairs</u></b></div>
<br />
I'm so glad Kirsten Moore-Towers and Michael Marinaro brought back their long program (one good case of recycling) because I think it is gorgeous and builds beautifully. They've come such a long way since the awkwardness when they first teamed up.<br />
<br />
Haven Denney and Brandon Frazier's "All of Me" short program stood out to me. When they skate it clean, it has the potential to create one of those beautiful moments. Their connection on the ice shines through.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDEeuxkTBZgWJSXUd9AbhVXdoWsXGU7p2pQIv2TTijRlfdyZ1DDq1to3c18q1o2MWF8sn0UXe_B3l0iOnwTxsPihoATD8gt2CgTpZPX6L8DvZnPCem-k2Ed2uoJXntMkCZ-bJb3Im2ziEI/s1600/IMG_4144.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDEeuxkTBZgWJSXUd9AbhVXdoWsXGU7p2pQIv2TTijRlfdyZ1DDq1to3c18q1o2MWF8sn0UXe_B3l0iOnwTxsPihoATD8gt2CgTpZPX6L8DvZnPCem-k2Ed2uoJXntMkCZ-bJb3Im2ziEI/s320/IMG_4144.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I would love Deanna Stellato and Nate Bartholomay's long program so much more if they were using the original version of "One" for the first part (cover songs are another bad trend this season). I'd even take the Bono/Mary J. Blige version that Kim and Brent used. I love the second half of the program when it comes alive with "Where the Streets Have No Name." I think the original "One" would give them an edgier vibe in the beginning that would match the end better.<br />
<br />
Chelsea Liu and Brian Johnson impressed me so much. Their skating has matured quite a bit, and they look like they could be contenders in the top echelon of U.S. pairs. I just hope the side by side jumps won't continue to be their downfall as it has been with almost every other U.S. pair.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_qVhRNO8lzDD42o4alihG6va86EoXWxR-RoVfiPbCmQCD_nLu6d0IRlMj-dlsnmbHQXzZPrfcF1dpYZhrYvBSdGlGIPdgjgMY5CkbIolX_6egu4J1GU4XbHr9scsDl9DwxtHoBe5zaBDw/s1600/IMG_4110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_qVhRNO8lzDD42o4alihG6va86EoXWxR-RoVfiPbCmQCD_nLu6d0IRlMj-dlsnmbHQXzZPrfcF1dpYZhrYvBSdGlGIPdgjgMY5CkbIolX_6egu4J1GU4XbHr9scsDl9DwxtHoBe5zaBDw/s320/IMG_4110.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>Ghost</i> is definitely the best program Alexa Scimeca-Knierim and Chris Knierim have ever had, so good decision by USFS to ask them to bring it back. I think they could spruce up the choreography (the waving arms get a little repetitive), but the slow music does a good job of calming their movements so they look more graceful.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Dance</u></b></div>
<br />
I hadn't seen the team of Carolane Soucisse and Shane Firus before, but I absolutely loved them! They were adorable and looked like they'd been dancing together forever even though they're a relatively new team.<br />
<br />
My favorite program in the dance discipline was the free dance of Kana Muramoto and Chris Reed. The music was special, and their movements were thoughtful and beautiful. They really set a mood, and Kana in particular expressed the emotion of the music so authentically.<br />
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<br />
The scores seemed rather low for most of the teams, and I thought Julia Biechler and Damian Dodge were grossly underscored. They have a nice, smooth quality to their skating that puts you at ease, and I especially love their powerful twizzles.<br />
<br />
Laurence Fournier Beaudry and Nikolaj Sorensen's free dance was another standout program. I am so sad that they won't be able to attend the Olympics because their skating deserves to be on the sport's biggest stage.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDRGeVotlu6NB_SNxuhGGm677kl-VpH4YSg0os0u1kXOIhqD34nSpor4veZjchssTaiJdUnGawTKPOLYcQqiXl0emjMr_clMyhJdpeMLstUDU2qOpCEIdifmyb9eS0gp2UQ3NBxWpRxlKf/s1600/IMG_4424.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDRGeVotlu6NB_SNxuhGGm677kl-VpH4YSg0os0u1kXOIhqD34nSpor4veZjchssTaiJdUnGawTKPOLYcQqiXl0emjMr_clMyhJdpeMLstUDU2qOpCEIdifmyb9eS0gp2UQ3NBxWpRxlKf/s320/IMG_4424.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I didn't care for the music in Madison Hubbell and Zachary Donohue's free dance, and I thought last year's FD did a better job showing their connection. I didn't think this program left as big of an emotional impact. The music really killed it for me.<br />
<br />
Kaitlin Hawayek and Jean-Luc Baker's short dance was one of my favorites. I like my Latin programs on the mainstream and upbeat side, and this one fit the bill.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Men</u></b></div>
<br />
Nathan Chen - wow! His programs are so mature and well-choreographed, highlighting all his strengths. I hope he wins a medal in South Korea and then sticks around to bless us with his extraordinary talent for another four years.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGWe1-KNPMJM2IpdBrUThmpOkeujGdlIK9yFzKy-YhoPTnXwP3SShROPgp9sCYvavRw9wyYC-4EE6veNq5V9iC-a9izGoN43R1wzpDhcpwu4wTtkk0W34PHmbVYhueQqO69MwIADDLzaTg/s1600/IMG_4319.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGWe1-KNPMJM2IpdBrUThmpOkeujGdlIK9yFzKy-YhoPTnXwP3SShROPgp9sCYvavRw9wyYC-4EE6veNq5V9iC-a9izGoN43R1wzpDhcpwu4wTtkk0W34PHmbVYhueQqO69MwIADDLzaTg/s320/IMG_4319.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Max Aaron also wowed me at this competition. He was rocking the warhorse programs, but they worked so well for him. He really seems to love the music and is connected to it in a way I haven't seen before. His jumps also looked in midseason form.<br />
<br />
Liam Firus was another bright spot. His skating is like butter, and his <i>La La Land</i> program was perfect for his relaxed style. He also wins the cutest costume award.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1-Z_R0AvM4MP76L4uH85ME_Y6BAa92rjpTjKzRHF4spBFYF6c40AwdW_dfHZNSJarrYj2WFmonfMeeZ-3LEiJNy7yb75OKGYEYKUNV1_cafsdgINNuqNvIPv1NMyDZ5irhzVV6BEj6tDn/s1600/IMG_4325.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1-Z_R0AvM4MP76L4uH85ME_Y6BAa92rjpTjKzRHF4spBFYF6c40AwdW_dfHZNSJarrYj2WFmonfMeeZ-3LEiJNy7yb75OKGYEYKUNV1_cafsdgINNuqNvIPv1NMyDZ5irhzVV6BEj6tDn/s320/IMG_4325.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Kazuki Tomono was a skater I hadn't seen before, and he was so entertaining, reminding me a of young Shoma Uno. He has a lot of flair, and he went all out in his <i>West Side Story</i> long program.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Ladies</u></b></div>
<br />
Marin Honda - another WOW. This was my first time seeing her skate live, and her blades were dead silent as they moved over the ice. She seemed to be floating from one element to another. This girl is special, and I hope she will be competing for many more years because I can only imagine how extraordinary she'll be as she grows even more as an artist.<br />
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<br />
I'm not a fan of the<i> Moulin Rouge</i> soundtrack and I think it's waaaayyyyy overused, but Karen sold her "Tango de Roxanne" short program very well. I enjoyed the bones of her <i>Carmen</i> program, too, even with the mistakes. What's most impressive about her is her speed and attack.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6V9w7AhyphenhyphenSgwUT_A6w42pj7_t6qf4K0zCPmOmfZotnAb9OTvKKpCtTo__Wd5ZEBd1mpQ1PafiDU3Ebig27s-hb2m6LvXW4RJ_J633GBig_T2glZmq7nBEOIgHD8JM3ECkJUp1TOhYXP8An/s1600/IMG_4500.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6V9w7AhyphenhyphenSgwUT_A6w42pj7_t6qf4K0zCPmOmfZotnAb9OTvKKpCtTo__Wd5ZEBd1mpQ1PafiDU3Ebig27s-hb2m6LvXW4RJ_J633GBig_T2glZmq7nBEOIgHD8JM3ECkJUp1TOhYXP8An/s320/IMG_4500.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Speaking of speed and attack, if Mirai Nagasu could attain those two elements she could finally set herself apart. I love the cuts of her <i>Miss Saigon</i> program and just want her to moooove faster across the ice to really make the program sing.<br />
<br />
You can find all my photos from the event here => <a href="https://photos.app.goo.gl/CJJa86VMIoVcMWWE2" target="_blank">PHOTOS</a>. Also included are the junior men's short program and the junior short dance.Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01039134485577549064noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939530093338912894.post-70229837577329361132017-07-16T08:00:00.000-05:002017-07-16T08:00:00.976-05:00YA Book Bundle Giveaway<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
What do you do when your newest release is a snow-filled winter book but it's 80+ degrees outside with humidity so high your hair has taken on a new dimension? You host a giveaway of YA winter sports books! I've teamed up with <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.katievanark.com/&source=gmail&ust=1500152114532000&usg=AFQjCNFB2gP8VL3tBiJlwIvBMBIAHOyGeA" href="http://www.katievanark.com/" rel="noopener" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Katie Van Ark</a> and <a href="http://www.melaniehoo.com/" target="_blank">Melanie Hooyenga </a>for a giveaway that's sure to cool you off on even the hottest summer nights.</div>
<h2 style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; text-align: center;">
#CoolReadsHotNights</h2>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8XLfHiP1eoxkdFOFokir-HBN23VtOrZdrSwxk9acS7B0Zzmv2jkwYcyILLLCniJV4tEAIMdh8LTfralWyE6UAFj64IfaGq63YLUVG-boxL4BzYNnXxtG6uEKBWsvQEtQ5HIBJklWPIAhi/s1600/YA+Bundle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8XLfHiP1eoxkdFOFokir-HBN23VtOrZdrSwxk9acS7B0Zzmv2jkwYcyILLLCniJV4tEAIMdh8LTfralWyE6UAFj64IfaGq63YLUVG-boxL4BzYNnXxtG6uEKBWsvQEtQ5HIBJklWPIAhi/s320/YA+Bundle.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
Beginning TODAY, you can enter to win a paperback copy of each of our books — <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/Boy-Next-Door-Katie-Van-ebook/dp/B00JI09G7Q&source=gmail&ust=1500152114533000&usg=AFQjCNEEBK7Bv0fseW0U06mXOrSb4Jn1IA" href="https://www.amazon.com/Boy-Next-Door-Katie-Van-ebook/dp/B00JI09G7Q" rel="noopener" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">THE BOY NEXT DOOR</a>, <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/Slope-Rules-Melanie-Hooyenga-ebook/dp/B01MUBSOLO&source=gmail&ust=1500152114533000&usg=AFQjCNHeCKhkGG5Ol29rz5yeBKJdRzbgZg" href="https://www.amazon.com/Slope-Rules-Melanie-Hooyenga-ebook/dp/B01MUBSOLO" rel="noopener" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">THE SLOPE RULES</a>, and <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/Gold-Rush-Jennifer-Comeaux-ebook/dp/B01MSV3XON&source=gmail&ust=1500152114533000&usg=AFQjCNHyy81vlZ0HDQAZU_YxHeFXiQ2lTA" href="https://www.amazon.com/Gold-Rush-Jennifer-Comeaux-ebook/dp/B01MSV3XON" rel="noopener" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">GOLD RUSH</a> — by sharing a picture online of how you enjoy winter in summer. Not sure what that means? Here are a few examples:</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
- Ice in a glass</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
- Ice cream scoop/cone</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
- Snow cone</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
- Ice skating at your favorite rink</div>
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<br /></div>
<h2 style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">
The Rules:</h2>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
—> Post a picture on Instagram, Twitter, AND/OR Facebook with the hashtag "CoolReadsHotNights" by <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_2083289395" style="border-bottom: 1px dashed rgb(204, 204, 204); position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Sunday, July 23rd</span></span>.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
—> You must live in the US.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
It's that easy!</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<br /></div>
<h2 style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">
A few more details:</h2>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
—> You can enter more than once</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
—> Get creative! Ice and ice cream are easy, but drag your snowshoes from the basement and take a hike in the dunes!</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
—> We'd love it if you'd tag us:</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Instagram: @jcomeaux4, @katievanark, @melaniehoo</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Twitter: @LadyWave4, </span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">@kvanark</span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">, @melaniehoo</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
Now what are you waiting for? Share your winter in summer pics!</div>
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Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01039134485577549064noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939530093338912894.post-77365550621553857782017-05-15T19:30:00.001-05:002017-05-15T20:53:25.266-05:00Stars on Ice 2017<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOrAVdspZquD4Tgz7FtD3DrytUGPK4EsHJ2qojMpyznBJw5SlSirxm0dXno37o828lhJzxzR4vQWayeHpKwyUTsPnNTDrhxwE0IcffCxynHUKfDeMMGOpRnrlFfeDRu9Kk86wce8Fo3c2D/s1600/IMG_3683.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOrAVdspZquD4Tgz7FtD3DrytUGPK4EsHJ2qojMpyznBJw5SlSirxm0dXno37o828lhJzxzR4vQWayeHpKwyUTsPnNTDrhxwE0IcffCxynHUKfDeMMGOpRnrlFfeDRu9Kk86wce8Fo3c2D/s320/IMG_3683.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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It's time for my annual Stars on Ice show review! I saw the show at its Anaheim stop again so I could visit with friends, and the crowd was great compared to the attendance reports I'd seen from other cities.</div>
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We arrived early at the Honda Center for the pre-show rehearsal, but because of miscommunication between the show management and the arena, we missed the ice dancers' rehearsal group :( I was glad we did get to see Madison Chock and Evan Bates do a Q&A with the local skaters at the end of the pre-show. This was something new that hadn't been done at the previous rehearsals I'd attended. The singles skaters practiced bits and pieces of their programs and also toyed around with other elements (saw Vincent land a nice quad in front of us). Ashley spent a few minutes working on her "ice slide" move with assistance from Adam lol. Here are some video clips I took during rehearsal => <a href="https://goo.gl/photos/1uB3hHbJXUqKwcmb6" target="_blank">PRE-SHOW VIDS.</a></div>
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The show started with a great high-energy group number to "24K Magic." I find my eyes going to Charlie White a lot in these group numbers. His dancing has really reached another level since his participation in <i>Love on the Floor </i>last summer.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl2d6Lx9DrzMda0syVP26uVt6_kunFr2uClbPndzEl1uoTDMUISlLYX6VjYS_IG29rGc-DxT7ty-lx4WcILdBvdUTiO_5WmKNEQb-_S-VtnNH8NvejUg2Qs_GoNidbAm5dIkiK86XRgaPn/s1600/IMG_3449.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl2d6Lx9DrzMda0syVP26uVt6_kunFr2uClbPndzEl1uoTDMUISlLYX6VjYS_IG29rGc-DxT7ty-lx4WcILdBvdUTiO_5WmKNEQb-_S-VtnNH8NvejUg2Qs_GoNidbAm5dIkiK86XRgaPn/s320/IMG_3449.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here are the rest of the programs in order:</div>
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Vincent Zhou - "Sun" - This was the exhibition he did at nationals, and I like this program for him because it shows off the smoothness of his skating and how much he's worked on the artistic side. Couple of solid triples including a Rippon Lutz.</div>
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Gracie Gold - "Bang Bang" and "Best Mistake" - I really like the sassy choreography done by Misha Ge for this program. Would like to see Gracie bring it to life a little more. I think she did one double jump.</div>
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Adam Rippon and Gracie Gold - "City of Stars" - Loved this interlude and how much Gracie smiled once Adam came onto the ice. Wish it had been longer.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnWaT5skVIYS_w0ecxYRX6hRHio4v1313DFyWCqgjArwqEXMhoZrrlBaG3f7HTIZMuYNMprmF7OYtEmhLh3LI3z8ComTe7YW-M3ZW5Emf5EHhr_osJil4zVNlNkCYJyYpnQ7IpMJuQKGeb/s1600/IMG_3467.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnWaT5skVIYS_w0ecxYRX6hRHio4v1313DFyWCqgjArwqEXMhoZrrlBaG3f7HTIZMuYNMprmF7OYtEmhLh3LI3z8ComTe7YW-M3ZW5Emf5EHhr_osJil4zVNlNkCYJyYpnQ7IpMJuQKGeb/s320/IMG_3467.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Adam Rippon - "Diamonds" - Very modern choreography done with complete commitment by Adam. His jumps look solid after the long layoff due to injury.</div>
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Madison Hubbell and Zach Donohue - "Believer" - Love this song and the crisp, powerful movement by H/D in this program. I think a strong piece of music like this could be a good free dance vehicle for them.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinMH_KRYtRNNpUigN_lha-HOsi7fnWC73m9fkQb1lBr1dO72k8D33-bMVAjx2Cv8sSChVDXh5hpvwbNZrpoAbvuG0p8Im9dYu9eFH-67rPD8Dd-rfZb32nCor7QCf8dAF5gctg9OKSnG-U/s1600/IMG_3483.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinMH_KRYtRNNpUigN_lha-HOsi7fnWC73m9fkQb1lBr1dO72k8D33-bMVAjx2Cv8sSChVDXh5hpvwbNZrpoAbvuG0p8Im9dYu9eFH-67rPD8Dd-rfZb32nCor7QCf8dAF5gctg9OKSnG-U/s320/IMG_3483.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Jeremy Abbott - "Land of All" - Inventive and angular choreography with a nicely-executed backflip included!</div>
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Karen Chen - "Rise" - Karen's command of the ice was AWESOME and the most powerful I've ever seen her look. She did a triple Lutz-half loop-triple Salchow in the program and was practicing her triple Lutz-triple toe during rehearsal.</div>
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Madison Chock and Evan Bates - "Santa Maria" - WOW WOW WOW. It's a shame that with all the tangos he's given his teams, Igor never blessed Madi and Evan with one because they owned this tango. Sultry, passionate, and creative with clever use of a folding chair as a prop. I didn't want it to end.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghRxzQR3MyHE-z9nlWmwBeWks0thFK6Z_N9CqXPxFge45_u0suqycQmFvRRFRYmBCRDoZxZk8tBGuUMaOhip0TxhdGbxQ7sDzed6WUa-ewT1-hZjgxihe86Evuxkl63U5K9cMFYMXy6wh6/s1600/IMG_3522.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghRxzQR3MyHE-z9nlWmwBeWks0thFK6Z_N9CqXPxFge45_u0suqycQmFvRRFRYmBCRDoZxZk8tBGuUMaOhip0TxhdGbxQ7sDzed6WUa-ewT1-hZjgxihe86Evuxkl63U5K9cMFYMXy6wh6/s320/IMG_3522.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Ashley, Gracie, Adam, Jeremy - "Bright Lights" - This group number featured costumes that glowed in the dark. It was a cool concept, but the choreography seemed rather generic and didn't really grab me. As the only upbeat number other than the opening and closing, I would've preferred something more fun like "The Walker" from the 2014 show.</div>
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Nathan Chen - "Stole the Show" - Nathan really shines with the fast and furious footwork in this program, and he treated us to one of his beautiful quads. His performance ability shines through so much more when he doesn't have to do five of them.</div>
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Meryl Davis and Charlie White - "Adagio" - Stunning, moving, effortless skating. I can't think of enough adjectives for this program. They poured their hearts into the performance, and even though many of the movements were ones we've seen before, it didn't matter because they were done with such conviction.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghU2H-sX7zEwTiclvDg6a5L0cH3qkr6pKf_C2cmqJB43PyRAevR2i5sLoOkXfEBbYhGuY3iez7WdubxKJMqL9WC7qdIdc9mcpmyjKK27vxNqDHyg_X9oWU3IQr7xocZxwv30eK_bq4Gzj8/s1600/IMG_3545.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghU2H-sX7zEwTiclvDg6a5L0cH3qkr6pKf_C2cmqJB43PyRAevR2i5sLoOkXfEBbYhGuY3iez7WdubxKJMqL9WC7qdIdc9mcpmyjKK27vxNqDHyg_X9oWU3IQr7xocZxwv30eK_bq4Gzj8/s320/IMG_3545.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Ashley Wagner - "Exogenesis: Symphony Part III" - Ashley maintained the mood set by Meryl and Charlie with her reprise of her Muse long program. She did a few very nice triples and performed the program to the max, completely engaged with the music.</div>
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Cast - "Send in the Clowns" - A lovely tribute to the late Jef Billings. A montage of clips from past SOI shows played on the video screens while the cast skated. I could feel the skaters' appreciation for his work in the air.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihMNyrLyqDtYTcHm23if3P06wUlq0hGMyEDSUv0UnzPBkrdKV2FY3VL-u2LIljT72RN62SHKgZBVtSU6xZqUvAWeIb3FhCyEoqix0zoNQKbCQbVLcQHpc9u8mAOYu0itIe0wVFQ2bkzKd2/s1600/IMG_3574.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihMNyrLyqDtYTcHm23if3P06wUlq0hGMyEDSUv0UnzPBkrdKV2FY3VL-u2LIljT72RN62SHKgZBVtSU6xZqUvAWeIb3FhCyEoqix0zoNQKbCQbVLcQHpc9u8mAOYu0itIe0wVFQ2bkzKd2/s320/IMG_3574.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Cast - "Fratres" - This was a pretty group number to start the second half, but I think it would've been better to start with something a little more upbeat since the first half ended with the Jef Billings tribute.</div>
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Madison and Zach - "Stand By Me" - The program reminded me a lot of their free dance from this past season - very lyrical and emphasizing the emotional connection between the two of them.</div>
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Adam - "Getaway" - Cool, dancey program with a different vibe from his first number, so great variety! Once again his jumps were on point, too.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxHbJFeh2UaopeLnp4P-8qPtjUKiNk40Opb8MHGO1MuUYdKiiZVrg3Ntk3wQHfyTTrOzzRbCl5wtaG3H9QeGqh4mMJqfmAlXrUwA8I2UpAjTXgy99dKCGmnVu-MqZo7fvqDPKPUgAnk2bh/s1600/IMG_3603.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxHbJFeh2UaopeLnp4P-8qPtjUKiNk40Opb8MHGO1MuUYdKiiZVrg3Ntk3wQHfyTTrOzzRbCl5wtaG3H9QeGqh4mMJqfmAlXrUwA8I2UpAjTXgy99dKCGmnVu-MqZo7fvqDPKPUgAnk2bh/s320/IMG_3603.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Nathan - "Parachute" - The shrill ringing phone sound effects were a bit annoying, but Nathan again brought great energy and fast feet to the performance. No quads, but I'm glad he didn't tempt fate again!<br />
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Madi Chock, Jeremy, Evan - "Tilted" - Another entertaining group number with interesting shapes and choreography.<br />
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Gracie - "Golden" - This was more of Gracie's usual style, but the jumps still weren't there (she did one double). I hope if her heart is still in skating that she can find her way to make a comeback on her terms.</div>
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Ice Dancers - "Black Hole Sun" - Awesome, dark group number with the three ice dance teams. I just wish the lights had been brighter because it was hard to see the facial expressions and the nuances of the program.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyJ421FEIt9rp6OP21uU2VnaP95CwtiOjOWDgFjjov7a68jyatvkTdmnmLgkNqC0RN5LyK4RKtPpaZRLEubYBr1KSrve_kGOWdvUUeZ8KR2AcJaubtSg1oggRBBRcRfkh-A5gbv-_M89Wd/s1600/IMG_3629.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyJ421FEIt9rp6OP21uU2VnaP95CwtiOjOWDgFjjov7a68jyatvkTdmnmLgkNqC0RN5LyK4RKtPpaZRLEubYBr1KSrve_kGOWdvUUeZ8KR2AcJaubtSg1oggRBBRcRfkh-A5gbv-_M89Wd/s320/IMG_3629.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Karen - "Butterfly Lovers" - More gorgeous, heartfelt skating from Karen. She popped one jump but looked strong in every other aspect.</div>
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Jeremy - "In This Shirt" - The style of the program seemed similar to Jeremy's first number, so I had trouble remembering which one was which. He had a couple of jump issues in this one, but his basic skating is still so lovely to watch.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghLOu7GmkU8wcLLvgKhdQWXmQOZ0Eq0HpvO6NPanbLRcBaQyYeDnOemKEwrtdJZfkl-9MnKSogmiyjgqjPyZBRu-zkW8tYakJ48EA7rTivB-HHnYKBB3PioFI8iy86E2xhCw757ENktj0L/s1600/IMG_3644.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghLOu7GmkU8wcLLvgKhdQWXmQOZ0Eq0HpvO6NPanbLRcBaQyYeDnOemKEwrtdJZfkl-9MnKSogmiyjgqjPyZBRu-zkW8tYakJ48EA7rTivB-HHnYKBB3PioFI8iy86E2xhCw757ENktj0L/s320/IMG_3644.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Madi and Evan - "Under Pressure" - I've loved this program all season long, so I was happy to see it one more time. It was great to see them include the twizzle sequence, which ice dancers don't normally do in exhibition programs.</div>
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Ashley - "Handclap" - This was Ashley at her fun, sassy best. She made me enjoy the program even though I'm not a fan of the song.</div>
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Meryl and Charlie - "Sax" - Totally different from their earlier number and such a blast of energy! This program showed off Meryl and Charlie's pure dance skills and how much they've grown from their experiences with <i>Dancing With the Stars</i> and <i>Love on the Floor.</i></div>
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Cast - "Can't Stop the Feeling" - A great way to close the night with a fun, rocking number that included a chance for each skater to take their turn in the spotlight and be goofy (examples: Adam ripping off his jacket and Charlie running and sliding across the ice). The skaters took multiple laps around and didn't seem to want to leave. It was great to see how much fun they were having.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzV71KAMvrRIwQ91ehY0uK6tCM55bR1HBizYKaOsrL7dXfgiBltVeW3n2g8IgfqF1jBENaXMQuwNtyeMJwuzFUDEz2R9mnVsOOqgXj0EfNUCo72lXXkpcr-KCRD2sBSg5HFY-iKt7l0FYy/s1600/IMG_3702.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzV71KAMvrRIwQ91ehY0uK6tCM55bR1HBizYKaOsrL7dXfgiBltVeW3n2g8IgfqF1jBENaXMQuwNtyeMJwuzFUDEz2R9mnVsOOqgXj0EfNUCo72lXXkpcr-KCRD2sBSg5HFY-iKt7l0FYy/s320/IMG_3702.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here are the rest of my photos from the show plus the Meet and Greet! => <a href="https://goo.gl/photos/reF6ThpjdduJ6fxC7" target="_blank">SOI PHOTOS</a></div>
<br />Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01039134485577549064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939530093338912894.post-78455259572634238922017-05-01T11:33:00.001-05:002017-05-01T11:33:35.634-05:00RONE Award Voting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLKDnJoy6hKNG_RJYu14HtqQf4jc4ElZfruMEB0TVL1puhJiYE6N9cMJB6h7-IbSRsbGX_6PFexm2vQ7zGXg9SGUkwABAVI52r3iPnIvPM6bwk3St51wjp2oapPrMGEVo9dpPQjSvtVW9L/s1600/Gold+Rush+Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLKDnJoy6hKNG_RJYu14HtqQf4jc4ElZfruMEB0TVL1puhJiYE6N9cMJB6h7-IbSRsbGX_6PFexm2vQ7zGXg9SGUkwABAVI52r3iPnIvPM6bwk3St51wjp2oapPrMGEVo9dpPQjSvtVW9L/s320/Gold+Rush+Cover.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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GOLD RUSH is nominated for InD'tale Magazine's RONE Award in the YA:General category! I've been nominated for my other books but have never made the finals, so it would be amazing to finally get there. You can vote here until May 8! => <a href="http://indtale.com/2017-rone-awards-week-three" target="_blank">RONE Awards</a></div>
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Voting requires a quick registration, but it's all free and you can unsubscribe at any time :) Thank you so much for your support!!</div>
<br />Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01039134485577549064noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939530093338912894.post-69901742979942252202017-03-02T12:00:00.000-06:002017-03-02T12:00:00.164-06:00CROSSING THE ICE 99c Sale<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQkue2VphG1gxRKDoT3ZvI7RIfcpkTMyhxI0z5Aowx-aroyxbauNgeahmpxOGcZnVC77G1yFWh4yCF4D3KKTW-DjjBOTsECZSDwhJw3Wi06FUT5t0H6ynkKmMQZ1Sv4veB27Yoe5vmfkNr/s1600/Crossing+the+Ice+BookBub+Ad.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQkue2VphG1gxRKDoT3ZvI7RIfcpkTMyhxI0z5Aowx-aroyxbauNgeahmpxOGcZnVC77G1yFWh4yCF4D3KKTW-DjjBOTsECZSDwhJw3Wi06FUT5t0H6ynkKmMQZ1Sv4veB27Yoe5vmfkNr/s1600/Crossing+the+Ice+BookBub+Ad.png" /></a></div>
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Today is my birthday, so I'm celebrating with a book sale! You can pick up CROSSING THE ICE, the first book in the Ice Series, for only 99 cents. The sale will only last one week, so don't miss out! You can find it on Amazon <b><a href="https://amzn.com/B00MDXMQIQ" target="_blank">here.</a></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Falling hard never felt so good.</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Pair skaters Courtney and Mark have one shot left at their Olympic dream. They vow not to let anything get in their way, especially not Josh and Stephanie, the wealthy and talented brother and sister team.<br /><br />The heart doesn’t always listen to reason, though…</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The more time Courtney spends with sweet, shy Josh, the harder she falls for him. But they are on opposite sides of the competition, and their futures are headed in opposite directions. Will their friendship blossom into more or are their paths too different to cross?</span></div>
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<br />Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01039134485577549064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939530093338912894.post-60939640871739950702017-02-11T00:00:00.000-06:002017-02-13T15:07:44.762-06:00Gold Rush Blog Tour Day 6<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8NBwmyywWm5MS2-RspxX1TdGkzox-pv5tIBSfOL-MkMpfHZ5nm72zSS6D91x42cpwMdCI2__mvwVXGhUx_kiD9i3GJ7KYyCT1_AvD9GIHM4pGjtqp030ncrta8xIbM9YdqCa3E5rGQ1u1/s1600/GoldRushTourBanner.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8NBwmyywWm5MS2-RspxX1TdGkzox-pv5tIBSfOL-MkMpfHZ5nm72zSS6D91x42cpwMdCI2__mvwVXGhUx_kiD9i3GJ7KYyCT1_AvD9GIHM4pGjtqp030ncrta8xIbM9YdqCa3E5rGQ1u1/s320/GoldRushTourBanner.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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Welcome to the GOLD RUSH blog tour organized by Xpresso Book Tours! Check out reviews of the book at the sites below and enter my gift card giveaway!<br />
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<a href="http://2kasmom.booklikes.com/post/1527990/blog-tour-w-review-gold-rush" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Kitty’s Book Spot!</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://dreamlandteenfantasy.blogspot.com/2017/02/blog-tour-giveaway-gold-rush-by.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Dreamland Teenage Fantasy</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://whoogivesahootaurorahale.wordpress.com/2017/02/11/blog-tour-review-gold-rush-by-jennifer-comeaux/" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Whoo Gives A Hoot</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.prettylittlebookreviews.com/blog-tours/blog-tour-gold-rush-by-jennifer-comeaux" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Pretty Little Book Reviews</a></span></div>
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Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01039134485577549064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939530093338912894.post-25535922309828814402017-02-10T00:00:00.000-06:002017-02-10T09:35:18.188-06:00Gold Rush Blog Tour Day 5<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8NBwmyywWm5MS2-RspxX1TdGkzox-pv5tIBSfOL-MkMpfHZ5nm72zSS6D91x42cpwMdCI2__mvwVXGhUx_kiD9i3GJ7KYyCT1_AvD9GIHM4pGjtqp030ncrta8xIbM9YdqCa3E5rGQ1u1/s1600/GoldRushTourBanner.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8NBwmyywWm5MS2-RspxX1TdGkzox-pv5tIBSfOL-MkMpfHZ5nm72zSS6D91x42cpwMdCI2__mvwVXGhUx_kiD9i3GJ7KYyCT1_AvD9GIHM4pGjtqp030ncrta8xIbM9YdqCa3E5rGQ1u1/s320/GoldRushTourBanner.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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Welcome to the GOLD RUSH blog tour organized by Xpresso Book Tours! Check out reviews of the book at the sites below and enter my gift card giveaway!<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://tobereadsite.wordpress.com/2017/02/10/blog-tour-gold-rush/" style="background-color: rgba(255, 253, 234, 0.298039); box-sizing: border-box; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">To Be Read</a><br style="background-color: rgba(255, 253, 234, 0.298039); box-sizing: border-box; text-align: left;" /><a href="http://anotherbookhangover.com/2017/02/09/gold-rush-by-jennifer-comeaux-blog-tour/" style="background-color: rgba(255, 253, 234, 0.298039); box-sizing: border-box; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Another Book Hangover</a><br style="background-color: rgba(255, 253, 234, 0.298039); box-sizing: border-box; text-align: left;" /><a href="https://www.lostinlit.com/2017/02/blog-tour-giveway-gold-rush-jennifer-comeaux/" style="background-color: rgba(255, 253, 234, 0.298039); box-sizing: border-box; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Lost in Lit</a><br style="background-color: rgba(255, 253, 234, 0.298039); box-sizing: border-box; text-align: left;" /><a href="http://thebookwormcentral.blogspot.com/2017/02/review-gold-rush-by-jennifer-comeaux.html" style="background-color: rgba(255, 253, 234, 0.298039); box-sizing: border-box; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">The Bookworm Central</a></span></div>
Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01039134485577549064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939530093338912894.post-38938966953843262972017-02-09T00:00:00.000-06:002017-02-09T20:06:20.684-06:00Gold Rush Blog Tour Day 4<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8NBwmyywWm5MS2-RspxX1TdGkzox-pv5tIBSfOL-MkMpfHZ5nm72zSS6D91x42cpwMdCI2__mvwVXGhUx_kiD9i3GJ7KYyCT1_AvD9GIHM4pGjtqp030ncrta8xIbM9YdqCa3E5rGQ1u1/s1600/GoldRushTourBanner.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8NBwmyywWm5MS2-RspxX1TdGkzox-pv5tIBSfOL-MkMpfHZ5nm72zSS6D91x42cpwMdCI2__mvwVXGhUx_kiD9i3GJ7KYyCT1_AvD9GIHM4pGjtqp030ncrta8xIbM9YdqCa3E5rGQ1u1/s320/GoldRushTourBanner.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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Welcome to the GOLD RUSH blog tour organized by Xpresso Book Tours! Check out reviews of the book at the sites below and enter my gift card giveaway!<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://novelsandnecklaces.blogspot.com/2017/02/blog-tour-gold-rush.html#.WJ0ftPkrLIU" style="background-color: rgba(255, 253, 234, 0.298039); box-sizing: border-box; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Novels and Necklaces</a><br style="background-color: rgba(255, 253, 234, 0.298039); box-sizing: border-box; text-align: left;" /><a href="https://archaeolibrarianologist.blogspot.de/2017/02/blog-tour-review-giveaway-gold-rush-by.html" style="background-color: rgba(255, 253, 234, 0.298039); box-sizing: border-box; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Archaeolibrarian – I Dig Good Books!</a><br style="background-color: rgba(255, 253, 234, 0.298039); box-sizing: border-box; text-align: left;" /><a href="http://thhernandez.com/book-review-gold-rush-by-jennifer-comeaux/" style="background-color: rgba(255, 253, 234, 0.298039); box-sizing: border-box; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Adventures in Writing</a><br style="background-color: rgba(255, 253, 234, 0.298039); box-sizing: border-box; text-align: left;" /><a href="https://erubooksandrecs.wordpress.com/2017/02/09/blog-tour-giveaway-gold-rush-by-jennifer-comeaux-book-review/" style="background-color: rgba(255, 253, 234, 0.298039); box-sizing: border-box; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Eru Books and Recs</a></span></div>
Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01039134485577549064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939530093338912894.post-51099746797814756292017-02-08T00:00:00.000-06:002017-02-09T20:06:29.636-06:00Gold Rush Blog Tour Day 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8NBwmyywWm5MS2-RspxX1TdGkzox-pv5tIBSfOL-MkMpfHZ5nm72zSS6D91x42cpwMdCI2__mvwVXGhUx_kiD9i3GJ7KYyCT1_AvD9GIHM4pGjtqp030ncrta8xIbM9YdqCa3E5rGQ1u1/s1600/GoldRushTourBanner.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8NBwmyywWm5MS2-RspxX1TdGkzox-pv5tIBSfOL-MkMpfHZ5nm72zSS6D91x42cpwMdCI2__mvwVXGhUx_kiD9i3GJ7KYyCT1_AvD9GIHM4pGjtqp030ncrta8xIbM9YdqCa3E5rGQ1u1/s320/GoldRushTourBanner.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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Welcome to the GOLD RUSH blog tour organized by Xpresso Book Tours! Check out reviews of the book at the sites below and enter my gift card giveaway!<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="background-color: rgba(255, 253, 234, 0.298039); box-sizing: border-box; text-align: left;" /><a href="https://staceyschneller06.wordpress.com/2017/02/08/gold-rush-blog-tour-giveaway/" style="background-color: rgba(255, 253, 234, 0.298039); box-sizing: border-box; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Books,Dreams,Life </a><br style="background-color: rgba(255, 253, 234, 0.298039); box-sizing: border-box; text-align: left;" /><a href="https://blogbetweenbooks.blogspot.com/2017/02/blogtour-review-gold-rush-by-jennifer.html" style="background-color: rgba(255, 253, 234, 0.298039); box-sizing: border-box; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Between Books</a></span></div>
Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01039134485577549064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939530093338912894.post-89475148320963078402017-02-07T00:00:00.000-06:002017-02-07T08:11:11.970-06:00Gold Rush Blog Tour Day 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8NBwmyywWm5MS2-RspxX1TdGkzox-pv5tIBSfOL-MkMpfHZ5nm72zSS6D91x42cpwMdCI2__mvwVXGhUx_kiD9i3GJ7KYyCT1_AvD9GIHM4pGjtqp030ncrta8xIbM9YdqCa3E5rGQ1u1/s1600/GoldRushTourBanner.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8NBwmyywWm5MS2-RspxX1TdGkzox-pv5tIBSfOL-MkMpfHZ5nm72zSS6D91x42cpwMdCI2__mvwVXGhUx_kiD9i3GJ7KYyCT1_AvD9GIHM4pGjtqp030ncrta8xIbM9YdqCa3E5rGQ1u1/s320/GoldRushTourBanner.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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Welcome to the GOLD RUSH blog tour organized by Xpresso Book Tours! Check out reviews of the book at the sites below and enter my gift card giveaway!<br />
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 253, 234, 0.298039); box-sizing: border-box; color: black; font-family: inherit; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;"><a href="https://saschadarlington.me/2017/02/07/gold-rush-review-giveaway-and-tour/" style="background-color: rgba(255, 253, 234, 0.298039); box-sizing: border-box; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Sascha Darlington’s Microcosm Explored</a></span><br />
<a href="https://bibliofagista.wordpress.com/2017/02/07/blog-tour-giveaway-book-review-gold-rush-by-jennifer-comeaux/#more-10799" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Bibliofagista</a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 253, 234, 0.298039); text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.rockinbookreviews.com/2017/02/07/gold-rush-tour-25-amazon-gc-international-giveaway-ends-21617/" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Rockin’ Book Reviews</a></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/2017/02/blog-tour-giveaway-gold-rush-by.html?m=1" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Smada’s Book Smack</a></div>
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Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01039134485577549064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939530093338912894.post-79207180606390573982017-02-06T00:00:00.000-06:002017-02-06T18:49:01.499-06:00Gold Rush Blog Tour Day 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8NBwmyywWm5MS2-RspxX1TdGkzox-pv5tIBSfOL-MkMpfHZ5nm72zSS6D91x42cpwMdCI2__mvwVXGhUx_kiD9i3GJ7KYyCT1_AvD9GIHM4pGjtqp030ncrta8xIbM9YdqCa3E5rGQ1u1/s1600/GoldRushTourBanner.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8NBwmyywWm5MS2-RspxX1TdGkzox-pv5tIBSfOL-MkMpfHZ5nm72zSS6D91x42cpwMdCI2__mvwVXGhUx_kiD9i3GJ7KYyCT1_AvD9GIHM4pGjtqp030ncrta8xIbM9YdqCa3E5rGQ1u1/s320/GoldRushTourBanner.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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Welcome to the GOLD RUSH blog tour organized by Xpresso Book Tours! Check out reviews of the book at the sites below and enter my gift card giveaway!<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://iamnotabookworm.blogspot.com/2017/02/gold-rush-by-jennifer-comeaux-blog-tour.html" target="_blank">I Am Not a Bookworm</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 253, 234, 0.298039);"><a href="http://itisabooklife.blogspot.com/2017/02/bog-tour-review-giveaway-gold-rush-by.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">It’s a Book Life</a></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://bookbriefs.net/2017/02/06/reviewgiveaway-gold-rush-jennifer-comeaux-ladywave4/" target="_blank">Book Briefs</a><br />
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Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01039134485577549064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939530093338912894.post-60512055671711016312017-01-31T20:19:00.001-06:002017-01-31T20:19:47.075-06:00GOLD RUSH Dream Cast<div style="text-align: center;">
I always love coming up with my dream movie cast for each of my books, and I knew right away who I pictured playing the main characters in my new release GOLD RUSH. Here are some fun facts about the characters and a look at the actors I'd choose to play them!</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">LIZA PETROV (played by Emily Rudd)</span></b><br />
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Hometown: White Plains, NY/Dennis, MA<br />
Favorite Movie: <i>The Perks of Being a Wallflower</i><br />
Hobbies: Writing, reading<br />
Favorite Color: Purple<br />
Favorite thing about Braden: His fun and upbeat personality<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">BRADEN PATRICK (played by Shawn Mendes)</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>Hometown: Fall River, MA<br />
Favorite Movie: <i>Field of Dreams</i><br />
Favorite Food: Deluxe pizza<br />
Hobbies: Watching sports, running<br />
Favorite thing about Liza: Her drive and her sense of humor<br />
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Check out my pages for my other books for those casts! You'll see lots of secondary characters from GOLD RUSH ;)</div>
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Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01039134485577549064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939530093338912894.post-35887038248586959202017-01-27T23:53:00.000-06:002017-01-27T23:53:38.012-06:002017 U.S. Figure Skating Championships Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I apologize for being late with my blogging and photos from nationals this year! With the late-night events and the later nights spending time with friends after the events, there was only enough time to squeeze in some much-needed sleep. I've been playing catch-up since I got home, so I hope you'll still enjoy the photos even though they're a few days late :)</div>
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I arrived in Kansas City on Wednesday evening, luckily just in time to attend the junior short dance. With the deep field in ice dance at the junior level, I'd been looking forward to this event, and neither the SD nor the FD disappointed. The Parsons totally blew me away with their unison and their musicality. I am so excited to see them on the senior level next season. Some of my other favorite performances were by Carreira/Ponomarenko, Lewis/Bye, and the Greens. Even with a fall, I loved the Greens' short dance. I thought they really felt the hip hop movements and were totally committed to the choreography.</div>
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On Thursday I started the day at the senior pairs short program warm-up and then took a break at the hotel before the long afternoon and evening ahead. The pairs SP kicked off the action, and it brought some surprising results. Cain/LeDuc wowed us all with their sassy and technically difficult program, and Stellato-Dudek/Bartholomay tugged on the heartstrings with their emotional and joyous performance. These two new teams elevated the level of skating in the event.</div>
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The ladies' short program followed the pairs, and there were more surprises as Karen Chen roared to the top of the leaderboard. I've been hoping that Karen could put it all together for awhile now, and she stepped up big time with an emotionally nuanced program complete with huge jumps. Another feel-good story of the night was Caroline Zhang, who skated a clean program after her comeback from hip surgery. Also showing a fighting spirit was Amber Glenn, who had a frightening fall on her opening combination but came back to do a triple-triple less than a minute later. What a strong competitor!</div>
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I was at the arena early on Friday for the junior free dance, which was again one of my favorite events of the week. Aside from the top four teams (who were fantastic!), I greatly enjoyed Addas/Valdez's <i>Great Gatsby</i> FD and Efimova/Petrov's lyrical FD.</div>
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After a lunch break and an afternoon at the WWI Museum, it was back to the arena for the senior short dance and the men's short program. I can't say that I agreed with the judges' placements in the SD. I didn't think the Shibutanis skated with the necessary power and energy needed for their hip hop program. I would've had Chock/Bates first, Hubbell/Donohue second, and the Shibs third. Both C/B and H/D were on fire in their performances and really sold them. Among the lower-ranked teams, I adored Manta/Johnson's upbeat program. They make it impossible not to smile while watching it.</div>
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The superstar of the men's short program was of course Nathan Chen. He's come such a long way in interpreting his ballet short program since the start of the season. I just continue to be amazed by this kid and continue to say rosaries that his legs will remain intact under the strain of all the quads he's doing.</div>
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Super Saturday started with the early groups of pairs and dance (my apologies to the early pairs because I snagged some extra sleep that morning). The small dance group was highlighted by the performance of the Reynolds siblings. They nailed everything and were visibly emotional after their skate. It's those types of moments that make nationals so special.</div>
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The afternoon pairs free skate was an up and down event with no one skating a completely clean performance. I was so thrilled that Castelli/Tran performed their Journey program well, though. Even with a couple of errors on the jumps, the program still had great energy and was a big step in the right direction for C/T. I hope that they will continue to work toward their goals despite the shoddy treatment they've received by USFS (not awarding them a spot on the World or 4CC team). I'm so happy that Denney/Frazier will be attending Worlds and 4CC. They've had such a tough road coming back from Haven's injury, but all I see is joy on their faces when they skate. Brandon's improvement in expression has really added another dimension to this team.</div>
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The free dance was not the best we've seen at nationals in recent years. Multiple falls marred the final group, but there were some great performances otherwise. I have to say how much I love, love, love Biechler/Dodge's "Breathe Me" FD. I became a fan of this team last year with their Queen FD, and they upped their game even more this season with another fabulous, modern program. Their twizzles and their unison in every element stand out to me, and I'm so excited for their future.</div>
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Another young team I'm excited about is Pogrebinsky/Benoit. Their long lines and elegant style give them a unique look among the other teams. I was so disappointed that Hawayek/Baker didn't skate their Liebestraum program to its full potential because it's one of my favorites this season. I hope they can capture that magic again next season in their FD.</div>
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Just like in the short dance, I wasn't feeling the Shibs' performance. After last year's exciting Coldplay free dance, I feel like their FD this year falls flat. They're trying to do the lyrical style that so many teams are doing to emulate Papadakis/Cizeron, but I'm not getting any spark from it. The crowd also didn't respond to it like they did with Coldplay. Chock/Bates got the biggest reaction of the event with their dynamic "Under Pressure" FD. It was a great mood booster after all the slow music and the mistakes in the final group. They skated the hell out of that program, and I hope this is the start of a fantastic second half of the season for them.</div>
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The ladies brought the day to a close, and the highlights for me outside of the top three were again Amber Glenn and Caroline Zhang. I had my doubts about whether Karen Chen could stand up under the pressure of being in first place, but she looked like a born champion out there. Mariah Bell didn't have a perfect skate, but every time I see her skate, her jumps look more secure and she looks more confident. I have a feeling that she is going to become a leading lady very, very soon.</div>
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The Friends of Figure Skating breakfast was the first order of business on Sunday morning, and then it was straight to the men's free skate. Before we got to the ridiculous, astounding performance of Nathan Chen, there were some other shining stars for me. Shotoro Omori's <i>Phantom of the Opera</i> program was beautiful, Sean Rabbitt's Latin medley was an absolute blast, and Alex Johnson's "In Your Eyes" program was a sexy, contemporary piece. None of them had Nathan's technical content, but they all touched the audience with their heartfelt performances.</div>
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The exhibition wrapped up all the fun on Sunday night, and I was super impressed with Nathan's performance. He only did one jump, but it was still a complete and entertaining program. His footwork was awesome and highlighted how well he moves across the ice. He has the skills to be both a true artist and a master jumper, and again I pray that he stays healthy so we can watch him continue to grow and display his brilliance.</div>
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Here are all my photos from the events! I was having camera battery issues a lot of the time, so I don't have as many picture as I usually do. Hope you still enjoy them!</div>
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<a href="https://goo.gl/photos/TsqbCcAMxDidFtpV8" target="_blank">Wednesday</a></div>
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<a href="https://goo.gl/photos/CgrGpKC8DgDYoBqx8" target="_blank">Thursday</a></div>
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<a href="https://goo.gl/photos/QJZxAiMrgS8XZ7pM8" target="_blank">Friday</a></div>
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<a href="https://goo.gl/photos/sLBfHGeZqpQxXaid9" target="_blank">Saturday</a></div>
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<a href="https://goo.gl/photos/ViSYBW4Z5W23swib9" target="_blank">Sunday</a></div>
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<br />Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01039134485577549064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939530093338912894.post-86678980598025111232017-01-09T07:00:00.000-06:002017-01-09T07:00:20.579-06:00GOLD RUSH Release Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's GOLD RUSH release day!!!! I'm so excited to finally share this book with you. I hope you will love reading Liza's story as much as I loved writing it! You can get the book at the special release price of 99 cents until the end of the week. Grab it at one of the following sites and then enter my giveaway below!</div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MSV3XON" style="color: #41a5c3; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Amazon</a></div>
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<script src="https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script><br />Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01039134485577549064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939530093338912894.post-58271415198481847942016-12-20T12:00:00.000-06:002016-12-21T16:52:24.272-06:00Midwinter's Eve Giveaway Hop<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Welcome to the Midwinter's Eve Giveaway Hop! I'm celebrating the upcoming January 9 release of my new YA romance <i>Gold Rush</i> and giving away a $10 Amazon gift card. Here's a little more about the book!</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">Liza Petrov's entire life has been about skating and winning her sport's top prize - Olympic gold. She's stayed sheltered inside her bubble, not daring to stray from her destined path.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; text-align: start;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; text-align: start;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">Until she meets Braden Patrick.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; text-align: start;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; text-align: start;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">He makes her heart flutter with possibility, and for the first time she gets a taste of a normal teenage life. She longs to have both the boy and the gold, but stepping outside her bubble comes with a price. As Liza begins to question both her future and her past, can she stay focused on the present and realize her ultimate dream?</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="background-color: white;">The ebook can be pre-ordered now for only 99 cents at all <a href="http://jennifercomeaux.blogspot.com/p/gold-rush.html" target="_blank">online retailers</a>!</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="background-color: white;">Enter to win the Amazon gift card below and then hop around to the other participating blogs. Happy Holidays!</span></span></div>
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<!-- start LinkyTools script --><script src="https://www.linkytools.com/basic_linky_include.aspx?id=272167" type="text/javascript"></script><!-- end LinkyTools script --><br />Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01039134485577549064noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939530093338912894.post-51582727002558311282016-12-12T20:12:00.001-06:002016-12-12T20:12:39.318-06:00Shall We Dance on Ice<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've been wanting to attend Shall We Dance on Ice since the show was first created a few years ago, and it was finally held in an easily accessible city! I traveled to Las Vegas this past weekend to see the skating and dance show at the Mandalay Bay Events Center. Both the skating and the dancing were divine, and the Goo Goo Dolls exceeded my expectations as the live band. The ice dance cast was comprised of Meryl Davis and Charlie White, Naomi Lang and Todd Gilles (Peter Tchernyshev's mother passed away two weeks ago, so he wasn't able to make it), Sinead Kerr-Marshall and John Kerr, Isabella Tobias and Ilia Tkachenko, Alexandra Paul and Mitch Islam, Laurence Fournier Beaudry and Nikolaj Sorensen, Kim Navarro and Brent Bommentre, Beata Handra and Joel Dear.</div>
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The theme of the show was music and dancing through the decades, and it started with the 50's and 60's. Chelsie Hightower (from So You Think You Can Dance and Dancing With the Stars) and Tony Dovolani (DWTS pro) did a beautiful foxtrot on the stage, and then the skaters took to the ice for their own foxtrots.</div>
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The disco era of the 70's was next, and Meryl Davis and Charlie White were the featured performers. I love their playfulness with the choreography, and it reminded me of the videos I saw of them from Art on Ice last winter. All of the skaters did a great job expressing the funky style of the Hustle.</div>
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The 80's was such a fun section, and the highlight for me was the Kerrs skating to "Take on Me" by A-Ha. There was a group number to "Addicted to Love" by Robert Plant, and Naomi and Todd skated to "True" by Spandau Ballet. Chelsie and Tony took to the stage during this section for a jive to "Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go" by Wham, which was a lot of fun.</div>
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The Goo Goo Dolls ushered in the 90's with their hit "Slide" as a group of the skaters took to the ice. After this number, Anna Trebunskaya and Dmitry Chaplin danced to the first verse of "Iris," and then Meryl and Charlie took over on the ice for the remainder of the song. This was my favorite performance of the night with the incredible guitar work from the band combined with Meryl and Charlie's emotional power on the ice.</div>
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The 2000's began with a sexy cha cha from Chelsie and Tony to Lady Gaga's "Let's Dance" followed by a strong Paso Doble from Anna and Dmitry to "Firework" by Katy Perry. Most of the ice dance cast also participated in these numbers. The Goo Goo Dolls came back for the finale, which included the entire cast of skaters and dancers. I know I've omitted a few performances in here, but my memory is failing me at the moment! The show will be televised on Feb. 11 on ABC, and you don't want to miss it!</div>
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Here are all my photos from the show and the Meet and Greet! => <a href="https://goo.gl/photos/ruePTnNzSUyatYPd6" target="_blank">PHOTOS</a></div>
<br />Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01039134485577549064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939530093338912894.post-90124436745351200942016-12-06T12:55:00.000-06:002016-12-06T12:55:35.676-06:00GOLD RUSH 99 Cents Pre-Order<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvLoRbXo-lG7UcYsNVDBZKc_bZNDdp4YZdqhbLkt39lyFAZzFTJsZXmbODQfi0Lgri150z3K2Hvyyzcq0NCn50ec6rGidt8NwUi5EL7ufnVpEzcvOPuJA7-XDy2NhuVFfYe2KtCeA26mOt/s1600/Gold+Rush+Cover-large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvLoRbXo-lG7UcYsNVDBZKc_bZNDdp4YZdqhbLkt39lyFAZzFTJsZXmbODQfi0Lgri150z3K2Hvyyzcq0NCn50ec6rGidt8NwUi5EL7ufnVpEzcvOPuJA7-XDy2NhuVFfYe2KtCeA26mOt/s320/Gold+Rush+Cover-large.jpg" width="214" /></a></div>
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The ebook edition of GOLD RUSH is now available for pre-order at all online retailers for the special price of 99 cents. It will be delivered to your reading device on January 9!</div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MSV3XON" target="_blank">Amazon</a></div>
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<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/gold-rush/id1182654344" target="_blank">iTunes</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/gold-rush-jennifer-comeaux/1125125750?ean=2940153540382" target="_blank">Barnes & Noble</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/gold-rush-9" target="_blank">Kobo</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/686970" target="_blank">Smashwords</a></div>
<br />Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01039134485577549064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939530093338912894.post-32036886792477416542016-11-20T20:41:00.000-06:002016-11-20T20:41:04.067-06:00Signed PaperbacksSigned paperbacks of GOLD RUSH are now available! They are $15 for shipping within the U.S. If you live outside the U.S. please email me at jcomeaux4@gmail.com to discuss shipping options. Please fill out the form linked <a href="https://goo.gl/forms/uZjPok1ujEJdTnnA3" target="_blank"><b>here</b></a> if you'd like to purchase a copy.<br />
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I am also selling signed copies of the Ice Series. The cost is $15 for Crossing the Ice, $10 for Losing the Ice, $10 for Taking the Ice or $25 for the entire series. Please fill out the form <b><a href="https://goo.gl/forms/uZjPok1ujEJdTnnA3" target="_blank">here</a></b> if you'd like to purchase.<br />
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I will be taking orders only until Dec. 1 so that I can be sure to have the books shipped to you before Christmas. Email me at jcomeaux4@gmail.com if you have any questions!Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01039134485577549064noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939530093338912894.post-75666038090387007262016-11-07T02:00:00.000-06:002016-11-07T16:28:22.477-06:00GOLD RUSH Cover Reveal<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoBCxGw80KxfWSPuzkXRzhvfFzG9Mf4MHBLH1jMx0ya49b46a1ESSUjcGANFxc9SkMqfP9OezGQYs2lFv8EwlEeHzBoIqSfMzsX-9tNn0obotLz6Dp-AwSMwfIe6WSdzS1Q7Bno74VEZHD/s1600/Gold+Rush+Full+Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoBCxGw80KxfWSPuzkXRzhvfFzG9Mf4MHBLH1jMx0ya49b46a1ESSUjcGANFxc9SkMqfP9OezGQYs2lFv8EwlEeHzBoIqSfMzsX-9tNn0obotLz6Dp-AwSMwfIe6WSdzS1Q7Bno74VEZHD/s400/Gold+Rush+Full+Cover.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I'm so excited that it's finally cover reveal day for GOLD RUSH! I've been waiting so long to show you the beautiful cover that Sarah Schoonmaker designed. It perfectly captures the spirit of the book! I have to thank Alex Ronzio and Jimmy Morgan for being my cover models again and Marni Gallagher for doing an amazing job photographing them.</div>
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The book will be released on January 9, and you can add it on <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/30235446-gold-rush" target="_blank">Goodreads </a>now! The paperbacks will be available before Christmas, so look out for information soon on how to order. I'm doing a giveaway to celebrate the cover reveal, so be sure and enter below!</div>
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<script src="https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01039134485577549064noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939530093338912894.post-37101717268209129132016-11-01T21:58:00.001-05:002016-11-01T22:10:35.186-05:002016 Skate Canada Adventure<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've always wanted to do the Grand Prix North American double dip and attend both Skate America and Skate Canada. This year presented the perfect setup with my favorite dance team Madison Chock/Evan Bates assigned to Skate Canada and the location of the event being in an easily accessible city. After a fun four days in Hoffman Estates for Skate America, I flew home for two days of work and catching up on my DVR, and then it was back to the airport for a quick two-hour flight to Toronto!<br />
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I couldn't help but compare many aspects of the two events, and SA definitely won the venue category. The Hershey Centre in Mississauga was a lot older than I expected. My friend and I were very fortunate to have a rental car so we could jet in and out for food between events because the options at the arena were minimal. Shout out to the nearby Heartland Town Centre for its many eateries! Also loved the burger I had at South St. Burger. YUM.<br />
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One other area where SC could've used some improvement was the entertainment between events. I never thought I would long for Rusty, the USFSA arena host, but he is a huge step up from the girl who was screaming (and I mean SCREAMING) into the microphone at SC as Elvis Stojko launched T-shirts into the crowd. SC did do a great job with the music during all the events. They kept it current and upbeat with the pop tunes and had an even bigger library than DJ Romeo :)<br />
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On to the skating! The ladies were pretty meh. Satoko was the highlight for me, but as usual her scores did not reflect the excellent quality of her skating. I just don't understand what the judges' problems are with her. She is graceful and thoughtful in her movements, and she consistently delivers clean, technically challenging programs. Isn't that what they want? I watch her and then I watch Medvedeva and I continue to scratch my head on the gap between them. Medvedeva can do the jumps, but the arm over the head is not aesthetically pleasing the way she does it (bent arm), and it's done TOO MUCH. I also still feel some immaturity in the way she moves between elements. The PCS she is getting are pretty ridiculous in my opinion.<br />
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The men's event was a letdown after the spectacular final group of men at SA. We had the big names of Chan and Hanyu at SC, but they didn't deliver the goods like Shoma, Adam, and Jason did at SA. Misha Ge gave the most memorable performance for me with an inspired clean program complete with a quad (has he landed one in competition before?) I really wanted to see Hanyu's Prince short program skated well to see if he could pull off the character of the music. With the mistakes, it lost all of its steam.<br />
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The pairs event was another event with some questionable scoring. I didn't think Lubov and Dylan were three points better on PCS than Haven and Brandon in the free skate. I was so happy to see Haven and Brandon have another solid skate since they had to compete in back-to-back events. Their connection and unison are really standing out to me. Their side-by-spins are so on point now, and they just need to get the timing and execution of the jumps back. I have no doubt it will all come together with their determination!<br />
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I was really impressed with the new Chinese team of Yu/Zhang. Yu is a rockstar, and I'm still sad she was forced to split from her former partner because they had such a nice lyrical quality together, but she appears to be gelling well with Zhang. They were quite lovely in the free skate. I wasn't a fan of Meagan and Eric's short program music (amazing throw triple Axel though!), but I really liked their free skate music. I appreciate their grit and their fight on all the elements, but I wish Meagan's landings on the throws and jumps didn't show the fight and grit every time. It never looks like she's in control because she lands so low to the ice.<br />
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Turning to the ice dance competition, as I mentioned the main reason I went to SC this year was to see Madi and Evan, so I was beyond thrilled with how well they skated both programs. They had the awful draw of skating first in the short dance, but they came out and killed it. Their unison in the no-touching step sequence was awesome, and they skated it with so much energy. I also loved Kaitlin and Jean-Luc's hip-hop section. Piper and Paul's disco short dance was another one of my favorites. I really appreciate that they go all in with it, never leaving the character. I thought Tessa and Scott's Prince program would flow better with less jarring music cuts.<br />
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In the free dance, I give the win to Kaitlin and Jean-Luc over Alex and Mitch in the battle of the Liebestraums. The Danes, Laurence and Nikolaj, continue to improve and impress, and I thought their Edith Piaf free dance suited them so well. Tessa and Scott have always had such an easy way of moving together on the ice, but there was some shakiness in their free dance, perhaps due to nerves. The program didn't really stand out to me as there are already so many lyrical programs out there lately. I'm surprised they didn't take a bigger risk since they have nothing to lose. They have the sport's top prize already, so why not go completely outside the box? I'm so happy that Madi and Evan went in a different direction this season, and I think they've found a winning style in the modern, edgy look of both their SD and FD. They will stand out at nationals with the other top competitors doing soft and quiet free dances.<br />
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A couple of final thoughts on my Canadian adventure... there is something very exciting about driving on the highways in Canada and seeing "100" as the speed limit haha. I was also very excited about the exchange rate. If you're contemplating a trip to Canada from the U.S., now is the time to go! Everyone there was super friendly, especially the lady who let me squeeze in next to her at the dance medal ceremony when we were getting crushed by Hanyu fangirls LOL. I'm very much looking forward to the Grand Prix Final in Vancouver in 2018!<br />
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You can view all my photos from the event here:<br />
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<a href="https://goo.gl/photos/ivzBY4RY7rSJBbLM8" target="_blank">Thursday Dance Practice</a><br />
<a href="https://goo.gl/photos/C85k2JaaTiLPpAjY8" target="_blank">Friday Events</a><br />
<a href="https://goo.gl/photos/1EWg8qqEwPNS51QA6" target="_blank">Saturday Events</a><br />
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And for some book news, the cover of my next book, <a href="http://jennifercomeaux.blogspot.com/p/gold-rush.html" target="_blank">GOLD RUSH</a>, will be revealed on Monday, November 7! I'll be doing a giveaway to celebrate, so come back on Monday for all the fun!<br />
<br />Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01039134485577549064noreply@blogger.com0