October 15, 2006

Hello all and thanks for stopping by to have a look at our website!

The last couple of months have been quite hectic for Chrissy and me. Chrissy and her mum Deb have settled in remarkably well to life in Sheffield. Despite the logistical nightmare of a Colorado girl and Glaswegian guy we have landed in Sheffield! Admittedly my preconceptions of the city of Sheffield were not favourable. However my impressions of a dark and dirty steel works city have changed to an appreciation of a vastly improved, modern place to be. What Sheffield boasts best is its diversity; Meadowhall is a humongous commercial retail center (even by US standards!) and yet the beautiful Peak District countryside is only minutes away from the city centre.

Most impressive for us is Ice Sheffield. The twin pad facility is truly world class and training here has been wonderful. Chrissy and I have both really clicked with our coach Jimmy and love having Kira Geil and Andrew Smykowski to train with. We're lucky to have an international team to motivate us in training and more importantly Kira and Andrew help make the environment a very happy and fun place. Kira and Andrew are great people and good friends of ours.

Throughout the summer Chrissy and I performed in tests, competition and exhibitions. It truly was a pleasure to perform with Chrissy as she just thrives in the spotlight and any nerves were lost in the excitement of performing. The events were in stark contrast to the sheer terror I felt when I free skated!!;-) This week we are travelling to the world's most beautiful country to compete in the Scottish Championships. Friends and family are coming to watch and I am looking forward to what I expect to be another positive experience.

Next month Chrissy will bring you up to date with how our training is progressing and life in Sheffield continues. Chrissy's college course has started and I am sure she will fill you in on her performing arts prowess!

Thanks again for dropping by, new pictures to follow soon!

Mark :-)