Back from the Land of Cleve...

We had a great time in Cleveland, OH last weekend. We went there for the Tremaine Dance Convention and Competition that Kayla was in. We went early Friday so we could get some swimming and relaxing in before the whirlwind began Saturday morning. Classes began at 8:30am and she danced until 4:00pm. Saturday night was the competition and Sunday began bright and early with scholarship auditions at 8:00am and classes until 2:00pm. Then we enjoyed the faculty show and hit the road. WHEW!

Competition went excellently and both of Kayla's dances took first place which earned them a spot to compete in the National Finals in Orlando, FL in July...so guess where we're headed??? LOL

It was an exhausting weekend, but well worth it! I even got to take a class :) Lori talked me into taking Doug Caldwell's class on Sunday...and even though it was totally over my head (ummm, my last convention was like 18 years ago! YIKES!) it was something I am so glad that I did. I would have never even thought of attempting a dance class (especially Doug's!) a year ago. I think it says a lot about how far I've come this past year, about the weight I've lost, and my lifestyle change ~ I am living again! I was so thrilled to be able to share that with my sister. I am certain that this was an even bigger thrill for my Mom since she was there to see her two daughters dance together again. It was an emotional moment for all of us, but a memory that will continue to motivate me and that I will carry with me forever.

Ok...now I am going to bombard you with some photos from the weekend! Enjoy!


Ballet Class


Tap Instructor, Nick Drago


Hip-Hop Instructor, Marty Dew


Hi De Ho


Low


The girls and their trophies


Me, Lori and the Man himself, Joe Tremaine



Doug's Lyrical Class


Me and Lori with Doug Caldwell


Josh and Denise getting crazy at the bar with his OJ on the rocks!


Positively POOPED! Dreamin of July...

Catwalk II for Charity

Tim and I attended the Catwalk II event last Saturday night to benefit Ryan Miller's Steadfast Foundation. They had elaborate international food stations all from the different nationalities represented by the Buffalo Sabres players (Germany, Sweden, Czech Republic, Russia, Italy, Canada, Ireland, and of course, America). There was also a Silent/Live Auction, Martini Bar, and Guitar Hero Challenge with Drew Stafford. We were also entertained by live music including a special appearance from Robby Takac from the Goo Goo Dolls who did a single song jam session with Ryan Miller and Drew Stafford both on guitar.

I think the highlight (for me at least!) was this little live auction item...(The pup, not Ryan Miller!! LOL)


How cute is this little puppy face??? Ryan looked pretty attached to this little pooch too! Well the highest bid was $6000 and the proud owner...Max Afinogenov! Looks like the Sabres have a new mascot :) Sorry, Tooth!

Here are some more pics from the fashion show! Enjoy!


Disco Sabretooth!


Gaustad and Connelly on the Catwalk.
Love Gaustad's shirt...how appropriate! ;)


Kotalik and Vanek strutting their stuff!


The Hanson Brothers from the movie "Slapshot" (1977)