tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80531181234655873692024-03-13T12:21:35.162-05:00Sarah RouseyProfessional Pool PlayerSarah Rouseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10232607275843425293noreply@blogger.comBlogger110125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8053118123465587369.post-39905315503460549762011-05-05T22:45:00.004-05:002011-05-06T00:07:33.339-05:00I'm Back!Well, I am finally back to blogging. It has been pretty uneventful lately in the pool world for me for the past year or so. I'm not traveling so much this year and there aren't as many WPBA events. What does that leave to talk about??<br /><br />Finally, something very important to me has come along. I have been offered a position with Cue Sports International as the Junior Program Coordinator!! As everyone knows, I started playing pool as a young pup.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirHX4I_kPgabnEfmd0xqfN5cJDIrCnxihWHUp4jA8igWUlWdiyLOSQqLVTpFzj-LGvz2-XLoB_uE5AfNAvZ84zZxd2r37tMNKU6k8-n9dPIkYKbDMH9VoEKbDZb_gh3oFbnlp96gfS4ls/s1600/age+9.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 167px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirHX4I_kPgabnEfmd0xqfN5cJDIrCnxihWHUp4jA8igWUlWdiyLOSQqLVTpFzj-LGvz2-XLoB_uE5AfNAvZ84zZxd2r37tMNKU6k8-n9dPIkYKbDMH9VoEKbDZb_gh3oFbnlp96gfS4ls/s200/age+9.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603448779627911826" /></a> Now that I'm all grown up, I'd like to help the future of our great sport. With the help of Mark Griffin and all of the great people at CSI, I am getting that chance. There are lots of big plans in the works.<br /><br />Something coming up very soon will be the BCAPL Nationals. Throughout the event there will be Challenge the Pro matches being held on 9ft tables, from 4-6pm at the Straight Pool Challenge area of the main tournament room. Each day there will be top pros to challenge for a small price. There will also be a Challenge the Stars event on May 17th on the bar tables in the main event room from 8-10pm. All proceeds will go toward forming the junior program. There will be prizes, raffles and auctions throughout the event as well.<br /><br />If you are wondering what we mean by junior program, here is a hint. Some of us noticed that the USA is falling behind a little bit when it comes to international events. On top of that, pool is not a mainstream sport in this country so the future is a little bleak. The only way to change that is by promoting and building the game from the bottom. By bottom, I mean age. Pool isn't promoted at all to young kids in a positive way. We would like to change that. <br /><br />The money raised will go toward providing coaches for the players that win the Billiard Education Foundation Junior Nationals. The coaches will help those players prepare and stay focused for the World Championships. They will also accompany them to the World Championships.<br /><br />There is also a regional Cue Camp idea that is being thrown around. All of the details need to be ironed out, but once they are, all levels will get a little guidance. Everyone deserves to see the beauty of this game.<br /><br />I really can't wait to get all of this going. I am hoping this can lead to really great things and a really great future for the kids. <br /><br />If you would like to help us raise money, you can donate here through the blog by using the donate button on the right-side of the page. You will get a confirmation that says the purpose of donating. If you are attending the BCAPL Nationals, please take advantage of the chance to play some of your favorite pro players, meet some of the top junior players, and learn about the pro side of the sport!<br /><br />If you are someone that can offer products to raffle or auction, please contact me at sarahr(at)playcsipool.com.<br /><br />I have had some questions about the Heartbacker program for 2011. I have decided not to do it this year since I am not planning to travel overseas at all and due to the lack of big events to fund this year. I didn't think it was right to ask for money for expenses when there are virtually zero expenses! If you would still like to donate money...please put it toward this project. It will benefit plenty of people rather than just one. I promise, they will be just as grateful!Sarah Rouseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10232607275843425293noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8053118123465587369.post-58709368792047196762010-08-23T09:35:00.002-05:002010-08-23T09:38:32.775-05:00China!!!Well, I have again kind of stunk up the updating. Finally there are some tournaments coming up. I am going to try to find a way to blog from China during the World Championships even though it is blocked. I don't have much time because my flight is boarding. Thanks to everyone who helped with this trip. I will be back with a big update soon! For now, I have about 14 hours on a plane then a really long wait and 5 more hours on another plane. This is going to be great!!Sarah Rouseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10232607275843425293noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8053118123465587369.post-21998127893615994992010-07-13T18:48:00.010-05:002010-07-13T19:49:26.169-05:00I'm Alive....I'm alive, but I needed a break. To be honest, my thoughts and feelings about the pool world have really been mixed lately. I needed to get away from it all for a period of time and rethink everything. The lack of tournaments and the lack of pool in general in my area has really sucked. I started to question whether or not I should even play anymore. I didn't play pool for nearly two months. Now, there are some tournaments approaching and I have something to look forward to. I know, everyone says that you should practice anyway. Stay on top of your game. I agree, but it is possible to just get burnt out from time to time. This was one of those times.<br /><br />I don't think I have posted anything since before Vegas. So I guess I will start there. Everyone get in your time machine and go back a couple of months to the BCAPL National Championships in Vegas. I was invited to play in the US Open 10-ball tournament and I worked in the MezzUSA booth. I got to meet a lot of really cool people and hang out with old friends at the booth. I can't say that I played all that well in the tournament though. I drew one of my favorite players, Ralf Souquet. I was in awe of who I was playing, a huge mistake of course, but I had never played him before. I had lots of chances, but I was playing horrible to be honest. I got beat 9-3. My next match was against Jeremy Sossei. I had a big lead and blew it. I lost the match 9-7. It was a bit upsetting since I was ahead but it taught me that I need to work on closing matches. The highlight of the tournament for me....Jose Parica forfeiting first round. He misread the time on the bracket and showed up late. It isn't the way I would like to win a match, but it happened. <br /><br />I did get to watch a lot of great pool though. Jason qualified for the World Pool Masters and finished in the top 32. The 10-ball event was full of great players. It was possibly the best field I have ever seen in an event. LeeVan Corteza was the eventual winner.<br /><br />I got the chance to stop by the pawn shop where Pawn Stars is filmed, of course it was closed. We also ate at another Man Vs. Food spot, Hash House a Go-Go. Here are a few pictures from the trip....<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGlN7nZeLRxwS_uW6FEhJi38VsT5IKWpGJgmP74Y9KAJ5nTh0-x5mAkwjDRj50ZOJQ_b_TvmaMnzXF_xntddvuJ_MVTRkPIYHgMhfeQV9gQNFMOlCivHFKK5PqFqmbUWkCwkrkvVG-pwI/s1600/CIMG2965.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGlN7nZeLRxwS_uW6FEhJi38VsT5IKWpGJgmP74Y9KAJ5nTh0-x5mAkwjDRj50ZOJQ_b_TvmaMnzXF_xntddvuJ_MVTRkPIYHgMhfeQV9gQNFMOlCivHFKK5PqFqmbUWkCwkrkvVG-pwI/s200/CIMG2965.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493545791463915490" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjltTqCtr37UQpSSD7nJnWoZgSzWIOOpW8Bd-AqaFjvWDUFa2QW2nwigR80CWGnoF-KbdaZf6_5fTc-UPkW9ca6vnyZiRoYloDnu89xlWIFL5WYMblt3ysWOYRiTswePvG1UetX8HPH4tk/s1600/CIMG2954.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjltTqCtr37UQpSSD7nJnWoZgSzWIOOpW8Bd-AqaFjvWDUFa2QW2nwigR80CWGnoF-KbdaZf6_5fTc-UPkW9ca6vnyZiRoYloDnu89xlWIFL5WYMblt3ysWOYRiTswePvG1UetX8HPH4tk/s200/CIMG2954.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493545785700172770" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia2W31hcv-koImWdu2mYGxq9A71KCIcVAPjNtP88KHF0DntBBJHwSi8OtvqMQ2rhbQmfQsRFnP3GC3QsLJz-O-Tf7TiTSXdJB2TF-DiVm6U3qrwaGis0FVi02T4bqpsqEcgrN0qeUkx4A/s1600/CIMG2943.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia2W31hcv-koImWdu2mYGxq9A71KCIcVAPjNtP88KHF0DntBBJHwSi8OtvqMQ2rhbQmfQsRFnP3GC3QsLJz-O-Tf7TiTSXdJB2TF-DiVm6U3qrwaGis0FVi02T4bqpsqEcgrN0qeUkx4A/s200/CIMG2943.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493545774030811314" /></a><br />My favorite part of the whole summer came after Vegas. I got a chance to do a charity event in New York City. If you have been following my blog you know that I love NYC. The event was put on by New York Giant Justin Tuck and it was for Literacy. It was held at Slate Billiards. I've never been around so many famous people! I got to meet Justin Tuck, Paul Sorvino, Melle Mel, lots of football players and my favorite, new Chicago Bulls player Carlos Boozer! <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYiZXFbkXNwHUKvMolbhN7xL4tjSmmbTbY5QDxWChCaekil_zZjhsDlnZ8UwPL-QUH9qEOL0Id5FZpt8zwG30f5K9tdJruRaeWQr9OMGwGwdQ3ZU5IUOm9x3Bx8zCPEYJs44o3t5Y4na8/s1600/pooldawg3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYiZXFbkXNwHUKvMolbhN7xL4tjSmmbTbY5QDxWChCaekil_zZjhsDlnZ8UwPL-QUH9qEOL0Id5FZpt8zwG30f5K9tdJruRaeWQr9OMGwGwdQ3ZU5IUOm9x3Bx8zCPEYJs44o3t5Y4na8/s200/pooldawg3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493547598440853090" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHNYqg5fxbDIdjIJ1ES8GToZyZR4yvvB0WTDZ5Gerp3r32RaR6paN7cLUzucD1MACKVEYv9sNi2ehmccunrwZ7_sjEVfP8YiwgsHYtZSO4OX_v0X8xPbjU2QTZ2KEj6rTEIHiu0c1Ia5k/s1600/pooldawg2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHNYqg5fxbDIdjIJ1ES8GToZyZR4yvvB0WTDZ5Gerp3r32RaR6paN7cLUzucD1MACKVEYv9sNi2ehmccunrwZ7_sjEVfP8YiwgsHYtZSO4OX_v0X8xPbjU2QTZ2KEj6rTEIHiu0c1Ia5k/s200/pooldawg2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493547588659188322" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy_aY2-kLkjHFEXXsisnkgbtQjXCL_GK5QI0hEEY3UuYww9_d5OFmJrU8L1sYi8-buoimB7EZluLlxS0seDNTp-eObZw3YdVrk3nUYXPC-VVkWKbbN6uLTg5NA2c3hf3cRIoPb7rQQGQA/s1600/pooldawg.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy_aY2-kLkjHFEXXsisnkgbtQjXCL_GK5QI0hEEY3UuYww9_d5OFmJrU8L1sYi8-buoimB7EZluLlxS0seDNTp-eObZw3YdVrk3nUYXPC-VVkWKbbN6uLTg5NA2c3hf3cRIoPb7rQQGQA/s200/pooldawg.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493547582415776034" /></a><br />I also got a chance to hang out with all of my NYC friends and try some new stuff. I went fishing for the first time ever and it was awesome! I think I am hooked.....literally...yes, that is a hook, with bait on it stuck in my hair. A big thanks to Caroline, Rob, Supi, Justin and Jason for going along with the fishing trip! <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZHNSzyEzwVhWUxc4EfKQ-FZLn0Rj8bfYDHagzA7zBFAucIAXPealIkvdTyv8_I8bhfUEssZXjZD8tbx5dQ_8LxKydXngQeCy_uSEyFYZF-K93vnODGTUP844G837o8qORBoULT3dnRZY/s1600/IMG_0707.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZHNSzyEzwVhWUxc4EfKQ-FZLn0Rj8bfYDHagzA7zBFAucIAXPealIkvdTyv8_I8bhfUEssZXjZD8tbx5dQ_8LxKydXngQeCy_uSEyFYZF-K93vnODGTUP844G837o8qORBoULT3dnRZY/s200/IMG_0707.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493548543895616338" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbg0TeBdQxFpbQl1aC8dr3utv1KHGuoWHh79EKxE69LEbsUnaB1jkAYynpZBTs2P45Z2N6SM_ykb5WJx7xTnjSnyNAG6u5WaU7lWXyXxOIopwM_B_3dlAztAl4z0T1jQFGF4GDaMtf2XE/s1600/IMG_0711.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbg0TeBdQxFpbQl1aC8dr3utv1KHGuoWHh79EKxE69LEbsUnaB1jkAYynpZBTs2P45Z2N6SM_ykb5WJx7xTnjSnyNAG6u5WaU7lWXyXxOIopwM_B_3dlAztAl4z0T1jQFGF4GDaMtf2XE/s200/IMG_0711.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493548535014889394" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo8Ghv6PENSVZ4bWFoXvYllX3BmzkHz5YEQL5rMO5AU0WVOCHOxBuTjJ92F2EMtkv0zlKK941WsRS4jIwzQ9jGsgk4D652mLxxJ-PEEuTcG5mnhy7aXm3_X_jsCP2jag0nxpQzdavS0-g/s1600/IMG_0712.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo8Ghv6PENSVZ4bWFoXvYllX3BmzkHz5YEQL5rMO5AU0WVOCHOxBuTjJ92F2EMtkv0zlKK941WsRS4jIwzQ9jGsgk4D652mLxxJ-PEEuTcG5mnhy7aXm3_X_jsCP2jag0nxpQzdavS0-g/s200/IMG_0712.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493548520940882258" /></a><br />I also got a chance to go to a Yankees game. I originally wanted to go to both a Mets game and a Yankees game, but I only got a chance to go to one. I can mark off another ballpark on my list to see! It is really a cool place to visit. We even got lucky and scored awesome seats by chance.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0rfWVvZQUrxFsInemmh6fJOWAx4P-K9gh4moYw8MU53yBv20mA4LQ6q1Pmo19A12UVcMelHuKGWDoOjTVBNnKfsympU3Hjtw15QXUKOKEbhWFNQlOHoy6Z6QUAdRCgjS98G1Bjt7tmIo/s1600/IMG_0755.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0rfWVvZQUrxFsInemmh6fJOWAx4P-K9gh4moYw8MU53yBv20mA4LQ6q1Pmo19A12UVcMelHuKGWDoOjTVBNnKfsympU3Hjtw15QXUKOKEbhWFNQlOHoy6Z6QUAdRCgjS98G1Bjt7tmIo/s200/IMG_0755.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493549930088611122" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdRVROjBEwwPYOgSS6v5lZPjg2yAcRFEaKMcf1AK_4m62mXCr9YUVQRfnFzl80BLAR25o6d8vifSOY7bVWABUhj04HF6NOzxe3Abh60BjMUk9Qh_7-AUqIUY7ddFrWdEbB1XYRGyrr5Ks/s1600/IMG_0754.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdRVROjBEwwPYOgSS6v5lZPjg2yAcRFEaKMcf1AK_4m62mXCr9YUVQRfnFzl80BLAR25o6d8vifSOY7bVWABUhj04HF6NOzxe3Abh60BjMUk9Qh_7-AUqIUY7ddFrWdEbB1XYRGyrr5Ks/s200/IMG_0754.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493549912463456530" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcB0KpCzIW7Sp0qmoku_1dHvctKHRfCGFyUOXmNyUz1VyLqiT6Xq2SOC8_xJk_4WUv1Z97RnNmLHJ8_riTB9uhCcK6Vh8g9wVvegpR9vyAVwV-HgiCt2lCWyc3f3NvYvLHEZRUf1TbxG4/s1600/CIMG3095.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcB0KpCzIW7Sp0qmoku_1dHvctKHRfCGFyUOXmNyUz1VyLqiT6Xq2SOC8_xJk_4WUv1Z97RnNmLHJ8_riTB9uhCcK6Vh8g9wVvegpR9vyAVwV-HgiCt2lCWyc3f3NvYvLHEZRUf1TbxG4/s200/CIMG3095.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493549909516668258" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinLC5ZYQS4OXiqMpxRo3qsvneEysS6fAyNDrq-QVSGCUZmGWMJdJWOdQ6hmw9hPOi7q61Z8t6vRW8cAB_uVj6VN8zPBX8UJg9N6mtAywvWw6U7K0o9RbAHWybogMB5vJGIFAhxtNwnhXY/s1600/CIMG3070.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinLC5ZYQS4OXiqMpxRo3qsvneEysS6fAyNDrq-QVSGCUZmGWMJdJWOdQ6hmw9hPOi7q61Z8t6vRW8cAB_uVj6VN8zPBX8UJg9N6mtAywvWw6U7K0o9RbAHWybogMB5vJGIFAhxtNwnhXY/s200/CIMG3070.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493549901374559554" /></a><br />Another cool thing about NYC is the number of friends I have. Caroline was so nice to let us have a cookout every night. Another friend and Heartbacker, Chris Kurzwiel was nice enough to send us a bunch of meat from his farm, including a Turducken. If you aren't familiar with that it is a turkey, layer of stuffing, stuffed with a duck and a layer of stuffing, stuffed with a chicken!! Here is a pic of the turducken, the people who demolished it and part of the cooking crew...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO37JqNkSCcyVguF9RPiQ-4BEdF9sAZzgdnJ6H6EBlQu-ivrZfWVpGV2VtpDrViredrHnrizjOiXlBlZhn2qm1F90-3BDIONMbSoBmj-KxCWEOoRn_L_VuovVe9sh2YtSV-cYtqC-bczk/s1600/crew.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO37JqNkSCcyVguF9RPiQ-4BEdF9sAZzgdnJ6H6EBlQu-ivrZfWVpGV2VtpDrViredrHnrizjOiXlBlZhn2qm1F90-3BDIONMbSoBmj-KxCWEOoRn_L_VuovVe9sh2YtSV-cYtqC-bczk/s200/crew.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493552325584949586" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpO64pBnMXi2Ivkey_1LdOuITDIH-yRGMSA0yNNYK1SNd0ZHjd3oehTvoxebrakyM20DCQrtzdryCV3aTTbjt5R6cVTkPId9itKLQJBThj1RIQm47XiyjJ_-ph29ZSdBX2wdHja0XlTak/s1600/cookout.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpO64pBnMXi2Ivkey_1LdOuITDIH-yRGMSA0yNNYK1SNd0ZHjd3oehTvoxebrakyM20DCQrtzdryCV3aTTbjt5R6cVTkPId9itKLQJBThj1RIQm47XiyjJ_-ph29ZSdBX2wdHja0XlTak/s200/cookout.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493552319485133778" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNm1PXqj8rYaq5JOSFcmf3WYsgU-aI3qxZEYAGZxwZfjF_-A6kSf6WNnui4i6edikILW9fBiyE4sw8Wgb9x-44z3nOP5BWNof4Zww3rC8S00__ZpsUCHfun_4UetNP4iPA2EX_zDRyBwg/s1600/turducken.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNm1PXqj8rYaq5JOSFcmf3WYsgU-aI3qxZEYAGZxwZfjF_-A6kSf6WNnui4i6edikILW9fBiyE4sw8Wgb9x-44z3nOP5BWNof4Zww3rC8S00__ZpsUCHfun_4UetNP4iPA2EX_zDRyBwg/s200/turducken.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493552305598739250" /></a><br />After the fun in New York it was back to life as usual...back to work. I decided to take about a month off and just work. I got to root Jason on in the Canadian Championships. He won the 8ball and did well in the other divisions. Then he went off to Qatar for the World 9-ball Championships. Again I got to root him on from home. He did great there and finished 9-16th!!<br /><br />I also decided to make a big change. I have been growing my hair out for about two years so I could donate it to Pantene for Kids. Finally it was long enough. I went and made the big cut about a week ago and had 11 inches of hair to donate!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTDXfxKTfyk3hySbW3SoeCTCPRxAYl1DeVCsCkmnS9-ugjVZNrhikypZ_QWYxsfoGufdwYphrle6n6nRFOQQD2jYvBZzkrRgcN0j7GAxN7G4zUhF1hqpGZUZ2_bK0dUGaWDQQzq785Cyw/s1600/hair.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTDXfxKTfyk3hySbW3SoeCTCPRxAYl1DeVCsCkmnS9-ugjVZNrhikypZ_QWYxsfoGufdwYphrle6n6nRFOQQD2jYvBZzkrRgcN0j7GAxN7G4zUhF1hqpGZUZ2_bK0dUGaWDQQzq785Cyw/s200/hair.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493555769145914610" /></a><br /><br />And now we get to what has made me want to play pool again. I got the chance to help out at the Billiard Education Foundation Junior Nationals last week. I got to see a lot of kids that I have watched grow up and I got to meet a lot of new people that are so hopeful and excited to be playing pool. It was so refreshing to see kids that want to do nothing other than have fun playing pool. It was a reminder to me that that is what it is supposed to be about. There are some really amazing players out there and the future looks bright for American pool. Congrats to Landon Shuffett and Briana Miller for winning their divisions and winning their fourth National title in a row!! Congrats to Liz Lovely for winning her second straight title and to Billy Thorpe for winning his first. Each will get a chance to play in the World Championships in Reno in November! Here are the top finishers....<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRZ1Hjztod9nUxQv9qOWn4IwGXjwn6LYMm1uTlqB63dPI-Dy6RRkH5cOoBTIJIkdxWfypXeqrNI2aqgAPTcNYvdbAuaas8sw5E4JcznwjMYXCJPltjZ6ilm2y7oVaPTdemiZsAVqM-u9Q/s1600/CIMG3292.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRZ1Hjztod9nUxQv9qOWn4IwGXjwn6LYMm1uTlqB63dPI-Dy6RRkH5cOoBTIJIkdxWfypXeqrNI2aqgAPTcNYvdbAuaas8sw5E4JcznwjMYXCJPltjZ6ilm2y7oVaPTdemiZsAVqM-u9Q/s200/CIMG3292.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493554747366239986" /></a> I also got to meet seven year old Eric Roberts from Florida. This little guy plays pretty good! I had to get a picture because there aren't many people out there that I can pose like this with...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCcXcxZpCBq4sSQ0BW9goa5eyzYOe_PoGR0KB0ByK00gx9bpZsDPupRn72taExnsXhyphenhyphenGNWDMV7qehF53WLJURsPPwrZUthnnPs4CRpsqieHYFmJHB4TCwTahJOnteP_hUTIEzFM-qSCl4/s1600/CIMG3295.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCcXcxZpCBq4sSQ0BW9goa5eyzYOe_PoGR0KB0ByK00gx9bpZsDPupRn72taExnsXhyphenhyphenGNWDMV7qehF53WLJURsPPwrZUthnnPs4CRpsqieHYFmJHB4TCwTahJOnteP_hUTIEzFM-qSCl4/s200/CIMG3295.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493555108015705618" /></a><br />Now it is time to start practicing hard again. The WPBA US Open is coming up July 28-August 1 in Norman, OK. I'm excited to have a tournament come around finally! I also just got news that I will be playing in the World 9-ball Championship in ShenYang, China and in the China Open in Shanghai, China. One tournament is in August and the other is in September!! Jason has also been invited to play in the World Cup of Pool again this year in Manila, Philippines. He will be teamed up with John Morra for team Canada! It seems as though it will be a month long trip to Asia!<br /><br />If you would like to become a Heartbacker to help me get to these events you can donate on this page by clicking the donate button! I have plenty of t-shirts left for those of you that donate. I am really excited to get this opportunity again this year and hope to do as well as last year, if not better. <br /><br />Well, that sums up the past couple of months. I apologize for leaving everyone hanging but like I said, I really needed a break! I will be back to doing at least weekly updates, if not more. Check back in a couple of days for a <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a> trivia question!Sarah Rouseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10232607275843425293noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8053118123465587369.post-36201052934611173342010-04-23T11:20:00.003-05:002010-04-23T12:04:51.147-05:00Update and Trivia!I haven't been around for an update in quite some time. I really haven't had a ton of things going on since I got home from my big adventure known as the month of March! I have just been getting back to the daily grind of work and catching up. I am going to start my everyday practice next week until Vegas. I've also started an exercise program....that is the most shocking news to date! So now on to the other things that are important over the past couple of weeks...<br /><br />First, earlier this week my buddy Mike at <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a> let me know that I will be traveling back to my favorite place on Earth, New York City!! I get to go hang out with lots of famous people playing pool for a fundraiser put on by <a href="http://www.justintuck.com">Justin Tuck</a> of the Giants! Frank and I will get to do a little hob-nobbing with some professional athletes and stars! I have never done anything quite so star studded so I really can't wait! Plus, any reason to go back to the place I love!!!<br /><br />Second, I have decided to run a <a href="www.billiardeducation.org">BEF</a> Junior National Qualifier here in my hometown. I keep in touch with quite a few kids that I met at last years tournament and realized that they need another place to qualify. The <a href="www.billiardeducation.org">BEF</a> has been something very important to me over the years so I decided that I should try to help out a little bit. So if any of you know anyone under the age of 19 that would like to participate, please contact me here, on azbilliards, facebook or through the email link over to the right. If you don't live in my area, please consider holding one of these tournaments. It isn't too costly and it is really appreciated by the kids. They are the future after all! You can contact Laura Smith of the <a href="www.billiardeducation.org">BEF</a> by visiting the website.<br /><br />Here are the details of the tournament:<br /><br />Date: May 29, 2010<br /><br />Where: Illinois State University Bowling and Billiard Center (site of last years BEF Junior Nationals) <br />700 West College Avenue<br />Normal, IL 61761-4405<br /><br />What: 19 and under division, Top two finishers receive entry into the 2010 BEF Junior nationals in Dekalb, IL.<br /><br />14 and under division, Top two finishers receive entry into the 2010 BEF Junior Nationalsi in Dekalb, IL.<br /><br />Entry: $20. $15 goes toward BEF membership and $5 to the venue.<br /><br />Equipment: 9' Brunswick Gold Crowns<br /><br />Format: Race to 7. Double elimination with one race to 9 final.<br /><br />Doors open at 11am and play will begin at Noon.<br /><br />There will be trophies for first and second place in each division. If you have a girl that is any age under 19, please let me know. I would like to help any girls that would like a chance to play as well. I will gladly nominate them to play in the girls division. <br /><br /><strong>I would also like to mention that any money that is donated via paypal from now until May 29, will go to the four kids that qualify through this qualifier. I know it is very costly for the kids and parents to travel to these tournaments. If you would like to donate, you know the drill, click the donate button and send it on over. Please specify that you would like to donate the money to the juniors. I really appreciate the help and I am sure the kids will too!</strong><br /><br />Third, I finally finished my next article for <a href="http://www.azbilliards.com">AZbilliards</a>. I'm not sure if everyone knows that I started writing a monthly article last month. It is located at the bottom of the main page. I'm not sure when it will be published but it should be soon. I hope everyone enjoys it and thank you to <a href="http://www.azbilliards.com">AZbilliards</a> for giving me the opportunity!<br /><br />Fourth, a fellow blogger in this crazy blogosphere has decided to do an interview with me! I have to thank my buddy <a href="http://poolriah.wordpress.com/">p00lriah</a> for coming up with some serious questions! If you haven't read his stuff, it is pretty interesting! He is part of the monthly Pool Synergy stuff as well. There are links to all kinds of other blogs as well. I was told the interview will be posted on April 28th so be sure to check it out by clicking <a href="http://poolriah.wordpress.com/">here</a>!!<br /><br />And last, but not least, <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a> trivia!!! This weeks question isn't all that hard but to start to get the Vegas fever moving a long it will be a Vegas inspired question! <strong>Who won the World Pool Masters event last year???</strong> Remember to include your email address with your answer in the comments section. The winner will receive a $10 <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a> gift code!! You can always save 5% on your <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a> purchases by using the discount code ROUSEY.<br /><br />Good luck everyone! Now that I look back, I guess this week really hasn't been quite so lacking in excitement!!Sarah Rouseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10232607275843425293noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8053118123465587369.post-27437385679573547792010-04-12T12:37:00.003-05:002010-04-12T12:45:45.424-05:00Big News!I have to give a big thank you to my sponsor <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a> for entering me in the 2010 US Open 9-ball championships!! I have to give a big thanks to Barry Behrman as well for opening this years tournament to men and women. I think it will be a big success for everyone!<br /><br />Here is the press release courtesy of <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a>:<br />PoolDawg to Enter Sarah Rousey In the US Open 9 Ball Championships<br /><br />Lafayette, CO April 12, 2010 — PoolDawg, the recognized leader in online billiards and game room supplies, is proud to announce that they will be sponsoring WPBA Touring Pro Sarah Rousey in her attempt to become the first woman in history to win the US Open later this year. As the first woman to officially enter this event, Rousey will be breaking a long standing gender barrier that previously restricted entry to men.<br /><br />“This is something we’ve wanted to do for some time now, so the timing of Mr. Behrman’s announcement allowing women to enter the US Open couldn’t be better.” said Michael Feiman, PoolDawg’s Director of Marketing. “Sarah continues to do a wonderful job representing our brand at billiards events and we are proud to have one of the up and coming stars of the WPBA represent us at the most prestigious domestic event in pool.” When asked about being given the opportunity to play in this event, Sarah said “After years of experiencing this great event as a spectator, I am thrilled to get a chance to play with the best men and women in the world! Thank you Mr. Behrman and PoolDawg for this opportunity.”<br /><br />Sarah Rousey, a resident of Bloomington Illinois, is one of the rising stars of the WPBA, coming off a 5th place finish at the 2010 San Diego Classic. She holds wins over top pool players from around the globe and will pose a unique challenge to the 2010 field of the US Open. She will be accompanied to the US Open by PoolDawg’s trusty mascot, Frank. Fans will be able to follow Sarah’s training and preparation at http://www.sarahrousey.com and http://www.franksdawghouse.com.<br /><br />About PoolDawg.com, Inc<br />With over 3,000 pool cues, cases, and game room accessories, PoolDawg is the premier destination for pool players of all levels. PoolDawg offers one of the widest selections of cues, cases and accessories on the web and carries billiards products from over forty manufacturers including Scorpion, Cuetec, Mezz, Lucasi, McDermott, Schon and Viking and can be found online at http://www.pooldawg.com.<br /><br />Contact: Michael Feiman<br />mike[at]pooldawg.com<br />http://www.PoolDawg.com<br /><br />Please remember to thank and support <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a> for helping me! Remember to use the discount code ROUSEY to receive 5% off all of your <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a> purchases.<br /><br />I will be back later with a post and a trivia question.Sarah Rouseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10232607275843425293noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8053118123465587369.post-2658512390084347142010-04-08T23:53:00.004-05:002010-04-09T00:34:05.400-05:00InspirationI don't have too many words this post. I think I used them all up last post! What I do have are some commercials that many of you may have seen that I find quite inspirational. <br /><br />First, a Nike commercial. If you listen to the song and what what is going on it is the most inspirational of them all. It is true. We all work hard and we all get knocked down. I think of this commercial when I get down on myself. It ultimately says that we make our own decisions, stay down or get up. Okay, enough blabbing. Here is the commercial: <object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/PeebK-Hxchw&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/PeebK-Hxchw&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br />Since I am a basketball fan, I have seen some cool and inspirational commercials while watching games. First up, determination: <object width="640" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/LkVKrdvZFdo&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/LkVKrdvZFdo&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br />Second, hard work. One thing that I tend to forget and then remember, then forget again is that hard work pays off. <object width="640" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/_Sc8XzbJUA0&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/_Sc8XzbJUA0&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br />Third, clutch. That is something that great athletes, business people, competitors of all kinds have nearly perfected. In my opinion, being clutch is the ultimate sign of having confidence in yourself. <object width="640" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/hbv12hKARjU&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/hbv12hKARjU&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br />And last but not least, a song that I think is pretty inspiring when things are questionable in your life. The Middle, Jimmy Eat World: <object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/FV-HPOHu8mY&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/FV-HPOHu8mY&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br />A non-lazy bum thing that I use for inspiration is keeping a couple of letters that I have received over the years from friends or fans or random people that were really nice and uplifting....I keep them in my case. I also like to keep emails and stuff and look them over here and there. I could be crazy, but I think it helps.<br /><br />Feel free to leave a comment on what inspires you.<br /><br />So now everyone knows that I watch a little too much TV, but hey, at least I got something out of it! Remember, you never know when someone is using you as inspiration. <br /><br />Thanks to Nike and the NBA for making awesome commercials.Sarah Rouseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10232607275843425293noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8053118123465587369.post-55569908227931410972010-04-01T22:10:00.029-05:002010-04-02T14:12:31.505-05:00C'mon Slacker!!Okay, okay, I'm sorry this took so long! So in case you have lived under a rock for the past month, you would know that I have done a little bit of traveling. By little bit I mean about 25,000 miles worth!<br /><br />My trip began with a short little flight to Tokyo, then on to Taipei, Taiwan. By short I mean about 24 hours including layovers!! I flew on Japan Airlines and I have to say that is by far the best airline I have flown on for overseas flights. I caught up on movies and got hooked on a stupid game called Bejeweled. Before I knew it, my flight was over and I hadn't even slept!<br /><br />The first matter of business when you play in the Amway Cup is a lunch banquet and a live press conference. By live I mean live TV. It is really pretty cool. We all go up on a stage and are introduced by group and seeding. Then they called Xiao-ting Pan, Allison Fisher and Chieh-Yu Chou up on stage. Apparently the website had a vote as to which player was the fan favorite and which type of flower suited their personality. Allison was a rose, XTP a snap dragon, and Chou a carnation. They each got about three dozen of their said flower. Here is a picture of that part of the ceremony...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTxBchqqQyYzNiniefTzyHzlmfh22BYrk2ekmUp1WaSNyY3GxR7RnZg2dnLH13wPNaoVSI1U75zqoH-gGAZnRmUdDgs2Ki9UF3bdOlJtu_g7Jjs_f9NM5Wqho4bsXgmXImy8mQT1txOYo/s1600/CIMG2783.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTxBchqqQyYzNiniefTzyHzlmfh22BYrk2ekmUp1WaSNyY3GxR7RnZg2dnLH13wPNaoVSI1U75zqoH-gGAZnRmUdDgs2Ki9UF3bdOlJtu_g7Jjs_f9NM5Wqho4bsXgmXImy8mQT1txOYo/s200/CIMG2783.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455375965394508162" /></a><br />The highlight of the press conference was the mispronunciation of my last name. I suddenly was turned into Sarah Roozey. Of course that led to a lot of laughs from the fellow WPBA players.<br /><br />And if you don't think that pool is big in Taiwan, consider this, we were shown live on a major network for 8-12 hours a day. All of the editing was done on the spot and the production was really very cool. Here is the press talking to Ga Young Kim at the end of the press conference...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCPovvtzMf62PjDZyyY5gPJA7NjJKTFGmajA35S_D3gYNxaX_XnOn7yhPukxw1BbyOi-po0LQ3g3Qx6wlOXIMOrC_s5NKJjugE09orpHLxBvDjac7v6FNl4n66kXi4B7XJNYFri9iYbDA/s1600/CIMG2786.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCPovvtzMf62PjDZyyY5gPJA7NjJKTFGmajA35S_D3gYNxaX_XnOn7yhPukxw1BbyOi-po0LQ3g3Qx6wlOXIMOrC_s5NKJjugE09orpHLxBvDjac7v6FNl4n66kXi4B7XJNYFri9iYbDA/s200/CIMG2786.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455376906879123250" /></a><br />On to the tournament...My group was pretty brutal. Since I was the fifth seed in my group I had to play the top two players in my group on the first day. My first match was against Akimi Kajitani from Japan. She has been a top player on the international level for a very long time. I played her years ago in Las Vegas and won. This match I had plenty of chances but I just couldn't capitalize. I lost 7-2. <br /><br />My second match was against the #1 seed, Allison Fisher. Everyone knows my history with Allison. We were scheduled to play at 7pm...directly after the opening ceremony. Well, as pool tournaments go, the earlier matches ran a bit late and all of a sudden our match was bumped to the last of the night and since I was playing Allison, they insisted that we wait to play on the TV table. We started our match at midnight! Again I started out really strong and then fell apart. I had lots of chances but just didn't capitalize and lost 7-2 again.<br /><br />I finished my day in awful shape to move on in the tournament. I had to win all of my matches the following day to hope to have a chance. My first match was against the qualifier of our group. Of course that is generally the "easy" match. Boy was that untrue in just about every group! The qualifier in my group was 16 year old Siming Chen. She beat Allison her first match. I was trailing in the match 6-3 and suddenly things changed. I made a comeback. I remembered how to play safe and make balls...amazing when that happens! I came back to win 7-6! Chen went on to beat every other player in our group and finish 3/4th in the event! Good start to the day.<br /><br />My next match was against the fourth seed in the group from Malaysia. Of course I started out shaky and lost the first few games. Typical from me lately. I actually started feeling comfortable and came back to win the match 7-3. Now I was putting myself in great shape to squeak through to the final 24. Going into the last round of the night there were four players of the group with a 2-2 record. <br /><br />This set up my match with Pei Chen Tsai, winner of the China Open. I played like 100% garbage. I missed so many balls and just crumbled. Tsai and I have the same kind of tournament deal as Allison and I in the states...I tend to draw her in every international event. It is amazing that every time I travel around the world I run right into her! Anyway, I lost the match 7-2..again. My chances were shot of making it to the next round. The players that moved on were Fisher, Chen and Tsai. This is the gift I had for Tsai...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidX5BnsnEIBtaamLlXTn3dhDzjHLxJhOXaDzcgaVR1unurz3e7En2GjAr_Eo60673M9BIzO88MlQs-CvYlYrXxn935BkV8bMYsSfbK5AS5ypUcLOXFRV0i0XyxAPAn3vvEPQgxEVO_eq4/s1600/CIMG2815.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidX5BnsnEIBtaamLlXTn3dhDzjHLxJhOXaDzcgaVR1unurz3e7En2GjAr_Eo60673M9BIzO88MlQs-CvYlYrXxn935BkV8bMYsSfbK5AS5ypUcLOXFRV0i0XyxAPAn3vvEPQgxEVO_eq4/s200/CIMG2815.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455381490578505842" /></a><br />Here is a picture of the venue. We played on the ninth floor of a huge shopping mall. If you got bored you could always stop and buy a speedo!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX7F6cTVQYktGWWRb5n4c6GbubsDMCD2XtJbTDxZxS4AAXsRXch-LCKPjwRTHd3DUpx1Jj4jOIvfIOglG34xcedF6KdqpaHesn9jLTbH2_5skm6PbDkv5XxWIuDhyxmVFu24eXvlvWBUE/s1600/CIMG2787.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX7F6cTVQYktGWWRb5n4c6GbubsDMCD2XtJbTDxZxS4AAXsRXch-LCKPjwRTHd3DUpx1Jj4jOIvfIOglG34xcedF6KdqpaHesn9jLTbH2_5skm6PbDkv5XxWIuDhyxmVFu24eXvlvWBUE/s200/CIMG2787.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455382285858205090" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4PXvd4qZ-mIIUiiqAC6pT3rIzvk48qvZE4J5XGT27UwK5fdpHa49C-qs8n_GDST_E1hOzBwclRJ4ohnRjSwvv14vl7a7ElArxt5tcl0P34S1daXnk2sEMxrh30bp17CirQKklB8Fc5Bk/s1600/CIMG2789.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4PXvd4qZ-mIIUiiqAC6pT3rIzvk48qvZE4J5XGT27UwK5fdpHa49C-qs8n_GDST_E1hOzBwclRJ4ohnRjSwvv14vl7a7ElArxt5tcl0P34S1daXnk2sEMxrh30bp17CirQKklB8Fc5Bk/s200/CIMG2789.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455382746746660578" /></a><br />Since I was out of the tournament I got to hang out and watch a lot of great pool. I'm sure since I am a month late everyone knows that Yu Ram Cha won the event. She really played great. Here is the beautiful trophy she won...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXMxsjlv8_ZqvVb57IHKFd3j9SQNcb2KXADORFQij9zkYdKmofAAKzaGonHHiSpWPTB4jMoRtm22IWrhwF538HYaEYV9gupTvWYVe9UF_I1eyUIJTa6QAvl68yqSZKUozLCZ71j2dkWIY/s1600/CIMG2802.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXMxsjlv8_ZqvVb57IHKFd3j9SQNcb2KXADORFQij9zkYdKmofAAKzaGonHHiSpWPTB4jMoRtm22IWrhwF538HYaEYV9gupTvWYVe9UF_I1eyUIJTa6QAvl68yqSZKUozLCZ71j2dkWIY/s200/CIMG2802.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455383761094915250" /></a><br />Here are some of my favorite things about the trip. First...soup dumplings!! If it wasn't for these, I would have starved to death!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkzPey4WgZjzgCqGnQrcCBtdCOFNkde9-PRtanS75mTbOpPPt5dDw6JzXhIEVeSs_KztY5dWc8NNP1Nl38qo3fO0x0W-u9Brgi9XGjh4vmMEgNstk3Yy6N-NhwygI_OHRRUQiIBFSJFAg/s1600/CIMG2806.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkzPey4WgZjzgCqGnQrcCBtdCOFNkde9-PRtanS75mTbOpPPt5dDw6JzXhIEVeSs_KztY5dWc8NNP1Nl38qo3fO0x0W-u9Brgi9XGjh4vmMEgNstk3Yy6N-NhwygI_OHRRUQiIBFSJFAg/s200/CIMG2806.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455384253622737778" /></a><br />Second, making new friends (and Heartbackers!) Thanks to Alison Chang for helping out so much with everything!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS_0S4dhwaDP15OU4gHb0Uk7f1oCVVoYsU70zqC3nTEK9B00RBnIJbfX_LXmNacdM4CfgzP6r19MHEfPNZSga54TbJRww6_lVyKuBS7kEPxW92UmsLpvyA-74jg5_lQU8N6ze_BAtaR9M/s1600/CIMG2812.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS_0S4dhwaDP15OU4gHb0Uk7f1oCVVoYsU70zqC3nTEK9B00RBnIJbfX_LXmNacdM4CfgzP6r19MHEfPNZSga54TbJRww6_lVyKuBS7kEPxW92UmsLpvyA-74jg5_lQU8N6ze_BAtaR9M/s200/CIMG2812.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455384592915786962" /></a><br />Third, the wonderful after party that is thrown for us every year...Thanks Mr. Tu!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTql2wYH-gDsq-TdYIB8vTW41vS1Ue_Ao_rEjZpSAdzG-QQdNevmKBW4hkfJO-6y0J05vbKZiT14Xhn_bhEhHid1GcEJOZEZxtuhC9sdyhHsljoQN3nE6_yQP5QTX5viQsln5WawTLo_c/s1600/CIMG2816.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTql2wYH-gDsq-TdYIB8vTW41vS1Ue_Ao_rEjZpSAdzG-QQdNevmKBW4hkfJO-6y0J05vbKZiT14Xhn_bhEhHid1GcEJOZEZxtuhC9sdyhHsljoQN3nE6_yQP5QTX5viQsln5WawTLo_c/s200/CIMG2816.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455384963942845714" /></a><br />Fourth, trying to iron in Asia. Good thing my clothes are small!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuQgGmtz0BrFg7OT7x987nwYc9hc7Bs7a7QZis6cIbEkiR_DjXxntP1Tc8UFLTa2nobeC2FO9VFiDYs1lHKff13IEKNDxt50iO1lVwV4JYMQbxlP2WABO3Dskbb2fJEA6inJ9ms2dSQOw/s1600/CIMG2774.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuQgGmtz0BrFg7OT7x987nwYc9hc7Bs7a7QZis6cIbEkiR_DjXxntP1Tc8UFLTa2nobeC2FO9VFiDYs1lHKff13IEKNDxt50iO1lVwV4JYMQbxlP2WABO3Dskbb2fJEA6inJ9ms2dSQOw/s200/CIMG2774.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455385430776260226" /></a><br />And the best of all, hanging with this rowdy bunch for a week overseas!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0oa_aDC_BzWpfGFWZZYI_t1WuYi9JCqIp1hE_ySsSyUHJcFiAu3JfV9CID_kj3fnpKplN52ToiC0EO8V4yzvvleDhI1tFbwOFwFHq-gSBC8blIgYTtb0jhUHOzc73IUytMycFZ5nzHBI/s1600/CIMG2779.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0oa_aDC_BzWpfGFWZZYI_t1WuYi9JCqIp1hE_ySsSyUHJcFiAu3JfV9CID_kj3fnpKplN52ToiC0EO8V4yzvvleDhI1tFbwOFwFHq-gSBC8blIgYTtb0jhUHOzc73IUytMycFZ5nzHBI/s200/CIMG2779.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455385727894470770" /></a><br />After all the fun it was time to leave. Thanks to the after party, I had a rough ride home. Free Heinekin is bad news! After another very long flight and lots of layovers I made my way to Alpine, CA for the WPBA event. I thought I was planning well going a few days early. I thought I would have plenty of time to sleep and catch up and feel normal. Boy was I wrong! I did the stupid thing and fell asleep very early in the day and it led to a week of either being awake all night or waking up at 3am and ready to conquer the day. <br /><br />I got a chance to do something really cool on the Tuesday before the event. Along with Laura Smith, Dawn Hopkins and Allison Fisher we set out for the 32nd St. Naval base to do challenge matches. There was an awesome turn out and I got a chance to meet so many cool people. The entire crowd cheered when Allison finally lost one game...the whole day! Here is just about the whole group. Thanks to Ashi Fachler for the picture.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcd9gA3eGpVaFLvYkEwSEmXZ96-O1WvR3yHJUU2q5oNsEOx42WOA7DgMlbAmxl5bzSmrf45-rRygBUc8_mJ8xc-h2ZjJ1yrnuaxIQZu-qgFu3tbyGJ-Tkj36EEPjAK4TsFpIxtbOTeXok/s1600/navy.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcd9gA3eGpVaFLvYkEwSEmXZ96-O1WvR3yHJUU2q5oNsEOx42WOA7DgMlbAmxl5bzSmrf45-rRygBUc8_mJ8xc-h2ZjJ1yrnuaxIQZu-qgFu3tbyGJ-Tkj36EEPjAK4TsFpIxtbOTeXok/s200/navy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455388010178896034" /></a><br />After the trip to the Navy base, Laura, Dawn and I head to Miramar for another few hours of challenge matches. I had a great time and got to meet more great guys and girls there. I didn't get a group picture but I have to say, some of those Marines can play! Stay safe everyone and thank you for serving our country!<br /><br />On to tournament number two. I wasn't really sure what to expect in this event. I usually have a little trouble playing after traveling a long distance and adjusting back to life in the United States. My first match was against Dana Aft from Atlanta. I played alright, not great but not horrible. Dana was still a little nervous and you could tell. She is making great progress and I think she will be playing in a lot more pro events in the future. I won the match 9-5.<br /><br />My next match was against RTC qualifier Lisa Marr. Lisa is a good player from Arkansas who played in quite a few pro events in the past. She played really well and we were neck and neck up to 5-5. A couple of mistakes on her part luckily gave me a couple of games. I finished out the match and won 9-5 again.<br /><br />The next match was against Karen Corr. I have never had much luck playing her and I don't even remember a time that I was close to beating her. I have so much respect for her game that it nearly paralyzes me. I can't lie and say that I didn't have some chances, I just didn't have many! I made a little come back but it was way too little, way too late. I lost the match 9-4.<br /><br />Saturday morning I had my match to get to the Final 16 redraw against Brittany Bryant. I had never played her before but I have a lot of respect for how she plays. I knew I had to play well and play smart. The match was back and forth until 5-5 again and she missed a 9ball. That kind of gave me a glimmer of hope and I ran with it. I made my way to the final 16. Who would I draw???<br /><br />None other then the only person I draw in the redraw...Allison Fisher. Seriously, how many times does this have to happen!!! I was reminded by someone as I drew that I shouldn't be upset about drawing her because that is what you prepare for. You prepare to come to a tournament and play the best. Then I remembered that I had won before, why not do it again. And that I did. I was down in the match 4-1, then I had some life thrown back into me and I ran with it. Suddenly I was up 6-4. That is when my mind started racing and I starting thinking about winning the match. Just for that, it was 6-6 as soon as I blinked. I got to the hill first, 8-6. Then I made a mistake and it was 8-7 with Allison breaking. All I could think was "great, here we go, hill-hill. She is going to break and run." Well she did just that...down to the nine and missed! Holy crap she missed! Here is where I should mention that I am a nervous person. I tend to shake when I get nervous. I had to get up from my shot a couple of times because I was convinced that everyone could see me shake! Finally I calmed myself and made the winning 9ball!<br /><br />Now if only the tournament ended right then and there. The emotional rush of a match like that does not have a good end result or beginning result of the next match rather. My next match was against Xiao-Ting Pan. Again, I had my chances and just couldn't get it together. Everything I did went wrong. I hooked myself. I scratched. I missed. Then I decided when I was down 8-3, maybe I should put up a fight. I did just that for a few games but the alternate break format got me. She broke and ran out when the score was 8-6. Oh well, so close, yet so far away.<br /><br />All in all, I am very pleased with how things went. I know there is room for improvement, but I also know that I don't give up without a fight. It was great that my Dad and sister could be there to see me do well in a tournament. My dad said that the match with Allison is the best pool match he has ever seen. Obviously, he hasn't been to enough tournaments!<br /><br />I got to hang with some cool people as always. It was great to make some new friends and hang with these crazies! Justin from <a href="http://www.theactionreport.com">TAR</a>, thanks for the stream and part of the Asian invasion, trying to see how many of us fit in Justin's sweatshirt.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPbbVPTRXayXBpd-o2wuToqruRZi95gH8n8HGaFgRHjEHnV2qGWYJGRheMcOrLPwqKo904TbqqtZTfVY3yOSWlQ3U2UrxqKyCO5REB5V7Db2ifotspoRqWTWrirKU-xd9WyqvYhcH8Ccc/s1600/CIMG2833.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPbbVPTRXayXBpd-o2wuToqruRZi95gH8n8HGaFgRHjEHnV2qGWYJGRheMcOrLPwqKo904TbqqtZTfVY3yOSWlQ3U2UrxqKyCO5REB5V7Db2ifotspoRqWTWrirKU-xd9WyqvYhcH8Ccc/s200/CIMG2833.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455397135271628450" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgATVSWGy8lnXEbGpcKrQH_lhC9xwbfASfCFPxvxKnc6UkJ_dsEbkfJfYepWteoFRzEuKUr5XzbxPcghuAxAUP9alEkH9PZiNvtrTvPGt6ovPBDNGF2rq5k7m4K2vJYOSyEjf9z1ZD-ICc/s1600/sweater.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgATVSWGy8lnXEbGpcKrQH_lhC9xwbfASfCFPxvxKnc6UkJ_dsEbkfJfYepWteoFRzEuKUr5XzbxPcghuAxAUP9alEkH9PZiNvtrTvPGt6ovPBDNGF2rq5k7m4K2vJYOSyEjf9z1ZD-ICc/s200/sweater.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455397619006058130" /></a><br />After a couple weeks away I thought I was going to have a smooth trip home. Think again. My flight was at 6am. I got to Chicago at 12pm. I then got to sit there until about 9pm waiting for Jason's flight from Toronto. Customs sucks sometimes! After that we had a two hour bus ride home. What a day! I got to sleep in my own bed for about 12 hours then it was in the car for the 14 hour drive to King of Prussia, PA for the Super Billiard Expo.<br /><br />Hopefully everyone knows that I am sponsored by <a href="http://www.mezzusa.com">Mezz Cues</a>. I got a chance to work at the booth along with Caroline Pao, Mika and a whole slew of others. I really like to work so this type of stuff is great in my opinion. I got to meet so many people! Here is the best part...I got my own poster! It was so awesome and nearly life size!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2L-Ym_OgVR8emDSAg74azka2wTCsZA68R7KVy-cdv_ZzS5JOwY6gRHSViPp3svYjbbcv0J3ZjIBLOTR-ls5vFyZPhvcbxEypDJ9VYRasI1WjnzrUkLVYJU3DU4z6maPlsEIXsCDjCIDc/s1600/poster.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2L-Ym_OgVR8emDSAg74azka2wTCsZA68R7KVy-cdv_ZzS5JOwY6gRHSViPp3svYjbbcv0J3ZjIBLOTR-ls5vFyZPhvcbxEypDJ9VYRasI1WjnzrUkLVYJU3DU4z6maPlsEIXsCDjCIDc/s200/poster.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455399325206345842" /></a> Here is a look at team <a href="http://www.mezzusa.com">Mezz</a>...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuXc5sUp0NIM2ixDCH1cs_KxXEUGlQQhz6ZkECn1EdQw15MBoSY9ckfV26UiUz44CutpYv9TptuoDbjFKqll7JNthSx-lc5BnJCtfvWaCSYddPv8FRvri96gAf6hsaxv4cq8XL5E6zp9U/s1600/team+mezz.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuXc5sUp0NIM2ixDCH1cs_KxXEUGlQQhz6ZkECn1EdQw15MBoSY9ckfV26UiUz44CutpYv9TptuoDbjFKqll7JNthSx-lc5BnJCtfvWaCSYddPv8FRvri96gAf6hsaxv4cq8XL5E6zp9U/s200/team+mezz.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455400033689725266" /></a><br />There was also a small women's tournament that Allen Hopkins added some good money to. It was sixteen players, single elimination, 10-ball. My first match was against My-hanh Lac. I actually played okay for working a lot and multi-tasking all weekend along with Caroline. I won the match 9-5 if I remember correctly. My next match was against Amy Chen. She made some errors but I really started feeling comfortable and won the match 9-3. This put me into some decent money and the semi final match.<br /><br />My match was against Brittany Bryant. I was playing great and was way ahead in the match...6-1 to be exact. Then I started thinking. My head is a huge problem with my pool game. I started thinking about the next match, thinking of what I would do with the extra money, thinking about how I needed to get back to work, thinking of the weather, thinking of everything...so stupid!! I missed a 9ball to go ahead 7-1. After that the flood gates opened and I couldn't do anything right and she started playing incredibly well. Next thing I know, it is 7-6, and not in my favor! It has been a really long time since I have done that to myself. It is a snowball that starts rolling and doesn't stop. I lost the match 9-7 and I was very disappointed. I absolutely hate losing, but I hate losing even more when I self destruct in the middle of a match. Ugh..so I finished 3/4th. <br /><br />Some of the cool new things I picked up at the Expo are the Magic Rack (available through <a href="http://www.mezzusa.com">MezzUSA</a>) and some <a href="http://spotclothing.com">+Spot clothing</a>. The rack gives you a perfect rack every time. It is a cool invention and is very affordable. The shirts are fashionable and new. Definitely check them out!<br /><br />The best part of the whole Super Billiards Expo is meeting people and catching up with old friends. I especially love hanging with my friends from <a href="http://www.jimboarmy.com">JimboArmy</a>! Here are a few of my favorite people. Don't worry, the scared face is just acting! <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGMHUSg4yQrB2DzlHXSE8FGP12kxwlw_7Y076LmvlXp2AGVtLYruzdUAPXh6cdEEG5UjdCljGzEBbbGUceyWLRh-TARrDjCinrOj1lkz-_dtkB1HYvxUIisOeSNW3YmyeMC4fo1QS798Y/s1600/scared.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGMHUSg4yQrB2DzlHXSE8FGP12kxwlw_7Y076LmvlXp2AGVtLYruzdUAPXh6cdEEG5UjdCljGzEBbbGUceyWLRh-TARrDjCinrOj1lkz-_dtkB1HYvxUIisOeSNW3YmyeMC4fo1QS798Y/s200/scared.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455404704783385906" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjapW81_DFBlKYUgMdB8ZT_aVWNwE8n1CzqZc0yVMpUUhynmnQ0QfSC3wlvaSr3tBeYsXa25CMzMAhRPm3GscDj9yRoBPmLTOFQGsHMPfj5o7In0KhzngAinfIY5VsK_4kkN2A1VRd6HKE/s1600/group.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjapW81_DFBlKYUgMdB8ZT_aVWNwE8n1CzqZc0yVMpUUhynmnQ0QfSC3wlvaSr3tBeYsXa25CMzMAhRPm3GscDj9yRoBPmLTOFQGsHMPfj5o7In0KhzngAinfIY5VsK_4kkN2A1VRd6HKE/s200/group.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455404934167616978" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT-oGJZLfISr7h8lG_TEKTtC6Xe4wTCQIhBRDVBa7D_UNbFR170oS_uvSe98FBn-BPbv2QiTxwjQ7cNLJcZ1UMXIj3gvm0Wj0RZsXT12Hpz2043sc-847bbPnBx2JbBWex35ulNBxlQdw/s1600/fred.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT-oGJZLfISr7h8lG_TEKTtC6Xe4wTCQIhBRDVBa7D_UNbFR170oS_uvSe98FBn-BPbv2QiTxwjQ7cNLJcZ1UMXIj3gvm0Wj0RZsXT12Hpz2043sc-847bbPnBx2JbBWex35ulNBxlQdw/s200/fred.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455404925870886818" /></a> I have to give a huge thank you to everyone that became Heartbackers at the tournament. I greatly appreciate it! You guys are so awesome and I can't believe how generous people are! It also helped to position the t-shirts near the beer cooler and thanks to my enforcer Paul!<br /><br />The coolest part of the whole deal was going to dinner with a pretty diverse group. Mezz owners, Mika Immonen, Shane Van Boening, Caroline, Robert, Jason, Eric Crisp, Justin and myself. Shane won the tournament so he was on cloud nine. He and Mika someone got seated right next to each other. The dinner consisted of them making a game. Perhaps we have a big match coming up!! Stay tuned. Here is a picture of that side of the table...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqfPIEhNCi2U6u8WwxSR24k2CtcDVd_Gc9AO1u8GlQJbFFynp-fLc9AuR4ms7A-2paIOw4kUOgLg0xy4E8nZ9jflEciiJfZNvgjac_LLeLvtScnhV7oKBJTIcp2arB4khucYkclsklVeY/s1600/challenge.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqfPIEhNCi2U6u8WwxSR24k2CtcDVd_Gc9AO1u8GlQJbFFynp-fLc9AuR4ms7A-2paIOw4kUOgLg0xy4E8nZ9jflEciiJfZNvgjac_LLeLvtScnhV7oKBJTIcp2arB4khucYkclsklVeY/s200/challenge.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455406234142397170" /></a><br />So the Expo was over and I thought I would be heading home for a few days before moving on to Omaha, NE for a small tournament. Then I was kidnapped. Here is a picture of the happy group after dinner. They all look so pleasant. Who knew they were going to force me to visit New York City!! Of course I kicked and screamed the entire way...haha.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9_dzLeOVHWyl5c_6fKmGycWWsDPzGVVhO6xh1hu01U6RYQT3mESAA3Hnl07wmFzwzqJXDlBqdRB45-3lE_-bF8j2BCppAO-Ec-tv17gKqkXpHoCfE-cnKyHGu0eBzGCBqt5UWvWHfby8/s1600/dinner+group.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9_dzLeOVHWyl5c_6fKmGycWWsDPzGVVhO6xh1hu01U6RYQT3mESAA3Hnl07wmFzwzqJXDlBqdRB45-3lE_-bF8j2BCppAO-Ec-tv17gKqkXpHoCfE-cnKyHGu0eBzGCBqt5UWvWHfby8/s200/dinner+group.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455407003519846594" /></a><br />New York is absolutely my favorite place to visit. I love it there and would move there in a heartbeat if I suddenly became rich. I was pretty sad that I could only stay for two days. Of course the first place we had to go was Joe Shanghai in Chinatown! More soup dumplings. These are a little different then the Taiwan version. These take some skill to eat. Clearly I have not perfected it!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL078ZH_fXs70KRs4cra0ryXmsvVO05FdpWcbyhZCWlWz0rZUwe9NM4k2hQaPcEE-uSKEcvbOZ03JungOW-aS3UqUnTNCV0IM_pB98UpV9345oRdbcDlvpp8nI6F6rzahUxdn5K8TUiAM/s1600/CIMG2842.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL078ZH_fXs70KRs4cra0ryXmsvVO05FdpWcbyhZCWlWz0rZUwe9NM4k2hQaPcEE-uSKEcvbOZ03JungOW-aS3UqUnTNCV0IM_pB98UpV9345oRdbcDlvpp8nI6F6rzahUxdn5K8TUiAM/s200/CIMG2842.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455408452975557650" /></a> <br /><strong>****TRIVIA ALERT****</strong><br />The food tour didn't stop, the next meal was at a Korean Barbecue place. I have never had this and little did I know what I was eating. Here is your <span style="font-weight:bold;"><a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a> TRIVIA</span> for this week. What am I eating in this picture....<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmEpYmp4qum_7AzEEOfA318MdhKULGJI6oVUT_TRfq9haksfa2DWIVNJ6FtJgpuwFLhXhx1ea0S2aj37OJWc9eu3qG-uQ6IJpCQa-tEiwwrP4_L6ZmXFgFH7xEd3OhI5WryNchQNQ0gBg/s1600/CIMG2905.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmEpYmp4qum_7AzEEOfA318MdhKULGJI6oVUT_TRfq9haksfa2DWIVNJ6FtJgpuwFLhXhx1ea0S2aj37OJWc9eu3qG-uQ6IJpCQa-tEiwwrP4_L6ZmXFgFH7xEd3OhI5WryNchQNQ0gBg/s200/CIMG2905.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455409158004213458" /></a> All I have to say is this was my reaction to it...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBUXrx9qLqVxHFdNpFA9LCr8VID3UqThsMDpqen64Jz4PEBqAKUM2sshrhpclkcMgHp4X7eKoeQEgC20iWDhju2ntpnmkFc9xRnIHo5er3TEDO6S79xUK9JESP0xdqJ3RprPdTkdj-psk/s1600/CIMG2908.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBUXrx9qLqVxHFdNpFA9LCr8VID3UqThsMDpqen64Jz4PEBqAKUM2sshrhpclkcMgHp4X7eKoeQEgC20iWDhju2ntpnmkFc9xRnIHo5er3TEDO6S79xUK9JESP0xdqJ3RprPdTkdj-psk/s200/CIMG2908.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455409535374918002" /></a><br />I got to do a driving tour of Manhattan...scary thing, I was the driver! Thanks to Caroline for giving such a good tour and thanks to Jason and Justin for taking pictures. Here you have a foggy view of the Empire State Building, the New Years Eve dropping ball, the Late Show, and the World Trade Center rebuild...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglCKTm6mNG91tthDUhel9KGb2yQ3ktrtqXJRz6D2s_EcblHykKwE0JJlxQ4FdOqhVMnQgegLVGdgLQuJIpr-nj7nXm2IbGYyUgJa1atnhzVWMhPKT107QgaCidVq2FuzbyjBaA6wKXt04/s1600/CIMG2901.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglCKTm6mNG91tthDUhel9KGb2yQ3ktrtqXJRz6D2s_EcblHykKwE0JJlxQ4FdOqhVMnQgegLVGdgLQuJIpr-nj7nXm2IbGYyUgJa1atnhzVWMhPKT107QgaCidVq2FuzbyjBaA6wKXt04/s200/CIMG2901.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455411484717445474" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOdihZopQ4pSmMO-2s4jG-cV1KKcxaK_TfIk6WdaBA1wU5vlpYAGlsJzbAOpjjS9o8AjKQWW8gGKUuejxQ0G-CBfsUuKIJCBeLN37EElTS-aByH2qkAutO-tdT4c20XJ8scBu7QGvN6aI/s1600/CIMG2885.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOdihZopQ4pSmMO-2s4jG-cV1KKcxaK_TfIk6WdaBA1wU5vlpYAGlsJzbAOpjjS9o8AjKQWW8gGKUuejxQ0G-CBfsUuKIJCBeLN37EElTS-aByH2qkAutO-tdT4c20XJ8scBu7QGvN6aI/s200/CIMG2885.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455411475038658738" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwPtD4Gf26Ylleim0IzmKKpGSSY1nW4z490CiOtUIUglPEKU2a-O50raaKhju8ZtunQgyEPJTmLo3vDTLcvzUmPQwn4CNqdOjJJrvCTh2XjUlgGPkwZcRlUXX_rcQ9ZLy0U6gWLvqNalw/s1600/CIMG2883.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwPtD4Gf26Ylleim0IzmKKpGSSY1nW4z490CiOtUIUglPEKU2a-O50raaKhju8ZtunQgyEPJTmLo3vDTLcvzUmPQwn4CNqdOjJJrvCTh2XjUlgGPkwZcRlUXX_rcQ9ZLy0U6gWLvqNalw/s200/CIMG2883.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455411467436748818" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNzOf5bOXDOqWqYJqgn-IQnuI9XAfiFnynE5I4JzZQEHy7AsSzMFTf6xHJ5wQoovkvkspfDsUibg67aHHX6WsuzEIJ8TB8EXxHv91PdaYXRjfQmVMxCeJEomXUSuQ2jw0VlM1Dh3QbACk/s1600/CIMG2847.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNzOf5bOXDOqWqYJqgn-IQnuI9XAfiFnynE5I4JzZQEHy7AsSzMFTf6xHJ5wQoovkvkspfDsUibg67aHHX6WsuzEIJ8TB8EXxHv91PdaYXRjfQmVMxCeJEomXUSuQ2jw0VlM1Dh3QbACk/s200/CIMG2847.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455411459913636626" /></a><br />I also stopped at my favorite NYC pool room, Skyline Billiards in Brooklyn. I've been lucky to make a lot of friends there and also run into some great competition. I absolutely love this pool room. From the action to the banter to the tables...even the burgers are good! They also have an awesome Tuesday night Open tournament. Race to five on the winners side, race to four on the losers side. Usually there are a lot of top players there. Lucky for me, they all must have been worn out from Valley Forge! I got lucky and won the tournament..woohoo! Thanks to Rob and Sammy, owners of Skyline. <br /><br />My trip to New York was cut short by an invite to play in the Omaha Classic, an invite only tournament for 8 players that with the Omaha Home Show in Omaha, NE. Of course, me being me, I decided to push it until the last minute to get from New York City to Omaha, NE. Just a short 1241 miles to drive. Yes, sometimes I do think that I am insane!<br /><br />Along the way we stopped at another Man vs. Food spot, <a href="www.quakersteakandlube.com">Quaker Steak and Lube</a>. They have some of the hottest wings ever made. I am a big sissy so I didn't try them, but Jason tried the level below the hottest and lived through it. I tried a very tiny amount and thought I would die!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr9VhXJ0KXvK6ojmnliaJHAch_-1yDP3WswpIIIQyfCJZ2Q2w4rfEK6w6jhMNAspYdTleiPHvkcWMOO24fvy1000FKDdPYuGvWOzvv9AXQ8l2kztcdpPdIxJ4zA15uSG_t_pQBTki6foM/s1600/CIMG2916.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr9VhXJ0KXvK6ojmnliaJHAch_-1yDP3WswpIIIQyfCJZ2Q2w4rfEK6w6jhMNAspYdTleiPHvkcWMOO24fvy1000FKDdPYuGvWOzvv9AXQ8l2kztcdpPdIxJ4zA15uSG_t_pQBTki6foM/s200/CIMG2916.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455413543882691506" /></a><br />After the long drive I arrived in Omaha an hour before I had to play. The tournament was an eight player, double elimination, race to 7. My first match was against Helena Thornfeldt. It was an ugly match that went hill-hill. A miss on the six ball left me a shot and I ran out. Next match was none other then, Allison, again. I lost 7-4. Then came another breakdown moment. I played Laura Smith and I was leading 6-3. Again my stupid head got in the way. I started thinking and I didn't close out the match. Another missed opportunity. Oh well....it happens. Thank you to Dick Johnson and Brian Hamburger for bring us back to Omaha!<br /><br />If you ever get a chance to visit Omaha, it is really a cool city. You wouldn't expect anything to be so modern and also in the middle of nowhere! There are tons of restraunts, bars, galleries and specialty stores. My favorite thing to see was the construction of Ameritrade Park, the future home of the College World Series! <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_QSyeb3LYef1mXVL1HbEN-8y9IBpDGYptaY8A7gawSL2VlCpCvpACznw140fqE6KPoDqevVAWcnY5lLTlOq_CHA0XstmiKZFBLaMkim7mS6cNUKlgjUPgwQqjnGJn_jxOufHstbLHQiM/s1600/CIMG2928.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_QSyeb3LYef1mXVL1HbEN-8y9IBpDGYptaY8A7gawSL2VlCpCvpACznw140fqE6KPoDqevVAWcnY5lLTlOq_CHA0XstmiKZFBLaMkim7mS6cNUKlgjUPgwQqjnGJn_jxOufHstbLHQiM/s200/CIMG2928.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455415630119536194" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7a6hyphenhyphenbVPyshadq3DgZa7LjZ-117txCKlhZkcVKJbGw7XzvSwAXApmPiiZ9N9MHDyKwTmINZm2F0lmd8BuB9kXIkA9XYt64G6wQNA5tAGDvOpmtAGbf5FJP_J1Plxogi2-gfnrt4poX48/s1600/CIMG2926.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7a6hyphenhyphenbVPyshadq3DgZa7LjZ-117txCKlhZkcVKJbGw7XzvSwAXApmPiiZ9N9MHDyKwTmINZm2F0lmd8BuB9kXIkA9XYt64G6wQNA5tAGDvOpmtAGbf5FJP_J1Plxogi2-gfnrt4poX48/s200/CIMG2926.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455415619949878754" /></a><br />Finally, after a month of traveling, I am home! I get to sleep in my own bed and that definitely makes me happy! The next adventure is the BCA extravaganza in Vegas!<br /><br />Remember, I put a trivia question in this post. The winner gets a $10 PoolDawg gift code!! Also remember, even if you don't win, you can still receive 5% off all of your purchases with PoolDawg by using the discount code ROUSEY! Good luck everyone. <br /><br />Thank you everyone for checking back and waiting around for another dose of me. Sorry it took so long!Sarah Rouseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10232607275843425293noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8053118123465587369.post-72596854401176290772010-03-28T23:41:00.002-05:002010-03-28T23:44:10.549-05:00I'm Home!I am finally home from a very long trip! I will be back tomorrow with a long post and lots of pictures. It was really great to meet a lot of new people throughout my travels and as always, great to catch up with old friends!<br /><br />Thank you to everyone that became a Heartbacker this trip. You guys are so generous and I greatly appreciate all of the support you have given!<br /><br />Pez, it was nice to meet you in person as well. I am glad you enjoyed your trip to San Diego!<br /><br />Talk to everyone soon and look out for a trivia question tomorrow.Sarah Rouseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10232607275843425293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8053118123465587369.post-61945130796803864592010-03-12T05:23:00.002-06:002010-03-12T05:32:28.617-06:00A Little Something..I know, I haven't done an update again! The trip to Taiwan was so-so and of course, I am not pleased with how I played. I will be back with pictures and updates later.<br /><br />The WPBA event here in San Diego has been going well so far for me. I have been battling jetlag pretty bad, but I can't complain too much considering there were about 10 other players right there with me. Tuesday I went to visit the Naval base and the Marine base. I met some really, really cool people and had a great time! Thanks guys for the confidence boost and for the fun times and friendship!<br /><br />I won my first match 9-5 against Dana Aft. I didn't play great. I made mistakes and just wasn't confident at all. I did enough to win the match...barely. My second match I played a bit better against Lisa Marr. I got a couple lucky rolls which made up for the few bad misses I made at the end of the rack. I won that one 9-5 as well.<br /><br />My next match is Friday night at 7:45 pst against Karen Corr. I know that I better start out strong in this one and not make the careless errors that I made today. It will be a battle that is for sure!<br /><br />So far there aren't any huge upsets. The usuals, Karen, Allison, Jasmin, Xiao-Ting, Ga Young, Monica are all still going strong in the winners bracket. Some of the newcomers have shown that they can play with some upsets over some lower seeded players. I think it is going to be a very interesting tournament!!<br /><br />I promise to be back with a better post and lots of pictures. For now, it is 3:30 am and I need to attempt to sleep! Damn this 16 hour time difference!<br /><br />If you would like to watch the live stream beginning at 1pm pst on Friday you can click <a href="http://www.wpba.com/cms/?pid=1009425">here</a> or watch below!<br /><object classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" width="400" height="320" id="utv936829"><param name="flashvars" value="autoplay=false&brand=embed&cid=3292058"><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><param name="movie" value="http://www.ustream.tv/flash/live/1/3292058"><embed flashvars="autoplay=false&brand=embed&cid=3292058" width="400" height="320" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" id="utv936829" name="utv_n_254060" src="http://www.ustream.tv/flash/live/1/3292058" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object><a href="http://www.ustream.tv/" style="padding: 2px 0px 4px; width: 400px; background: #ffffff; display: block; color: #000000; font-weight: normal; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline; text-align: center;" target="_blank">Live TV by Ustream</a>Sarah Rouseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10232607275843425293noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8053118123465587369.post-6531716591870303182010-02-26T12:29:00.011-06:002010-02-26T15:02:36.811-06:00Break is Over! and TriviaI left you all hanging because I needed a little break. Too bad it wasn't much of a break but more of a jam packed couple of weeks. I worked and practiced and cooked and organized and who knows what else in my "break" time. Where to start...how about Valentine's Day weekend...<br /><br />I went out to lunch with my Mom, sister Brandi, and niece Alexia to the Tea Room in Mackinaw, IL. It was awesome food and a fun time...a couple pics for you..<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442627163410220914" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglQTPjfw-Yg7WUxhV0y3P4cbXFhIm6zpNmJ1aJKZ-FCoHw6Ctzs4nPOc85hPtMM3siG6E_OSqh819IRmiz1udBGRjCI-_PMtOZmA04K973xyS-cnWe8_UxYn2o3whMTxvJWMKyNbIsWaE/s200/CIMG2734.JPG" /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442627169742463426" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjybIYf0cwQdyqikSn_KLVtYsmGKdmkwFj7WJmT_21pnd0uUSwPGkLwzidenDATmBi-IbcO-fI4rdX1gvVGVsGQTQMLl03FX74EfCkfs3lFA3gqaml3qOIOh8F8OP4OWpLP3FX0MNTqRjc/s200/CIMG2737.JPG" /> After a nice lunch and shopping with the girls I had a date...woohoo. Jason and I went to Jim's Steakhouse here in Bloomington for a nice dinner. Sorry I didn't take any pictures of that. Overall it was a pretty full day, literally!<br /><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div>I also decided to try my hand at cooking. It isn't my specialty and I have been known to burn water. Usually I just stick to things like pop tarts, toast, you see the point. Thanks to the Klatt family at Christmas, I fell in love with eggs benedict. And thanks to Germany, I fell in love with crepes. I had to try to make both of course. I didn't take pictures of the crepes because one, I forgot and two, the weren't all that beautiful to look at. That one is a work in progress. I am pretty proud of the eggs benedict though. Forgive the lack of makeup! </div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442630728883699746" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgheCt6q3ior_8y4TmSdwk0LD-fmIk76zaztNjXL4uzN42rpO07aHDFJu8p_h_uVI0H2DtvSWCra77YaYanAStIXkYSRrOInA1E5Pdnsq0Axw1NwB5L_KEWOELiC9-Gwf-d5RMjWYuxL8s/s200/SDC12307.JPG" /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442630736938843106" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1twRMVPkVirKhegWDMw75iq9Q2saeAKt1x94q9eWbPB62BEtgh9wvnoIwKh0IXdhMBRRSvGd4qY6aj7ZSb8pOdM_X2t0jn9qCqmjzkR8AXP1dCznMG4ej2syjyGjib2LPfZ7gf25nZ9E/s200/SDC12308.JPG" />I also decided to go arts and crafts for a bit too. I had a request for a baby Heartbacker t-shirt. So I decided to try that out. I think it turned out great! So if you have a little one that would like a t-shirt, just let me know. I can do pretty much any color you like since it is on a white shirt.<br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442635486977154578" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuD-OVj8htXNJ6TjCAglqXRD8w0tiBdWOIncW48he7NPYtehCO_EWtXPp-9zBhSYw0Zxt1Xmej2nKltxKWXOvfzZ-8XhqYjKATTNr4fzDpnDoN8kvwJrfgKzQNrTyjs-1Xin4EOqoqE4A/s200/CIMG2741.JPG" />I also made a bet with my buddy Chris Bartram that I would practice a lot before the Amway Cup in Taiwan. So I decided to put in at least an hour everyday. It has been strange actually putting in a little work but with my coach around to keep me focused, it was a little easier. Now I am on my own to keep it up. Only a few days left until I leave!</div><br /><div>Last weekend I went to Olathe, Kansas for the Midwest 9-ball Tour tournament. It was held at Shooter's Billiards which is one of the most awesome places for pool in all of the United States. It is home to some of the biggest action, biggest tournaments and best players. I would be willing to bet that it is hard to find a top player that hasn't made a trip through Shooter's at least once in their life. The tournament was held on bar tables, thank god it was 9-ball not 8-ball! I played decent, not great, but decent. I had some rough matches and some good matches. Overall though, I played just well enough to win! The men's turn out was also great, 100 players with quite a few top names. Jesse Bowman won, James Baraks got second and the one and only Jason Klatt got third. I have to say it was a great weekend for us! Even Frank got to go along this time.<br /></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442637912720171490" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwApteYc_yjv1LYLpfLdrKr-Mt8GGColUUBU75vWY8WhgDeiwVpMDJYbC-59B9hqcz6F5LPCZKk7iev0W-B0YBwajueQveg0daluOWh5mq5-SHrmeZlUY0yQQ-XwynwT1kcIQwyzpIRMU/s200/CIMG2752.JPG" />The other great part about visiting the Kansas City area is the food. For those of you that don't know, Kansas City is famous for Barbecue! Last year when I went I tried a place called <a href="http://www.arthurbryantsbbq.com/">Arthur Bryants.</a> This year I decided to try a different place, <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.gatesbbq.com/">Gates Barbecue</a>. My buddies Kyle Odell and girlfriend Connie and Chris Jeffers went along for the adventure again this year. Thanks guys! After two Presidential Platters, we were all stuffed!!<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442639125357395746" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioplaI6xqISGagvLqs3oJVre1a3_7o8UuiNPk9ohtKdShWVMPgFJxdoNe_52etjhxCa6ZWCtDR9J1r_I_74l2LJCYFjaRgYlIfw8Kb004BHGQaVoFTu17pz8wsCzpNoujCYUWnRQi_yTg/s200/DSC00191.JPG" /></div> One of my favorite shows is <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.travelchannel.com/TV_Shows/Man_V_Food">Man vs. Food </a>on the Travel Channel. Not too long ago they did a show in Springfield, IL. Luckily, I just happen to go right through Springfield on my way back to Bloomington! We had a plan to stop at both places, <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.cozydogdrivein.com">Cozy Dog </a>for the corndogs and <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.joerogerschili.com">Joe Rodger's Chili</a> for the chili, but of course, the chili place closes at 4pm and I got there at 4:30. Geez, don't they know who I am?? Just kidding. I did get pictures though! <div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442653670782585970" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX7tn2UXtV2ClVpay0-FyuHmeyEGN-dcU_OE8fwTFm-2W37dOyovfYn7hHsB6EDAHVIfnIgqbBQrj-na8FoUuipgofm3TzsGrlm0CL7kDX54RxF4dgZNphrX7uFPRfxqHBoNQiCuXFBX4/s200/CIMG2755.JPG" /></div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442653678530605202" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqfVgHEt01KxtDFZ0BZCgPnMTwh7HiQMzzvlNKqeKp1XDnN6RITu8mEXg9kj9Anc1nwfaj4rYn_ZR9MleFhYI-_ZTcHm0CSaMg_kt6od9uIpNYN591r7OVsZMexkr9-oktk2jNRx250Y4/s200/CIMG2757.JPG" /></div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442653689278749506" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj51k1zRgG9Anh0y942t8tnd0NjIEJhyTZy1a7rjuTGek-twJW0z-nQtxmNtMszl4YZiY-Lkt3uWpSzuSSqlrnNrG3I-0KtlEV_KY2n6JlAnhxPPrUi6r-ER265TqJm-tTJIv4pDvxY6AY/s200/CIMG2759.JPG" /></div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442653701408380818" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1z_PAr_gUPHT3rUxzKtH640nNNwiKIg8R-8AyUPVBni1tvtBtj_d16p5qpA5HDZDBRBPEApABhJHAeNetqgo2yUzFnMojOEB6FRTjVXcWTNWuUXsTIcrh7_wNhvUVaVa3d4tphCME3ZM/s200/CIMG2765.JPG" /></div><div>Now it has just been back to work for the last week. My other half went back to Canada so that was pretty sad, as always. Good thing I have my little buddy at work with me to keep me company...introducing Leo the dog. Yes, that is my messy desk.<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442651302359798274" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdENvR2fZ24D9Z10YRax21JYbw4fE8ECp26eWC8GW8kPnCyMfmlzYGDHQDZu_JeylkCuik2zIyQnic6QinlVJ5U4P_ZNjU4nnOkpY5nMOjzKhinC4lsbRf4fY6e98Zb_cNWQfLTxADdK4/s200/CIMG2488.JPG" /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442651290874688418" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVc0Uem6W5aeYvlgD9LZJ760CCjPtcmUMdBR5Zj9RJJ9-74gBPUMLPLWFAh-gVA5PyI39FJ1Cau7V2RESHXrkXyKbTlMPClvYeWWGq_jR9f4knYRIO7Ol3gko0yOvKuNS40zSkNB9k5rk/s200/CIMG2768.JPG" />I also need a little help from my readers. I am an avid reader and since I have the big long trip to Taiwan coming up, I need some suggestions on good books to read. I'm open to reading a little bit of everything but mystery, horror, crime, etc are my favorite. Please help!</div></div></div></div></div></div><br /><br />Also, a big thanks to everyone that has become a Heartbacker this year so far! I really appreciate all of your help!! I am very excited for the trip to Taiwan and I will do daily updates to keep everyone in the loop. I will also try to find the link to the live stream.<br /><br />And last but not least, <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com/">PoolDawg</a> trivia!!!!!!! I am going to change it up this week and do a photo caption contest instead of the usual trivia question. I am going to announce a winner on Sunday night. Please be sure to include your email address along with your answer in the comments. Here is the picture. Thanks to <a href="http://markus-hofstaetter.at/">Markus Hoffstaetter </a>for taking the funny pic and sorry Oscar, this was way too good to pass up!<br /><p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 133px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442656887100677682" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzaRp66qpDrhz8gKvC8Q_MyNhacSKzhLCmR5Q3ag48fYcy1M8A5_4Dh7EXKwSWlaPj8JcTjbHahE7pJSxjr08tLNI3jIWNLRyhVTapjglCDsYCC24TpJnIeLaqukpmlaIFiUAQRzEi3g0/s200/funny.bmp" />The winner will receive a $10 <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com/">PoolDawg</a> gift code! Remember, you can always save 5% at <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com/">PoolDawg</a> by using the discount code ROUSEY.</p><p>Thanks everyone for the long wait for a post. I appreciate your patience!</p>Sarah Rouseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10232607275843425293noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8053118123465587369.post-31924159351324994172010-02-23T11:17:00.001-06:002010-02-23T11:18:24.327-06:00I'll Be BackSorry I have been gone for about a week. I will be back later tonight with a post. Thanks everyone for checking in and waiting for something new!Sarah Rouseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10232607275843425293noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8053118123465587369.post-64836572718896665512010-02-10T19:52:00.028-06:002010-02-11T14:24:37.995-06:00Changes, Europe part 2 and Trivia!!I'm sure that you noticed the changes as soon as you came to visit my blog today. With the help of my friend Jay, the site has gotten a face lift! There are now different tabs at the top of the page. If you click on those you are taken to a new page with different features. <br /><br />The first page, Home, is obviously my ramblings. <br /><br />The second page, Heartbackers 2010 has a donate button and an example of what the t-shirts look like. I am also planning to add some other features, but I need a bit of help from all of the Heartbackers. I would like for everyone that has decided to donate this year to take a picture either wearing or displaying your t-shirt. I am going to post those pictures (with your permission of course) on that page. I am also planning to make a map of where all of the Heartbackers are from. Here is an example of the Heartbacker pictures I am talking about. Thanks Dad, Mom and Jason for modeling!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxQj5CWFPOmg5hu7HR9V0JmZcx0gjYxwMa4vYGjCQncUfnhnReTBD1rxhkRk9QtBDlyqQRVcs_2dWCSeUk_tB9riNGstEBK6GkgcxMsu9DCzR8LhwU_A2UN_tea-8sA86QCB9owKvYUEw/s1600-h/CIMG2723.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxQj5CWFPOmg5hu7HR9V0JmZcx0gjYxwMa4vYGjCQncUfnhnReTBD1rxhkRk9QtBDlyqQRVcs_2dWCSeUk_tB9riNGstEBK6GkgcxMsu9DCzR8LhwU_A2UN_tea-8sA86QCB9owKvYUEw/s200/CIMG2723.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436800869633981538" /></a><br />The third page is the Media page. Here you can find all of the videos, interviews, pictures, and articles that I have done over the years. I will be adding more to that later, but for now, it has been started. <br /><br />The fourth page is the Question and Answer section. A few people have asked if this section was possible. There isn't a way to directly ask the question on the page, but if you email me the question (sr9ball@hotmail.com) and I will post and answer the question ASAP on that page. Feel free to ask anything. I really enjoy the interaction!<br /><br />The last page is my schedule. I haven't done anything yet, but I will soon add places that I know for sure I will be playing or watching. <br /><br />Alright, enough business and on to the German fun that took place last week. I got a chance to do some site seeing after the guys were eliminated. We took the train to Hannover, which took about 15 minutes to get to the city center, and began our wandering. One cool thing about Hannover is the red line that goes through town. You can buy a guide and follow the red line to all of the interesting things to see. Each one is numbered and the guide explains what you are seeing. It seemed like a good place to start!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPwax_kP5Kbbj9O7qvsI4-b6EUIWR_fK11BWFs_mmQiPSP27Druzt-VOBAnwbC3Nm2kIN0vg3TtIehZ61ztnOnzRQcQun8Lk9uyb7wVKVjUDpMf4uOIcwcXEULuEjiF_r_6_uW8gnuW14/s1600-h/CIMG2649.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPwax_kP5Kbbj9O7qvsI4-b6EUIWR_fK11BWFs_mmQiPSP27Druzt-VOBAnwbC3Nm2kIN0vg3TtIehZ61ztnOnzRQcQun8Lk9uyb7wVKVjUDpMf4uOIcwcXEULuEjiF_r_6_uW8gnuW14/s200/CIMG2649.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436803989122898914" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM3WRZJJ3MQkwb5fBauxyKFL4aW63VcxEt645ZLSTgk2sveNk_Zo_9s04F2kPa0KSSgS4bjTXaBIvTUDbgIl0Sh6Zo-SC3pc9HBePzOT3tVOBt8QsxFMx9TFyF1Zl52CVIdxNGNHljLuk/s1600-h/CIMG2638.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM3WRZJJ3MQkwb5fBauxyKFL4aW63VcxEt645ZLSTgk2sveNk_Zo_9s04F2kPa0KSSgS4bjTXaBIvTUDbgIl0Sh6Zo-SC3pc9HBePzOT3tVOBt8QsxFMx9TFyF1Zl52CVIdxNGNHljLuk/s200/CIMG2638.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436803980480947666" /></a><br />The main reason that I wanted to visit Europe was to get the chance to see the architecture. In the United States we have some really cool places, but we don't really have any places that were built as far back as the 1300's. Here are two churches that were built in the 1300's, Aegidien Church and Market Church. The third picture is the inside of Market Church. I really liked the high ceiling and I was in awe of how this church was built so long ago.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9dSx6SwnvpI5QFY7S9U9HCyxg_jMF2ebQL-qR1KzANZc3LzhCCnC1VC4BHhNz2yrx4n0HkCifYWahRG5gV4wkY69i0LQK7VzUTcLuqmTewbe5w2_Oa8eBlscuIdkwAAh4W-ga0n5B8aI/s1600-h/CIMG2609.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9dSx6SwnvpI5QFY7S9U9HCyxg_jMF2ebQL-qR1KzANZc3LzhCCnC1VC4BHhNz2yrx4n0HkCifYWahRG5gV4wkY69i0LQK7VzUTcLuqmTewbe5w2_Oa8eBlscuIdkwAAh4W-ga0n5B8aI/s200/CIMG2609.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436807473885773058" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6AZbuoPcQv_2DOL0OSPYX26rrzsZ_WY5VbZp3dyVcd97C4LQ9u8WHWVEeMyJiOvaPK4JEqbk6KVhEoCs6d4G8QyhZSQOiSZbO5oTsYJTWWEgROcmnlkPL6ty-cCGjCAKGKG3idZr2_-0/s1600-h/CIMG2591.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6AZbuoPcQv_2DOL0OSPYX26rrzsZ_WY5VbZp3dyVcd97C4LQ9u8WHWVEeMyJiOvaPK4JEqbk6KVhEoCs6d4G8QyhZSQOiSZbO5oTsYJTWWEgROcmnlkPL6ty-cCGjCAKGKG3idZr2_-0/s200/CIMG2591.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436807460189514162" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUs88wrEADAXaJaCO_ZPJa66yUOlrLmgWTlrvf5CGxcu_KLW0UaJe9roDm56TbXKagEuWEPmBjZ1MeEw04GiVNJvutmZn_SnYNIiv4USwxtSlx5f0CNj4GBvT_JbxNJB6mrjGdc5quqCc/s1600-h/CIMG2558.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUs88wrEADAXaJaCO_ZPJa66yUOlrLmgWTlrvf5CGxcu_KLW0UaJe9roDm56TbXKagEuWEPmBjZ1MeEw04GiVNJvutmZn_SnYNIiv4USwxtSlx5f0CNj4GBvT_JbxNJB6mrjGdc5quqCc/s200/CIMG2558.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436807451979937714" /></a><br />Next we moved on to New Town Hall. It was pretty elaborate as well!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2FR60E6aZ687zEsRCauJDhiveqybg4uHYIJuezgB7cwpC3pQGtEotx1MO7Svaal26Lr9CNk2owPylq0UCyR4HP4xcnO-CZASLaot3CTMD-bSSbK528MrvivWK-c0WrZ1VHkqcizX8UsI/s1600-h/CIMG2564.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2FR60E6aZ687zEsRCauJDhiveqybg4uHYIJuezgB7cwpC3pQGtEotx1MO7Svaal26Lr9CNk2owPylq0UCyR4HP4xcnO-CZASLaot3CTMD-bSSbK528MrvivWK-c0WrZ1VHkqcizX8UsI/s200/CIMG2564.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436808389400790882" /></a><br />We also visited Old Town. To me it was traditional German architecture. There were little shops and outdoor markets...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTuYFUfHGYINrW-OIeZ8bxKEAAuO45Q_Khhs-egUFiZ2oFfFxqSvAeT4RqkD7ebgi0mCToAsiKR4Wm_4wWoMMPOf8F0hSBqXR1wT2r4YU4vEv9zL3qzYRtXh3pRz0GreVB2Een7bHpoVk/s1600-h/CIMG2641.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTuYFUfHGYINrW-OIeZ8bxKEAAuO45Q_Khhs-egUFiZ2oFfFxqSvAeT4RqkD7ebgi0mCToAsiKR4Wm_4wWoMMPOf8F0hSBqXR1wT2r4YU4vEv9zL3qzYRtXh3pRz0GreVB2Een7bHpoVk/s200/CIMG2641.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436809210124496994" /></a><br />All throughout the city there are different sculptures. Some of them were very old and others were pretty new. Here are a few of them that I thought were interesting...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzpk1mg0gpUAliFNv8rLKZU33wmTwKNLUiYrSroi-qRnZ_TtxSWvIU7yHeRAyer5DE4jTaJ2UAwOTWNU7zdGpoUBHgqZspi_OCflGwB3K-eFhmCN_Ait_mEnvLQ9-N65sdN3mpDVqa-bk/s1600-h/CIMG2637.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzpk1mg0gpUAliFNv8rLKZU33wmTwKNLUiYrSroi-qRnZ_TtxSWvIU7yHeRAyer5DE4jTaJ2UAwOTWNU7zdGpoUBHgqZspi_OCflGwB3K-eFhmCN_Ait_mEnvLQ9-N65sdN3mpDVqa-bk/s200/CIMG2637.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436810556637190050" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEJUHXlbYMK9AEoJ_vJ32vkC4Za_wFxHymS-Tak65V8jz3jEWW7ShkQhbPjAP29YowsIOtn5DyKfaZ7u9xn6pcVq2ya634lojugo3p4G9TgxNIQnwx1r5JK-IQTgCJETTTfeeaDlquiSw/s1600-h/CIMG2565.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEJUHXlbYMK9AEoJ_vJ32vkC4Za_wFxHymS-Tak65V8jz3jEWW7ShkQhbPjAP29YowsIOtn5DyKfaZ7u9xn6pcVq2ya634lojugo3p4G9TgxNIQnwx1r5JK-IQTgCJETTTfeeaDlquiSw/s200/CIMG2565.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436810550773069298" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmowUmwNQXwH3FSonmbIg6o7zbQfdPYIH8vg8yNB7_7LfDDY3szyilE-0cgxqUcaRQV5bD7ZiNO8y-CY6tcyltFhl_rrP3aeCDjwiyRifTaFof0VAypWRQk11yvMM5nKL0yGo_3BodluM/s1600-h/CIMG2568.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmowUmwNQXwH3FSonmbIg6o7zbQfdPYIH8vg8yNB7_7LfDDY3szyilE-0cgxqUcaRQV5bD7ZiNO8y-CY6tcyltFhl_rrP3aeCDjwiyRifTaFof0VAypWRQk11yvMM5nKL0yGo_3BodluM/s200/CIMG2568.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436810545730567074" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwmSzVx9KCDizOgEyFjGxDOfjmbVsYGm04wiG4SOE91PnvdQgHNfu8BnwltMIEGfsyuxdsuzwjQDcvzDvOrAyc6-hV0-vEpVgoyb2qYzDqf8R3fac7XyKaKpUYs2FYZw1AhWZ3p0RizOg/s1600-h/CIMG2567.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwmSzVx9KCDizOgEyFjGxDOfjmbVsYGm04wiG4SOE91PnvdQgHNfu8BnwltMIEGfsyuxdsuzwjQDcvzDvOrAyc6-hV0-vEpVgoyb2qYzDqf8R3fac7XyKaKpUYs2FYZw1AhWZ3p0RizOg/s200/CIMG2567.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436810536118908978" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn9u9RVfZLfsd5gkR3ITSnduzn-a9WwcGb49sPXCYjiErJ2j_6MwsES6bNFP-gy3p3AmKZwhjz_263k9YYZMPIdmagODzevunQXApFovNPxzRctfEdfnK3iVEwzcMHxmCDPjOwz8gniPg/s1600-h/CIMG2556.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn9u9RVfZLfsd5gkR3ITSnduzn-a9WwcGb49sPXCYjiErJ2j_6MwsES6bNFP-gy3p3AmKZwhjz_263k9YYZMPIdmagODzevunQXApFovNPxzRctfEdfnK3iVEwzcMHxmCDPjOwz8gniPg/s200/CIMG2556.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436810528203944898" /></a><br />Now on to the food and drink portion. I know everyone has been waiting for that!! There were some things that I thought were essential to try while in Germany...beer, pretzels, sausages, and what I really fell in love with, crepes! And I can't leave out McDonalds. I have pledged to try it out in every country I visit. First up, beer! My only complaint was that the beer is served a little warmer than it is in the States. Other than that, it was all good!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC4yIlkNhQg1lI6DwcWX4-lLbnMbKELAveBe-1Dl6nfmYdZNkZPn-bLGG3tuxUoh0iETR9wI_6YZcIt1lBuETSbtAnz0eIMpaPIF57dncOPj32aUfi4rAN9Lu6dtL7VdnPnIaY1xiIJ0Y/s1600-h/CIMG2626.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC4yIlkNhQg1lI6DwcWX4-lLbnMbKELAveBe-1Dl6nfmYdZNkZPn-bLGG3tuxUoh0iETR9wI_6YZcIt1lBuETSbtAnz0eIMpaPIF57dncOPj32aUfi4rAN9Lu6dtL7VdnPnIaY1xiIJ0Y/s200/CIMG2626.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436812403697643170" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWd6M3I0WOnuKlxd0ZAVwH1oLIwr9gyU22j9ROCIbNn-4kiOq6_YWDePJlEyFw1K4QXkhQeNd0gYejDwlAuKRYFWR4wAYlU6kutUevdcPuRH2QerFuBY1RWnWroBmSUB8uQXsnr3Rb4zw/s1600-h/CIMG2625.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWd6M3I0WOnuKlxd0ZAVwH1oLIwr9gyU22j9ROCIbNn-4kiOq6_YWDePJlEyFw1K4QXkhQeNd0gYejDwlAuKRYFWR4wAYlU6kutUevdcPuRH2QerFuBY1RWnWroBmSUB8uQXsnr3Rb4zw/s200/CIMG2625.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436812395042886898" /></a><br />I tried a pretzel from a vendor on the street. I did notice though that everywhere had pretzels and they weren't served warm. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWbmyDagNw3N01j3GjZAXqK2xeXIF4Buj4qrBqGzgOR6QZfuGaQ-WvcINNUI7y2eTKTMG57Bmi3UE4gOeXzhT9dmpGdvkvl5EsDnd1x7gVX4oCBC9XQwFnzQk_jj1tz2249Nia_M-New4/s1600-h/CIMG2615.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWbmyDagNw3N01j3GjZAXqK2xeXIF4Buj4qrBqGzgOR6QZfuGaQ-WvcINNUI7y2eTKTMG57Bmi3UE4gOeXzhT9dmpGdvkvl5EsDnd1x7gVX4oCBC9XQwFnzQk_jj1tz2249Nia_M-New4/s200/CIMG2615.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436812978357274226" /></a><br />Perhaps the funniest thing that I saw was this brat vendor. I didn't try one from him, but I did try one at the expo. The bun is about a quarter the size of the brat!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN-GNkgL7mHh2JBGshMEr2_YcfGOcgxca-ETz5oRq1tetLE_eEGQywNo3E5WOgVLb6C5rA62JqGbc8Tj35vzLjHasgLKxPXhnDdgwthXY_BggO1iPabVZpqYcbNWVgE1fDEXRiCQ6iVI4/s1600-h/CIMG2688.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN-GNkgL7mHh2JBGshMEr2_YcfGOcgxca-ETz5oRq1tetLE_eEGQywNo3E5WOgVLb6C5rA62JqGbc8Tj35vzLjHasgLKxPXhnDdgwthXY_BggO1iPabVZpqYcbNWVgE1fDEXRiCQ6iVI4/s200/CIMG2688.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436813647709141954" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx70FCu8octAXvB1XpRqMaqUxbOKjbGPPHa4tqfewvEJg6bkss6anRlhvNA8UfnHovXd1v9fVXuq_3lVPIsvsquabRHfk7ZDXngPOppAGDCM6D1CowQS4ONc9YaB02SXavzfjiC0T4Rsk/s1600-h/CIMG2617.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx70FCu8octAXvB1XpRqMaqUxbOKjbGPPHa4tqfewvEJg6bkss6anRlhvNA8UfnHovXd1v9fVXuq_3lVPIsvsquabRHfk7ZDXngPOppAGDCM6D1CowQS4ONc9YaB02SXavzfjiC0T4Rsk/s200/CIMG2617.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436813639187477730" /></a><br />As for McDonalds, it tasted exactly the same as at home. The one big thing that I noticed a huge difference was with this sandwich, the big toasti. It is hard to tell anyone that this isn't an instant heart attack!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhY2Z3j4Dqeby8J9r9WsSAKy9mgWPc6Qu6So8qygtV7-Tl-p9OrlzFcyvAVssMzkJvlg0Vvwu0p8pSWjVh0pWpekTEbBV_w01UiLcLMbSfrSqgTajIJtNsuMmi2qXJDieFgldbfXFWDNI/s1600-h/CIMG2634.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhY2Z3j4Dqeby8J9r9WsSAKy9mgWPc6Qu6So8qygtV7-Tl-p9OrlzFcyvAVssMzkJvlg0Vvwu0p8pSWjVh0pWpekTEbBV_w01UiLcLMbSfrSqgTajIJtNsuMmi2qXJDieFgldbfXFWDNI/s200/CIMG2634.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436814107553574498" /></a><br />Now for dessert...crepes! I've never really tried them but the entire USA team was raving over them. I had to try them. I have also never tried Nutella. It is warm chocolaty goodness!! <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi97CQ4V_7C9LUlFpdun2LqZLb1FQWzku1pnlznCPWwfAxN6eUlUz4i30ad2Dmr0NQG3rUEpCviHp-BvWdJ3l9TsUkfUWozIL-HTU_54vnxDNK8Vv315MG2t-yESmaovbHZAvXZVxWsj5Y/s1600-h/CIMG2694.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi97CQ4V_7C9LUlFpdun2LqZLb1FQWzku1pnlznCPWwfAxN6eUlUz4i30ad2Dmr0NQG3rUEpCviHp-BvWdJ3l9TsUkfUWozIL-HTU_54vnxDNK8Vv315MG2t-yESmaovbHZAvXZVxWsj5Y/s200/CIMG2694.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436815045420868994" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVwLr6JrKeSkjR5x3PVBuUDgenkZN9Pa5SHlfB2ZT1WkGps4DELhrkh00sXzNg2oDkczXj8MApvFeE28aW0dRacWgJOE8Cisxri7fhuXTrNKdPwuYoFai-9mwismLFyv_viaqGCiRO2qI/s1600-h/CIMG2695.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVwLr6JrKeSkjR5x3PVBuUDgenkZN9Pa5SHlfB2ZT1WkGps4DELhrkh00sXzNg2oDkczXj8MApvFeE28aW0dRacWgJOE8Cisxri7fhuXTrNKdPwuYoFai-9mwismLFyv_viaqGCiRO2qI/s200/CIMG2695.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436815022841255186" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmaASaSdjP93R1CYDDX0p_RhnZXHIkwG6LyfHpXD7ropEGmFd7B2CgY1GvRJl5IjczQSBhmfMIxmOeH_6BzM0ow20CeCoo0mHHfUKkPbDvcyv4Qu1PoGtUM1-afMj83M-kYaAVQrSN-Uk/s1600-h/CIMG2691.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmaASaSdjP93R1CYDDX0p_RhnZXHIkwG6LyfHpXD7ropEGmFd7B2CgY1GvRJl5IjczQSBhmfMIxmOeH_6BzM0ow20CeCoo0mHHfUKkPbDvcyv4Qu1PoGtUM1-afMj83M-kYaAVQrSN-Uk/s200/CIMG2691.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436815020043567874" /></a><br />I mentioned before that the tournament was being held on the grounds of the 2000 World Expo. There were a ton of cool buildings. We tried to get a little creative with some of them.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkMHKnTxivWg455i5auzAEfPG-0V_5fzH42b1OgaQk8JwqGpYPdFmh7vilh4pcamZPBfUnuYeINPxq726WCgglgDeYdQSrBoQ-_7DrqOL2WqANRitsgkqSrsDTjeT2ZQHL7JbiJvy89Pw/s1600-h/CIMG2658.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkMHKnTxivWg455i5auzAEfPG-0V_5fzH42b1OgaQk8JwqGpYPdFmh7vilh4pcamZPBfUnuYeINPxq726WCgglgDeYdQSrBoQ-_7DrqOL2WqANRitsgkqSrsDTjeT2ZQHL7JbiJvy89Pw/s200/CIMG2658.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436816075890031666" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg01GphJW5PZu-EHXbV6eLE4wDQyo2Wwqq752iplTWsP10CiujwvKmlB4yapM-Qdz-MRP-MtfKyNNf7YlBIqJi0Fl5xhc_1BZinvJz9_XLls4I2n7jh2hX78goPex4VBEm4y8UEpIIvQNk/s1600-h/CIMG2657.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg01GphJW5PZu-EHXbV6eLE4wDQyo2Wwqq752iplTWsP10CiujwvKmlB4yapM-Qdz-MRP-MtfKyNNf7YlBIqJi0Fl5xhc_1BZinvJz9_XLls4I2n7jh2hX78goPex4VBEm4y8UEpIIvQNk/s200/CIMG2657.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436816068768787794" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha2Wgnp9BHs_SCVIGkpDGZmTgXKWL-3sxhyphenhyphenBYluwD_pR84FS0dhfGBxtfxBrwBSiBhk-dS5CZid0mRMFWvD8B0q4609LqJWp7053fsoe9JAgD9QAAUdrwd2rWXF9F4QwLMbO9qoiTlmLs/s1600-h/CIMG2656.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha2Wgnp9BHs_SCVIGkpDGZmTgXKWL-3sxhyphenhyphenBYluwD_pR84FS0dhfGBxtfxBrwBSiBhk-dS5CZid0mRMFWvD8B0q4609LqJWp7053fsoe9JAgD9QAAUdrwd2rWXF9F4QwLMbO9qoiTlmLs/s200/CIMG2656.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436816063193963570" /></a><br />There were also other expos going on including a Harley show, car show, home show, outdoor show and a travel show. Here are some of the interesting things that I saw...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZEVCrBq-55H1WfLY0NN_voK9nG8DgLdJWX7gFNCX7ZLhUuwcEwTq694vXY0O8l7zwyfMSd5RJVRhseNNplI4OSxDrkhKMlNkTFjQAIvdUwISsfFIVDSHxdFUWE7yG8BsSJih-ADGdXEk/s1600-h/CIMG2671.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZEVCrBq-55H1WfLY0NN_voK9nG8DgLdJWX7gFNCX7ZLhUuwcEwTq694vXY0O8l7zwyfMSd5RJVRhseNNplI4OSxDrkhKMlNkTFjQAIvdUwISsfFIVDSHxdFUWE7yG8BsSJih-ADGdXEk/s200/CIMG2671.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436817394148491874" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCmvVOzueX3okrugJDvqUioLsEAAzOgH0IiSviNhJq-_0whpxl-a_hPvk2LH5H0P7zgvCenGpN6JiYbKRHE1jDCqmDReoD4pVHXuRl0YlLOM1DetltzHKV_M8JTeLbNUV6t7jkLMIz9UQ/s1600-h/CIMG2669.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCmvVOzueX3okrugJDvqUioLsEAAzOgH0IiSviNhJq-_0whpxl-a_hPvk2LH5H0P7zgvCenGpN6JiYbKRHE1jDCqmDReoD4pVHXuRl0YlLOM1DetltzHKV_M8JTeLbNUV6t7jkLMIz9UQ/s200/CIMG2669.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436817385904487522" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyyyfrM9ySo6IGOg4JDKChJC3oyp88KU4aXZ0LHirBivqmlcFXTDw2SnOLFZKEvtvqv0VJ1JoKP-hIAkDXpqPG3tV_R9o9DCmoW64Jzyl0MtFWgw39iedUuir2mX9Vmql6tTeJyOR5jfE/s1600-h/CIMG2668.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyyyfrM9ySo6IGOg4JDKChJC3oyp88KU4aXZ0LHirBivqmlcFXTDw2SnOLFZKEvtvqv0VJ1JoKP-hIAkDXpqPG3tV_R9o9DCmoW64Jzyl0MtFWgw39iedUuir2mX9Vmql6tTeJyOR5jfE/s200/CIMG2668.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436817379852834914" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI7AY2-LAWDPL6e3yqArYvgIO3Oycdha3b0l0pTJoY2iuQGNOEsBorUypEsPHAB4tqoBabZVTGtiM3OgX-U8KEeyRFFL6QTsPOnFLCOy6hh1zmEjR-dfHGoz_ZuYKc9ARX3Kr6fIH8sH4/s1600-h/CIMG2660.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI7AY2-LAWDPL6e3yqArYvgIO3Oycdha3b0l0pTJoY2iuQGNOEsBorUypEsPHAB4tqoBabZVTGtiM3OgX-U8KEeyRFFL6QTsPOnFLCOy6hh1zmEjR-dfHGoz_ZuYKc9ARX3Kr6fIH8sH4/s200/CIMG2660.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436817370645314034" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikVl4yfRkS6XRXuAM2JNxMR3Q0fPpKGz4yZt4zBftuuvYUc_rCbjPisUToOrwAj3HuTrluWbXBPnK9O5lW9cOfD4ERfus72APFEjBJV-Qi3R04DIu8-wbvOXdy_z6-wOsfbobWrSGgZig/s1600-h/CIMG2659.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikVl4yfRkS6XRXuAM2JNxMR3Q0fPpKGz4yZt4zBftuuvYUc_rCbjPisUToOrwAj3HuTrluWbXBPnK9O5lW9cOfD4ERfus72APFEjBJV-Qi3R04DIu8-wbvOXdy_z6-wOsfbobWrSGgZig/s200/CIMG2659.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436817361903529122" /></a><br />Did I mention that there was a pool tournament going on??? I have to say that this was probably the most awesome tournament that I have ever seen. There was excitement and upsets. It was well run and on time. There were plenty of tables and practice tables. The promoters really went all out. In my opinion, I think this is a tournament that can really take off and I hope they continue to have this event. Hopefully more teams will be involved and rumors will not swirl just before the next event. Here are some highlights of the finals....the Philippines against Great Britain. I think everyone had Great Britain pegged as a real underdog. They showed a ton of heart and were the eventual winners! Congrats guys!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6iINsaQ8_h2Cb4ba1e6n7VH7Dz8G9wGpUqUudC9OBOuKFmUhpZdpbMUfXeztNwBvEUQA3i1mkaAqqEOm70LySBnpCPyWykfCo6HYVGjfFDVunHPCuoCutvO92rFlXbckKOR6iWuL9RCk/s1600-h/CIMG2719.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6iINsaQ8_h2Cb4ba1e6n7VH7Dz8G9wGpUqUudC9OBOuKFmUhpZdpbMUfXeztNwBvEUQA3i1mkaAqqEOm70LySBnpCPyWykfCo6HYVGjfFDVunHPCuoCutvO92rFlXbckKOR6iWuL9RCk/s200/CIMG2719.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436820629402846418" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifeVqPlxaDV_3A4UtLzlYyhu3gRSwvPD5KC3vlJm-1pJjhRLE1tCVNXYNRRaLb5n4YZ5HJa1hc3AvRNyP39M51RM06c7rc-rKRMnTmvyi-ZPWuaRKeuobr3XtG9xv9KxofdsDpWnNSzgg/s1600-h/CIMG2707.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifeVqPlxaDV_3A4UtLzlYyhu3gRSwvPD5KC3vlJm-1pJjhRLE1tCVNXYNRRaLb5n4YZ5HJa1hc3AvRNyP39M51RM06c7rc-rKRMnTmvyi-ZPWuaRKeuobr3XtG9xv9KxofdsDpWnNSzgg/s200/CIMG2707.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436820619715862834" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihG57Sw2gJadD6XZwxe2p1LyqgmxptLGHAh94uoujXfBB1d-U-wD0pGshBwceEpf9foOSILj4gmrxKez_Y3elowR-vJFCqx_VdvREFFMqMJct4f0YNmfqkFbAZlr-k6gxipb-b5RylEYc/s1600-h/CIMG2701.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihG57Sw2gJadD6XZwxe2p1LyqgmxptLGHAh94uoujXfBB1d-U-wD0pGshBwceEpf9foOSILj4gmrxKez_Y3elowR-vJFCqx_VdvREFFMqMJct4f0YNmfqkFbAZlr-k6gxipb-b5RylEYc/s200/CIMG2701.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436820616604135074" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi99_PMGQNjL-2u9wBofkwFVoRZzZ25jl5200bE22tThwOIj59FijSiUrZdL4JKvvvldOT9tsLCVvn8JrgiCBmH7mfGqcGE9aF2Wd4AwXjZXA03Y_v80Vs12Pv6BDDCiTcx7jHxu5e7_Cc/s1600-h/CIMG2699.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi99_PMGQNjL-2u9wBofkwFVoRZzZ25jl5200bE22tThwOIj59FijSiUrZdL4JKvvvldOT9tsLCVvn8JrgiCBmH7mfGqcGE9aF2Wd4AwXjZXA03Y_v80Vs12Pv6BDDCiTcx7jHxu5e7_Cc/s200/CIMG2699.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436820610048276178" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcUvhqfTsn-RX5Zf_cuh6xw14qoQY_HjMgo7R2Qp36rT8WErvvzZl58fairG_n45Lz1i9IwQ0sMWFMFR_h6ZexkjU9Id_pOHO2KoG_a8KE0zr2Z4LjuoO337vIBs_Xi0iSXw5Kq-9FlII/s1600-h/CIMG2702.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcUvhqfTsn-RX5Zf_cuh6xw14qoQY_HjMgo7R2Qp36rT8WErvvzZl58fairG_n45Lz1i9IwQ0sMWFMFR_h6ZexkjU9Id_pOHO2KoG_a8KE0zr2Z4LjuoO337vIBs_Xi0iSXw5Kq-9FlII/s200/CIMG2702.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436820603536190402" /></a><br />I have to say thanks to one person, <a href="http://www.markus-hofstaetter.at/">Markus Hofstatter</a>. He helped us when we needed translation or to find something good to eat. He is also an awesome photographer with a great <a href="http://www.markus-hofstaetter.at/">blog</a>. If you want to see more pictures from the event or other European events and places to visit, check out his <a href="http://www.markus-hofstaetter.at/">blog</a>! Thanks Markus! Here are Markus and Jason enjoying some smoked salmon and halibut from the expo...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ULqY3FAY8X9kXgrNtfClYY6pXyQj6eXF7ZnSZJ7Q8ay8aYyMMsDha9vHYNkI4sXI8Mv3di490INow6Sd2C_FBjkgojigSlo18v8wnI-XlTDlsoAVCintkahySIr1GAuNtU7_wSPEItM/s1600-h/CIMG2689.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ULqY3FAY8X9kXgrNtfClYY6pXyQj6eXF7ZnSZJ7Q8ay8aYyMMsDha9vHYNkI4sXI8Mv3di490INow6Sd2C_FBjkgojigSlo18v8wnI-XlTDlsoAVCintkahySIr1GAuNtU7_wSPEItM/s200/CIMG2689.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436823015691947554" /></a><br />Overall I think it was a really great trip and I am glad I didn't pass on the experience. I got to root on my man...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjqKljaPeOJVg-CtOkziqPIEg9Jbsb6QnoCRyclnnNla4yoFhH9eApW1QHxm8JqkWeKNf8P4DTcoR7S84ZSCQ2R5dbQYVvjGh0_40pbIvdJTXieT5_qeKFcB1gkRxU4eDDNcKQMmu27wA/s1600-h/CIMG2697.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjqKljaPeOJVg-CtOkziqPIEg9Jbsb6QnoCRyclnnNla4yoFhH9eApW1QHxm8JqkWeKNf8P4DTcoR7S84ZSCQ2R5dbQYVvjGh0_40pbIvdJTXieT5_qeKFcB1gkRxU4eDDNcKQMmu27wA/s200/CIMG2697.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436823750501180530" /></a> and after all of the trips to Asia, I was really happy to have a normal bathroom with a toilet and toilet paper! Sorry no pictures of that. I am glad to say goodbye to Hannover..<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeLnBSy0O6EKy0lHznEfEB8ocDuzG5EYL9GqcsPPeHN4QUfd3FPy7p-cLuPOfy-fx1s4GVdVQRrOsitYHMyejc8enytxJ6Cfo1BATwNAPqSyH0M_49WER8_y_qcS93gTpk9i7Qb_HUibM/s1600-h/CIMG2662.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeLnBSy0O6EKy0lHznEfEB8ocDuzG5EYL9GqcsPPeHN4QUfd3FPy7p-cLuPOfy-fx1s4GVdVQRrOsitYHMyejc8enytxJ6Cfo1BATwNAPqSyH0M_49WER8_y_qcS93gTpk9i7Qb_HUibM/s200/CIMG2662.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436825351708114130" /></a> simply for the fact that I don't like have to sleep both of us in a bed like this...!!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih-nqbBNGpV_xNs7o7U0kJUh6MWuM6mNvDbxtxvDsO0qhDTVNLw0NaPFPWfgXiOcGDXbFpoEFp2Y7H4dJnLUgbRmywWFqtkmLqtTXrenSbmtv26KpXJgMEQhJkGaoX01ba0ILQvXMGPg0/s1600-h/CIMG2722.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih-nqbBNGpV_xNs7o7U0kJUh6MWuM6mNvDbxtxvDsO0qhDTVNLw0NaPFPWfgXiOcGDXbFpoEFp2Y7H4dJnLUgbRmywWFqtkmLqtTXrenSbmtv26KpXJgMEQhJkGaoX01ba0ILQvXMGPg0/s200/CIMG2722.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436825687984942146" /></a><br />Now I am back home with my family...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioDB_ibzDb3DoH79Z0MZ7TUhzl8JhB8wKUJCmGDDI97FTPPwxFGByjLOV_0g4ZmgQc-coU8NjuBe1A4X8KYyT06G3MPXS55QUsj5GzYZwYjHrVHGbyCaH5-3QUaqBhbcMmZU6WCRB8IAI/s1600-h/CIMG2728.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioDB_ibzDb3DoH79Z0MZ7TUhzl8JhB8wKUJCmGDDI97FTPPwxFGByjLOV_0g4ZmgQc-coU8NjuBe1A4X8KYyT06G3MPXS55QUsj5GzYZwYjHrVHGbyCaH5-3QUaqBhbcMmZU6WCRB8IAI/s200/CIMG2728.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436827879347535010" /></a> and it is time to start practicing big time for the Amway Cup!!<br /><br />Of course I didn't forget the <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a> Trivia! I am going to make it very easy this week because I am really, really tired! <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><span style="font-style:italic;">Who was on the team for the winners of the World Team Championship??</span></span><br /><br />Please remember to leave a comment with your answer and email address so I can send the $10 <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a> gift code to the winner. Remember, even if you don't win this week you can still save money on your <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a> purchase by using the discount code ROUSEY. <br /><br />Good luck everyone and I hope you enjoy the new layout and pictures!Sarah Rouseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10232607275843425293noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8053118123465587369.post-9490739673539632272010-02-03T01:33:00.011-06:002010-02-03T03:33:46.687-06:00European Vacation part 1It took me 27 years, but I finally made my way to Europe! I know, most people don't really think visiting Germany in the winter is all that smart...with all of the snow on the ground and the bitter cold, I might agree..haha. I haven't had much of a chance to see anything yet. The venue and hotel are a little ways away from the city center. I plan to make it there as soon as we get a chance. <br /><br />We started the adventure in Chicago on Thursday night. We had a straight flight to Copenhagen, then a long layover. The flight itself was really pretty easy compared to all of the trips to Asia that I made last year. Eight hours is a breeze! When we got to Copenhagen airport I was in shock. It was the nicest airport I have ever been in. I wasn't sure if I was in an airport or a luxury casino or a fancy shopping mall!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh53VYb3K3uSvLLqVkofH5-OdA5BA0hIj9izPtwYHdSi2XQw02_x8_H1QDa0MHnlJhI1-jrnVmDTshC_x25Ao4e0r_SZo6NdEAg5QB7waPNLMp_hmYRu7LVOzrMNxoId56q_RqTGm0uukc/s1600-h/CIMG2492.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh53VYb3K3uSvLLqVkofH5-OdA5BA0hIj9izPtwYHdSi2XQw02_x8_H1QDa0MHnlJhI1-jrnVmDTshC_x25Ao4e0r_SZo6NdEAg5QB7waPNLMp_hmYRu7LVOzrMNxoId56q_RqTGm0uukc/s200/CIMG2492.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433918771020794770" /></a>See what I mean! That is only a small portion of the airport!<br /><br />The other thing that I found fascinating was the prize drawing that we saw. For 50 euro you can get a raffle ticket to win a luxury car. By luxury car I mean ferrari, lamboghini, etc. The big advertising point that they used was that you could win the car tax free. Here is the ad and one of the cars.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuXyWm8GQVsCDQMcUHD5uNQVwYwWGLFRkjkcUxVF3SWDnWlCUeoLwtA6hhhw9fMULFi8U5s4qE-SS_6lupLwxDfdPtiWFncSUIQ_ifm97sdu7jxrdijkYcm13q_Tj8oNgdUSO7gd2IExs/s1600-h/CIMG2491.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuXyWm8GQVsCDQMcUHD5uNQVwYwWGLFRkjkcUxVF3SWDnWlCUeoLwtA6hhhw9fMULFi8U5s4qE-SS_6lupLwxDfdPtiWFncSUIQ_ifm97sdu7jxrdijkYcm13q_Tj8oNgdUSO7gd2IExs/s200/CIMG2491.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433919772446697746" /></a><br />With some bad weather our layover went from six hours to about nine hours. Not much fun but luckily, since this was no ordinary airport there was a quiet area. I couldn't believe it! You could pretty much lay down, take a nap, read book and just get away from everything.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwMERSz3_Hg1GhMirFheDFa_ozV3qzaqqZAzZrz7SXfvRP0OOMwaCkGW_hvTUTTO0cm64z9QZPPGvBm9W_6rJQg1LeUIdrcI7AOAT_8w4DHF1CeESZO-FEhARfpaKtgfZlmG3IqupvNek/s1600-h/CIMG2495.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwMERSz3_Hg1GhMirFheDFa_ozV3qzaqqZAzZrz7SXfvRP0OOMwaCkGW_hvTUTTO0cm64z9QZPPGvBm9W_6rJQg1LeUIdrcI7AOAT_8w4DHF1CeESZO-FEhARfpaKtgfZlmG3IqupvNek/s200/CIMG2495.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433920716975027682" /></a><br />After a nice nap and relaxation it was finally time to board the plane to Hannover. We didn't realize that we had to take a bus to the plane or that a major snow storm had started. Here is a view of the snow and a very shaky picture of Jason and I freezing while waiting to get on the plane.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaLWSOuIhGelGzX8lpLMOQ3ML3tSfBmdIhlRht8KWfqwE54GTOqpMGbhXn2HBC4Aun-eR9MpBff8biAwJFXUYyNjkw-uK6HD_H44MSbuH7Nv-GfJ9iLF99T-x5mURp8HrPT5caWq9Neeg/s1600-h/CIMG2499.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaLWSOuIhGelGzX8lpLMOQ3ML3tSfBmdIhlRht8KWfqwE54GTOqpMGbhXn2HBC4Aun-eR9MpBff8biAwJFXUYyNjkw-uK6HD_H44MSbuH7Nv-GfJ9iLF99T-x5mURp8HrPT5caWq9Neeg/s200/CIMG2499.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433921957549492898" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipCdJPVzr8stPxanSGCFM4l9XQsS5jm4vQ6z8EU6LaLEiPSBEXjLqC59UbM9Xo3V6pBWyFrTAZZc5fxFKrgNnrwZAEsrDjVw5PfBa9Gcec7OZlfkiPvfIbJEdY44XF9Ads-hsELeW6k7k/s1600-h/CIMG2500.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipCdJPVzr8stPxanSGCFM4l9XQsS5jm4vQ6z8EU6LaLEiPSBEXjLqC59UbM9Xo3V6pBWyFrTAZZc5fxFKrgNnrwZAEsrDjVw5PfBa9Gcec7OZlfkiPvfIbJEdY44XF9Ads-hsELeW6k7k/s200/CIMG2500.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433921948573446802" /></a><br />We finally arrived in Hannover late Friday night. We got some rest and the guys started playing Saturday evening. The venue is really very nice. Lots of seating, nice lighting, good amount of practice tables, and quite a few spectators. Obviously, they are rooting very hard for the two home teams. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7a_P_MnJjK1Jqn5IZv0no5ne7PTlc9-3bOVcTWXnvEZSNZyWVGmaiE1FX-SxDYKL3NAFTnKRBxL0d8BFOzcC3eSLV_XMYiALZzodn-K-EqM0PET-f6MFMLwX92lOcriu06ygUz0G2zKo/s1600-h/CIMG2508.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7a_P_MnJjK1Jqn5IZv0no5ne7PTlc9-3bOVcTWXnvEZSNZyWVGmaiE1FX-SxDYKL3NAFTnKRBxL0d8BFOzcC3eSLV_XMYiALZzodn-K-EqM0PET-f6MFMLwX92lOcriu06ygUz0G2zKo/s200/CIMG2508.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433922938911779346" /></a><br />It is a huge area with about thirty different buildings. I was told that the 2000 Worlds Fair was held here in Hannover and the tournament is being held in one of those buildings. There is really a lot of cool architecture but I haven't had a chance to check much of it out. This is the structure right outside of the venue.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4uZYo6ss9wC4jPJe1vgh_-11eLrHAjtXYBq0eZ8Fq3pkZt_fvrAjYC3nbS1rIOBZ4Q6qk-ZIMHlN4pinBq7P5EDZPrWxMS5hs79pfRu-azJY1vMQGxW0DdoBBzmm8GseknWSIpsD4sls/s1600-h/CIMG2539.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4uZYo6ss9wC4jPJe1vgh_-11eLrHAjtXYBq0eZ8Fq3pkZt_fvrAjYC3nbS1rIOBZ4Q6qk-ZIMHlN4pinBq7P5EDZPrWxMS5hs79pfRu-azJY1vMQGxW0DdoBBzmm8GseknWSIpsD4sls/s200/CIMG2539.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433923763480349154" /></a><br />So, if you didn't know, there is a pool tournament going on! Everyone knows that my boyfriend is Canadian so I am here rooting on both the Canadians and the Americans. The Canadians had a pretty tough draw, Germany II. They had a great chance but ended up losing 4-2. They came back with a strong win against Austria in the first round losers bracket. The format of the event is two 8-ball doubles matches, race to 6, two singles 9-ball matches race to 8, and if needed, two 10-ball singles matches race to 7. Canada was down 3-1 going into the 10-ball matches. Jason and Erik both came through with wins to force a play-off. Here is where it gets really exciting. If the score is tied 3-3, it goes to a shootout. The shootout is a race to 6. Four players on the team are chosen to shoot a modified spot shot. The object ball is placed along the first diamond from the end rail, in the middle and the cue ball is placed on the opposite spot. Here is a picture to make it a little more clear..<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJcHii139TC99Agqc698DDmu-XTqsKVIyhOQIcPN-sA1KoT_pXtLvcAU7AFZKIhLH6FlecCznu9zrMrh7LaH6JnHhhp24vlJZmHsAagZquBkvWRYhxmAjCjIn0CtQ8AcUvzPBJV9VNOOI/s1600-h/CIMG2536.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJcHii139TC99Agqc698DDmu-XTqsKVIyhOQIcPN-sA1KoT_pXtLvcAU7AFZKIhLH6FlecCznu9zrMrh7LaH6JnHhhp24vlJZmHsAagZquBkvWRYhxmAjCjIn0CtQ8AcUvzPBJV9VNOOI/s200/CIMG2536.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433925484829686162" /></a> As you can see, it isn't a very easy shot! Canada made it look a little bit easy though. They made six out of nine shots for the win 6-3. They play Israel today at 1pm. Here are a couple action shots from the matches with Germany and Austria.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXWcjczf6NIZsswfRo9ASYFA1W3YWYHz_GzLT6WbNpP-k_rcr2Rj9XfUJCTNJllleSNDI3WvrN1MACmSV3cHDFkwxJSA0auLFp1jIj0iuLFMq_aRUR-pVAuxrIA6jX28VAL1JEbPCu7ms/s1600-h/CIMG2535.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXWcjczf6NIZsswfRo9ASYFA1W3YWYHz_GzLT6WbNpP-k_rcr2Rj9XfUJCTNJllleSNDI3WvrN1MACmSV3cHDFkwxJSA0auLFp1jIj0iuLFMq_aRUR-pVAuxrIA6jX28VAL1JEbPCu7ms/s200/CIMG2535.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433927523912424834" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJoptyooTse-rEaBNuBWxTz_vZN5bKpZJSThjmC0uOaEISx0ZawUU5_1H6GQ6Kend4TmDLRV1ehrv1bz-ooEYNJb7k7jJpF0oduzI4p1QzKxDrJ5e3_w78PLnUUKH0jeT0-Wh6RSRnGlc/s1600-h/CIMG2531.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJoptyooTse-rEaBNuBWxTz_vZN5bKpZJSThjmC0uOaEISx0ZawUU5_1H6GQ6Kend4TmDLRV1ehrv1bz-ooEYNJb7k7jJpF0oduzI4p1QzKxDrJ5e3_w78PLnUUKH0jeT0-Wh6RSRnGlc/s200/CIMG2531.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433927518017260786" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoLPkfZoB9reC3YSXOiulAm9pCmbM2HTORMN4zY1yZw-kaEKKXM8quPr2Vrki2fC1aC6oQl3WuIOj1W-9oNMjAhyphenhyphenmpKrn0FiPgjaNWlSupDYuwg7pUx04FjFqm3QtHM5S5gfgeO3qwN9o/s1600-h/CIMG2528.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoLPkfZoB9reC3YSXOiulAm9pCmbM2HTORMN4zY1yZw-kaEKKXM8quPr2Vrki2fC1aC6oQl3WuIOj1W-9oNMjAhyphenhyphenmpKrn0FiPgjaNWlSupDYuwg7pUx04FjFqm3QtHM5S5gfgeO3qwN9o/s200/CIMG2528.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433927510189090450" /></a><br />The USA is having an easier time. They are playing really well and are undefeated. They have won matches against France and Morocco so far and are in the final sixteen redraw. Here are a couple pictures of them in action...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRtIemdVYogLzXfgeVjbQJfdZmtX6kpNFf1mzePlMZTElT6WbsYUsYn-U41w8-2TS2jWytOapG2WiwHPUEglzMm0lKlOkRe-KgwFoABV70q4LZpqFZRcbrQVXyhNC_Zzy9rG0h2WMTT_c/s1600-h/CIMG2529.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRtIemdVYogLzXfgeVjbQJfdZmtX6kpNFf1mzePlMZTElT6WbsYUsYn-U41w8-2TS2jWytOapG2WiwHPUEglzMm0lKlOkRe-KgwFoABV70q4LZpqFZRcbrQVXyhNC_Zzy9rG0h2WMTT_c/s200/CIMG2529.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433928684404142466" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0eiiw9Eh6uyHP6TTLG5-Zah0QJ5JsAMQHMfYW6TXSDz8ngM4RjkgPKJFoH10IoOQH3ygrYP0lOb6aqcwJvmCjb-pISd8h2jAyWO8p62-cGu-fUllvz8XsPS7vvDGIF7PosIzfQGb4I_I/s1600-h/CIMG2532.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0eiiw9Eh6uyHP6TTLG5-Zah0QJ5JsAMQHMfYW6TXSDz8ngM4RjkgPKJFoH10IoOQH3ygrYP0lOb6aqcwJvmCjb-pISd8h2jAyWO8p62-cGu-fUllvz8XsPS7vvDGIF7PosIzfQGb4I_I/s200/CIMG2532.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433928675571100930" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7-_Z646DToFwW14pEMHYJDO99dNCT72mKiCsfFaazm7ofZK0TncH1HL6EkiNf_XlbrbnSp-RJRWS9DaP86SDXh1aiWritHHnTVKDONgB-GMtdZU_047GoOw77I35WCIW2dcrFIvSFuFU/s1600-h/CIMG2526.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7-_Z646DToFwW14pEMHYJDO99dNCT72mKiCsfFaazm7ofZK0TncH1HL6EkiNf_XlbrbnSp-RJRWS9DaP86SDXh1aiWritHHnTVKDONgB-GMtdZU_047GoOw77I35WCIW2dcrFIvSFuFU/s200/CIMG2526.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433928672296205474" /></a><br />Some of the other teams looking good are Sweden, Philippines, China, Germany I and the USA.<br /><br />There is also a car and motorcycle show going on. The Harley Davidson show is along with the pool tournament. There are probably about fifty different bikes from different eras all on display. I will post pictures later. But now I am off to watch Canada move on in the tournament! I will be back later with updates and more pictures.Sarah Rouseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10232607275843425293noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8053118123465587369.post-90198276404723933212010-01-28T11:50:00.004-06:002010-01-28T20:19:55.031-06:00A Week to ForgetHave you ever had one of those weeks that you would just like to forget? That is how I am every year when the week that January 21 falls upon. That is the day I was diagnosed, my anniversary as I call it. The celebration of the day my life changed and my longest relationship thus far, 17 years now. Maybe it is the psychological part of things that make that week suck or maybe that week is just doomed in my book. Usually, I am the one to get sick. This year I was alright though. It was just a bad week.
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<br />The pool room was closed for a few days this week so they could get new carpet. Hopefully they will decide to recover the tables sometime soon as well. That means there was no weekly tournament this week. I decided to be a little lazy instead. The week was going by fine and then Friday morning I kept getting a phone call early in the morning from the same number. It is no secret that sleeping is my favorite thing to do and one thing I do very well. After about four calls from the same number, I finally woke up. It was the emergency room and my dad was there having chest pains. Apparently my mom is also a champion sleeper because they couldn't get a hold of her either. We both rushed to the hospital and got to talk to my dad. Thankfully we only live about three blocks from the hospital and it wasn't too busy at the hospital. My dad got in quick and the doctor took great care of him. He ended up having a heart attack. After a few days in the hospital he was free to come home and consider the changes in life that need to be made. He is just about back to normal now. Thank you everyone for your thoughts and prayers! Dad in his new hangout spot with a little help getting better from Sophie the really fat cat: <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ-zKAZ9gjz5TRUaIns-zwIHuIvxxPCmcOe3zUBmgIExtGpuwZokedRK6TeziRhKtRtTqBz6paQkw3_2QfgMcH0yUBNsvpU7wFiOAfduXHw2NVc4-f3cmIpISNhkvt5WVtVEnldYOd374/s1600-h/CIMG2391.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ-zKAZ9gjz5TRUaIns-zwIHuIvxxPCmcOe3zUBmgIExtGpuwZokedRK6TeziRhKtRtTqBz6paQkw3_2QfgMcH0yUBNsvpU7wFiOAfduXHw2NVc4-f3cmIpISNhkvt5WVtVEnldYOd374/s200/CIMG2391.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431978896994117074" /></a>
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<br />After all the excitement, the week was finally over. Sunday was a good start to the new week. My grandma, Flo, celebrated her 88th birthday. Her favorite dish is spare ribs. Lucky for grandma, we have a good cook in the house...Jason. He whipped up some awesome ribs, corn, sweet potatoes, and fruit salad. I took care of the corn bread. I do have pics, but since I am at work, I will have to add them to the post later on. Use your imagination for now! Grandma and the ribs: <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQY3OroiP0VEypnxnFQRerrVQgFrKQ4Bhom2OALb_teg_8dlhFUBC-qmj8fLmvHvs7x6Yvs3b1vQY7d5y5kHJaZYxSdAWuCqhpd17EG1EzgOwdeS1pgAodtyvcWHEZpm3mUXBy2Ek736M/s1600-h/CIMG2389.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQY3OroiP0VEypnxnFQRerrVQgFrKQ4Bhom2OALb_teg_8dlhFUBC-qmj8fLmvHvs7x6Yvs3b1vQY7d5y5kHJaZYxSdAWuCqhpd17EG1EzgOwdeS1pgAodtyvcWHEZpm3mUXBy2Ek736M/s200/CIMG2389.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431979534420485154" /></a>
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLEjo9hAHshje4ILyGioACH7snVwIiAuhSAF_zZ4cPqyjIX5sJXIEdFVCssQP__G41kOdrYcjmNjgnmlSgYhqgV7DH8Bsbz0kSIFnVq_-uyRkyd3O7IGbDs6IEnOzA-065qe5Qz7Yvgw8/s1600-h/CIMG2388.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLEjo9hAHshje4ILyGioACH7snVwIiAuhSAF_zZ4cPqyjIX5sJXIEdFVCssQP__G41kOdrYcjmNjgnmlSgYhqgV7DH8Bsbz0kSIFnVq_-uyRkyd3O7IGbDs6IEnOzA-065qe5Qz7Yvgw8/s200/CIMG2388.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431979520600369794" /></a>
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<br />Sunday I also went to the Brad Paisley concert here in Bloomington. I am not a huge country fan, but I must say, this concert was an absolute blast! Thanks to my big sis Brandi for helping me get tickets months ago. I will add pics later!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkZS-fyOT-qeoZRzZvPGoBDnV1j5K-H4xdzKl1FjhQzknWyysb_cnIFfYvG_XQtajbGNFyXpWboOr1Pu0lkLObRiiNe7HiIdSJqkR6VSto8LCf1GB6ZqQOudbmsKlkeh_oCjTEIvpMQ0U/s1600-h/CIMG2472.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkZS-fyOT-qeoZRzZvPGoBDnV1j5K-H4xdzKl1FjhQzknWyysb_cnIFfYvG_XQtajbGNFyXpWboOr1Pu0lkLObRiiNe7HiIdSJqkR6VSto8LCf1GB6ZqQOudbmsKlkeh_oCjTEIvpMQ0U/s200/CIMG2472.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431980087006296018" /></a>
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFgrfuJDWUF8tWPlOG66aDbtjxNgNMSwVPBCMoxIglA4AdpIMgJuXHKmbgaNubba8sBvBoDqyUuZRziaxv5f0SSqZDktWWn3MogE44Ye90wgp_yG1_Rr-uAcHjHjr4DEioptOvVvJlRIY/s1600-h/CIMG2465.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFgrfuJDWUF8tWPlOG66aDbtjxNgNMSwVPBCMoxIglA4AdpIMgJuXHKmbgaNubba8sBvBoDqyUuZRziaxv5f0SSqZDktWWn3MogE44Ye90wgp_yG1_Rr-uAcHjHjr4DEioptOvVvJlRIY/s200/CIMG2465.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431980076124449666" /></a>
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<br />I am a little upset that I didn't get to make it to the Derby City Classic this year. That tournament has been the official start and one of the highlights of the year for the past seven years or so. After all, it is the tournament to blame, err...responsible for introducing my boyfriend and I five years ago! I miss the action and getting to catch up with everything and everyone, but hey, life happens sometimes! If you would like to follow along with some of the action, here you go<object classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" width="400" height="320" id="utv940247"><param name="flashvars" value="autoplay=false&brand=embed&cid=2737553"/><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true"/><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"/><param name="movie" value="http://www.ustream.tv/flash/live/1/2737553"/><embed flashvars="autoplay=false&brand=embed&cid=2737553" width="400" height="320" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" id="utv940247" name="utv_n_184364" src="http://www.ustream.tv/flash/live/1/2737553" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" /></object><a href="http://www.ustream.tv/" style="padding: 2px 0px 4px; width: 400px; background: #ffffff; display: block; color: #000000; font-weight: normal; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline; text-align: center;" target="_blank">Online TV Shows by Ustream</a> Thanks to <a href="http://www.theactionreport.com">The Action Report</a> for their great coverage of the action.
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<br />Other big news, I am going to Germany today with Jason. He is on the Canadian team along with Erik Hjorliefson, Tyler Edey and Alain Martel in the World Team Championships. I have never been to Europe so this is really an exciting trip for me. Plus, it is kind of a vacation. Don't worry Heartbackers, this is not where your money went. A sponsor of his helped us get there! I will have plenty of pictures and updates from the tournament action all week! This 8 hour flight should be a breeze compared to all of the trips to Asia! You can follow the tournament with online coverage starting on Saturday. There is a seven hour time difference from the east coast. Here is the <a href="http://www.wpapoolonline.com/">website link</a>. I am going to stay safe and say that I am going to cheer on North America! We made it to the airport, and no, I don't have food on my face, that is a big zit: <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxZYEZZrs-tNU779cLZW8jP7jZuMz6k0SyEpq_IxQi9T1HVrRQGZJGALriBCoPLQ1lB-w6bhmw4EDukcm22Fq-zODLokKe8iWudetEbetFXTOPD0WBrpS7xpGOPSyw5ZfBBAyj0quaDO0/s1600-h/CIMG2490.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxZYEZZrs-tNU779cLZW8jP7jZuMz6k0SyEpq_IxQi9T1HVrRQGZJGALriBCoPLQ1lB-w6bhmw4EDukcm22Fq-zODLokKe8iWudetEbetFXTOPD0WBrpS7xpGOPSyw5ZfBBAyj0quaDO0/s200/CIMG2490.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431980514611687266" /></a>
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<br />Last Thursday I got a chance to film a small spot for the local news. I was contacted by Brandon Arnold from WMBD in Peoria about doing a weekly, light hearted spot where he is challenged. We played a couple games of pool and chatted a bit. Thanks Brandon and WMBD for the opportunity! You can watch by clicking <a href="http://centralillinoisproud.com/content/video/?cid=82201">here</a>.
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<br />So I can't say it was a horrible week, but I did need some time to just calm down and take it all in. I apologize for just leaving everything behind for a few days.
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<br />Here is what everyone has been waiting for, this weeks trivia, a little late! Thank you <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a> for sponsoring the trivia!
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<br />This weeks question: <strong>What players won titles in Banks, One Pocket and 9-ball at the first Derby City Classic??</strong>
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<br />Good luck everyone! Remember to leave your email address along with your answer so I can send you your $10 <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a> gift code. Remember, even if you don't win, you can always save 5% on your <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a> purchase by using the discount code ROUSEY.
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<br />Lastly, thank you to all of the Heartbackers who have donated so far! I greatly appreciate the support you have given. Everyone should have already received their shirts or will receive them by next Monday. I have plenty of shirts left! If you would like one, just donate any amount, $25 and up.
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<br />I will add pics to the post when I get to the airport tonight. Check back around 6pm for pics to be added!Sarah Rouseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10232607275843425293noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8053118123465587369.post-67554573870181463382010-01-18T16:40:00.005-06:002010-01-18T16:59:17.184-06:00Hot Off the Press!Finally, all th decision making on the shirts has come to an end. I picked them up this afternoon and I have to say, they look awesome!! Here are some pictures. <br /><br />First, the front of the shirt: <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVQ3lccQLgENgZxAgoRD9Yfaw811jtBGOem0HR3ACnuRybFKK49m0oLIUtoj2fCigMQgjTFLFagPCG23mUORa-9ZDZEffq9cvShyphenhyphenfrDGkLwZPOyPjkKBqdN7ord7cC3VP43qU0Qklu8Sg/s1600-h/SDC12285.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVQ3lccQLgENgZxAgoRD9Yfaw811jtBGOem0HR3ACnuRybFKK49m0oLIUtoj2fCigMQgjTFLFagPCG23mUORa-9ZDZEffq9cvShyphenhyphenfrDGkLwZPOyPjkKBqdN7ord7cC3VP43qU0Qklu8Sg/s200/SDC12285.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428213884658384114" /></a><br />The back of the red logo: <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEher8uABd3wYje3nAaPelZVjCGCBlgkgGiWr40N-JhyO9w5UVSd2sedEns8o5muBQdVitaqU8Ctg7aD6xZtMHlXg6QsAuV1JnhOlPja3Y7Yp6uOcvhAbY-EnXDZPXwURvOsshYeuDjGaCM/s1600-h/SDC12290.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEher8uABd3wYje3nAaPelZVjCGCBlgkgGiWr40N-JhyO9w5UVSd2sedEns8o5muBQdVitaqU8Ctg7aD6xZtMHlXg6QsAuV1JnhOlPja3Y7Yp6uOcvhAbY-EnXDZPXwURvOsshYeuDjGaCM/s200/SDC12290.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428214343141475874" /></a><br />Back of the purple logo: <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg732O_Xo8JlA9_uomMja9xhjUkSYIO-xa3mXZa6-vMCb5NVh_Aiws4VVzbpsLSgBSLUf7a0ZjfePAHglsg4Q0yEe1NeLQ31p06P3nexXo5Y25re_DN0uKWJwg22hkB6dVAK8JrX01cYJ4/s1600-h/SDC12291.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg732O_Xo8JlA9_uomMja9xhjUkSYIO-xa3mXZa6-vMCb5NVh_Aiws4VVzbpsLSgBSLUf7a0ZjfePAHglsg4Q0yEe1NeLQ31p06P3nexXo5Y25re_DN0uKWJwg22hkB6dVAK8JrX01cYJ4/s200/SDC12291.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428214617194491954" /></a><br />If you would like to become a Heartbacker for 2010, just click the donate button on the right of the page. Donations of $25 and up will all receive a t-shirt (If it is your first time donating, you will also get an autographed cueball.). The shirts come in sizes small to 4x. You pick which color you want. If you don't have paypal but would like a shirt, just send me an email and I will be glad to help you out! Thank you to all of you that have already donated and those of you that are considering a donation. This money helps me travel all over the world to tournaments. Without all of you, there is no way I could do it. I grately appreciate the help!!<br /><br />On to the weekend wrap-up. I decided to torture myself yet again with a bar table 8-ball tournament. I have decided that I must be a masochist to keep putting myself through this. The tournament that I went to is just too good to pass up. The <a href="http://www.thecaromroom.com/">Carom Room</a> in Beloit, WI hosts two tournaments a month that are without a doubt, the best tournaments to come to the area in a long time. If you are ever in the area, try it out. They have an open event and a no masters event once a month. They alternate between 8-ball and 9-ball each month and usually have a range of 50-96 players each event. They also just got all new 7ft <a href="http://www.diamondbilliards.com">Diamond Smart Tables</a>. Oh yeah, they also have a really good cheeseburger!!<br /><br />Anyway, I have decided that I should take a little more time to prepare for these tournaments. I always walk in with such an awful attitude toward the game. It takes me either a couple of matches to be out of the tournament or a couple of matches to realize I can play as long as I try and stay positive. Of course, my first match things were going alright, but I just kept getting out of line at the end of each rack. I gave away so many games! I lost 6-5. Then I went on a decent little run in the losers bracket, won three matches. Then the match before the money I turned right back into a blubbering idiot. I couldn't get out of a rack to save my life and ended up losing 6-4. Oh well, I tried.<br /><br />And now, on to what you all are waiting for, the <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a> weekly trivia!! The person that answers correctly will receive a $10 <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a> gift code! <br /><br />And the question is: <strong>Who was my favorite player growing up??</strong><br /><br />Please remember to include your email address along with your answer in the comments section. Thank you to <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a> for another week of trivia! Remember, even if you don't win, you can always save 5% at <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a> by using the discount code ROUSEY.<br /><br />Thanks to my t-shirt model Jason Klatt (and also one of the 4 players to split the final pot at the Carom Room!)Sarah Rouseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10232607275843425293noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8053118123465587369.post-61675248891921718082010-01-14T14:49:00.002-06:002010-01-14T14:56:29.464-06:00Happy Birthday!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMqyMKw_QPIVYOcH2yC18I1_a3aeyYcBPNOEzEXepmNg1gy9euXIoELQPqJF1Ti8RvOcUMYyoJc8nEkuN9FIdca37xnhPHhVUr9NU5SH00mMRPtdLY648aDdVJkQRvrUAnA1ztjZrWoKw/s1600-h/funny-birthday-picture-bruce-lee-loved-birthdays.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 136px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMqyMKw_QPIVYOcH2yC18I1_a3aeyYcBPNOEzEXepmNg1gy9euXIoELQPqJF1Ti8RvOcUMYyoJc8nEkuN9FIdca37xnhPHhVUr9NU5SH00mMRPtdLY648aDdVJkQRvrUAnA1ztjZrWoKw/s200/funny-birthday-picture-bruce-lee-loved-birthdays.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426700685762567042" /></a><br />To this blog!! I can't believe it has been a whole year already! This past year has been lots of fun and tons of travel. I visited four different countries and played in about 30 different tournaments around the United States, posted 95 posts, tried lots of strange food, took lots of pictures and best of all, made lots of friends! <br /><br />Thank you to everyone for reading and commenting and going along for the ride with me. Doing the blog has helped me slow down and take some things in. I go visit places when I travel. By places I mean somewhere othe than the pool room and hotel room. It has also helped me let out some of the feelings that I tend to hold in. Sick around and I hope this year will be just as much fun, if not more!Sarah Rouseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10232607275843425293noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8053118123465587369.post-66200214068942735612010-01-13T11:57:00.002-06:002010-01-13T12:10:10.597-06:00Winner!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSRSaSjkXGkSAxyOTsgyaz-RalWpPRRpQmnyMGOOtKggk9AreDlhYC6PsPN7qnqlQ7o-2q7R591p75KS3248TQ44Lu7zKtv51JMDzaWG18I07SKSaNPUWYrLHqPBeJphDAifuiMqo8Ml0/s1600-h/wise.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 69px; height: 88px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSRSaSjkXGkSAxyOTsgyaz-RalWpPRRpQmnyMGOOtKggk9AreDlhYC6PsPN7qnqlQ7o-2q7R591p75KS3248TQ44Lu7zKtv51JMDzaWG18I07SKSaNPUWYrLHqPBeJphDAifuiMqo8Ml0/s200/wise.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426285379782041202" /></a><br />Congrats to Jordan for winning this weeks <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a> trivia!! The correct answer was Dorothy Wise. It is pretty inspiring that a woman that played at at time when pool was dominated by men, that she could break through. I don't have a ton of info on the subject, but I did get a chance to hear Mike Shamos speak at the WPBA Pacific Coast Classic. He gave a lecture on the history of women in the sport. It was really nice to see where it all started for women playing pool. If you would like to find out more about the history of billiards in general, you can look for Mike's book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/New-Illustrated-Encyclopedia-Billiards-Completely/dp/1585746851/ref=pd_sim_b_pop_title/%20104-7910179-1132718">The New Illustrated Encyclopedia of Pool</a>. I own a copy of this and there are tons of great stories and pictures!<br /><br />As for me so far this week, I went to the weekly tournament here in town and didn't do so well. I got beat by my dad and my boyfriend...nice guys! My dad was the always proud father and took a copy of Billiards Digest to show everyone. I jokingly told him that I am 27, not a baby and these are not baby pics. Of course the comeback was, "well, you haven't changed or grown much since you were a baby." Ha, Ha, Ha. <br /><br />Next up, making the decision of missing some work and going to Nashville for the Music City Open or making a weekend trip to Beloit, Wisconsin for the monthly tournament at The Carom Room. Tough decision!<br /><br />Thanks for playing the <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a> trivia and thank you to <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a> for the gift code! I'm going to start thinking now about next Monday's question. I will try to make it a tough one so stay tuned!Sarah Rouseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10232607275843425293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8053118123465587369.post-31672645321168772592010-01-11T11:45:00.004-06:002010-01-11T12:16:13.317-06:00Trivia and The Weekend...Like I said in the last post, I headed to Oconomowoc, WI for the Olympia Open III. The weather did kind of stink, but we made it there safely. I was surprised that there were so many people there considering the weather! Each division had at least 50-70 players and the women had about 30. It was a handicapped event. I didn't get to play in the women's division so I got to play in the men's upper division as a six. I think it has become very clear that bar table 8-ball is not my game! This weekend was not any different! This is the range of emotions I felt....<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmGlFg_oSTSB367TrKPvwjKDu6xOSxtggbpBcpY-luwykJYhOANa67vemesMSwJF1afYLf1eE9h2FD-_wVcSoVf1oL3MwWo6CYFCQbVeEREcEP3eiRh9vBL3yzUxNtaePbL_awITI0g_0/s1600-h/blah.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 66px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmGlFg_oSTSB367TrKPvwjKDu6xOSxtggbpBcpY-luwykJYhOANa67vemesMSwJF1afYLf1eE9h2FD-_wVcSoVf1oL3MwWo6CYFCQbVeEREcEP3eiRh9vBL3yzUxNtaePbL_awITI0g_0/s200/blah.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425547436777762530" /></a><br />I started out well. I broke and ran the first rack of my first match. I was playing a five. That made it even. Then all of a sudden, the little doubts crept in. It is impossible to do well if you are telling yourself that you have no clue what you are doing! Honestly, I should have lost the match. Trailing 4-3, my opponent missed at the end of the rack each game. The hill-hill game was a nail-biter. I dogged it, then he dogged it, it was ugly. I pulled out the win though. Not a bad start.<br /><br />My next match was against another six. Sure, it should be even. It became painfully obvious that it was not. My opponent knew the proper patterns and the shots that you need to know playing on a bar table. I lost 6-1! <br /><br />On to the left side of the board for me. My next match was another six. I was down 4-1, then mounted a small comeback. When the score was 4-4, I had a chance to get on the hill first. Instead, I played a really awful shot and ended up hooking myself with two balls left. I lost that game. I did come back and make it 5-5. It seemed like I had a great chance to break and run out. I made a ball, had a shot, the stars were aligned! NOT. Again, I played the wrong pattern and came up short. After a safety battle, I had one of those awful 50/50 shots. Do you go for it, do you play safe? I think everyone knows that you have to make up your mind BEFORE you shoot the shot, not DURING the shot! I was undecided and just got down without making up my mind. I got what I deserved, I left him a shot, not just a shot, but a perfect breakout shot. He ran out and my tournament run was over. <br /><br />I think we can all see the theme or rather, the problem when I play bar table 8-ball. I obviously need to work on pattern play and confidence. It amazes me that clusters of solids and stripes on a 7ft table can put me in a state of shock and make me feel like it is the first time I have ever played pool! If you guys have any ideas how to get over this, feel free to chime in!<br /><br />Thanks to Dr. Pool for having a great tournament. If you are in the southern Wisconsin area in January of next year, I highly recommend checking it out. If you are a ski buff, you can even go skiing! My friend that roomed with us this trip was tempted to try it out and so was I, but to be honest, I'm scared. If I broke a bone I wouldn't know what to do! Here is a view of the ski hill at the Olympia Resort...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEickvBhgnxC7VG1ZH_Wzmon-JK6WyVLKrzEQwRmbQF2G3EMugb9R701jasypnvlhb5X8OzxhKHTMrX22SFtxf0SaD4EB8xmhhIo-TxomKO_5pkVLXDJnG6eYoCMN16MjwAxraGbFah3bqU/s1600-h/CIMG2380.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEickvBhgnxC7VG1ZH_Wzmon-JK6WyVLKrzEQwRmbQF2G3EMugb9R701jasypnvlhb5X8OzxhKHTMrX22SFtxf0SaD4EB8xmhhIo-TxomKO_5pkVLXDJnG6eYoCMN16MjwAxraGbFah3bqU/s200/CIMG2380.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425543610437956194" /></a><br />This weekend I also got the proofs for the Heartbacker t-shirts. I have to say, they look awesome! I decided to go with both red and purple. I will have a range of sizes, small-4x. They will be done by Friday! I'm so excited. If you would like a shirt, you can donate any amount $25 and up. Specify the color and size you want and make sure that your address is current on your Paypal address! I have to give a big thanks to those of you that have already expressed interest, ordered and helped me decide what to choose!<br /><br />I also have to thank the local paper here in Bloomington, <a href="http://www.pantagraph.com">The Pantagraph </a>and sports writer Randy Sharer. Randy and I did an interview last week and it ran today in the sports section. Thank you Randy. You have been a big supporter of my career for the past 15 years or so! I greatly appreciate it and the exposure you guys have given me over the years.<br /><br />Okay, now what you have all been waiting for, the <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a> weekly trivia! I have been trying to think of a question all weekend but I am drawing a blank. I am going to go with a general pool question this week. Here you go: <strong><em>Who was the first woman inducted into the BCA Hall of Fame??</em></strong><br /><br />Good luck and remember to leave your email address along with your answer. The winner gets a $10 gift code from the folks at <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a>! Remember, that is the place to go for all of your pool supply cravings. Even if you don't win, everyone can save 5% off of their purchase by using the discount code ROUSEY. <br /><br />Have a great week everyone and I will be back with something this week!Sarah Rouseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10232607275843425293noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8053118123465587369.post-13142826012965640462010-01-08T11:42:00.006-06:002010-01-08T12:07:06.235-06:00This Weeks ReviewWow has this ever been a busy week! The <a href="http://www.billiardsdigest.com">Billiards Digest </a>article, <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a> re-signing, trying to figure out a plan for 2010, a snow storm, ahh, time to breathe for a minute! Okay, get moving again...<br /><br />Monday I did something that I haven't done in a long time...I went to the pool room. Shocking, I know. One thing that kind of bugs me is when people say, "Don't forget about us when you get famous." or "I'm sure you won't speak to us again once you hit it big." That is not the kind of person I am! It is obvious when I go to the pool room here in town. My parents used to own it and there is still a crowd that remembers me from when I was about 10 years old. When I was that young, I tried to compete with these guys. My favorite part about going to the pool room on Monday night is seeing all of these guys and hanging out. It is a guarantee that there will be a bank ring game and I love it when they ask me to play. You will probably never hear more smack talking anywhere in the world! So for $5 a game entertainment, we played for a couple of hours. The whole time I get a chance to catch up with everyone and have a laugh. My favorite part, they all still see me as the kid I used to be. They don't see me as anything else but I can see how proud everyone is of what I have accomplished. It is almost as if I walk into a room of adoptive Dads! I will share my embarrassing, first time banks ring game moment now. When I was around 11, I decided I wanted to try it out. My first shot was a cross-side bank. I walked up, ready to shoot, thinking I was just going to fire it in...I called my shot...Cross-eyed. hahaha. I still don't live that one down!<br /><br />The rest of the week has been dedicated to catching up at work and also doing everything I can to promote myself for the upcoming pool season. Sure, I blog at work, that is no secret. Sorry momboss! There aren't enough hours in the day to do everything!<br /><br />Also this week, a nice snow storm decided to hit the midwest. I'm not sure if I have said it before, but there is NO use for snow in Illinois! We don't have any mountains, hills, anything that we can use to make snow fun. To go sledding in my town, we go to the golf course. Otherwise, just thank the snow for making a mess of your car, house, clothes, ugh! Since this storm came on Wednesday and Thursday it put a damper on my plans to head to Wisconsin for the Olympia Open III. The roads in central and northern Illinois were closed yesterday. So, we missed the 9ball tournament. Don't worry, I promised to be there and I will be. I am leaving work early today to make the trip up to Oconomowoc, WI to play my favorite game, barbox 8ball. Yep, that is sarcasm! Last year I met a lot of cool people and I hope to catch up with them and meet some more cool people this year! There are two streets hidden somewhere in here...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2ffS2KMMJS8yXrb9MO552Hx4G8CiVKoleEsIYsO5ufPB8JbFDloDWUzAlFwllq_1q2u5zKBCk_-7_eD1FxUzVYHtYFbLMZg51QwuNo9psJhTXQusgg7jDBuznydhu-orstKAIN8a-tBc/s1600-h/CIMG2376.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2ffS2KMMJS8yXrb9MO552Hx4G8CiVKoleEsIYsO5ufPB8JbFDloDWUzAlFwllq_1q2u5zKBCk_-7_eD1FxUzVYHtYFbLMZg51QwuNo9psJhTXQusgg7jDBuznydhu-orstKAIN8a-tBc/s200/CIMG2376.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424431227367815410" /></a><br /><br />So lastly, the t-shirts. I have sent the design off and I am hoping they are ready next week. Thank you all for your help with the design. I had a lot of feedback via comments, Facebook, and email. I really appreciate it. I have narrowed it down to design 3 (surprise, surprise) but now I am stuck on the color. Keep in mind this design is going to be cleaned up. Let me know which you like better. Do guys like purple?? The design is going to be on the back of a black t-shirt. On the front, over the left side of the chest will be my autograph, nickname, and website. What do you think?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgu27O74k0zoZJjTY-Y6Ol_CHItOpOAw8JAD8dmcoj94U_xI-2Ul3WGBfGSEuR8U9CwFFGi8zUwaYyUYMBCe69dZ6msCTwArA_bXypyn8hH_h3HRXWX5Q3MbZpMlfNkfK45e32AtC6NlA/s1600-h/HP0009.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 154px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgu27O74k0zoZJjTY-Y6Ol_CHItOpOAw8JAD8dmcoj94U_xI-2Ul3WGBfGSEuR8U9CwFFGi8zUwaYyUYMBCe69dZ6msCTwArA_bXypyn8hH_h3HRXWX5Q3MbZpMlfNkfK45e32AtC6NlA/s200/HP0009.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424426435144676978" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWj6YrhmfFohQ3qkj1M10gWJ4V9R6CIOBeOXXR3nsKsp28P03pEPuQ0HzFhRZwpOtfLqP1ndxqHxJF5ZQ-X2ArL2_musZ0tpnDuHuLPo31SMxOpKZ5IoF3_HZ5guPJpdonKtxPiTmFO1w/s1600-h/HP0010.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 154px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWj6YrhmfFohQ3qkj1M10gWJ4V9R6CIOBeOXXR3nsKsp28P03pEPuQ0HzFhRZwpOtfLqP1ndxqHxJF5ZQ-X2ArL2_musZ0tpnDuHuLPo31SMxOpKZ5IoF3_HZ5guPJpdonKtxPiTmFO1w/s200/HP0010.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424426535889494946" /></a><br />Thanks again everyone! I have received a lot of emails and Facebook comments and messages regarding the article. I really mean it when I say that I couldn't have done much of anything without everyone that reads here and follows along with what I do. You guys have built me up when times are tough and helped me enjoy the good times. I can't wait to start this year!Sarah Rouseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10232607275843425293noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8053118123465587369.post-33298019456304301392010-01-06T16:19:00.008-06:002010-01-06T16:39:11.390-06:00Help!!!I am trying to come up with a new Heartbacker design for 2010. I have it down to three designs so far. I would like to know what everyone thinks. I realized that I will hopefully have a lot of return Heartbackers so I had to come up with something other than an autographed cueball. I have decided on Tshirts. If you donate $25 and up, you will receive a Heartbacker t-shirt. That means if you donate, please be sure that your paypal account has the correct mailing address and you include your shirt size. <br /><br />Here we go. Please use your imagination on colors. The pictures are rough sketches that my dad did for me last night. <br /><br />Option 1: Keeping it simple. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZYfUc5b4EZpurEtYftaktlrxeLvaVJ6h74Z3QDfrENlgl7G-3-Pj7t9nPHdwGsH533KtK6nKIBCyxJ8rhyWht6t3WsgIsgWDwZQGGLroN__ye_WYAAfJTd4wPDOAW-SjKicK8gvK43os/s1600-h/HP0005.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 154px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZYfUc5b4EZpurEtYftaktlrxeLvaVJ6h74Z3QDfrENlgl7G-3-Pj7t9nPHdwGsH533KtK6nKIBCyxJ8rhyWht6t3WsgIsgWDwZQGGLroN__ye_WYAAfJTd4wPDOAW-SjKicK8gvK43os/s200/HP0005.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423756779342138802" /></a> <br /><br />Option 2: Keeping it pool related. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiD1MARgAybbRT0x9z_iyXL1hX9wIi5TmkzCYsHRXsWiJZruH1uEZaJ1uipHujy7tWF8EfwJJ1POYFWs7fyiZ6aaQTw3SW0RswWW4A_NYhj2ARoAKsMqnKFaqpKAyauc9HNx4OMDXxai4/s1600-h/HP0006.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 154px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiD1MARgAybbRT0x9z_iyXL1hX9wIi5TmkzCYsHRXsWiJZruH1uEZaJ1uipHujy7tWF8EfwJJ1POYFWs7fyiZ6aaQTw3SW0RswWW4A_NYhj2ARoAKsMqnKFaqpKAyauc9HNx4OMDXxai4/s200/HP0006.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423757011277481490" /></a><br /><br />Option 3: Matches my wrist tattoo and is my personal favorite. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikxm0gOFRg35ETGkOyBbKUoZkNGoYse71fNjYrX5FpS_QGftVh5NddKOAlhWX7rcEEUba3cRX3LApnbim7-h8Ewu69imzmQB_j1ElDuXfT1o2_oyBIKkWQEA76CaMHaiqyE2Tq3g6m_eA/s1600-h/HP0007.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 154px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikxm0gOFRg35ETGkOyBbKUoZkNGoYse71fNjYrX5FpS_QGftVh5NddKOAlhWX7rcEEUba3cRX3LApnbim7-h8Ewu69imzmQB_j1ElDuXfT1o2_oyBIKkWQEA76CaMHaiqyE2Tq3g6m_eA/s200/HP0007.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423757412383221378" /></a><br /><br />Please leave a comment and let me know what you think! I can't wait to start the year and start the Heartbreaking and Heartbacking for 2010!! <br /><br />I just got my invite to return to Taipei, Taiwan for the Amway Cup, March 1-7, 2010. I would appreciate the help to get there, but even if you can't donate, kind words and encouragement help too!<br /><br />Also, my friends at <a href="http://www.billiardsdigest.com">Billiards Digest </a>were kind enough to send me a picture of the January cover. I can't wait to read the story. It should be up on the <a href="http://www.billiardsdigest.com">website</a> tonight or tomorrow! Thanks to <a href="http://www.billiardsdigest.com">Billiards Digest</a> and <a href="http://mikeswritingworkshop.blogspot.com">Mike Geffner </a>for doing the story.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjylIByZKe2TTTkxZXFVvAql8CEKZ3lMsAfJfHxq7JYeJKbvR0bmQBsuIwa7RO6qKz-6OVRMP_lRjR-AuhV4spSUfZzw9JBX5eBKhmRmtnjl7ExRndE9YAy9TRMqw22BjqC9u81MYL6Qqw/s1600-h/Jan10+BDCover.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 149px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjylIByZKe2TTTkxZXFVvAql8CEKZ3lMsAfJfHxq7JYeJKbvR0bmQBsuIwa7RO6qKz-6OVRMP_lRjR-AuhV4spSUfZzw9JBX5eBKhmRmtnjl7ExRndE9YAy9TRMqw22BjqC9u81MYL6Qqw/s200/Jan10+BDCover.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423758106283937522" /></a><br /><br />My other piece of exciting news, <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a> has decided to keep me on for another year! That means that the Monday trivia will continue and the discount code ROUSEY will still save you 5% on your purchases! Thank you <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a>!!Sarah Rouseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10232607275843425293noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8053118123465587369.post-2628176438965863752010-01-03T20:46:00.005-06:002010-01-03T21:33:49.452-06:00Christmas, New Years, Thank You's and Trivia!I had a little hiatus for the holidays. I hope everyone had a great holiday season, got all the gifts they wanted and partied safely!! I had a true adventure for my holiday season!<br /><br />It all started on December 21st when Jason and I went to Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada for Christmas. For those of you that don't know, my boyfriend of about five years is Canadian and from Winnipeg. He hadn't been home to see his whole family for the holidays in about four years. I had never experienced Canada in the winter time, especially not a place referred to as "Winterpeg". After a little delay due to some customs issues, we were finally on our way. I forgot to mention, I was sick yet again, bronchitis to be exact. Now I had the full experience, family, cold weather and sickness...what a combo! Here is a look from the car...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL_pvTgBKIGWTL7dvko7EGWEgmwkndcPsQnErF-2tgg0gs9ZmVEu0OpjRx301jb7LgNoLoqw3zerGZnD_fJX1qOSPmVxQChs0KYLA9K18voyWo7BYmRbI7q4lrvpzMCzqcSjq1aziTnXI/s1600-h/CIMG2367.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL_pvTgBKIGWTL7dvko7EGWEgmwkndcPsQnErF-2tgg0gs9ZmVEu0OpjRx301jb7LgNoLoqw3zerGZnD_fJX1qOSPmVxQChs0KYLA9K18voyWo7BYmRbI7q4lrvpzMCzqcSjq1aziTnXI/s200/CIMG2367.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422713950759487442" /></a><br />I didn't take a ton of pictures, but I did have a great time. Since I was sick we didn't get to go along on an ice fishing trip. That kind of upset me because I have never even been fishing, let alone ice fishing. Jason's brother and his girlfriend went and brought back a couple of fish. I don't have the gross pictures to prove it, but I got to learn how to gut a fish and fry it. Wow, is fresh pickerel, aka walleye, delicious! I never knew how many parts of a fish you can cook! I got to learn how to play a lot of new card games and board games and most of all learn the power of getting to know people. We sat around and told stories and caught up...of course there was beer consumption since that seems to be the Canadian way!<br /><br />One thing that I am really glad I got to experience is stick curling. As an American, I kind of laugh every time curling is on TV during the Olympics. It looks ridiculous, I mean sweeping ice to get a tea kettle into place...that surely can't be fun. I was so wrong! Jason's dad took us curling on Christmas night. The first thing I didn't know is that the rocks, tea kettles to me, weigh about 30 pounds! The second thing, sweeping is really hard. It was my first time being on ice of any kind, of course besides the kind I tend to fall on during the winter. I had so much fun and we won! Do I look like a pro??<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgec3mBL-1wXrrOXzlpeTkKYM723HVbjKjOsFOZ5xbe69E578VO5WHBRibc5add9gcg28NCTJeONE_GP1Eb4A04jQTLIofUuszjKp3qkaPVH7g3B8D8o9nBKlyCgaNt5-WpVO47Ha-UGPE/s1600-h/CIMG2353.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgec3mBL-1wXrrOXzlpeTkKYM723HVbjKjOsFOZ5xbe69E578VO5WHBRibc5add9gcg28NCTJeONE_GP1Eb4A04jQTLIofUuszjKp3qkaPVH7g3B8D8o9nBKlyCgaNt5-WpVO47Ha-UGPE/s200/CIMG2353.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422716268182678818" /></a><br />Here we are after our victory!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqGxKg8czieW7jLNetT3AtH0WrRX33Mg3eMa3785slIFFHy1uLAXi5BNFZPd_JDJoGnJTqmsr0f1CjUmlwQuEau4fDNFCigY5ThKU2w4LS66pvHGzTtx7sQYokZPrnaaHZE_7IcFWFwBg/s1600-h/CIMG2361.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqGxKg8czieW7jLNetT3AtH0WrRX33Mg3eMa3785slIFFHy1uLAXi5BNFZPd_JDJoGnJTqmsr0f1CjUmlwQuEau4fDNFCigY5ThKU2w4LS66pvHGzTtx7sQYokZPrnaaHZE_7IcFWFwBg/s200/CIMG2361.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422716471289721506" /></a><br />On the 28th we headed back to Chicago...or at least we thought. Due to the attempted terrorist attack on Christmas, the customs agents were really strict. They gave Jason a hard time about spending time in the United States. It was really an awful experience! I ended up heading home and he got to spend a few extra days in Canada. But we were back together on New Years Eve!!<br /><br />I'm sure everyone thinks that I am some wild party animal and that New Years would be my day to shine. That would be so far from the truth! For New Years Eve we had family time with my family. We had a night of eating, board games, TV watching and pajama wearing. We were a lazy bunch of Rousey's! It was nice to spend time with my family for the end the year.<br /><br />Here is where I would like to say thank you to everyone. My sponsors, <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com"></a>PoolDawg and <a href="http://www.mezzusa.com">MezzUSA</a>. Without you guys life would have been much tougher. I got a chance to experience some new things, meet new people and do some hard work! I look forward to working with you again in 2010! <br /><br />I have to give a huge, huge, huge thank you to all of the Heartbackers. Without all of you, I wouldn't have been able to do anything this year. I wouldn't have been able to travel the world and fulfill my dream of playing on the worlds stage. Thank you all so much! I am coming up with a new logo for the 2010 Heartbackers and it will be ready soon. If you would like to donate, it would be greatly appreciated! I will come up with new gift ideas as well. Like I have said before, I can't thank everyone enough! <br /><br />I also have to thank all of the readers of this blog. It has been almost a year and tons of fun. It has given me a release when I am feeling up and when I am feeling down. I looked today and I saw that I had nearly 25,000 hits in 2009! Thank you all for sticking with me, checking in on me and sometimes checking up on me! It really means a lot and I can't wait to keep the entertainment going in 2010.<br /><br />And now, what was supposed to be the final trivia question of 2009, but got delayed until now. This will require doing a little bit of work. It involves the map that can be found at the bottom of the blog. It is totally filled out with everywhere that I have gone in the world in 2009. The winner of this trivia will win a $25 gift code to <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a>! A big thanks to <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a> for allowing this trivia to happen every week! Now for the question: <span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="font-weight:bold;">What are the places I visited outside of the United States in 2009(please list the city and country)?? How many places within the United States did I play in tournaments??</span></span><br /><br />I would also like to know what you guys would like to learn about, read about, see pictures of, etc. I know I did that before then slacked off. I will go back to answer those as well. I like the feedback and would like to know what everyone likes to know or wants to know. <br /><br />Thank you everyone for a great 2009 and I'm looking forward to an even better 2010!!Sarah Rouseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10232607275843425293noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8053118123465587369.post-66453583064614895462009-12-30T00:42:00.003-06:002009-12-30T00:54:43.402-06:00Heads Up!I hope everyone had a great holiday! I made it back from Canada safely last night. It is a whole big long story that I will do tomorrow. I wanted to give everyone a heads up on something first. My friends and sponsor <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a> have a great opportunity that started at midnight. They have a brand new <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com/product/original-custom-southwest-pool-cue-serial-38909">Southwest cue for sale</a>. You can see it <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com/product/original-custom-southwest-pool-cue-serial-38909">here</a>. It is a great opportunity. I know the waiting list for a brand new Southwest is very long and the prices are rising. Remember, you can use the code ROUSEY and save 5% on the purchase. That saves you quite a bit on a purchase of this size!<br /><br />I will have a trivia question and a recap for everyone tomorrow. I got home much later then expected so sorry for the delay! This week will be a $25 gift code from <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a>!<br /><br />Another big announcement is that I found out that I will be on the cover of the January issue of Billiards Digest!! I have not seen the cover, pictures or read the article so I hope it is a good one. I was really shocked to find out I would be on the cover. Not trying to be too humble, but I really didn't expect to get something like that until I did something worthy, i.e. winning a tournament. The issue should be out later this week or early next week due to the holiday. It will also be up on the <a href="http://www.billiardsdigest.com">website</a> and on the <a href="http://http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/pages/Billiards-Digest/183977501740?ref=mf">Facebook fan page</a> soon.<br /><br />Happy shopping everyone!Sarah Rouseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10232607275843425293noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8053118123465587369.post-19134075764212363892009-12-21T11:41:00.001-06:002009-12-21T11:41:43.151-06:00Merry Christmas!I am getting ready to board a flight to Winnipeg, MB, Canada for my first Canadian Christmas!! I wanted to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!! I will be back next Monday with a new trivia question and a year end wrap-up. Granted I don't freeze to death!<br /><br />I hope everyone gets what they wanted!!Sarah Rouseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10232607275843425293noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8053118123465587369.post-15237761874944277492009-12-14T11:53:00.004-06:002009-12-14T15:38:08.204-06:00Big Time Trivia!!This week for the <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a> trivia we are upping the stakes!!! Since it is the Christmas season and I know you slackers are probably still waiting to do your Christmas shopping, what better place to do that then with <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a>?? Maybe someone needs a new cue or some chalk or a set of NFL inspired pool balls, PoolDawg is your place to go!<a href="http://www.pooldawg.com"></a><br /><br />Alright, on to my point. This week the awesome guys and gals at <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a> have decided to give away a <strong>$50</strong>, that's right, I said <strong>$50 </strong>gift code to the person that can identify these two former/present NFL players.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjasUt6NXdEEHoqgkgCSrAulDC8h-gpffIfspGsE5xJPAe_W6PDmrM0xaAinXuVmoKXyT-GNCWIQQirWc_x9F-wU1uxH2VxRp7yel8jefnFuS9nyyD6AaBCBT0qe5hWco1yoZXNHUvhCuA/s1600-h/CIMG2339.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjasUt6NXdEEHoqgkgCSrAulDC8h-gpffIfspGsE5xJPAe_W6PDmrM0xaAinXuVmoKXyT-GNCWIQQirWc_x9F-wU1uxH2VxRp7yel8jefnFuS9nyyD6AaBCBT0qe5hWco1yoZXNHUvhCuA/s200/CIMG2339.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415153048608530690" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge77g1Qszsi_6_arp_G3C4G27-DjedwgAXmLmJFwZD1Hlf4lu2S6Jx7WE4Hw9UHdvz5PUs7BTPzj6xhtJ0IyVq-iS4DCC3K5PBbCiENanZB3GS5JcH6a0UHmsIbJJsBgCyMWLBB6CohN0/s1600-h/CIMG2335.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge77g1Qszsi_6_arp_G3C4G27-DjedwgAXmLmJFwZD1Hlf4lu2S6Jx7WE4Hw9UHdvz5PUs7BTPzj6xhtJ0IyVq-iS4DCC3K5PBbCiENanZB3GS5JcH6a0UHmsIbJJsBgCyMWLBB6CohN0/s200/CIMG2335.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415153039268396114" /></a>The taller guy to is the person we are trying to identify.<br /><br />Please post your answers in the comments section. Include your email address so I can send the gift code. Good luck everyone and thank you <a href="http://www.pooldawg.com">PoolDawg</a>!!Sarah Rouseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10232607275843425293noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8053118123465587369.post-25503498903228899602009-11-30T21:57:00.016-06:002009-12-08T00:26:50.267-06:00Up, Down and All-Around!I apologize for leaving everyone hanging. It was a busy month of November, to say the least. I know everyone already knows the outcome of pretty much everything, but no harm in rehashing it in my own words. So, as the title of this posts says, I have been up and down emotionally and all around the world, all in the past month!<br /><br />Lets start with the second weekend of November. My younger sister Kaeleigh, came back home for a week. If you all remember, she went off to school in Phoenix this year. Since I was going to be traveling for Thanksgiving and she would be back in Phoenix my family decided to have Thanksgiving a little bit early. I think my past posts have proven that I don't argue much when food is involved! I didn't take any pictures of the food but here is my family...well almost the whole family. My dad snuck the picture. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglNbzXv67ponu70aJvXWRITGjyY6H25ma2l7WJJhHw9xRC3O4_dmHo7R1VoMoHIMrTQZmKBW4kmIffffVrddMCjh0yC8XsEFbRDsJm66GJfmt8MlQQOMINCtVxXIutn_WIUkrvou77RpU/s1600-h/family.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglNbzXv67ponu70aJvXWRITGjyY6H25ma2l7WJJhHw9xRC3O4_dmHo7R1VoMoHIMrTQZmKBW4kmIffffVrddMCjh0yC8XsEFbRDsJm66GJfmt8MlQQOMINCtVxXIutn_WIUkrvou77RpU/s200/family.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412710651234348946" /></a><br />The siblings...yes, I was trying really hard to keep my eyes open.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7-bFu0NpP_lv7SkWpJSfZQiXM6ebI_Tro418C5Y1elD1yTP8843vREI_ljvpCDKDbfpuHyYMLXy2gK-oYNuT5soPP1vej__0iMMgCt0yzqZAvE9agYOMqnj_xv6ncUz2HLgzaaxwkXNg/s1600-h/siblings.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7-bFu0NpP_lv7SkWpJSfZQiXM6ebI_Tro418C5Y1elD1yTP8843vREI_ljvpCDKDbfpuHyYMLXy2gK-oYNuT5soPP1vej__0iMMgCt0yzqZAvE9agYOMqnj_xv6ncUz2HLgzaaxwkXNg/s200/siblings.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412710951035361314" /></a><br />And last, me, very, very, very full!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2chyphenhyphenDA4Zb-w7hGQAUQmTiQNyou2vbyKYzzCIqHP9UvudzPqjq0-uhsNUvws_O1vK2xOFbSm6kmx93pjPwzVNgfMIgJQdo7Jtg85oSfEq38g0a23jwj-Gr7jnw8caUqdoOVWtLHgfol9k/s1600-h/full.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2chyphenhyphenDA4Zb-w7hGQAUQmTiQNyou2vbyKYzzCIqHP9UvudzPqjq0-uhsNUvws_O1vK2xOFbSm6kmx93pjPwzVNgfMIgJQdo7Jtg85oSfEq38g0a23jwj-Gr7jnw8caUqdoOVWtLHgfol9k/s200/full.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412711142144518946" /></a><br />After all of the eating it was time for the long drive to Hollywood, Florida. Yes, I drove, along with my boyfriend Jason and our travel buddy, Chris Bartram. The total drive time was about 24 hours. Of course it doesn't make any sense to drive to Florida then fly to China and back to Florida then drive to Ohio...but that is the plan we went with. We made the trek and didn't have too much rest before the festivities began.<br /><br />First we had the meeting and short awards ceremony. Congrats to Veronique Menard for winning the Rookie of the Year Award and Denise Belanger for winning the Most Improved Award! After that, the Pro-Am. I have to say that this is the biggest, most star-studded Pro-Am of the year. The Seminoles have a way of bringing in the big names. My team didn't win but we did have a really good time. The star on my team was Mark Duper of Miami Dolphins fame. Here is my team...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIlAOrOsfI3TWzV-ApCWJdzllO5He3vhOAf28xWfOaXCack_sKHnh2syuVHJK7Ni3jWn7AVJmEJtAlJvpbkNZx_qIs3IR3aLpUhsfwJu9pOZr_EhkRkqnLqR1GsVh2fEWk2DSSF8lh3_0/s1600-h/CIMG2338.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIlAOrOsfI3TWzV-ApCWJdzllO5He3vhOAf28xWfOaXCack_sKHnh2syuVHJK7Ni3jWn7AVJmEJtAlJvpbkNZx_qIs3IR3aLpUhsfwJu9pOZr_EhkRkqnLqR1GsVh2fEWk2DSSF8lh3_0/s200/CIMG2338.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412716051594257634" /></a> Thanks for playing guys and it was great to meet everyone!<br /><br />After all the fun, it was supposed to be time to get serious. I'm not sure where I got lost in between the fun and seriousness, but I did. I could make a ton of excuses but I won't. I know what I did wrong. My first match was Vicki Paski. I mean no disrespect when I talk about this match or before the match, but I'm sure it will come across that way. I took things for granted big time. I hate myself for doing that. It is the one thing that I tell everyone not to do and the one thing that I try my hardest not to do. I never talk about my draw. For some reason this time I did. I noticed it wasn't as difficult as the others I had this year. I was also remembering how great things went at this venue last year. All of this was a recipe for disaster. I played absolutely horrible. I can't say that I didn't have a chance to win, I had plenty. The worst part about the match, the straight in 9ball that I missed. Not a long, straight in, but a short, not even two feet from the pocket, cue ball two feet from the nine. I know everything that I was thinking while I was shooting. I was beating myself up. I was telling myself "You idiot, you don't deserve to win this match. You haven't been practicing, you played horrible the whole match, you should just miss this nine." This is not a new experience for me. It happens often. The difference is, I can usually keep my dark emotions in check. I can force myself to stand up and start over. This time I just got to learn a lesson and move on to the next day.<br /><br />The next day I thought I got myself under control. I went into the match with Liz Taylor feeling confident and ready. Things were going alright, I was playing alright and I was ahead the whole match. I got ahead 8-5 and it seemed to be smooth sailing. Instead I choked. My dark little friend crept up behind me and took over. I had a chance to win every game and found a way to talk myself out of it. Liz made a great out to win the match hill-hill. <br /><br />So, I went two and out for the second time in my pro career. The sad part, I wasn't really upset. I kind of felt like karma or something caught up with me. All of the time that I didn't spend practicing, all of the things I could have done to prevent this. I will never take things for granted again! I got to hang out with some friends though in Florida. Caroline helped console me after my bad finish...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS2v296HTsz6_vQSqbGbcwAnGvLnf_gkeYvIs442-EziuTh6V5Xl4k8xiF3a7w1wPuRuD8dqcDd8kXEj-RzPYyvnFavUTA253H1hHQZSerkyyOfElBQpYv-gdS9g7J-6GjP20RGsJG1Bw/s1600-h/console.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS2v296HTsz6_vQSqbGbcwAnGvLnf_gkeYvIs442-EziuTh6V5Xl4k8xiF3a7w1wPuRuD8dqcDd8kXEj-RzPYyvnFavUTA253H1hHQZSerkyyOfElBQpYv-gdS9g7J-6GjP20RGsJG1Bw/s200/console.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412723602907778338" /></a>And Justin was giving me the punishment that I deserved! <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-w6wNIYXaU7qpx8QOnClwZl1UYfSeTSyj858ufVlY0WzHcNcp6LTeo-CSLpEZ_2JFuLjn8SKCMgSbEBh80d-moy-YoPASvuZhqjV9rQHrNn4cC8zqpv7-k7eIKZ0Ny4Gca8YcdBfuGlo/s1600-h/funny.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-w6wNIYXaU7qpx8QOnClwZl1UYfSeTSyj858ufVlY0WzHcNcp6LTeo-CSLpEZ_2JFuLjn8SKCMgSbEBh80d-moy-YoPASvuZhqjV9rQHrNn4cC8zqpv7-k7eIKZ0Ny4Gca8YcdBfuGlo/s200/funny.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412723958393698530" /></a><br />Now that I have shown my totally psychotic side to you all, imagine how I felt after this horrid finish on my twenty-some hours of travel to China! I will fill you in now that I was not looking forward to the trip so much after all that happened. I was wondering if I even deserved to go to the World Championships. But at 6am on November 16th I boarded a plane to Chicago, then the Shanghai, then to Shenyang. Oh yeah, I have to mention the flight from Shanghai to Shenyang, a two hour flight, was delayed about ten hours. Good start! I will also fill you in on the fact that I forgot my camera charger at home, bought a replacement and it started my camera on fire...sweet! All of the pictures I am using are courtesy of Angel Paglia. Thanks for taking some extra pics for me Angel! Alright, enough complaining!<br /><br />At 3am on November 18th, I arrived! The streets of Shenyang were dead and the lobby lights at the hotel were off when I arrived. This definitely wasn't Shanghai! The hotel was beautiful though. There was a welcoming banner for all of the players and a board for everyone to sign. If you all remember from the last trip to Asia, I roomed with Kelly Fisher and I did the same this trip. She arrived before me and was all checked in. I got my key and thought I was going to bed finally. All of a sudden, all of the lights turned on and I had to sign the board and have a picture taken. Yes, at 3am with about 27 hours of travel on me. I looked beautiful! Here is the autograph board in the lobby...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHhd9X8jBGG7Sm7HA0ZCYJ_u1gs3uZtqqaiCaJO4UFGopmBtT0XmMQwtxN3h5lZb9tXdyGSrwDO1KiHTF8JRYyDDh30mCmVNbJM-RPv_3HN83wYuBYPlHWLIb3t77naV6U9zcxo-2KnYY/s1600-h/15453_207795906659_769646659_4074316_3305434_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHhd9X8jBGG7Sm7HA0ZCYJ_u1gs3uZtqqaiCaJO4UFGopmBtT0XmMQwtxN3h5lZb9tXdyGSrwDO1KiHTF8JRYyDDh30mCmVNbJM-RPv_3HN83wYuBYPlHWLIb3t77naV6U9zcxo-2KnYY/s200/15453_207795906659_769646659_4074316_3305434_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412727351602718434" /></a>I finally got a little bit of sleep and was wide awake at 7am. That would continue the entire week. Yes, it is the first time I have seen 7am that many days in a row in about ten years...at least! We went to the press conference, which was a really big deal. There were a lot of speakers, sponsors, the mayor, etc. Even better, tons of photographers. It really made us all feel like something special. Here is a look at the panel of speakers...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWx4tLjciRRthyphenhyphen0r6_KmJEQC-T0RZWn_Xqc1FaPIC2eNKqTTgqVvtLOugdMb5GjLavdlt9yz_hk3D58TRUlu264FA_35aUqKU2DzUtCsDUIujOl_h1l35jftnAKBaizNeTkjLdFA3QTHA/s1600-h/press.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWx4tLjciRRthyphenhyphen0r6_KmJEQC-T0RZWn_Xqc1FaPIC2eNKqTTgqVvtLOugdMb5GjLavdlt9yz_hk3D58TRUlu264FA_35aUqKU2DzUtCsDUIujOl_h1l35jftnAKBaizNeTkjLdFA3QTHA/s200/press.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412729116343283474" /></a> and a view of the room, players and press....<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhbO-DVNxPdGDUPZ6Ngf7m_GM05-2a3tAYCXUvMNjA9VAluSGXZm3ESFS3EubIu1Btie7y6SW_2FrODytaJNEXeEJ6HMGHwqfTADEXdlk2rUH0WGkZ1J_J_UdLu74-vQ7aKy4Sa5Znufc/s1600-h/press+2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhbO-DVNxPdGDUPZ6Ngf7m_GM05-2a3tAYCXUvMNjA9VAluSGXZm3ESFS3EubIu1Btie7y6SW_2FrODytaJNEXeEJ6HMGHwqfTADEXdlk2rUH0WGkZ1J_J_UdLu74-vQ7aKy4Sa5Znufc/s200/press+2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412729280334775906" /></a> After the press conference there was a dinner party for all of the sponsors, refs, players and guests. It was really pretty awesome. The food wasn't too suspicious looking or tasting and there was some pretty cool entertainment. Here is almost the whole room. As you can see it is a really nice party...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2GoUSAm569ICudzj6Ctv02oh5Tq8mqrOpbY3wru97FbUafB52s7BRm_10tN7xdU9j3WR_OQ2Kk-l9povq98i72wPd_1eDscNRc94D3lv14g9GieWfi6GfLH4mQrIcntcbUp_r7LtGYyw/s1600-h/dinner.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2GoUSAm569ICudzj6Ctv02oh5Tq8mqrOpbY3wru97FbUafB52s7BRm_10tN7xdU9j3WR_OQ2Kk-l9povq98i72wPd_1eDscNRc94D3lv14g9GieWfi6GfLH4mQrIcntcbUp_r7LtGYyw/s200/dinner.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412730340467950114" /></a> and here is the entertainment. This girl caught bowls and silverware on her head while surfing on the board. There was also a contortionist....<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQLFO3MPGYf4-tx7qBFXAgFise8DOWBfUXU8TkuPfMP3QjWN6vxKTqENYYrs8oDV_bsCMFH1sZemYpt9_SmzI5v1IkfaTQ26BVfnpZKO15d9BbeTwCjhSEOTzTzIJ5xEW3_nsNJ-nLJbs/s1600-h/entertainment.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQLFO3MPGYf4-tx7qBFXAgFise8DOWBfUXU8TkuPfMP3QjWN6vxKTqENYYrs8oDV_bsCMFH1sZemYpt9_SmzI5v1IkfaTQ26BVfnpZKO15d9BbeTwCjhSEOTzTzIJ5xEW3_nsNJ-nLJbs/s200/entertainment.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412730746508633010" /></a><br />The draw was done and at noon the next day it was time to head to the arena. None of us really knew what to expect. We had about a 30 minute bus ride to the venue and when we pulled up it was a huge university. We got a tour of the venue and to everyone's surprise, it was amazing! Two TV tables and six outside tables. Comfortable seating to watch and plenty of spectators to fill the seats. The only complaint, which we had at the hotel too, was that it was way too warm in the playing arena. Probably about 80 degrees...no lie! Here is a picture of the outside (meaning outside the TV area) tables...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOI5ckio3Y1FAw9TEYP0sG2RHYvm6NWHGz01kt_M0NsP7BSAhWAWSXCI_34hzO6xM5rU2gGeJe85pR6L2is_D6pFR021wZJbPOit0vvr4RHQ1XErBCk2g8lL1C6JbX9qVvH7u2QcKXGC4/s1600-h/arena.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOI5ckio3Y1FAw9TEYP0sG2RHYvm6NWHGz01kt_M0NsP7BSAhWAWSXCI_34hzO6xM5rU2gGeJe85pR6L2is_D6pFR021wZJbPOit0vvr4RHQ1XErBCk2g8lL1C6JbX9qVvH7u2QcKXGC4/s200/arena.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412732560955398322" /></a> My first match was against Sabrina Naffschnigger from Austria. I didn't play all that well but I capitalized on some mistakes that she made. I won the match 7-2. That moved me on to the evening match against one of the Chinese players, Gao Meng. When I got to the match I knew I was in for something difficult. I know all of the Chinese players are top notch. What I didn't know until later and until after she beat Jasmin in the single elimination stage, was that my opponent was only 14 years old! I won the match 7-5 but I know that there were some very uncharacteristic mistakes made in the short race. One of my lucky rolls was making the nine on the break when the score was 6-5. That was an expensive nine-ball since it moved me on to the single elimination round of 32 and put me in the money. Yes, I had to go all the way to China to cash in a tournament during the month of November.<br /><br />Before the round of 32, Kelly, Allison and I decided to go to the market. We thought it might be just a small night market type thing. We got there and it ended up being a huge, underground mall. We lost track of time and then got news that we all had to play at 7:30. That wouldn't be a problem except it was already 4:45 or so. We all had a serious panic attack trying to make it from the market, to the hotel, to the shuttle and to the venue. With a little bit of stress, we made it. Little did we know how disastarous this would be.<br /><br />My opponent in the round of 32 was Pei Chen Tsai, the winner of the China Open. I played her at the Amway Cup and didn't feel like much of an underdog. I was ready for the match and started out pretty well. Unfortunately, I didn't finish the match well. I lost 9-6. I had so many chances and just couldn't capitalize. Oh well, live and learn. I finished my tournament run with a 17-32nd finish. I wasn't in bad company though. It seemed like the wheels fell off for the majority of the WPBA players and the strength of the young Chinese players showed. <br /><br />Since most of us were out of the tournament we turned to hanging out and having a little fun. Ga Young Kim took us out to a pretty cool night club. Nothing like hearing popular music translated into Chinese! It was a really good time, thanks Ga Young!<br /><br />After the fun wore off we only had one non-Chinese, WPBA player to cheer on, Karen Corr. If you have followed the results of most of the overseas tournaments you will notice that Karen's name is right there at the top every time. She was really playing great all tournament and it looked like she was on her way to winning her first 9-ball World Championship (she was runner-up three times previously). After escaping a 9-8 win over one of the top Chinese players, she got the pleasure of playing yet another young Chinese player, Lui ShaSha who beat Xiao Ting Pan 9-8 to reach the finals. Here is a view of the finals table. Notice how packed the place is! <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoUPisho9cTszwUU-jazr_3fhN2kY-bO2D9_WtrSGCE-rhMtzhKv2tUMx59_UHdVWwke5lzwbsfSCbayoDTvr5BOmrvT0RDRS12J6JebuSszTZCAxlA6SGZxXsL8W2GNTO3wxEqEl0USM/s1600-h/finals.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoUPisho9cTszwUU-jazr_3fhN2kY-bO2D9_WtrSGCE-rhMtzhKv2tUMx59_UHdVWwke5lzwbsfSCbayoDTvr5BOmrvT0RDRS12J6JebuSszTZCAxlA6SGZxXsL8W2GNTO3wxEqEl0USM/s200/finals.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412740495758826514" /></a> Karen seemed to be on her way to a victory. She was ahead 5-1 in a race to 9. She missed a six ball that game and that was that. At 5-2, Lui ShaSha showed what she was made of. She broke and ran five racks like it was nothing. Suddenly the score was 7-5. A scratch on the break gave Karen another chance at the table finally. Unfortunately, she couldn't capitalize. With the score 8-5, Lui broke and ran out with ease. The whole time the crowd was roaring. Karen was left as the runner-up for the fourth time and a new Chinese champion was crowned. Did I mention she is only 16?!?! Here is the winner...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJL6NNKYrOizxHUN8ETyrJhwPIUnOKlZxJPbjqi2NaZVtchJ_SSOLP-Jq9qPMHD-nynCO9yOXAgZU8uSUxyJX3YW9DjuaOyvOICAg032YlTXkr2aaEHR42FoIHF8geoKr5gOH1WsHQtUM/s1600-h/winner.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 138px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJL6NNKYrOizxHUN8ETyrJhwPIUnOKlZxJPbjqi2NaZVtchJ_SSOLP-Jq9qPMHD-nynCO9yOXAgZU8uSUxyJX3YW9DjuaOyvOICAg032YlTXkr2aaEHR42FoIHF8geoKr5gOH1WsHQtUM/s200/winner.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412743072214372962" /></a><br />How do I feel about my trip? It was definitely worth it. It was great to play in such a well run, classy world championship event. I hope to get the chance to do so many more times during my career. I got to experience new things, eat some funky food, hang out with old friends and make new friends from all over the world...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr56UJLh3Gh9v_-S519ZhLj6kVb37xRFSvIB29QMJN5uAY5OMtVkw6V1g49qbNgAI6N70tlM1MeO1bg19MDqkPxxT1rK867XZTJ-vxRTnu1WS2-JEqFSM9odyDjZMPBgkcijdQkSqLk6I/s1600-h/group.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr56UJLh3Gh9v_-S519ZhLj6kVb37xRFSvIB29QMJN5uAY5OMtVkw6V1g49qbNgAI6N70tlM1MeO1bg19MDqkPxxT1rK867XZTJ-vxRTnu1WS2-JEqFSM9odyDjZMPBgkcijdQkSqLk6I/s200/group.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412744051919520098" /></a> Thank you to everyone who helped make my trip possible!! <br /><br />I would like to say I made it home without any delay but of course, that was not the case. My travel agent, aka, me, did a lousy job of checking times. I needed to get from Shenyang to Shanghai...almost an hour by mini bus to the airport then a two hour flight. Then I had to wait about ten hours in Shanghai. Shanghai to Chicago with only about an hour to spare before the flight to Tampa. Not a good plan since it takes a long time to go through customs! I got redirected to Orlando, another two hour flight and voila, I'm back with the boys. Oh yeah, that's right, then we had a twenty hour drive back to Ohio! Oh the joys of jet-lag! <br /><br />I spent a couple days trying to sleep and get back to normal (is that even possible??). After that we had a nice Thanksgiving meal at Chris's house and we were back in the car for the annual Thanksgiving tournament in Hudson, Ohio. This is a weekend of zero sleep. The singles event started Thanksgiving night around 7pm. There were 26 women in the 8-ball and 105 guys in the 9-ball. I got very lucky to win the tournament. My opponent made the eight in the wrong pocket when the score was hill-hill. I got to sleep about 8am. I was pretty excited because this was my first time to get to play on a team. I've never had the pleasure of doing so before. Thanks to Deidra, Sandy, and Dana for inviting me to play with them. The first day went well, we won two matches. Then there was a scotch doubles tournament. Jason and I got third. We got to bed about 6am. Play started at 10am. We played all day to reach the final day of the tournament and got done with the team event for the night around midnight. Then another scotch doubles event. Jason and I battled all night to win the tournament...we finished at 10am. Oh, did I mention, the team event started back up at 10am! Unfortunately our team lost a nail-biter to another Columbus, Ohio team. We finished 4th though! Thank you again for inviting me to play!<br /><br />I made it home and back to normal...well kind of. Of course, just like last time, I ended up sick after all the lack of sleep and traveling around the world. I slept for about a week. Then I got a call from <a href="http://www.billiardsdigest.com">Billiards Digest</a>. I'm not sure if I mentioned before that they will be doing a feature article on me! Mike Geffner interviewed me a few months back. I wasn't sure when it would be published until this week. On Friday I got to do a photo shoot in Chicago. The article will be in the January issue!! <br /><br />After all of that, I slept....a lot! So again, sorry to keep everyone hanging. I hope you enjoyed the recap of events!!Sarah Rouseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10232607275843425293noreply@blogger.com1