Good morning from the Sunshine State! Can say that this morning because the sun is actually going to be out today....so they say. As I sit here in the dark hotel room, Natalie is trying to sleep efficiently. So, I stay as quiet as possible in hopes of her goal for sleep is met. Yesterday, was a long day of practice with her coach and then playing points with a friend. Followed by her playing in the Pro Am.
One of Natalie's favorite events to participate in, would be the Pro Am. For the tournament director pairs "pro" tennis players with members of the club for a doubles event. She loves getting to know the local folks and trash talk with and against them. So, you know she loved moving onto a court with a gentleman a "few" years older ...who happened to be wearing a tied dyed t -shirt. She immediately removed her sweatshirt (yea.. I know we are in Florida, who wears those) to reveal her orange Tennessee shirt....while shouting, "hey, I gotta match my partner". Needless to say her partner was crafty and could frustrate an opponent with his placement in less then 3 shots, while Nat talked trash. OOOO Lawdy....a match made in heaven! They had a blast!
Following the Pro Am, we ate dinner with Gary and Connie Ravo. Who until last year, lived in our community. Only living bout 20 minutes from the tournament, the Ravos were nice enough to drive over and visit with us most of the day and evening. Capping our day with and great dinner at The Lucky Dill. Always nice to spend time with friends when we are on the road.
Soooo long white robes and wine....for today we change hotels! Thanks to Steve for getting us a family discount at another hotel....an offer we could not pass up. Then onto the courts...for Natalie and Jackie (tournament ranked 401) will play doubles today...4th on after 9:30 a.m. Which translated is 3ish or 4ish. They will face the wild card team of Simone Kelhorn and Epipanie Turner who are tournament ranked 1506. Should be a friendly match, with many smiles.... for all four young ladies are awesome!
Well, I hear someone trying to wake up, guess it's time to go. Will be watching the lil yellow bouncing ball soon and reporting back to you...until then....Love and Blessing....Sherry!
