Thursday, February 27, 2014
The fifth graders....thank you
You may remember prior to Christmas, Natalie made a visit to a local elementary school. The fifth graders were a great group and enjoyed their time with her. When Nat returned from her Florida stint there was a package of thank you notes. They are from some of the student's in Mrs. Lee's class. Not only were the students and staff very sweet, but these notes are even sweeter. Just had to share a couple of pictures of their efforts! And to let them know she LOVE EM y'all! Thank you! Each of these notes will be added to Natalie's scrapbook!
Stumbled
Greetings from a sunny yet cold south! Was getting things organized this morning for Natalie's departure on Sunday. When I stumbled upon the Tournament Notes for the Gainesville Women's 10K Tennis Classic. The Tournament Notes is a short publication produced by the USTA for the hosting tournament's benefit. A promotional newsletter they can use to promote their tourney. Since someone we know is featured, thought I would share it with you:
http://assets.usta.com/assets/1/15/Gainesville_Media_Notes2.PDF
Natalie was up and out early this morning. So early that I didn't even see her. Guess she knows my exhaustion level these days and tip toed out of the house. Something I appreciate, since last night was the first time in ten days that I've slept more than four hours. Side note, seeing some improvement in Nana....please continue to pray for her! Thanks!
Well back to work I go, continuing to organize Natalie's paperwork and road trip. The lil yellow ball will bounce in the main draws on either next Tuesday or Wednesday for our gal. So until then....Love and Blessings.....Sherry!
http://assets.usta.com/assets/1/15/Gainesville_Media_Notes2.PDF
Natalie was up and out early this morning. So early that I didn't even see her. Guess she knows my exhaustion level these days and tip toed out of the house. Something I appreciate, since last night was the first time in ten days that I've slept more than four hours. Side note, seeing some improvement in Nana....please continue to pray for her! Thanks!
Well back to work I go, continuing to organize Natalie's paperwork and road trip. The lil yellow ball will bounce in the main draws on either next Tuesday or Wednesday for our gal. So until then....Love and Blessings.....Sherry!
Wednesday, February 26, 2014
Jasmine's special message for you
This lovely lady is Jasmine.....a college friend of Natalie's....she has a special message for you! Thanks Jazzzzz!
Our lives are Blessed
Not sure why my eyes are open at 4:30 a.m. but I guess it's blogging time. Natalie has been working hard both on and off the court. Helping with the Poker for Pluskota event, teaching lessons, helping with Nana and ooooo yea.....practice. Traveling up to Atlanta daily for workouts and on court training fills most of her day. And she wouldn't have it any other way!
As for me....Nana is not doing well. A trip to the ER was in order yesterday. After nearly nine hours, we trek home. Hopefully the antibiotics will do their trick. Guess my being awake right now could have something to do with all that.
Heading south is what Nat will do on Sunday. She will play in the main draw of the Gainesville, Florida 10K. A tourney that some of you may remember from last year. The one with a novice chair ump, that each player was correcting in favor for their opponent. Hopefully, she won't be there or at least in a chair on Nat's court. For dubs in Gville, our gal will team up with Sally Peers from Australia.
Following that tourney, she will travel to Orlando. As of this moment in the qualifier, out of the main by three. Natalie should move into the main for singles. Can't remember who she is playing dubs with for that one....may be Sally. I'll let you know in a future blog.
Find myself having to give a shout out to a friend.....Rich. Yesterday morning I posted on my FaceBook page that I needed a baby monitor for Nana's room. Asking if anyone had one we could have, borrow or buy. In order to, hear Nana during the night. Within minutes Rich responded that one would be shipped immediately and asking if that was ok with me. Knowing his wife suffered a stroke last year, I assumed they had one laying around. Of course I was trilled. It was only after arriving home at 9:30 pm. that I found out what really occurred. You see Rich read my post, immediately went out to Walmart and bought a monitor. Then proceeded to the post office and shipped it and extra batteries to my mom. Wow....all I can say is Wow! Our lives are Blessed with sooooo many wonderful people and Rich is one of them. Thank you Rich!
We hadn't planned for me to go to Florida until the end of the Orlando trip. Which in light of Nana's condition is probably a good thing, for I may not get to go at all. Natalie is staying with a friend on Florida's campus, which she is looking forward to doing. I'm still working on getting her housing in Orlando and just about have that worked out.
Anyone with housing connections in Paris or Strasbourg, France?? If so, please email us at pluskotatennis@yahoo.com. or If you have my phone number text me. Thanks!
OOOooooo I hear lil Edward, getting ready for work. Guess I'll check on him and the load of laundry I put in the machine. Love and Blessings.....Sherry!
P.S. Prayers for Nana would be appreciated! Thanks! xoxoxox
As for me....Nana is not doing well. A trip to the ER was in order yesterday. After nearly nine hours, we trek home. Hopefully the antibiotics will do their trick. Guess my being awake right now could have something to do with all that.
Heading south is what Nat will do on Sunday. She will play in the main draw of the Gainesville, Florida 10K. A tourney that some of you may remember from last year. The one with a novice chair ump, that each player was correcting in favor for their opponent. Hopefully, she won't be there or at least in a chair on Nat's court. For dubs in Gville, our gal will team up with Sally Peers from Australia.
Following that tourney, she will travel to Orlando. As of this moment in the qualifier, out of the main by three. Natalie should move into the main for singles. Can't remember who she is playing dubs with for that one....may be Sally. I'll let you know in a future blog.
Find myself having to give a shout out to a friend.....Rich. Yesterday morning I posted on my FaceBook page that I needed a baby monitor for Nana's room. Asking if anyone had one we could have, borrow or buy. In order to, hear Nana during the night. Within minutes Rich responded that one would be shipped immediately and asking if that was ok with me. Knowing his wife suffered a stroke last year, I assumed they had one laying around. Of course I was trilled. It was only after arriving home at 9:30 pm. that I found out what really occurred. You see Rich read my post, immediately went out to Walmart and bought a monitor. Then proceeded to the post office and shipped it and extra batteries to my mom. Wow....all I can say is Wow! Our lives are Blessed with sooooo many wonderful people and Rich is one of them. Thank you Rich!
We hadn't planned for me to go to Florida until the end of the Orlando trip. Which in light of Nana's condition is probably a good thing, for I may not get to go at all. Natalie is staying with a friend on Florida's campus, which she is looking forward to doing. I'm still working on getting her housing in Orlando and just about have that worked out.
Anyone with housing connections in Paris or Strasbourg, France?? If so, please email us at pluskotatennis@yahoo.com. or If you have my phone number text me. Thanks!
OOOooooo I hear lil Edward, getting ready for work. Guess I'll check on him and the load of laundry I put in the machine. Love and Blessings.....Sherry!
P.S. Prayers for Nana would be appreciated! Thanks! xoxoxox
Monday, February 24, 2014
Great Success....video...Poker for Pluskota
Great SUCCESS...that is how we would sum up our first Poker for Pluskota event. I say first, because many that attended have already asked when we are doing the next one. For they are eager to continue the Team Pluskota mission of raising enough funds for Natalie to go to Europe to play. And we soooo appreciate their willingness to help with that mission. Yes, we will being hosting another event and soon!
Some played and some watched....but.....everyone had fun! Many THANKS to our community and all those that attended our event. And THANKS to those that gave gifts via PayPal, snail mail, etc. So far $1,400 has been raised, almost the price of Natalie's airline ticket. Here is a video designed with the pictures from last night.....please enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WbtOWa_7wHY&feature=youtu.be
Some played and some watched....but.....everyone had fun! Many THANKS to our community and all those that attended our event. And THANKS to those that gave gifts via PayPal, snail mail, etc. So far $1,400 has been raised, almost the price of Natalie's airline ticket. Here is a video designed with the pictures from last night.....please enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WbtOWa_7wHY&feature=youtu.be
Sunday, February 23, 2014
Promo Video of Natalie on the March Madness site
A few months back, Natalie was asked to submit a video depicting her accomplishments and goals. Which would be used to promote female athletes, the NCAA Ladies Basketball Championships ...aka.....March Madness. What an honor to be featured on the website of the Organizing Committee of the NCAA Championships! Please follow the link below to the Music City Plays site and said video.
http://musiccityplays.net/legacy-programs/women-in-the-game/
http://musiccityplays.net/legacy-programs/women-in-the-game/
Friday, February 21, 2014
Reminder....Poker for Pluskota
Good Morning from a soggy Georgia! Hitting the ground running this morning....just wanted to send out a reminder ....here it is.....TOMORROW......Come Join Us!
Thursday, February 20, 2014
Blessed with a Wonderful Community
Upon returning home, we were met with several unpleasant issues. First and most important, Nana (my mom) who lives with us is having issues and set backs. She is 89 years old, so a natural progression whether or not we are ready for it. Please send prayers!
Then the host for our Poker for Pluskota tourney, decided they didn't want to host anymore and informed us Monday night. Team Pluskota member and dear friend made arrangements for a new venue, which is awesome. Our community never ceases to amazing me in their continued support of Natalie and our family. We are Blessed with a wonderful community and many true and dear friends! Thank you!!
And of course I had to get that old painful tooth dealt with first thing on Tuesday. Seems to be doing much better every day. Hoping by tomorrow I won't even remember that it had been an issue. Thank you dentist Laney Smith!
Some great news, my children learned via experience this week. Life lessons can be hurtful at times, disappointing at times and even frustrating. But it is truly how we rise above them that make us who we are. We had to deal with someone that was trying to befriend Natalie because of who she is on the tennis court. Unfortunately, those "obsessed" types will do or say anything to be in Nat's life. Not at all pleasant to deal with, but I'm very proud of Natalie, Nic and Edward and how they represented our family in this situation. For them to be mature enough to recognize the person has "issues" and quietly handle it.....amazing! Yes, I'm very proud of my children!
Don't forget to come play poker with us or just visit us at the Poker for Pluskota event. Love and Blessings ....Sherry!
Then the host for our Poker for Pluskota tourney, decided they didn't want to host anymore and informed us Monday night. Team Pluskota member and dear friend made arrangements for a new venue, which is awesome. Our community never ceases to amazing me in their continued support of Natalie and our family. We are Blessed with a wonderful community and many true and dear friends! Thank you!!
And of course I had to get that old painful tooth dealt with first thing on Tuesday. Seems to be doing much better every day. Hoping by tomorrow I won't even remember that it had been an issue. Thank you dentist Laney Smith!
Some great news, my children learned via experience this week. Life lessons can be hurtful at times, disappointing at times and even frustrating. But it is truly how we rise above them that make us who we are. We had to deal with someone that was trying to befriend Natalie because of who she is on the tennis court. Unfortunately, those "obsessed" types will do or say anything to be in Nat's life. Not at all pleasant to deal with, but I'm very proud of Natalie, Nic and Edward and how they represented our family in this situation. For them to be mature enough to recognize the person has "issues" and quietly handle it.....amazing! Yes, I'm very proud of my children!
Don't forget to come play poker with us or just visit us at the Poker for Pluskota event. Love and Blessings ....Sherry!
Wednesday, February 19, 2014
Video ....Midland Memories
Here are some our Midland Memories....hope you enjoy our video......
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PcQR8ir0Kfo&feature=youtu.be
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PcQR8ir0Kfo&feature=youtu.be
Tuesday, February 18, 2014
Poker for Pluskota....VENUE CHANGE
VENUE CHANGE
Our Poker for Pluskota event has moved locations to:
Arbor Springs Swim and Tennis Club House
250 Arbor Springs Plantation Drive
Newnan, GA 30263
From Thomas Crossroads:
Take Hwy 154 to Hwy 29 and turn right.
Continue appox. 1 mile and turn left into the Arbor Springs Subdivision
You should be driving on Arbor Springs Plantation Drive, continue 3/4 mile and club house will be on the left.
Monday, February 17, 2014
Team Pluskota - T shirts
Now Available!!
Team Pluskota T-shirts
$17 per shirt + $5 shipping
(including Youth XLarge, Adult Med, Adult Large, Adult XLarge)
$19 per shirt + $5 shipping
(including 2 XLarge and 3 XLarge)
You can use our PayPal - pluskotatennis@yahoo.com
Be sure to include sizes, address in message box on PayPal
Or contact Sherry Pluskota at sherrypluskota@yahoo.com
to arrange pickup or snail mail payment
Sunday, February 16, 2014
Standing Ovation...
......and so our time in Midland, Michigan is coming to an end. But only after Natalie playing some great tennis, enjoying a ton of community outreach projects and enjoying the folks and tourney of Midland. Kudos once again to Woody, his staff and volunteers for a great week! The Dow Corning Tennis Classic.....is just that.....a Classic tourney of tennis....we look forward to next year.
The semi final doubles match of yesterday, did not showcase our team very well. For we started the first set down 3-0 in no time at all. Seems we didn't know the "net is not your friend", cuz the ball insisted it was. Then it was 1-6 in the first.
The second set was a totally different story, and a solid battle of dubs. Natalie served bombs and even a game sealing ace to take us to three all. Boy, was she playing amazing doubles. We continued to battle but just couldn't get it done in the second, losing 5-7.
Our team may have lost that match, but they had the heart of the audience. A standing ovation took place following the match in honor of our team, the crowd favorite. An ovation that warmed my heart and solidified once again, the impression Natalie stamps on a town by being the person and player that she is. Another proud moment in time for this mom!
Many thanks to the fans of Midland! Your continued support of Natalie and the other players is greatly appreciated. For they could not be living out their dreams without it. THANK YOU!
A shout out to Darryl, Diane, Andrew and Mia.....thank you for taking such amazing care of us! But most of all thank you for your friendship, giggles and fellowship. We look forward to more of all of that!
Today, we hit the ground running or at least driving. Natalie will give Mia a lesson. While I pack the car and ready for home. An overnight stop in Indy to meet my great niece Savannah. And for us to spend time with Nat's cousins and their families. Before completing our journey on Monday. Once home we will work fast and furiously on the preparations for our Poker for Pluskota event, which is next Saturday.
Thanks for the memories Midland....until next year.....Love and Blessings.....Sherry!
The semi final doubles match of yesterday, did not showcase our team very well. For we started the first set down 3-0 in no time at all. Seems we didn't know the "net is not your friend", cuz the ball insisted it was. Then it was 1-6 in the first.
The second set was a totally different story, and a solid battle of dubs. Natalie served bombs and even a game sealing ace to take us to three all. Boy, was she playing amazing doubles. We continued to battle but just couldn't get it done in the second, losing 5-7.
Our team may have lost that match, but they had the heart of the audience. A standing ovation took place following the match in honor of our team, the crowd favorite. An ovation that warmed my heart and solidified once again, the impression Natalie stamps on a town by being the person and player that she is. Another proud moment in time for this mom!
Many thanks to the fans of Midland! Your continued support of Natalie and the other players is greatly appreciated. For they could not be living out their dreams without it. THANK YOU!
A shout out to Darryl, Diane, Andrew and Mia.....thank you for taking such amazing care of us! But most of all thank you for your friendship, giggles and fellowship. We look forward to more of all of that!
Today, we hit the ground running or at least driving. Natalie will give Mia a lesson. While I pack the car and ready for home. An overnight stop in Indy to meet my great niece Savannah. And for us to spend time with Nat's cousins and their families. Before completing our journey on Monday. Once home we will work fast and furiously on the preparations for our Poker for Pluskota event, which is next Saturday.
Thanks for the memories Midland....until next year.....Love and Blessings.....Sherry!
Saturday, February 15, 2014
Adult Clinic - Video memories
Natalie and Asia ran an adult clinic the other day....her are some memories via my camera lens for your enjoyment......
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JRGeEF4H-Dg&feature=youtu.be
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JRGeEF4H-Dg&feature=youtu.be
Friday, February 14, 2014
Earthquake, Doubles, Friends, Pearls and Blessings
Now an earthquake, what is going on in the south? Hopefully, everyone is safe and sound. We are here in the 20 degree balmy north of Michigan. hahahahah
Our ladies did it, they won their doubles match today and punched their ticket to the semi finals of this 100K tournament. Beating fellow Americans Will/Abaza in two straight sets. We started out a little sluggish and went down 2-1. But soon found our game and methodically worked through each game and eventually the match. Both teams battled from both the baseline and at the net. However, Natalie and Nicole's big service games definitely made the difference. Rockstar's (Abaza, my nickname for her) "sneak attack poaching" was deadly many a times. Darn her for having a great dad for a coach.
Our team battled back and won the first set 6-3. Going up in the second set 5-2 suddenly became exciting when Abaza/Will battled back to make it 5 all. But it was our team that decided it was time to end the match and took the next two games, with Natalie serving us into the next round, semi finals.
Tomorrow, Natalie and Nicole will play on center court at 6 p.m. The opponents are Tateshvili/Watson, who are seeded fourth and tourney ranked 225. The match will be carried via live video feed....here is the link:
http://www.usta.com/Pro-Tennis/Pro-Circuit/usta_pro_circuit_live_streaming/
We often say that the journey is what keeps us going. And that we have to enjoy the little things that make it so special. Meeting new people is one of those little things. The town of Midland embraces the Dow Corning Tennis Classic in grand style. The stands are always full of fans and it is fantastic. Here is a picture of some of Natalie's fans here in Midland, she really appreciates them coming to watch her play:
We have been Blessed to have met some wonderful people here in Midland, Michigan. Many of which have been coming to watch Natalie play. One of which gave both of us a very unexpected gift. It is not unusual for Natalie to receive a gift or gifts from people involved with a tourney. However, for this very special person to include me .....totally unexpected. I can say that it totally made both of our week and Valentines Day very special. For neither of us have a pearl bracelet, and they are beautiful....soo THANK YOU special friend! Here is a picture:
Counting my Blessings tonight and they are plentiful and I thank God for all of them. May you do the same! Don't forget to tune in to the match tomorrow night....until the lil yellow ball begins to bounce....Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Our ladies did it, they won their doubles match today and punched their ticket to the semi finals of this 100K tournament. Beating fellow Americans Will/Abaza in two straight sets. We started out a little sluggish and went down 2-1. But soon found our game and methodically worked through each game and eventually the match. Both teams battled from both the baseline and at the net. However, Natalie and Nicole's big service games definitely made the difference. Rockstar's (Abaza, my nickname for her) "sneak attack poaching" was deadly many a times. Darn her for having a great dad for a coach.
Our team battled back and won the first set 6-3. Going up in the second set 5-2 suddenly became exciting when Abaza/Will battled back to make it 5 all. But it was our team that decided it was time to end the match and took the next two games, with Natalie serving us into the next round, semi finals.
Tomorrow, Natalie and Nicole will play on center court at 6 p.m. The opponents are Tateshvili/Watson, who are seeded fourth and tourney ranked 225. The match will be carried via live video feed....here is the link:
http://www.usta.com/Pro-Tennis/Pro-Circuit/usta_pro_circuit_live_streaming/
We often say that the journey is what keeps us going. And that we have to enjoy the little things that make it so special. Meeting new people is one of those little things. The town of Midland embraces the Dow Corning Tennis Classic in grand style. The stands are always full of fans and it is fantastic. Here is a picture of some of Natalie's fans here in Midland, she really appreciates them coming to watch her play:
 |
| Back Row...left to right.....Amy, Natalie, Ken, Nicole (Nat's partner) , Cindy, Darryl (our host dad) Front Row....left to right.....Claire and Anna (Amy's daughters) |
 |
| Left to Right.....Savannah and Claire |
We have been Blessed to have met some wonderful people here in Midland, Michigan. Many of which have been coming to watch Natalie play. One of which gave both of us a very unexpected gift. It is not unusual for Natalie to receive a gift or gifts from people involved with a tourney. However, for this very special person to include me .....totally unexpected. I can say that it totally made both of our week and Valentines Day very special. For neither of us have a pearl bracelet, and they are beautiful....soo THANK YOU special friend! Here is a picture:
Counting my Blessings tonight and they are plentiful and I thank God for all of them. May you do the same! Don't forget to tune in to the match tomorrow night....until the lil yellow ball begins to bounce....Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Thursday, February 13, 2014
Our team won....WOOT!
Late night update....the good news.....OUR TEAM WON! WOOT....WOOT! With the loss of the coin toss, our team was to receive the big serve of Vanderwieghe. As if that wasn't challenging enough, the very first serve of the match was no less then a foot long....but neither the line judge or chair ump called it. Not a good start, and unfortunately the line calls or lack of them was a big factor. Mostly against our team as in 15 vs. 2 times.
Credit to Natalie and Nicole for keeping their cool and playing through the bad line calling. The teams were on serve for most of the first set. Natalie, Nicole and CoCo served really well. However, our team broke CoCo to go up in the first set. But the opponents battled back and we found ourselves in a breaker for the first. Neck and neck in the breaker until Natalie was serving for the set, and that she did....she served the bombs and we got the set. We started the second set sluggish and went down quickly. Tried to battle back but it just didn't work, lost the second 4-6. Sending us into a breaker in lieu of the third set.
Nicole served a bomb to start us with a 1-0 lead. Shortly after we went up 4-3, then 9-4, 9-5 with Slater serving.....and with a double fault....we had the win! Natalie and Nicole played a really good match....can't recommend anything to change!
Tomorrow our team will play at eleven o'clock. There will be live scoring. The opponents are Will/Abaza. The four ladies have faced each other on the doubles many times. Should be a match of great doubles.
Well, the pizza should be arriving very soon....gotta go....Love and Blessings....Sherry!
P.S. Please say a little prayer for the Perry Family that lost their brother and son Mike today to cancer, may he rest in peace. And may the family find comfort in the Lord during this difficult time! xoxo
Credit to Natalie and Nicole for keeping their cool and playing through the bad line calling. The teams were on serve for most of the first set. Natalie, Nicole and CoCo served really well. However, our team broke CoCo to go up in the first set. But the opponents battled back and we found ourselves in a breaker for the first. Neck and neck in the breaker until Natalie was serving for the set, and that she did....she served the bombs and we got the set. We started the second set sluggish and went down quickly. Tried to battle back but it just didn't work, lost the second 4-6. Sending us into a breaker in lieu of the third set.
Nicole served a bomb to start us with a 1-0 lead. Shortly after we went up 4-3, then 9-4, 9-5 with Slater serving.....and with a double fault....we had the win! Natalie and Nicole played a really good match....can't recommend anything to change!
Tomorrow our team will play at eleven o'clock. There will be live scoring. The opponents are Will/Abaza. The four ladies have faced each other on the doubles many times. Should be a match of great doubles.
Well, the pizza should be arriving very soon....gotta go....Love and Blessings....Sherry!
P.S. Please say a little prayer for the Perry Family that lost their brother and son Mike today to cancer, may he rest in peace. And may the family find comfort in the Lord during this difficult time! xoxo
Thoughts of folks back home....today's agenda
Sending prayers and positive warm thoughts to the folks back home. The weather has been brutal to say the least. Unfortunately, our kids never have a chance to drive on snow and ice for practice, therefore as adults they don't know how. That with the lack of experience of our government leaders have with bad weather conditions leads to all the issues we have on the roads at this time. I guess it's Baptism by Fire for everyone right now! Hope all are safe....esp....my son Nic, the firefighter that is currently driving on roads that were shut down to go into the station. Please pray for him and all involved in the storm area.
Yesterday, Natalie continued to enjoy participating in the Community Outreach Program. Having had a couple of speaking engagements as well as another meet a greet. She also enjoyed teaching a beginner clinic. After all of which she practiced and had the trainer work on her. She is feeling good and looking forward to today's match.
Natalie and Nicole Melichar will face fellow American CoCo Vanderweighe and Nicola Slater (GBR). Our team is tourney ranked 404 and the opponents 302. Nat has not faced Coco on the dubs court prior to today, but beat her in juniors on the singles court....like....10 years ago...hahahah. However, Nat has faced Slater on the dubs court and holds a 3-0 record for the match up. This match of dubs will come done to the service games for Nat, Melichar and Vanderweighe all have huge serves if for no other reason that all are above 5'10" in height. Slater had a solid service game and talented hands at the net. In my completely bias opinion....I pick OUR TEAM for this one....let's hope I continue to be correct in my predictions. Wait....what....I have been correct thus far?? Heck I don't know...have I even made any predictions?
Anyway.....this double match should be exciting to watch. Don't forget there are live scores, if you are interested here is the link:
Click on link, once on web page click on the yellow "live" toggle, then click on drop down and find Midland 100K.
http://www.itftennis.com/procircuit/tournaments/women's-tournament/info.aspx?tournamentid=1100031028
Time to get ready for this morning service project! Our match will be on 4th on after 10 ...which of course is code for 2ish. Until the lil yellow ball commences to bounce....Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Yesterday, Natalie continued to enjoy participating in the Community Outreach Program. Having had a couple of speaking engagements as well as another meet a greet. She also enjoyed teaching a beginner clinic. After all of which she practiced and had the trainer work on her. She is feeling good and looking forward to today's match.
Natalie and Nicole Melichar will face fellow American CoCo Vanderweighe and Nicola Slater (GBR). Our team is tourney ranked 404 and the opponents 302. Nat has not faced Coco on the dubs court prior to today, but beat her in juniors on the singles court....like....10 years ago...hahahah. However, Nat has faced Slater on the dubs court and holds a 3-0 record for the match up. This match of dubs will come done to the service games for Nat, Melichar and Vanderweighe all have huge serves if for no other reason that all are above 5'10" in height. Slater had a solid service game and talented hands at the net. In my completely bias opinion....I pick OUR TEAM for this one....let's hope I continue to be correct in my predictions. Wait....what....I have been correct thus far?? Heck I don't know...have I even made any predictions?
Anyway.....this double match should be exciting to watch. Don't forget there are live scores, if you are interested here is the link:
Click on link, once on web page click on the yellow "live" toggle, then click on drop down and find Midland 100K.
http://www.itftennis.com/procircuit/tournaments/women's-tournament/info.aspx?tournamentid=1100031028
Time to get ready for this morning service project! Our match will be on 4th on after 10 ...which of course is code for 2ish. Until the lil yellow ball commences to bounce....Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
High Road
Ahhhhh USA....Canadian Olympic hockey....what a great way to start my day. Hopefully will get to see some curling today, although the tourney is keeping Natalie so busy we haven't been able to watch many events. Which of course business comes first.
Yesterday, our gal did not practice. Seeking evaluation and treatment for her back took her to the training room. A pull in the lower back was the doc's opinion. He instructed her to get rest her response.....I will when I get home next week.
Nat was able to make a school visit and enjoyed it. Most of the students she spoke to will be here today to enjoy watching matches. She was able to give a lesson but had to cancel the second one to go home to rest. The day was just too long and much on her feet.
Ending the day Natalie found herself at a meet and greet for the sponsors. Always fun, and no different this time. For the time was highlighted with tomorrow's opponent trash talking. Guess some folks haven't been taught manners, for not a convo to be had around sponsors. But our class act just replied by stating she was going to take the high road and changed the topic back to the real focus of the evening....the sponsors. Thankful Nat didn't remind the opponent that she is 0-3 against Nat on the doubles court....but hey....who is counting right? <<<<insert winky smily face here>>>
After a quick yummy taco dinner at the Frickey's, we enjoyed the Olympics before bed. Today, Natalie will speak to a group of children prior to teaching a two hour class for beginner adults. Followed by a massage at the trainer. Then she and Nicole will take to the court for a practice. Then she will have another speaking opportunity. I think that will be it for the day. So, until we are on the flip side of all that.....Love and Blessings.....Sherry!
P.S. Sure hope our family and friends are safe and sound in the cold, snowy and icy south. Never thought I would be saying it.....but thank goodness for Michigan weather right now!
Yesterday, our gal did not practice. Seeking evaluation and treatment for her back took her to the training room. A pull in the lower back was the doc's opinion. He instructed her to get rest her response.....I will when I get home next week.
Nat was able to make a school visit and enjoyed it. Most of the students she spoke to will be here today to enjoy watching matches. She was able to give a lesson but had to cancel the second one to go home to rest. The day was just too long and much on her feet.
Ending the day Natalie found herself at a meet and greet for the sponsors. Always fun, and no different this time. For the time was highlighted with tomorrow's opponent trash talking. Guess some folks haven't been taught manners, for not a convo to be had around sponsors. But our class act just replied by stating she was going to take the high road and changed the topic back to the real focus of the evening....the sponsors. Thankful Nat didn't remind the opponent that she is 0-3 against Nat on the doubles court....but hey....who is counting right? <<<<insert winky smily face here>>>
After a quick yummy taco dinner at the Frickey's, we enjoyed the Olympics before bed. Today, Natalie will speak to a group of children prior to teaching a two hour class for beginner adults. Followed by a massage at the trainer. Then she and Nicole will take to the court for a practice. Then she will have another speaking opportunity. I think that will be it for the day. So, until we are on the flip side of all that.....Love and Blessings.....Sherry!
P.S. Sure hope our family and friends are safe and sound in the cold, snowy and icy south. Never thought I would be saying it.....but thank goodness for Michigan weather right now!
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
The kids of Midland....Video
Anyone that knows Natalie, agrees that she LOVES participating in the Kid's Clinics, Community Outreach Programs and ProAms of a tournament. Midland is probably her favorite place to do it, for they have it well organized and many opportunities for the players to "serve". Please enjoy this video of pictures put to music of the Kid's Clinics:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=baNdC2CTrXM&feature=youtu.be
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=baNdC2CTrXM&feature=youtu.be
A taste of our desserts and fellowship....
Morning from Midland! Natalie is learning all kinds of lessons while here in Michigan. Most of which are coming out of the mouths of babes, children. One of which told her that she fell down the stairs (on first day here), because she was going down them with socks on her feet. You never ever should wear socks.
Yesterday's second round of the qualifying singles draw began around one o'clock for Natalie. Playing the second seed Murry, 204. She found herself leading the first set till it was 4-3. Then a couple of errors at the wrong time and she lost the first set 4-6. Must say, she is playing awesome tennis and her mental game has developed to a new level. Progress indeed! Natalie found herself down 2-4 in the second set before reeling some huge first serves and ground strokes to close out four straight games and the set 6-4.
The end of the second set had more drama then just a rough start. For it was very clear at the end of it, Natalie was nursing a lower back issue, possible pulled muscle. After the set break, we witnessed her very gingerly stand up and walk to the line....hmmmm not good. Although the third set score of 0-6, didn't reflect the effort, Natalie played a solid set. Hats off to Murry for winning the third and a great match of tennis.
Waiting for our gal to emerge from the trainer's room, many wonderful Midland spectators greeted me. It always amazes us, how many people attend this tournament and support Natalie and all players. It really has become one of our top favorite tourneys in a great part to the community's involvement and attendance. It is always more fun for a player to perform for an audience then empty seats. Very special!
Upon Nat's emergence, she explained that the trainer believes that the fall down the stairs was the beginning to the back issue and of course, playing aggravated the problem. Today, we will decide to seek medical attention or not. A lesson learned.....wooden stairs are a sock free zone, your back depends on it.
Last night was the players party. Which in the spirit of this tourney..... great party! Woody, his staff and the Midland Country Club always do a fantastic job. With 1,500 desserts....what was not to love??? We enjoyed the desserts and the fellowship with Tom, Cindy and Jason Cook. Other highlights of the evening included a video of the past winners of the Dow Corning Tennis Classic. As well as the introduction of the players. As a mom, it never gets old to hear your daughter thank the tournament folks, sponsors, volunteers. But when she thanks them for giving her the opportunity to "serve" via the community outreach programs....you know as a mom you have done something right. Could not be more proud of Natalie then in that moment in time!
Today, the double draw will begin but not for our team. For they will not play until Thursday, and we are hoping it will be a featured match. Won't know for sure until the schedule is released on Wednesday. From this point forward there will be live video feed of the matches and live scoring. You can find the live feed link on the USTA site under the Professional Tennis link. I will post link for Natalie's next match.
Because I want to give you a "taste" of our desserts and fellowship, please enjoy the pictures below:
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| Many thanks to Cindy Cook for picking Natalie & Emily up at the airport! |
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| So very proud of this and all speeches....."thanks for the opportunity to serve"! |
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| Choices.... |
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| The pride of Midland....Meghan Woody! |
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| Choices.... |
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| Our tourney director Mike Woody....job well done....AGAIN! |
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| Cake Pops! Nom Nom! |
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| Nat and Em |
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| Our finally selections! |
Monday, February 10, 2014
Poker for Pluskota
REMINDER
Please HELP to keep Natalie on the tour, do so by purchasing your ticket soon! If you don't want to play, please feel free to join us for a evening of fun, just bring a dish to share. If you can't do either but would like to GIFT Natalie.....please do so via PayPal (link located on top left of our blog) or you can send her something via snail mail at: Pluskota, P.O. Box 584, Tyrone, GA 30290. Any and all GIFTS would be greatly appreciated.
Sunday, February 9, 2014
Confidence
We started our day watching the Olympics, something we love to do. Then Natalie made her way for a warm up at one o'clock. The Frickey's and I made our way over once laundry was finished, lunch too. Nat went on right around three o'clock and boy was she on! Her Hungarian opponent couldn't handle the variety of balls our gal was sending over the net. Natalie's confidence was solid and evident. She was serving to win the second set, was down....love 30. Came to the line and served two confident huge first serves to make it 30 all. Came back to the line and served a third big first serve to go up 40-30. The next point went live and Natalie drill a back hand that the opponent couldn't get to. Must say, the best match of tennis Nat has play thus far this season. Was happy to see her confident in her game plan and abilities. Natalie won it 6-2, 6-0!
Some of you might be wondering....why isn't Natalie confident or why is it so evident today? I will attempt to explain. Embarking on the pro circuit of tennis is a whole new world. In the last 18 months, Natalie has found herself walking into player lounges filled will players she has watched or admired for years. So she kinda walks in like a tourist, amazed at her surroundings if you will. Continuing to attend such tournaments will help her to realize that she is "one of them" and not a tourist. That she belongs there, and has the right to be there. That she can compete with the top in the world. The day Natalie can walk into a player lounge and not have the "tourist" reaction is a mile stone for any player. All has an affect on confidence. Natalie's tennis techniques are looking great....thanks Jason.....right now its the battle of confidence.....so today's match was full of confidence....a mile stone indeed! WOOT!
Tomorrow, our gal will face Samantha Murry (GBR), who is the second seed with a world ranking of 240. The two have not played each other. Murry played a three set match today vs. Ellie. They will play third on after ten.....code for 1ish.
We will find out tomorrow afternoon if Natalie and Nicole will make it into the double draws. Even though their tourney ranking is 404, they are on the edge of not making it into the draw. They did request a wild card as a back up plan, so we will see what happens.
There will be live scoring so please follow the link in last post and enjoy. As for me, time to dream and ready myself to watch the lil yellow ball tomorrow.....Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Some of you might be wondering....why isn't Natalie confident or why is it so evident today? I will attempt to explain. Embarking on the pro circuit of tennis is a whole new world. In the last 18 months, Natalie has found herself walking into player lounges filled will players she has watched or admired for years. So she kinda walks in like a tourist, amazed at her surroundings if you will. Continuing to attend such tournaments will help her to realize that she is "one of them" and not a tourist. That she belongs there, and has the right to be there. That she can compete with the top in the world. The day Natalie can walk into a player lounge and not have the "tourist" reaction is a mile stone for any player. All has an affect on confidence. Natalie's tennis techniques are looking great....thanks Jason.....right now its the battle of confidence.....so today's match was full of confidence....a mile stone indeed! WOOT!
Tomorrow, our gal will face Samantha Murry (GBR), who is the second seed with a world ranking of 240. The two have not played each other. Murry played a three set match today vs. Ellie. They will play third on after ten.....code for 1ish.
We will find out tomorrow afternoon if Natalie and Nicole will make it into the double draws. Even though their tourney ranking is 404, they are on the edge of not making it into the draw. They did request a wild card as a back up plan, so we will see what happens.
There will be live scoring so please follow the link in last post and enjoy. As for me, time to dream and ready myself to watch the lil yellow ball tomorrow.....Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Today's Match for Nat
Morning from Midland! Feeling good after the best night's sleep in five days! Enjoying our hosts, the Frickey family. They always make us feel right at home with great conversations and hospitality. The stories we share usually have us all laughing and appreciating our Blessed lives.
Today begins the Singles Qualifying Draw of the Dow Corning 100K Tennis Classic. Natalie will play fourth on after ten....which of course is code for 3ish. She will face Naomi Totka of Hungry who is ranked 632 in the world. An opponent that Nat has not faced before, nor seen prior. There is live scoring, the link can be found below....go to the web page then click on Midland, MI:
http://www.itftennis.com/procircuit/tournaments/women's-calendar.aspx
Today begins the Singles Qualifying Draw of the Dow Corning 100K Tennis Classic. Natalie will play fourth on after ten....which of course is code for 3ish. She will face Naomi Totka of Hungry who is ranked 632 in the world. An opponent that Nat has not faced before, nor seen prior. There is live scoring, the link can be found below....go to the web page then click on Midland, MI:
http://www.itftennis.com/procircuit/tournaments/women's-calendar.aspx
Saturday, February 8, 2014
Turtle Stance
Good Morning from Toledo....Operation Dodge the Snowflakes is successfully still underway. Must say that my arrival last night reminded me of a variety of issues one must deal with in five degree weather. To explain a few.....
- You must use the turtle stance while pumping gas....tuck and pump....that tuck of your head allows you to breath in warm air.
- Each time you leave your vehicle for an extended period of time, you have to take you laptop, camera, CDs, etc. with you.
- Upon arriving exhausted, you can't jump into your jammies immediately for they have been in a freezing trunk....must allow time for warming up.
- You can't reach for your stash of gatorade for a sip, for its frozen solid from being in vehicle overnight.
Natalie has been a busy bee, thus far she has given two tennis lessons, a radio interview, a ProAm and practiced. Today, she will practice and participate in another ProAm at noon. Here is a picture of our gal hard at work:
We are looking forward to watching the Olympics. The Opening Ceremonies were awesome, hats off to Russia. Hopefully, the media will get more focused on the athletes and games. For the security issues and problems with hotels, etc. .....important for sure.....should not be the focus. The athletes have spent a lifetime preparing for this moment and that is what we ALL should be focused on. Goooooooo USA....USA....USA....USA....USA....USA!
Time to put the layers on and prepare to head further north. So far north, that Interstate 75 ends. Which of course means, I've driven nearly it's entire length in the last month. WeW! Until I'm on the flip side of the boarder watching the lil yellow ball bounce....Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Thursday, February 6, 2014
Marvelous morning in Midland, Michigan
Marvelous morning in Midland, Michigan according to Natalie. Who flew into Detroit this morning, safe and sound. According to her there is tons of snow on the ground and it's freezing, 14 degrees. She is safe and sound with Diane our host mom for the week.
They will head over to the courts for practice and registration. This tournament is jammed packed with community outreach projects. Last year, Natalie spent several days speaking at multitude of schools, tried to pick up a boyfriend at the Kiawanis Luncheon, helped with cardio tennis ....to name a few. The outreach projects begin tomorrow and are scheduled like clock work every day. We are amazed at how well Woody, his staff and volunteers organize the large amount daily outreach projects for the players to participate in.
May God keep our athletes and the athletes of the world safe today for the Olympic Opening Ceremonies and for their entire stint in Russia. I'm excited to see the ceremony until then.....Love and Blessings.....Sherry!
They will head over to the courts for practice and registration. This tournament is jammed packed with community outreach projects. Last year, Natalie spent several days speaking at multitude of schools, tried to pick up a boyfriend at the Kiawanis Luncheon, helped with cardio tennis ....to name a few. The outreach projects begin tomorrow and are scheduled like clock work every day. We are amazed at how well Woody, his staff and volunteers organize the large amount daily outreach projects for the players to participate in.
May God keep our athletes and the athletes of the world safe today for the Olympic Opening Ceremonies and for their entire stint in Russia. I'm excited to see the ceremony until then.....Love and Blessings.....Sherry!
Wednesday, February 5, 2014
Operation Dodge the Snowflakes
Good Morning from a chilly Cincinnati, Ohio. Operation Dodge the Snowflakes is working thus far, hopefully I didn't just jinx myself. Trying to time my travels between snow storms is an interesting feat. Happy to say the road all the way to Cincy were great. I will be here till at least Friday. Enjoying a free room at the Hyatt can spoil a gal and fast!
Natalie will fly to Detroit tomorrow....hopefully! Having built extra time into her schedule for winter weather has us relaxed at this point. Really kinda hoping she can get "bumped", for she can always use a free round trip ticket for another tourney.
The poker tourney.....don't forget we are having a fundraiser in Nat's name on Feb 22nd. If you don't play poker but would still like to come out and support Natalie...please do so. Just bring a dish to share! Contact me or any Pluskota for tickets or information. Get your ticket ASAP, seating limited!
Time for sleep.....Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Natalie will fly to Detroit tomorrow....hopefully! Having built extra time into her schedule for winter weather has us relaxed at this point. Really kinda hoping she can get "bumped", for she can always use a free round trip ticket for another tourney.
The poker tourney.....don't forget we are having a fundraiser in Nat's name on Feb 22nd. If you don't play poker but would still like to come out and support Natalie...please do so. Just bring a dish to share! Contact me or any Pluskota for tickets or information. Get your ticket ASAP, seating limited!
Time for sleep.....Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Tuesday, February 4, 2014
Christian Band
With a high of 63 degrees today, I'm really not sure why I've convinced myself to head north today. Yes, I do remember now.....because there two.....yes two....big snow storms on the horizon and I need to scoot between em to get to Midland. So my first leg, Knoxville. Then onto a holding pattern in Cincy tomorrow. At which time I will decide via weather and road reports when to continue to Michigan.
Natalie was excited to see a Christian band last night at a local church. Just wish I could remember the name of it, they are excellent for I've heard them myself. She has enjoyed her time at home but is preparing to leave on Thursday. Booked her flight for that day so she has a couple of bumper days if needed for weather, hopefully she won't have to use em. Miss freezy cat is def not looking forward to the cold of Michigan, but she is looking forward to seeing our host family and the tourney.
Today will be a practice and fitness day. After which, Nat will give lessons to some local folks. Then this evening she will go to her former high school for the Senior Night for the basketball teams. She has been mentoring some of the Lady Vikings and team. Natalie is looking forward to this event, and seeing the team. Guess laundry and packing will be in that schedule somewhere.
Gotta go folks, gotta a car to load....see you on the flip side....Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Natalie was excited to see a Christian band last night at a local church. Just wish I could remember the name of it, they are excellent for I've heard them myself. She has enjoyed her time at home but is preparing to leave on Thursday. Booked her flight for that day so she has a couple of bumper days if needed for weather, hopefully she won't have to use em. Miss freezy cat is def not looking forward to the cold of Michigan, but she is looking forward to seeing our host family and the tourney.
Today will be a practice and fitness day. After which, Nat will give lessons to some local folks. Then this evening she will go to her former high school for the Senior Night for the basketball teams. She has been mentoring some of the Lady Vikings and team. Natalie is looking forward to this event, and seeing the team. Guess laundry and packing will be in that schedule somewhere.
Gotta go folks, gotta a car to load....see you on the flip side....Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Sunday, February 2, 2014
Rolex Race .....The Cars
Having enjoyed our first Rolex Race, just had to take the pictures of cars and make a video ....here you go....please enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7WneEx-4jnA&feature=youtu.be
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7WneEx-4jnA&feature=youtu.be
Follower #22
WOOT!
John Warren......THANKS.....follower #22......come on folks....join our blog!
Happy Sunday.....Love and Blessings.....Sherry!
Saturday, February 1, 2014
Blog Housekeeping
Salutations from a sunny, steamy, south! Currently 39 degrees, but going up to 65 today....WOOT! But can't get used to it since Michigan is in our near future. Yikes!
A few Pluskota Tennis blog housekeeping items. Added to the top left of the home page are a couple of things. First our email address. Which you can use to contact us and to send a gift to Natalie via PayPal.
Second addition, a link to PayPal for your convenience. You can use your PayPal account to send a gift or a credit card. Any amount sent matters and will help Natalie stay on the tour. So, please consider sending her a gift. A lil shout out to Tony Perry for being Natalie's first gift giver, really appreciate your support Tony. No worries, no more shout outs unless you send me an email that it is ok.....otherwise all gifts will remain private between you and Natalie! Please Give Today! Thanks!
Third addition, directions on how to join our blog. PLEASE JOIN! It is FREE! Don't click the Google toggle for that will allow you to join Google and not our blog. Click the toggle that is located under the pictures of followers, "click here". Don't be fooled by "are you a member already". That is meaningless.....you can join there.....so press "click here". You do not have to have a Google email address, you can use any email address.
Hopefully all that information is as clear as mud....if not contact me and we will help you out! Love and Blessings....Sherry!
A few Pluskota Tennis blog housekeeping items. Added to the top left of the home page are a couple of things. First our email address. Which you can use to contact us and to send a gift to Natalie via PayPal.
Second addition, a link to PayPal for your convenience. You can use your PayPal account to send a gift or a credit card. Any amount sent matters and will help Natalie stay on the tour. So, please consider sending her a gift. A lil shout out to Tony Perry for being Natalie's first gift giver, really appreciate your support Tony. No worries, no more shout outs unless you send me an email that it is ok.....otherwise all gifts will remain private between you and Natalie! Please Give Today! Thanks!
Third addition, directions on how to join our blog. PLEASE JOIN! It is FREE! Don't click the Google toggle for that will allow you to join Google and not our blog. Click the toggle that is located under the pictures of followers, "click here". Don't be fooled by "are you a member already". That is meaningless.....you can join there.....so press "click here". You do not have to have a Google email address, you can use any email address.
Hopefully all that information is as clear as mud....if not contact me and we will help you out! Love and Blessings....Sherry!
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