Moments in Marseilles

We arrived at our hotel in Marseilles around 7 p.m. on Thursday.  There was a noticeable temperature difference and we were loving it.  A sunny, warm wind touching our cheeks.  We wondered several times in Paris if we would ever see the sun shine again.

Exhausted from our day, we collapsed into bed around 10.  Got up on Friday and made our way to the tennis center via taxi.  Side note....if you phone for a taxi they start the meter from the moment they begin their journey to pick you up.  Anyway....away we went.  Natalie and Gibbs practiced a while, we had lunch and rested.  Then Nat practiced with Kiick and was done for the day.

We decided to plan a boat outing for the evening.  The excursion company was running a special 40 Euro each for an hour and half on the Mediterranean Sea.  Was to be a sunset cruise complete with wine.  After many calls and language barriers, the six of us were booked and paid for.  So away we went.  Had to take two taxis to the Old Port of Marseilles.  A beautiful area that you will see in the pictures below, the ones with the rainbow.  Sorry, I digressed....upon arrive to the port we looked for our red and white boat and Michael our captain.  HHmmmm with almost 2-3,000 boats in the port we decided to call Michael for better directions to his pier.  Natalie was kind enough to make the call and was also the barer of the bad news.  Our cruise had been cancelled due to rough seas.  Well, darn they could have called us before we spent the taxi fare to travel to the port!

Squeezing lemonade out of the lemons of our evening, we walked the Old Port area.  A lovely area full of shops and restaurants.  We stopped for dinner and made our way back to our hotel.  A great evening indeed.

Today, Natalie practice twice before we took a tour.  One of our tournament hosts felt horrible about us not getting our boat ride, that she arranged for Natalie and I to take a tour by car of the coast of Marseilles.  One of the tourney drivers took us further south on the coastal road....def not a highway.  What an beautiful ride!  Wish we could have stayed and explored but we were worried bout not being able to get a taxi back.  For we were in tiny village and Natalie has a match tomorrow, therefore she couldn't walk the 5 or so miles back to a taxi.  Maybe next time!

We were dropped at the port closer to our hotel and taxis.  Where we had lunch at the beach and the beach.   Took a few pictures and had to make our way to the registration for the tourney.  YES....Natalie got into the tourney and in fact there are several byes in the qualifier draw.  Natalie will play third on tomorrow vs.  Laisne (FRA).  This is a $100K event, Natalie needs to win three rounds to get into the main.  Here is the link to the draw and live scoring:

http://www.itftennis.com/procircuit/tournaments/women's-tournament/info.aspx?tournamentid=1100031808

Tonight we walked across the street for dinner.  I had McDonalds....yes....McDonalds and I am thankful for it!  The ONLY thing that has pleased my taste buds in three weeks, so sad!  Natalie enjoyed pasta.

Following my visit to the American Cemetery in Paris, on Memorial weekend.  My old friend Connie contacted me to let me know that her grandfather is buried there.  So, as describe in my last blog, I made a journey back to the cemetery to take lay flowers and take pictures for Connie and her family.  I have included a few of them below.

Well, that is about it for now my friends!  Until that lil yellow ball bounces, we will continue to enjoy the sunshine and warm breeze.....Love and Blessings.....Sherry!

Old Port of Marseilles

Natalie and June

The final resting place of Calvin Scott, Connie's grandfather

Marseilles

I owe you a snickers.....

Bonjour Y'all....from the French Riviera!  We travelled safe and sound to Marseille on Thursday.  Been on the go and or exhausted since.  Sorry for the delay in blog entries.  Soooooo I'm gunna make up for it with several in a row.  First, I'm cutting and pasting an entry from my FaceBook page to share with you.  It is the overview of our Thursday travel day.  Then I will blog about what we have done since our arrival.  And post some pics for your viewing pleasure!

Our Thursday Travel Day!

Sooooo got up extra early so that I could take the buses back to the American Cemetery, to visit Connie's grand father's grave. Along my 3 block walk I collected a few flowers along the way. Don't judge, stores closed. 

Got to bus stop #1 at 7:30 and waited 20 minutes. Made it to my transfer stop and waited an hour, couldn't figure out why so long, actually considered going back. Our fav bus 241 arrived and the driver was trying to tell me something but I couldn't understand, so I stamped my ticket and sat. But by the time my butt hit the seat we were at the next stop one block up. "Off, everyone". Wait....what....yup we were kicked off and he was going to turn to the other direction to pick up the extra passengers to Roland Garros. Darn tennis! He tells me to take 244 bus. Which I waited 15 mins for and climbed on board, stamped my tic and asked the driver if I could get to the cemetery. She said "no"....of course....seeing the pattern yet....and told me to get off and wait for the next 241. Soooooo waited 15 mins for next bus, all the while def ready to give this idea up for I was worried about catching our train to Marseille. But I waited, and 241 got me to the Cemetery at 9:29 a.m. Two darn hours to go .....hhhmmm 5 miles....yea the buses stink here! 

Anyway.....get to the beautiful gates of the Cemetery......and.....they were CLOSED....yes I said closed! Looked at the ONLY sign in English I've seen in France for nearly a month and it says .....Open daily 9 a.m. Ok....soooo why are the gates closed. So, I walk around to the service entrance and yup....you guessed it ....closed. Walk back around the front....of course....steam may or may not have been exiting my ears....couldn't see for my self! And as I reached the stairs a lil car pulled up and a man jumped out.

As he walked toward the gates, he said don't worried I'm opening. I said, was it to be open at 9 or am I missing a sign here. His reply..."I'm sorry, I have lukemia and wasn't feel too good this morning". Great.....now I have to take my size 10 out of my mouth and try to act southern sweet at a time I really what to choke every bus driver around. ahahahhahah ok so I'm a lil dramatic.

He apologized for the delay and escorted and gave me a grand tour. First to the office to find Connie Ravo grandfather's plot information. BTW...he was very excited to get a family connection, he is seeking info. Which I will get with Connie about. Anyway....we made our way to the site and had a lovely chat. After which he offered me a ride back to the hotel. Guess he felt sorry for me after my bus story. Before he left he gave me something to take back to Connie, Mike and Ev....but I can't go into yet.

So, make my way back to the hotel, via car....THANK GOD! And Natalie and I packed and left. Got all our luggage loaded on the train and settled. And just about to pull away when tell announced that the train was broken and we would need to switch trains....awesome....load and unload....our favorite. Got to Marseille only to call for shuttle and be told doesn't start till tomorrow.

So we took the bus. Too bad we took it 8 stops toooooo far and had to go back. Thank goodness for a very helpful bus driver....for a change. We finally made it! Seem like it was one brick wall after another, but we made it. The great news of the day....put 2 Euro into candy machine for a Snickers, got the candy and my 2 Euros back....wooot....see today was not a total bummer of travels woes!

If you read that whole thing....I owe you a snickers.....hahahahhah guess I'm a lil pumped up!

Buses ....Taxis....and Trains......OOOOOO MY!

Bonjour Y'all!  Yesterday was an exhausting day that seemed never to end.  We started the day at 7 a.m. with packing our bags.  Said good bye to our apartment owner Elisabeth and headed for the bakery and bus stop....in that order.  Amid the stares at the stupid Americans with tooo much luggage, we lugged away.

Because the website for the Ibis hotel said they were located 1/2 mile from Roland Garros, that's where we headed.  The plan was to get a taxi once we exited the bus, penny pinching as they say.  The taxi ride from the apartment to hotel would have been $50 verses the $10 bus ride plus 1/2 mile taxi.  Well, so we thought.  When we plopped into the taxi, we were told the hotel was twenty minutes away.  UGH!  Away we went....the exact route the bus brought us by....double UGH!  Yes, we back tracked about half way to the apartment.  We were not happy campers for the traffic around RG was crazy and the ride cost us $42.  And because of appointments we lined up thinking we were 1/2 mile from RG we had to return by taxi.  Which shot our shoe string budget to piece for the week.  We have been on budget this entire trip until those two taxi rides.  Hopefully, one day we won't have to worry about $84 in taxi rides ruining our budget.

Anyway....we got it done and got back to RG to watch our friend and American Allie Riske play.  She played another awesome player and friend Lucic-Baroni.  Allie was kind enough to invite us to sit in her "player box" and we were honored to do so.  The ladies score was tight for most of the first set, will Allie winning it in a breaker.  Lucic-Baroni called for a trainer time out after the first set.  Riske cruised through the second set winning it 6-2.  Her opponent stopped moving as well as she had been in the first, something was bothering her....no doubt.

We were to watch Glushko play, however the men's match before her match went five set and four hours.  So we only watched three games and had to head to the practice courts.  We took the bus back to the apartment where Serge was waiting to drive us to the indoor courts.

We were joined a short time later by Serges' son Cedric.  While Natalie and Heidi were finishing practice, I asked Allie if she would hit with Cedric.  Allie didn't hesitate, even tho she was tired.  Not sure who was enjoying themselves more Cedric or Allie??

After Natalie was finished, the three ladies invited Serge on the court for a few doubles points.  Must say he was excited and happy to do so.....a rock star has been born!  The four of them enjoyed the doubles, unfortunately the ladies were tired and hungry.  Maybe next year we will arrange something for Serge ahead of time!

After hugs and kisses we were on our way to pick up a pizza.  While waiting Mrs. Brioudes (aka Serge's lovely wife) came to visit with us for a moment.  Was a pleasure to meet this family who has taken such great care of us!

With hot pizza and orange Fanta in hand our gal was ready to head home....or at least to the hotel.  It was after 7 p.m. and we were about to have our first real meal of the day.  Right before practice I dug up raisins, peanuts and a power bar for Natalie.  Lunch of champions....NOOO....just can't find food very easily here.  Well, food fit for a tennis player prior to practice that is!

Anyway, Serge was kind enough to drive us to our hotel....a life saver he is.  I think if Natalie and I would have had to ride the buses....yes...more then one....back to the hotel we would have cried.  We were soooo tired from the day and so hungry.

All I remember after that....pizza....drink...jammies.....

Woke early this morning, for we had to head to RG to practice and check in for doubles.  We figured out our new bus route as we were trying to take it....and it worked.  Arrived a few minutes late for practice with Melichar, but made it.  The gals hit longer then planned since no one else came for the court.  Eventually folks arrived....the Bryan brothers....no big deal right?   Just wish I would have been videoing our team ....they were giggling away!

After waiting around for the dubs to start, the gals found out they were the third alternates today.  So, we made our way back to the indoor courts for their two hour practice.  Took a tourney vehicle and meet Kiick and Heidi.  After which, Serge was kind enough to take us back to our hotel.  A quick dinner and we were in bed by six watching the French Open.  hahahahahahha

Tommorrow, our team will sign in again.  If they don't get in, we will journey to the next tourney in the south of France.  Have to say, not gunna miss Paris and the difficulties we have had traveling via bus here.  Think it would be much different if we were here for a vacation and not lugging tennis equipment all around the world and back.

Please enjoy the pictures below.  Love and Blessings....Sherry!

Our Natalie at practice

Natalie and Melichar - doubles partners

Allie Kiick and Cedric

Natalie and Serge....doubles partners

All in the Name of a Train Ticket and Practice

Congrats to the Vols for winning the NCAA Men's Doubles National Championship Title!  

Hunter and Mikalis~!  

Soooo this morning we set out to the train station to buy our tickets for Thursday.  Arrived at 10 a.m. it was closed, with a sign stated would be open at 1:30 p.m.  Went back to the apartment to ready for practice.  Not so fast, got bumped from the Roland Garros courts at 11:30.  So, waited to hear from Serge.  And our local hero came through again, practice all set for 16h (4:00 p.m.).

Went to pick up a pizza for lunch and head back to the train station.  Got to the station 10 minutes early, sat in the rain and waited.   Right on cue the lady opened the doors.  We went inside to see the teller window still closed and another sign that said they would be open at 2:15 p.m.  What the heck?  The is nothing else in the building so why open the door but keep the teller window closed?  Have pondered that question for the last eight hours.  Anyway, sat and waited the 45 minutes, while Nat returned to the apartment to ready for practice.  Right on cue the teller window opens, I explain the tickets needed.  Her reply, "I don't sell those you must get from the yellow machine".  AWESOME....been waiting for no reason...and 2 trips to the station.  OK, so I go to the machine and take about 15 minutes to program in the city of destination, class, amount of tics....etc.  Insert the credit card which is promptly rejected because it does not have the "chip" in it.  And the machine does not take cash.  

                                           YAY ME!  <<<see steam exiting ears yet???>>>

So, walk through the rain, again back to the apartment and ready for practice.  Serge is kind enough to pick us up.  Thank goodness for we would have never found it via bus.  And off we were to meet Allie and Heidi at the indoor courts.  The ladies were so happy to have a practice court for two hours.  Many thanks to Serge for arranging the practice.

Following practice we went back to the train station, took a train to a larger station.  In hopes of buying the tickets for Thursday.  And we did!  Wew....finally!  Then we went for dinner to a place we tried in Germany which Natalie loved and has wanted to go to for five days.  You will see a pic below of her response to finding it today!

Tomorrow, we will leave our apartment and move into a hotel.  We have enjoyed Elisabeth's home and new friendship.  A very sweet and helpful lady!  We will also head over to Roland Garros to watch Allie Riske and Julia Glusko play.  

On the way we will stop at the American Cemetery to lay flowers on a grave.  Found out today that a very good friend of mine's grand father is laid to rest there...what a small world.  Connie has not been to the grave so I will also take pictures and maybe video to document all the details for her to view.  A special honor for me.

Also, tomorrow Natalie will check into the doubles situation.  For they begin on Wednesday and we need to double check that we know what to do.  There are so many rules and regs....don't want to mess up.

Below are a few pictures from today, please enjoy!  As you can see, tomorrow is a busy day...sooo off to bed I go....Love and Blessings....Sherry! 

Pluskota

Kiick

Tabakh

L to R.....Heidi, Allie, Serge, Natalie

Our host Elisabeth and Natalie

The view from our balcony....beautiful!

A Memorial Day Tribute

On my way to Roland Garros today, decided to stop by the American Cemetery to pay my respects.  And to snap some pictures to help all of us to remember those that fought for our country, our fallen soldiers.   This stop, drove home the fact that our soldiers not only fight or fought for our country ....but for others as well.   In this case France.  Giving their all so that we ....the world....may sleep better at night.  Safe and Sound!

Many thanks to our Veterans and those currently serving.  We enjoy so many things everyday because of your willingness to serve and protect.

Here is a brief description of the American Cemetery from Wikipedia:

Originally a World War I cemetery, it now shelters the remains of U.S. dead of both world wars. The 7.5-acre (3.0 ha) cemetery contains the remains of 1,541 Americans who died in World War I and 24 Unknown dead of World War II. 

Please enjoy this video I put together with my pictures:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gHQ1i0pYKHU&feature=youtu.be

Thanks to you Serge!

Yesterday, Nat goes down to the apartment courts... again thinking she may be able to hit with someone, hit serves, fitness or something. There were several peeps there.  Again, she was told that it is was private for residents only.  She again told them we are residents...blah...blah. The gentleman told her he would come tomorrow (today) at 2:30 p.m. and he would hit with her. After several minutes they asked again if she was here for the French....she told them the situation. Then left the courts. Today, she goes to the courts to practice. Here is the tale of her day:

Natalie arrived at the courts to see about 50 people sitting around. The gent in the picture below is Serge, the President of the apartment complex tennis league. Upon arrival, Serge told Nat who he was. Then he presented Nat with her very own V.I.P. set of keys and lock for the courts. On the lock, he put a her college picture, one he took off the internet.  He also, made copies of her picture for all the people in attendance.  So that they could get Natalie's autograph before she left.  Natalie and Serge practice awhile with the audience enjoying the show.  Those that understood English would translate to French for those who could not.  Natalie really enjoyed the afternoon with Serge and the others. Upon finishing Serge asked Nat where I was, for he wanted to meet me because he has been enjoying our blog......hahahahahahah what a great story and day for Natalie. The journey of tennis!

Many thanks to you Serge and your members too, for giving Natalie such wonderful memories and your kindness!  

Natalie and League President Serge!

Natalie's keys and lock!  Thank you!

Bound to see that Ole Tower

God Bless American 

Many THANKS to our fallen soldiers, vets and 

those currently serving!

Bonjour from a very sunny Paris!  But I'm sure that is going to change soon.  The weather here has been very much link San Francisco's....rainy....cold....windy.  Weather we don't like when we are traveling miles on foot daily.

Went to the courts yesterday for practice, but that didn't pan out.  The gal Natalie was to hit with has an injury and the doc told her to let it rest.  So, we watched Allie play.  She battled hard from 0-3 to make it 4-3 in the first.  But DeBrito was on fire painting the lines, she has been playing really well.  The weather changed to cold and rainy so we headed indoors to watch the match in the player's lounge.  Unfortunately, our American lost the second set and the match after being up 5-2.  Must say though Kiick is very young and has many great matches ahead of her.

After some visiting in the lounge we headed to the streets of Paris.  Bound to see that ole Tower everyone keeps telling us they have here.  Hailed a taxi, told him where we were going....his reply....."no".   WAIT....WHAT???  NOOOOO.....are you kidding us??   Stood 25 more minutes until we were able to hail another which was more then willing to take us the two miles to the Eiffel Tower.

On the way, we saw the "sister" of the Statue of Liberty.  Who of course points toward her sis in New York.  A beautiful sight this Memorial Day weekend.  Upon our arrival, we noticed the thousands of people waiting in line to either walk the stairs or lift of the Tower.  They must wait there hours for their turn, something we would not attempt this outing.  The Eiffel Tower is a beautiful structure and piece of history.  We didn't spend much time in the area, for the weather had really turned on us.  So a few pictures and we were back in a cab to Roland Garros.

Stopped for pizza and pasta, a safe choice.  Then headed to the bus stop for our pick up....which was already there.  A made dash, so that we wouldn't miss it and have to wait 20 minutes....and we were on board.  Back to the apartment for a nap.  Then Natalie headed down to the courts at our apt complex to at least hit serves and do fitness.  Again she was yelled at that the courts were private for residents.  And then asked if she was here for The French.  It is soooo funny that when she says "yes", that still doesn't change their minds about using the courts.  It is only when she says that we are staying in an apartment they change their tune and tell her how to get access to the empty court she is currently standing on.  Which is a process that would take a day or two and until then no practice on these courts.  Wow...that is unheard of in the states.  Especially if the courts are vacant, you just jump on one and play.

Anyway, the gentleman and Nat finally settled on hitting at 2:30 today.  That being after Natalie turned to the crowd and asked if anyone wanted to hit and all the women shook their heads like....."hell no, not with you...you are toooo good for us"....chuckles were had by all!

Now my dilemma of the day is....do I go to watch matches at the French...Fed plays, Venus plays....OR....do I stay here and capture Natalie's practice with the local on film?  UGH  decisions, decisions!

No matter the decision, I will get back with you once the lil yellow ball ends it's bounce....till then enjoy some pictures below of some hard working tourney folks and the famous Tower they have here....Love and Blessings....Sherry!

Natalie's morning jog!

I'm thinking she's happy it's over!  But really is she even sweating?

This giant tennis ball is hanging on the Eiffel Tower!

The ole Tower....Eiffel!

That is the tennis ball.  The weather turned wicked!

Scoop as Far as Natalie is Concerned

Good Day!  Sorry the blogs are not pumping out these days.  But we are walking about 3/4 mile to a bus stop, taking the bus to the courts.  Staying there most of the day and returning the same way.  Therefore, by the time I get back to the apartment after lugging stuff around all day....I'm to tired to blog.  Sorry!

Here's the scoop as far as Natalie is concerned and the French Open.  Because she was in doubles in Germany we couldn't get her here in time to sign in as an "on-site alternate" for singles.  Which we knew was a long shot anyway due to her ranking so not a big deal.  But she will look for a mixed dubs partner and register as an on site alternate for women's doubles.  Mixed dubs sign in starts Monday, so she will go to the registration and post that she is looking for a partner.  A long shot....yes...but we are here so might as well do it.  As for doubles, Melichar is supposed to come here on Sunday, and they will "sign in".  Again a long shot, but we are here!  

Mean while, Nat is practicing to be ready if the opportunities here open.  If not, to be ready for the 100K that is in Merselle, France, next week.  Sort of  a holding pattern if you will.  All the while she is learning about the French Open, watching great players, networking, practicing, etc.  

Our day started with rogue information from Player's Services that had us on a wild goose chase for Nat's practice court.  However, she did make it there and was able to practice for about an hour and half.  Which was really good, for they have been only allowing players 30 minute sessions.  For some reason, they never got kicked off their court.

I gave up on the goose chase, cuz I was carrying about 50 pounds of stuff.  And had to settle for watching the likes of both Williams, Jelena, and a few other practice.  I know a rough job but hey....someone had to do it!  Besides I got some great pics to share with you, which are below.

Later we watched Min and Kiick win today.  Oudin lost.  I think both of these young Americans have a good chance of winning tomorrow and getting into the main draw.  Exciting indeed!  We will be there to cheer both of them on.  

Looked at souvenirs today...ridiculous prices!  I NEVER AGAIN will complain about the price of a t-shirt at a ball game or concert.  They want $60 for a t-shirt....yes I said t-shirt!  Of course, a big part of the problem....our dollar is sooo weak here!  There is no way I can justify buying souvenirs, when we are penny pinching this entire trip!

We will be up and out really early tomorrow for Natalie's practice.  Then hopefully see some more of the greats practice as they gear up for the main draw.  Then cheer on the Americans!  So please enjoy the pictures below and I will enjoy putting my feet up for a while....these puppies are barking at me....Love and Blessings.....Sherry!

We Settled for a Hostel

Bonjour!  Two days ago, we left Germany via train....of course...and headed to Paris.  Took about seven lllloooonnnnggggg hours.  Guess we are getting tired of trains, maybe one day the cheap flights will be in our affordability category.  Anyway, couldn't find a reasonably price hotel let alone a cheap one in Parish.  So, we settled for a hostel.  You know me....always trying something new...specially if it is cheap and for tennis!

Turns out the hostel was a pretty old apartment building which much character.  Such as a beautiful winding staircase that went it's entire amount of floors.  Just like the old movies.  Natalie wasn't so impressed.  For her, she could only focus on being in the dorm like room with possibly two strangers (male or female).  And our safety.  I guess the remarks made at check in bout placing all valuables into their free secure lockers didn't help matters.  The bunks were comfy, it was very clean and we had our own private bathroom, complete with shower.  Unfortunately, the traffic outside was very loud....the only drawback.  As far as room mates, well only had one female that came in around 2 a.m.  Showered and such for about an hour then turned in.  Which was really no biggie until.....she started to shout in her sleep....yes....sleep talk!   Was kinda funny and only last a couple of lines.

Got up yesterday and made it to our apartment....soaking wet I might add.  But we made it.  Met our host, showered and napped.  Then took the public bus to Roland Garros.  Talk about feeling like a second class player....hahahaha....guess the limos will come when she is actually IN the draws.  Anyway, got the credential paperwork out of the way and went to watch some friends play.  Unfortunately that was short lived do to rain.  However, we did get to spend some quality time in the players lounge with Allie, Mary and June....boy have we missed them.  Did run into some other Georgia gals....Gracie and Melanie.  Not sure who gets more excited me cuz I'm soo proud of them....or them.....to see a mom they know.  Anyway ....always fun to run into them and other players I've watched grow up on the court.

After much convincing by Natalie, Allie and me.....we were shuttled back to our apartment via the tournament and were thankful we didn't have to bus it through the rain.  Today, we will go watch matches and Natalie will practice with Cecilla (spelling?...sorry).  Hopefully, there won't be an issue with credentials and the off site practice courts.  Guess we will stop into player relations upon our arrival and make sure there won't be.

Bout to wake our gal up....soooo gotta go!  Talk to you later....hopefully after some lil yellow balls bounce....Love and Blessings....Sherry!

Video - St. Gaudens, France and Lourdes

St. Gaudens, France

and

Lourdes, France

Please enjoy this video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=67Qw-EyULvc&feature=youtu.be

Germany Update.....pics too

WoW....what a world wind we have been on for two days.  Natalie and Melichar took to center court yesterday to face the one seeds of Raymond/Huber.  It didn't take long to see why the one seeds are ranked so very high in the world in doubles, their specialty.  Our team keep a great spirit on the court and won over the crowd in a hurry.  We were down 0-4 in the first set when and hit a ball close to the line, called fair and a winner for us....but Huber questioned the call and it was over ruled by the chair umpire after his examination.  The crowd was not pleased with Huber nor the chair and let em know it.

Not long after losing the first set 0-6, our team was serving and up 40-0 when an audience member shouted...in German....which was loosely translated for me..."come on win one game".  Chuckles heard stadium wide...including from our team.  Sure enough, Natalie and Nicole won that game and the crowd went wild....so did they!

We did have chances to win more that just that won game but the experience and talent of the one seeds was the difference.  I applaud Natalie and Nicole for just rolling with it and handling the butt kicking with grace and giggles.

In the post match remarks Huber, a most gracious winner spoke about and to our team.  Stating that our team is the future of American tennis.  Upon leaving the courts, our team asked Raymond and Huber if they would like to practice doubles, they agreed.  The four of them must have talked for about an hour after the match.  The veterans were most gracious with their evaluation of the match and willingness to share the knowledge.  This was the first time that a top player let alone two top players reach out to help Natalie and teach/mentor.  It was awesome, both Nat and Nicole were so very excited after the match and about setting up a practice.

Today, we were up and out early.  Natalie and Nicole to the courts for dub practice.  Me to the train station to buy tickets to Paris.  The gals loved the dubs practice and learning from Raymond and Huber.   I must share a lil story....hope no one minds.....the four ladies were discussing yesterday's match.  And the fact that our team won the coin toss and chose to receive first.  I guess that didn't sit well with one of the opponents (sorry can't call her out like that) so when she was given the choice to choose sides....she chose the one our gals were on....and not because it was sunny or windy!    ahahahhaha   I love that story....hope no one minds my sharing it!  Gamesmanship....gotta love it!

I truly hope that Raymond and Huber know how much of an impact they had on Natalie and Nicole over the last two days.  They are two class acts both on and off the courts.  I wish them Good Luck at the French Open!

Unfortunately our time in Germany has come to an end.  We will leave for Paris at 9:30 a.m via train, arriving at 4:30 p.m.  After spending five hours on the computer tonight trying to find a hotel, none under $250....we settled on a Hostel.  A $32 per person Hostel, where we will rent a towel for one Euro to shower.   ahaahhahaha I can't wait to see Natalie's face when she sees the place.  We will be in a mixed group room....meaning both men and women....four or more beds.  Good news....besides price that is.....it will only be for one night.  For the next day we will "check in" to the room we rented from a seemingly nice lady, in her apartment.  You see, there is an website called Airbnb, where you can rent a room in someone's home or their entire place.  Pretty cool website, when it works or when the operator....namely me can figure it out.

Sorry for the delays in posts but between our schedules and lack of wifi, been kinda of hard.  Starting Wednesday, we will be in Paris for 5 or more days so that should help give me time to post.  I do have pictures and videos I will get upload in the upcoming days...would appreciate your patience.  Until then though I will give you a sample, which is below.  I'm exhausted to lack of sleep last night and a very long day today....so off to bed ....Love and Blessing.....Sherry!

Natalie's partner.....Melichar

Raymond

Natalie

Huber

Four Amazing Ladies....(l-r) Natalie, Huber, Raymond, Melichar