journal

Friday, September 14, 2001
Hi Everyone-

I am so upset over the attacks on America. It's so frightening to know that the United States has such an evil enemy. It's horrible to think of what's to come. I was home from the Goodwill Games just in time to see everything happen. I got into Philly around 2 a.m. on Tuesday morning. I flew on American Airlines flight number 11, the same as the first plane to crash into the World Trade Center. I went to sleep and my mom woke me up shortly after the first crash so I could watch the story unfold, only to see the three remaining crashes. It was devastating. I can't believe this is all happening. I also recently found out that my friend Joanna Glick's brother was on flight 93 which crashed in Pennsylvania. He was one of the men who tried to stop the hijackers, which he did successfully, he saved the White House. Despite the deep sorrow the family must feel, I'm sure they find strength in knowing that their member is a hero. These attacks have made Americans come together, and they have shown how strong America is. I am so proud to be American and to live in this country.

On a happier note, the Goodwill Games was a great experience for me. I got there on a Sunday, after an obscenely long trip, and started practice on Monday. I felt like such a baby being on practices with veterans Stojko and Weiss, and I realized how much time I have in this sport. Watching Plushenko and Yagudin was amazing. They're both so talented, and this Olympics will be a spectacular event. On Tuesday night I had the official draw. I arrived a few minutes late to find that the only remaining seat left was beside Michelle Kwan. I had to sit down, so I did. I had no words. It felt so strange to be sitting next to her, even though it was only a draw. I guess I was star struck. HAHA She was very personable and kind. I drew last. Of course I was a little upset, but I can handle skating last now! The next day was the short program. I was so nervous but realized that I can only control me, nobody else, and it really helped me. I skated really well for me in the early season. Not everything was crisp and neat the way I like it, but I got through with the triple lutz/double toe, triple axel, and triple flip. I was pleased. The crowd was awesome. I got a huge ovation, and when my marks came up they booed. I felt so good. My mom also told me that Plushenko clapped for me, and as I was exiting the building, Alexei Mishin was humming my music. I started to feel welcome. HAHA On Friday I did my long program. It wasn't quite as good, to say the least. I was very nervous, and I let that get to me and had trouble on my jumps. But I came out tenth and didn't get last which I was worried about, and it was a very successful learning experience. Plushenko was amazing for this early in the season. I watched the ladies of course, and they were amazing, hardly any falls. Irina and Sasha had to be the highlights for me. Michelle was good, but Irina just had a certain sparkle about her, and Sasha is just adorable and skated so well. I loved it. I also enjoyed watching the dance event. Tanith and Ben debuted a new free dance, and I think it will be a great piece for them. I also got to meet a new awesome friend, Stephanie Kalesavich. She is the sweetest girl, I'm so happy I met her. Going to my Grand Prix events this year will be more fun now that I know people! Brisbane in general was a gorgeous city. It's right on the river, so it has a fresh watery feel to it. The shopping was quite nice. I also went to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary to see koalas and kangaroos. They were so adorable. I fed the 'roos and held a koala. Adorable. While I was there a bunch of tourists recognized me, and it made me feel like a rock star! HAHA Basically, Australia was an awesome trip.

Now I'm going to focus on getting ready for a few shows I have lined up this fall and winter and for my Grand Prixs. I had shin splints in my right shin, but that should go away soon, and afterwards I can start quads again. I think they'll come along quickly. I'm very jet lagged so I'm surprised I was able to stay awake for this entire Journal Entry! Before I say good-bye, I'd also like to send my sentiments to Jenny Kirk who's mother recently passed. Thank you for visiting my site, and come back soon for Goodwill Games pics!

Thanks, Love always
-J