August 1-3, 2008

Kathy, Dorian, Shawn, and Lisa

New England Tennis Holidays - 2008. North Conway, NH. Of course, we play between leagues. That's what gives us our competitive edge. Luckily, with Dorian and Shawn around these things always come together. The learning curve can be steep sometimes, but here's what we took away from some awesome pros:

1. Square your racket 2. Play with your non-hitting hand 3. Don't step across - shuffle 4. Check grip changes 5. Keep it loose 6. Set it - then forget it. But, the learning didn't end there...

• I will never say to Shawn (especially when she is drinking water), "I swear we were just told to talk to V-Jay Jay."
• From Danke Schoen himself: "Get in your box! Dorian, you're in the wrong box." Of course, we embraced his make-up and shopping tennis metaphors - maybe, just maybe, we'll get to vote someday, too!
• If you're thinking of going really sharky blond, Lisa thinks she can match Wayne's color for you; although, you may be asked to sign a damage waiver.
• Not only did Warren buy us apres tennis libations, but he also gave us some of our best material for the weekend. I know Shawn was helped by, "That may work at your club, but not here!" And, "WHY are you standing THERE???" was particularly useful. Who could forget, "I don't want to ruffle any feathers, but you're being discourteous!"
• I also learned that, in fact, you can have too loose of a grip, as evidenced by my 31' racket launch from baseline to net. None of the pros discussed whether or not yelling "Four!" was done at this club.
• If you're in need of a Farberware egg and pancake chicken mold, talk to Lisa.
• Dorian may need a private lesson in how to drive from the condo to the courts.
• Luckily, I found a liberal soulmate and fellow Obama supporter in Kurt. Who knew he could teach us about fashion, too? Never wear non-wicking grey sweatpants to tennis camp. The spotting can be unsightly during backside videotaping.
• We learned a ton from the icy one in green. Guys: your job in couples tennis is to make your wife, girlfriend, partner look good. Always. If you ever put a shot past her, she won't eat lunch with you. Other punishments may follow. Ladies: if you see yourself in this description, a good ol' Victorian slap may be necessary. Geesh!
• What about Bob??!? Our all-time favorite co-camper and uber gentleman. We love your frog umbrella and will keep your secret(s) safe! Thanks for keeping it fun....

What great laughs and memories. Florida definitely awaits...