MK was MORE than spectacular at US vs. World Winter Open!!!

[Karin]

Ahhhh!!! MK has stolen my heart once again!!! :-) Anyone else floating on the clouds not wanting to come down??? MK is so mesmerizing!!! :0) That program is very very very..., extremely...and unbelievably spell-binding!!!... I'm glad she used that version of the song Hands!!!...Jewel's voice is so suitable for MK's style!!! I really liked this dress!!! The colour was pretty...and it really contributed to the gentility of the program!!! I thought it enhanced MK's beautiful bodyline!!! (Is it me...or does MK's legs look skinnier???...) BTW...I liked how MK's nails were clear...but if she wore sorta a darker colour nail polish (sorry...I have this thing about nail polish!!! Hee hee)...it would have enhanced the hand movements even more...but then again...the dark colour could have spoiled the softness of the program!!! After that bit of vocal at the commencement...when the pure instrumental music started and MK started moving...those little steps with the hand movements were so attractive!!! The program IMO did start off a bit slower than usual...but then she gained so much speed...and the ending was great!!! She ended with one of her favourite moves too!!! !!! !!! Now...did anyone else notice how the choreography was not so Lori Nichol ish???...is this the Mills program??? And then...I noticed a pattern...MK kept on repeating certain moves 3 times...wonderful!!! 1st time to get your attention...2nd time for you to enjoy...and the 3rd time for you to say "wow now that was powerful!!!"...As Peggy once said "she is so special"!!! And I luved the hair!!!...her smile is so sweet!!! :~) NO HANDS Charlotte people!!! No hands touching the ice!!! :) Extraordinary!!! AND...yeh!!!... she moved her arms during the layback!!!...Gorgeous!!! (Thanks Lara...) The loooooooooong Ina Bauer!!! Woo hoo!!! Now how about the spiral sequence??? She did that stunning back spiral and then the kneeling into her signature Kwan-spiral!!!...Did it not look more than an S???...it looked like an 8!!! :))) I just hope Button and Peggy (and the rest of the world) would start calling it the Kwan-spiral like us instead of her "well-known" or "signature" spiral!!! Just call it THE Kwan-spiral please!!! Sarah was incredible!!! That spiral...her leg is as high as MK's!!! Oh and her Y-spin is like doing a split!!! :-) SH has got to be the most elegant 14 year old out there!!! Dorothy...can't help myself from smiling throught her program!!! Even without the triples...she is so exciting to watch!!! Amazing woman!!! And then I liked this Surya program...I thought she was very soft here!!! Jamie Silverstein is so pretty!!!...and Timothy's smile is very cute!!! Kurt still has me ROTFL!!! Hee hee... and Todd is awesome!!! I think ABC covered this event really well!!!...I luved the backstage stuff!!! Liz Manley and MK with the cell phone...cute!!! Liz still has those cute giggles!!! I remember watching her in Ice Capades when I was about 10 (I think)...and I acted really funny when I asked for an autograph!!! Now if I can just see MK in person and get her autograph!!!...have to wait until worlds!!! ...And didn't MK look so mature and posied??? I can't believe we are no longer looking at a little girl!!!...really...in reality...MK is a woman!!!...evident when she talked to Dorothy!!! Oooh...good luck at the GPF and the Nationals and the Worlds MK!!! Go MK!!!

[Willowdale]

ITA... MK was SO beautiful!!! Oh!! I'm touched... MK IS a wonder woman!! :0) She's training, competing and studying at UCLA. :0) GO MK!!

[Lara F]

Karin, you forgot the Ina Bauer LOL...it's not even my favorite move, but I was still impressed!

[Jackylutz]

MK was great as usual....but have any of you guys noticed that lately Michelle's footwork into the 3lutz is a little less solid than the past? It seems to me that her landing on the 3lutz is a little stiff, not as strong and secure as in the past. It makes me wonder if college is the result of that. What do you all think?

[Gentle]

Another

[MichelleFANnumber1]

WOW...remember when I said I cant imgine Michelle skating to that song? I TAKE THAT BACK...that program was awesome. Michelle looked GREAT, the dress looked really good on her. Everything was perfect

[Willowdale]

Oh!! I LUVED the dress!! Who designed it? :-) Does anyone also know who choreographed "Hands"?? Anyways, I already watched it three times. :0) It's such a beautiful program.

[Jarrett]

but isn't she always! :) *Note* Did anyone else see that little peck Tim gave Michelle! ;) Mano and other bfff posters must have passed out! Jarrett :)

[SkateFan007]

I also loved the program. It was really nice, elegant, and calming. I usually get nervous whenever MK skates, but when she skated to this, it was soft, gentle, and nice. And when she got her marks, she was really energetic saying "We're the bomb" and that type of stuff. Kind of different from Michelle right? And did anyone see that kiss from Tim Goebel on the cheek? Cute eh? Ooops. Sorry Jarrett, I guess you beat me to posting that part w/ Tim:)

[kwanette]

And each moment of Michelle's skating is like no other. I was so taken aback by this program..when she went backwards down on one knee...I have to watch that move again...it was just georgeous...Loved the costume...just a hint...Her hair bouncing just adds to the happiness, peace, and calm that she exudes....Loved the banter...It was a great show...There was really nothing I didn't enjoy...I think if Liz Manley had worn a "more traditional" costume the program would have gone over better. Sarah was lovely...costume...never hurries her moves gets better every time she skates...Todd was his usual wonderful self...and isn't he always so supportive...a team player...Loved Kurt...Dorothy needs no jumps she is just wonderful..Thought Surya was quite good....Lu Chen..better than last year's routines and Michael and Viktor were both entertaining...Tim was improved and Jamie and Justin are great ...saw them on the Today show today...The team of the future!But the night...and my heart...belong to Michelle Kwan......

[akemi_chan]

did mk skate towards the end or at the beginning...i hope that it's at the end cuz i started taping at like 3:15 (it started at 3:00)...i just watched sarah and i heard mr. button say her spiral was a challenge to mk's...i disagree with that... although sarah has a beautiful spiral, mk has a better one AND mk can do inside-outside (and practically in a figure 8!). i saw sarah do mk's y-spin (or martini glass spin whatever you wanna call it)....it looked nice with the "prayer" song she did...i think that she's definitely improving (esp/ since nationals last year!) anyhoo, sorry i haven't really talked about mk cuz i haven't see her skate...you guys are worrying me that i missed it!

[Jarrett]

she skated next to last around 4:45 Central Time

[KeithB]

Let me add that this event was the day after the final exams, if I read the UCLA web site correctly. Michelle must have done a magnificent job of keeping her head on straight that week. I would not worry about the 3lutz out of footwork being a bit labored this time. After such a week a momentary lapse could happen anywhere in the program. You all have expressed my thoughts beautifully. It was a thrill to see Michelle perform so beautifully in such an elegant manner. Keith

[lavender]

You didn't missed anything. The best competition is saved for last. Michelle was gorgeous and I loved her program. I like it better than KY. I wasn't sure what to expect because they were saying that sarah stoled the show but I don't think so. She was a pleasant surprise though. ITA with akemi chan about sarah's spiral. It's very good but it isn't as difficult as michelle's. Sarah's spiral actually reminds me of nicole's.

[mano]

And couldn't stop clapping in the end. I even stood up. Thankful I had the TV all to myself tonight so no weird looks from mi familia. But I say they would have joined in too. Peggy is right on, Michelle's skating is so honest, so genuine, so free. I felt like flying with her. And to be Maria B Honest, I am not that fond of Jewel's songs, but that version of Hands they used was perfect. I didn't expect to be moved, but I was!!! Choreographic Elements I liked: Michelle started of in a beautiful pose then into a crystal ball move with her hands reminiscent of her Rach crystal ball move. I love that opening. I was sold right there. I love the Ina Bauer that I hope she puts back into the RV program. She held her inside to outside edge Spiral (D!ck Button ain't giving credit where credit is due, boy, there was an outside edge there) so long like a figure 8 as Karin said. I like the extension she achieved on her back spiral earlier in the program too. There wasn't as much footwork, or Michelle makes it so smooth it's deceiving. Toework wouldn't fit in a song like Hands anyway. Her beautiful Charlotte, a split withought hands touching anything, folks. Then ending into smooth sweeping moves in the end with a side lunge deeply arched back ending, hands outstretched. JUMPS: She just flew into her double axle, nice and strong as her opening jump. One of these days I hope to see her hold that edge like she used to. Her triple sal and triple toe where solid. However, her triple lutz didn't have a lot of height and was tilted in the air. She did land it though. It reminded me of her last double lutz in her Taj Mahal at '97 Worlds. Only difference is, Michelle has become a stronger jumper now, methinks, and was able to pull of a triple and land it even without the usual air time. Overall I loved Michelle's Hands program. Yes, I would like to have seen a split falling leaf 'cause she's got the best in the business. That and I wish she did her MG spin with her left foot outstretched instead 'cause she achieves great extension there (but I'm nitpicking as usual). I don't care if she didn't branch out as Dickie says, but it was fine and she's sooo fine!!! ABC did do a fine job. I enjoyed the match-up scenes between each skater and all the back stage scenes with MK hugging Liz Manley and saying hello to a Brian over the cell phone. I wonder if that is Orser, Boitano, or some hockey player that Liz usually dates. Anywho, I loved everybody's performances, I'm glad we got great performances from everybody. They all looked like they had tons of fun in that competition. And oh, yes, I LOVED MK's costume. Did anybody see the startled look on MK's face when Tim Goebel gave her a kiss on her cheek and Todd gave him a weird look after too? JARRETT, much noted and NO, I didn't pass out, although, I said "Oooh, someone ain't going to be happy." Heehee, MK had such a startled look on her 'cause she didn't expect that and didn't know what to do period, but had to thank the guy. Also, I watched MK's program 3 times before going online. I was starved for MK programs. Yey, we have another one next week, Go MK, you made me cry again!!!

[Karin]

Yes...I have noticed her less solid and less gentle ending on the lutz...looks like the spring was missing...has been for a while...I think it could be too that she was so tired...(hey we all know how after the last final exam...you just feel so relieved but exhausted!!!) Also...do you think it could be attributed to the fact that MK might have been practising her 3lutz/3toe??? Could be!!!... Go MK!!!

[AYS]

I wasn't able to get tears beacause there was commotion all around me-I had to answer the door, my daughter's little friend was getting picked up. HRUUMPH! It's a beautiful program, as always, although I thought at times her feet not quite under her. I loved the little swooping gestures toward the end. I feel a little miffed at my good buddy D!ck B., for he seems to be taking Michelle's incredible skating for granted like so many others these days. That is certainly one of the most flattering and striking,yet understated costumes. I love it. Very elegant.

[yankgrl46]

** michelle i loved the new program hands! it was very pretty and simple but beautiful costume! classic michelle! **sarah- her best program yet, she has improved soooo much! love the song, costume, choreography everything! great program for her (its my moms fave song and she had goose bumps throughout the entire #) ** kurt- great as always!!!! :0) what personality! everyone else was great too! :) :) and what about tim?? that was so cute w/ that little kiss to michelle !

[lavender]

I watched it again and it gave me chills. I don't think her jumps was as high as they have been this year but just as good. Also, I thought her lutz was good. Sometimes her position coming out of the lutz is a little backwards. She is kind of leaning back sometimes. I was wondering about the statement peggy made after michelle skated. She stated that they still love her as if things have changed. Dicks comments surprised me too.

[taf2]

I love so much about the costume-the material, the sleeves, the fit & the desigh is just perfect for that program. To be honest, I haven't really liked that song all that much before, but it was perfect for Michelle. The Kwan spiral & the Ena Bauer were both the best she's ever done. I love the free-ness of Michelle's skating this year. As to the kiss from TG, I haven't said anything before, but I have been wanting MK & TG to get together at some point-maybe in a few years when Tim is a little more grown up. He's so cute & just seems so nice-can you imagine what an awesome skater any kid of theirs would be?

[muri]

MK was just elegant. To me this program was about beautiful, inventive lines & every posture was a kodak moment. I loved it, absolutely just loved it. But I have to disagree with Peggy when she said that MK can have more of an arch in her back on the lay back spin. MK back archs into a lovely curve & I don't think MK needs to be aching, excuse me, arching her back any more. I can't wait to see this program with some more practice & time into it. And MKFan#1 MK does rule!

[Karin]

ROTFL!!!...watch out for the fan fictioners!!! Hahaha... Actually...they are both 19!!!...and they are both great skaters!!!...hmmmm??? But wait...he looks a little young for her mature appearance!!!...oh well... (that said...I better run before a fan fictioner sees this!!!) Muri...I dunno...I think MK can bend her back lower a little more...but give her a break right??? The girl, ooopsies...I meant woman...has already practised so much to get the turn-out!!!

[Jarrett]

Tim's only 2 months younger, it could happene ;)

[blizzard]

Yeah but tim is still younger than her so..so...there! nah jj. That's right mano I agree she was startled..hehe. I hope I'm quoting this rigth, didn't she say that she didn't date guy skaters? Maybe Tim just has a crush on her...apologies for being mean but I doubt it's mutual. Karin better get a head start.

[mano]

En Garde Taf2 'cause Darth mano, the Lactose-Intolerant ESP Karate Master has challenged you to a Duel of Fates. Heehee, sorry, can't help myself, but Tim Goebel, I've been noticing has been noticing MK too much these past Open comps. And, much as I find Tim an excellent skater, I think MK's too mature for him. Remember, she had a deer caught in the headlights look there. He better watch it though 'cause next thing you know he might cop a feel.

[lavender]

When did michelle say that? I think she likes the hockey players.

[Karin]

Mano...when??? Which Opens has he been doing that??? You are making me ROTFL!!!

[CollegeJock21]

I think Michelle's reaction to the peck from Tim was that she didn't really expect it. And even if something happens...It's still her right anyway. I have to say that dress was beautiful, it gives her an angelic look...but it's different from Lyra Angelica or the East of Eden...this has the world peace feeling hidden in it...well, just my opionion.

[skatingfan]

I cant stay away for long, I am using my L. hand to click the mouse now. I LOVE her new program. The hair is longer, sorry, it is just hair, but... I agree that every move in the program is a Kodak moment. when I watched it I was in tears. I felt so many emotions. First of all she is all grown up, what a beautiful young woman she has grown to be. I declare that MK looks good in any length sleeves, and any sleeve length combo. She looks very slim and fit, actually she looks like she has lost wt. She skated with great confidence, freedom and that comes across as very sensual. I speculate that she has a boyfriend by now. Could she be in love? There is such freedom in her skating. I love the Kwan spiral and Ina bauer. She also come across a bit tired, not on her skating, but on her face. MK usually has a very healthy glow on her face, which I find a bit lacking. Then of course finals can do that to you. About Timmy, what can I say. Last year right after nationals 99, when he predicted that NNN would be U.S. champ in a year or 2, I was t**ked off at him. Not even his three quads in S.A. restored good impression. But Mk teased him about completing three quads, (she talked about it to the press). So, I have forgiven Timmy, b/c Mk was nice and friendly to him. Yes I was surprised to see that peck from Tim. If that comes from Boitano, or Elvis who are older brothers to Mk that feels different. But TG is her age. When it comes to boyfriend for MK, to some of us no one or very limited # of guys are good enough. I don't think BFFFers will lose sleep over Tim. I however speculate that MK has met someone at UCLA. Anyway, it is her personal life shouldn't be our business.

[TripleLutz]

The song was actually a mixture of the actually album version and a version mixed on her single for "Hands." The actually song is slower with a lot more whispering than actual singing.

[Lara F]

Michelle did this the day after finals??? Then trust me, she did great and my respect for her has gone up even more. :-) Just hope she can handle it again at Worlds! Lara Michele :-)

[Amelia]

Whoo hoo! I thought Hands was terrific! The costume was very lovely, and her hair looked ... whoosh! It was so soft and poofy. Ok, highlights: the spiral, of course, was beautiful, and the layback was so lovely! I had to laugh when D.ick said that she was "lacking her usual spiffiness." I just turned to my sister and said, "well there he goes again!" Amelia

[Song03]

actually, I'm crying by now. I happen to miss out on this program b/c I was out shopping:( Does anyone know if this program will be on replay in the near future?? Did anyone record this program? I'd like to purchase it. Thanks!

[eilaram]

Michelle, Sarah, and Todd were the highlights for me. For some reason this year Michelle's skating looks so much more calm than other years. I love this program, and like all of her programs it gets better with each viewing. But all the jumps landings did not look as easy as they usually do for her, hope it was just tiredness from finals. I was surprised at the peck, and I laughed when as soon as he did it, it looked like he ran out of the room. Embarrassment? But it reminded me of the first Keri this year when Michelle turned around when Elena tapped her on the back: Tim was clapping harder than anybody else and it looked almost like an awkard moment when Michelle saw him. (Never mentioned it because I almost thought it was a figment of my imagination.)

[Karin]

Song03...you can probably see Hands in the broadcast of Japan Open... eilaram...I noticed that too...he did walk away right after the kiss...:0)

[Terri]

I'm loving these descriptions though. Thank you! P.S. Regarding Tim-Tim, I would be happy to get a peck from him :)

[badhairday]

Michelle was just beautiful! I love the song that she skated to and thought it was better than Kissing You and One More Time! The skating was gorgeous as ever! Loved her charlotte and her layback spin!

[Buffy]

I can't believe it, I missed the Tim Goebel kiss! He is a cutie! There was a pic not too long ago of them somewhere (on Heather's site, maybe?). Tell me more! Was this right after her program, during her scores, or after her scores? Details, details... =) BTW, the new program is wonderful!!

[Buffy]

I found the pic on Heather website!! Here is the link: <A HREF=http://members.tripod.com/~Kitts_Kollectables/kwan.jpg >http://members.tripod.com/~Kitts_Kollectables/kwan.jpg </A> hmmmmmmm, pretty cute together!

[taf2]

I am not usually a fan of bfff as I feel it could be a little intrusive to speculate on someone's private life. That said, I want to point out that I said I would like to see them get together in a few years after TG matures a little. But my hubby is younger than I am, so of course, I don't think that's a bad thing. As for what Tim said about NNN, maybe he meant after Michelle wins the Olympic gold. He's definitely a fan.

[littleone4eva]

Who's older, MK or TG? I know they are both 19 and college Freshman, though. I actually think it'd be cute... but I don't think it'd every happen! But, then who knows... Timothy seems very sweet, though. I think the kiss caught MK by surprise!

[Joshua]

I just can't keep still right now. I had to leave for work at 1pm and when I got of at 7pm, I drove a little faster than usual. :) No one was home to record the comp., but luckily I have recorder timing. I was so worried that it wouldn't record, but it did. I'm still so energetic right now. Michelle just flew through that program, it was so smooth. I watched it twice before going online, and I have still to watch every one else's performance. I'm actually going to watch Michelle again, then the entire program. My comments are that everyone else pretty much summed it all up.

[Sandy]

i'm soo frustrated!! AHH!! i've been wanting to watch mk skate for a long time and i had to work! anyway, i enjoyed the descriptions and details that u guys observed--i'm just disappointed i miss this one. even though i will get to see the japan open one, i still want to see her debut of the program at USAvs.World because it is more special....... oh well SAndy

[Jarrett]

<img src=http://www.michellekwan.net/other/whoababy.jpg> If you want to see some screen captures of Hands from the USFSA Winter Open, I made some and they are located at: <a href=http://www.michellekwan.net/photo_captures/hands/winteropen/>Hands Gallery</a>

[GinnySmith]

ITA with everthing that's been said here. Did anyone else notice the rapport between Michelle and Dorothy Hamill? There seems to be such respect and mutual admiration between these two greats. The USA is sooooo lucky to have all of these wonderful women skaters --Dorothy and Peggy are greats from the past, Sarah Hughes is the hope of the future, and Michelle is the ever present link between all--she has taken the foundation that the great ladies built, created her own unique blend by combining their examples with her own special heart and soul, and provided a critical bridge for the future skaters. Her bridge is the wonderful blend of athleticism, artistry and giving of ones self to the audience. I am in awe of all of these women.

[mano]

but no thanks to posting that pic. Cute, but gosh, how obvious can you get. It wouldn't be a big whoop if Tim did it when all her other teammates were greeting her. But to do it when all is said and done is quite gutsy of him. Michelle thanked him afterward but was surely surprised, and did I mention Todd made a look. Also, after Tim kissed MK's cheek he made a "eek gotta get out of here" face as he made his exit. Watch it over people, it's there. Jamie, and Justin also were surprised, and Sarah looked away, heehee. Maybe Sarah likes Tim. They sort of look good together. Funny isn't it that TG's move is making more of a wave than MK's performance. Sheesh, and I thought BFFF was bad. Least that one is totally fictional, hehehe.

[Joshua]

Mano, I sense you are irked by this picture?....I love it. It's kinda my own personal satisfaction for all the talk about Paul and Michelle. :) Actually, Michelle didn't look THAT surprised. <g> Also, by the look on Todd's face, he seemed a little jealous <double g>. I might as well face the truth that MK and I will never be in reality. Oh well, at least I have my dreams and fantasies, and no one can take them away from me. :) I disagree with the comment that the color of Michelle's costume does nothing for her...whoever said that. It goes perfectly with her Asian skin. It highlights the softness I think better than light blue Lyra dress. It's funny how Dick Button mentioned it doesn't really show MK branching out because I mean how many styles are there left for her to try that other skaters have not. I'm thankful and grateful that she hasn't gone into real mainstream pop....perish the thought. MK seems to be taking more of the advice that people have been offering online and on tv. Slowly, but surely. I liked that she raised her arms, even if it was for a split second.

[Terri]

I love that picture!

[Susan]

Mano, I must tell you...YOU CRACK ME UP!!!!! I am seriously ROTFL! I love this forum...you guys are great.

[Rene]

I think she looked SO BEAUTIFUL! That costume is so gorgeous on her, and her hair was great. I also thought she looked a little thinner, but it could be tv. I'm sure she's always about the same weight. I already went off on Dick on the other thread, so I won't go off again. I loved this program, it was so free and easy with so many different things to look at. Yes, she probobly isn't in the same "condition" with her jumps etc. because of school, but that's o.k. she's still better than anyone else and she seems so happy. She's doing a great job of juggling so many demanding and diffucult things so well. My evil self did materialize when Dick said that Sarah's spiral challenged MK's(the heighth of the leg, maybe) and when he screamed about her extension in the MK spin. I like Sarah but I'm mad at Dick right now(I'm a big baby)

[MaryJo14]

Wow! I am so amazed by her consistency on the ice..really you can compare her to Boitano in that sense for sure! I loved that outfit..Dang she really has an incredible figure..lucky her! I can't believe we keep getting these new programs from her..I feel so blessed! I have the flu and seeing Michelle gave me the boost I needed! Speaking of the flu ..I hope she has had a flu shot..cause this one is nasty! MaryJo

[kaila]

I've been waiting for them to televised a Michelle competition and I miss it! After reading what everyone is saying about this competition I HAVE to see it! Is anyone willing to make a copy of their tape? Just name your price. I will also post this in tape trade. Please!

[kaila]

kaila@bfok.com

[kwanette]

for the wonderful pictures......I am an incurable romantic myself..but I guess I am the only one who didn't read more into Tim's kiss than a sweet gesture...He may well have a crush on her, who wouldn't? Dorothy Hamill is on the "I adore MK list"...She loves her....Although Dickie B. and Peggy didn't use their "wow" or "spectacular" adjectives....I think they appreciated her skate. Look at the number of programs Michelle has done since the Olympics, while other people do the same competitive program for two years, and don't have an ex. at all....she's the best!

[Liz D.]

Nice comments everyone! I also love Michelle's new program: "Hands" by Jewel!! As always, she's just exquisite. I especially like the hand movements in the beginning, it's very unique. Her skating is always above the others, not only are her jumps superb, her artistry always has grace and elegance to go with it. It was a beautiful program! I'm going to watch it over and over again for sure! I also noticed the little peck by Tim. That was cute! :-)

[lavender]

I think sarah is taller than michelle and a lot skaters so of course her leg would look higher. I didn't appreciate the comment by dick either.

[SJB]

Well, OK, not really speechless. I already posted this on the D. Button thread, but I am so compelled to rave about this program that I want to re-post it here. And add some stuff too. "Hands" is a branch-out, I think, in the style that was (sort of) debuted at the first Keri competition this year---the relaxed, confident, flowing style that conveys so much emotion even in the simple choreographic moves. I think I'd say about this program something akin to what Mr. B. said about Kurt's skating: that Michelle's deceptively effortless, flowing, seemingly simple yet powerfully emotional skating displays a great deal more techinical and artistic control and mastery than even a more busy choreographic style would perhaps require. Beautiful economy of choreography and purity of movement, reminding me of the great Dorothy herself, yet so subtle and so powerful. Loved this program!! And that's not saying it strongly enough. And the new layback arms variation--it wasn't perfectly on time with the lyrics ("God's hands") in this performance, but I see how overwhelming it will be when it is, and it was beautiful to watch in this program too. And the hand movements on the Kwan spiral! And the new spiral variation at the end of the Kwan spiral! (thanks a lot, BTW, to the camera directors for the very poor shot we had of this--I wouldn't really even know what it even looked like without the photos that were posted). And the arm and leg movements--the swinging ones, the outstretched ones that flowed through her whole body, the little rolling hand movments at the beginning--all so subtle and so very, very moving. I agree about the kneeling movement, and the Ina Bauer---and those *holdings* on her jump landings, like on the 3 toe here and the 3 sal in KY---who else even does that? They give these ordinary jumps that one sees in every skater's programs just a new dimension of beauty and meaning. Mr. B. and Peggy were overgeneralizing here a bit--sure Michelle's competitive SPs and LPs often use choreography that's full of tension and drama, but there's some selective memory going on here. What about Winter, On My Own, Lyra, Dante's Prayer, EOE, One More Time, or even ADITL and the exhibition version of TRV? Not exactly the most tense and melodramatic of programs, I'd call some of them soft and gentle too, but some of Michelle's (and skating's) best programs nonetheless. I could have used less talking during the skates--sigh, so what else is new? Also, thanks for that shot of Michelle only from the waist up while she was doing a short footwork sequence. We now have no idea, of course, what the footwork was. I am patiently waiting for Lulu to do a classical, lyrical, or romantic program, so that I can revel in those beautiful lines and that exquisite grace of movement again. I don't care if she never does another jump if she does programs in which that exquisiteness is on display. Finally, Sarah, Dorothy, Todd, Kurt, Elvis, and Surya (never thought I'd be saying that last one!) were absolutely wonderful in every way. Liz, Tim, Michael, and Victor did excellent jobs. What a great competition. And the closing shots during the credits (skaters dancing, celebrating, throwing flowers) were fantastic and interesting, for once!

[Armchairskater]

Hi, Everyone! I'm a former lurker who has finally registered. I think that Michelle has become somewhat of a victim of her own excellence in the eyes of the commentators and somewhat with the judges this season. I think it can even happen with her fans. "Hands" is a gorgeous program but not so gorgeous as some of her other programs. Even I was thinking during the program that it was not as good as some of her other exhibition programs, yet at the end I realized that I had tears rolling down my face, because the quality of her spirals, flow, interpretation, and choreography never fails to move me when she is skating cleanly. (By the way, it doesn't matter how many times I see East of Eden, I'm still bawling at the end.) Few other skaters come anywhere close to eliciting that sort of an emotional response in me with their very best programs. However, Mr. Button may not have realized it, but his comments were actually a tribute to Michelle, because he compared Sarah's spiral to Michelle's (and no, I didn't think that Sarah's was up to Michelle's level after viewing both )and then Michelle against herself, so Michelle was the standard he had set. Did you ever hear him saying that she needed to emulate any other skater? Also, regarding Sarah, I was thrilled that she skated so well, but did anyone else get the feeling she was trying to hard to be just like Michelle? I felt that many elements of her choreography such as the spiral and the falling leaf were deliberately drawing on Michelle's choreography from last season. Sarah has such great potential, but I think she would do better to show genuine innovation and to be devoting this time to evolving her own style rather than trying to copy Michelle. I was surpriesed that Mr. Button did not comment on that.

[Rene]

I think that music has SO MUCH to do with how much you like a program. Even if "Hands" had the same elements as "EOE" it wouldn't be as good because of the emotion that the music has. I kept wondering why I thought MB's short program was her best this year. It has the same elements that it ALWAYS does. Same everything. I guess it's because I think the music is good. I haven't really liked the music from MK's exh's latley(OMT,KY & Hands) but the programs were beautiful and true for Michelle. But I have NEVER hated her music. Like Dick said(even though I'm mad at him right now)"the music is 75% of the success of it" Something like that anyway. BTW yes, people have noticed that about Sarah.

[Victoriacai]

She was absoulutley breathtaking!!

[Victoriacai]

Michelle was really breathtaking!!

[yingshan]

My last night's post has been eaten by the cyber bug (or deleted by Heather and Jenny?). :-) I don't care whether I'm the only one who says this. I hated the beige color on Michelle. Asian skin tone looks washed out in beige, espeically for Michelle's darker skin tone. Someone commented on she looked tired. Well, that's what happens when a color makes you look washed out. It's the worst color I've seen Michelle wore. Asian skin tone can wear beige if a neutrual color , e.g. black or white, is added in such as the case of Michelle's OMT costome with a dusty beige lace over a white underlining. Michelle can also wears beige with a golden shade such as her costume at the opening of her second Disney special. But this color does absolutely nothing for her. The style is nothing special either. The peekaboo neckline and the 3/4 sleeves are the hottest sportswear styles for this past fall season. Michelle looked great with both. I don't like how the skirt was cut though. It's way too pointed and the curved hemline didn't match with the curve at the neckline at all. I'd like to see a more gentle curved hem that matches the neckline curve. Okay, done with my professional critiques. I have to say I like this program better than KY. It has much more interesting arm and body movements and a fast paced flow throughout. The dropping down on one knee (without touching the ice) and popping up right away showed the control she has. One minor critique is that I'd like to see her emphasize not her arms but hands a bit more in some elements, e.g. during her change-edge spiral etc. since the music is about "Hands". Interesting comment from Peggy: "...they still love her." I'm unaware there's a reason why the audience should stop loving Michelle. She's still competing. She hasn't made any faux pas as far as I know. And it's a lovely performance. Why shouldn't they love her?

[eilaram]

On this performance, Michelle looked taller to me. Did she look taller to anyone else?

[Abercrombie]

I luved the "Hands" program!!! I was glued to the t.v. when she skated and I was just mesmerised. All I hafta say is "WOW"!!! About Timothy, I thought Sarah and Tim had a little romance connection there cuz they sat next to eachother the whole time. But I missed the kiss and now I'm gonna forward tape to that part; Well I think Tim is really sweet and it would be cute if they hooked up. Aww....

[Song03]

I missed out on this program b/c I went out w/ my Mom. :( I had waited forever to watch this. Please...someone...if you have a copy of this program, I'd like to purchase it. Just name the price. Thanks A LOT! email: song_3@yahoo.com

[muri]

those photos underscore my point that every posture is a kodak moment! And thanks to MK for Hands :O)

[AYS]

ITA muri-I have never, ever, seen MK caught in an awkward pose in a picture, except for a fall. The only other skaters I think I can say that about is Katia/Sergei.

[taboo999]

yingshan: "Interesting comment from Peggy: "...they still love her." I'm unaware there's a reason why the audience should stop loving Michelle. She's still competing. She hasn't made any faux pas as far as I know. And it's a lovely performance. Why shouldn't they love her?" Maybe she meant "the audience still loves her even though we (commentators) are bored with her". Nobody take this seriously. This is just speculation that came from being in a bad mood.

[kjesse]

It those kind of remarks that Peggy made that really p*** me off. What the heck was that supposed to mean. It's like they want her to go pro or something. I'm sorry but ladies eligible figure skating would be so boring without Michelle. Peggy and Dick disappointed me with most of their comments and they seemed to talk during her skate more that they normally do.

[april]

I wasn't really expecting to like "Hands" because I'm sick of the song but MK's skating to it was beautiful. Her jumps weren't perfect but considering she's a full-time college student it's understandable. I esp. loved the Charlotte at the end. It was perfectly choreographed into the program. I also loved seeing the Ina Bauer, Kwan spiral, and that move at the end where one of her skate is in one place while she moves her other skate around with her head looking up ( I think she does this in Taj Mahal and Salome as well), anyone know what I'm talking about? I hope so! Another move I loved was when she lifted her hand during her layback spin. In other words, I loved the whole program! :) I completely agree that D!ck and Peggy disappointed me. This is what I posted in the MK vs Sarah Hughes thread: It's weird. D!ck and Peggy were gushing about Sarah's Y-spin, falling leaf, spiral as if they were perfection. To me they looked nice but not great, second rate compared to MK's. I guess it's because to me MK's falling leaf, Y-spin, and spirals are perfection. Yes, Sarah had great extension in her Y-spin but that's the only thing I liked about it. I must admit that MK's is the only Y-spin that I really love. Also I had to laugh when they showed Sarah's Y-spin and Peggy said that these are the moves that would separate her from other skaters. That sounded ridiculous to me bec. it looked sloppy compared to MK's Y-spin. Anyway, maybe Sarah is doing these moves to show that she can compete with Michelle. That's fine but it's disheartening to hear D!ck and Peggy gush about new skaters' good performance while when Michelle does her usual excellent performance all we hear are boring compliments. It's unfair that we're so spoiled with MK and I sometimes feel that others are taking her for granted.

[Googoo]

Eilaram-- I thought so too! :o) I also thought she looked really long and lean at GWG 98!! April-- I don't even think they gave boring compliments. It was more like "there's her signature inside [uh actually it's inside/outside] spiral" with no compliment. Remember when he used to say "that move gets my heart every time"! Well POOEY on you Dicky!