My mother made me....

When I was six years old, I went to see an ice show and fell in love with the costumes and skating to music. That's when I started skating. I wanted to start earlier, but my family thought I should wait for a few years.

By the time I was in junior high school, I was practicing six days a week, five hours per practice - before school started!

My mom always helped me remember that our family came first. Our family is very close, and we have always been supportive of one another. When I was growing up, my sister, brother, and I would go to one another's performances and games.

Mom taught me to set goals and keep focused. Setting goals is a big thing for me. You must have a long-term goal, but by setting small goals, you can take steps toward that one big dream you have.

Another important thing I learned from Mom is to always do my best and not to be too hard on myself if I fall short of my goals.

I have been very lucky because my family has been a big source of encouragement to me.