The practice rinks at the Italian Nationals were interesting to say the least.  One of them was in a town called Zanica and it was very cold but a great rink.  The other one was Paul's new home club in Milan.  It is a great facility and if you get the chance to skate while in Milan, try to hit the Datch Forum rink. We ate amazing food the hwole week but when we got there, I might have had the greatest calzone in the world.  It had paper thin crust and was full of goodness.  The server suggested I pour on some of the local olive oil on it and it was an amazing addition to an already fantastic clalzone.  

Paul was lucky enough to skate after Samuel Contesti (currently 5th in the world) for both his short and long.  He was very mentally prepared and took the moment to really perform.  A good skate in the short and long got him 4th in Italy with a chance to go to Jr. Worlds.  We will see.