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Something came up in class the other night, and it got me thinking about forms. I love forms, and can honestly say that they are my favourite part of Kung Fu.

I hope to teach in the upcoming forms seminar on November 3rd, and look forward to passing on my passion. I learn every time I teach so every one wins! It's a fantastic opportunity for everyone, no matter your rank.

I am excited about the seminar, as I am every year. Hope to see you there!

 

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To blog or not to blog

I've probably used that title before, but its really fitting right now.

I had pretty much resigned myself to not posting this week, until a few moments ago. I don't think I have much to offer right now, and while I am thankful for many things, my heart just isn't in it at this time.

I read all the blogs this weekend and a couple have really stood out for me. One of our family members was cut off of tv and the computer/ iPod on Sunday. And because of that I was again reminded how much fun it is to pull out board games and head outside. We really don't need electronics like we think we do.

I guess my point is, that even if I don't feel like doing something, I am usually better off for it, and secondly, I love spending time with my kids playing board games and such.

 

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Black Dragons

 

 

I have to say this - I am really proud of how the black dragons pulled together for the push-up/ sit-up challenge last week. I felt a lot of energy from the kids, and it felt great to see them post their results online.

 

I hope the kids got something out of this. I know I got an awesome reminder of how much we can accomplish as a team and when we put our minds to something.

 

We had a common goal, we knew our job, and we had fun. So again, our results are...

 

Push-ups - 5619

Sit-ups - 5395

All in one week...

Pretty Awesome!!!

 

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Sparring

I had the opportunity to spar in the black belt class last week, and I tell you it was better than I expected. You see, I haven't exactly sparred grownups much in the past 3 years, and it was never something I looked forward to. It used to give me a lot of anxiety and stress, and during my early sparring years as a lower belt, there were times where I just couldn't do it.

So I am very guilty of not sparring willingly once I earned my black belt. Except when I sparred with the kids in the Black Dragon classes. I guess the kids don't intimidate me, and just maybe it has helped a little with the underlying anxiety I have over sparring in general.

I felt pretty calm last week, and I actually didn't feel like I had to struggle with combinations, or finding my "in". I did learn however, that I need to protect my head more. I took a lot of head shots. :-)

I also think that lots of forms practice has helped me keep up somewhat in this aspect, but I do recognize that I am way behind where I probably should be.

This also got me thinking about the few forms that I don't like to do. And I love forms - they are my favourite part of Kung Fu. So, the moral is this - I MUST focus some more on the things that I like less of in Kung Fu - sparring and in particular Hung 1 and 2. (My dislike for that form is how linear it feels. But that could just be my perception, which will need to change).

See you on the mats!

p.s. Watch for the ongoing saga of the Black Dragons against the I Ho Chuan team!!! Follow us on Kwoon Talk.

How busy?

Someone asked me something the other day that got me thinking. The question was along the lines of how I do it all. I work full time, raise my two daughters, teach and train in Kung fu several times a week.

When I thought about it though, I don't actually feel that busy. My lifestyle is something that has grown over time, and I honestly don't think about it. It just is.

I think that is something that is hard to grasp sometimes. I know that every now and then life gets to be too much and we wonder what the heck we are doing? But yet, for me the solution is pretty simple. All it takes is a reflection of what Kung Fu has done for me and I realize what I have always known. This is where I belong, and my Kung Fu is my life. It's my journey, and I have a huge Kung Fu "family" to keep me going.

 

 

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A breath of fresh air

 

That is exactly how my morning was today, and it was great! It has been great as well, training and preparing for today's performance and I had forgotten how wonderful it is to perform with such great people, and for a great cause.

Today's Rotary Run for Life is something that we have done a lion dance in for as long as I can remember. And today, we got to add the Dragon into the mix! I think it's a wonderful tribute to our school to be invited to be a part of this year after year, and it says a lot about our commitment to our community.

I love being a part of this! You guys in the demo, and you guys who supported us by being there - Thank you!!! I had a fantastic time today...

 

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Thought by thought

I have a few stray thoughts to share...

 

1. While I had the previous week off, I spent most of it on the sidelines. Most of my well laid plans, are still waiting for my attention.

2. Even though I was more or less out of commission, I got some well needed rest.

3. I had the pleasure of babysitting my nephew. He is 4 months old, and is a wonder.

4. I pulled out one of moms projects, and am almost done! It's a table runner, but it's a start.

5. I am looking forward to getting back to school. The routines and the new possibilities they represent.

6. I am also looking forward to being a part of the Lion/ Dragon dance next weekend. I couldn't make the last couple of practices, but will be there this week!

7. I have been thinking about where my strengths are with my kung fu. Have to ponder this further...

8. I am curious about Sifu Rybak's pistachio project thing....?

9. I really enjoy reading all of the blogs from our students. It's a great way to stay connected.

10. I am thankful for the life I have, and for the opportunities that are available. I feel blessed.

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