2/22/07 -

I had a great lesson with GM Choi yesterday. It had been three weeks since we had a lesson. I always have taught that mushim, innae, geukgi, jajeh are the most important techniques even at my level, and Gm Choi confirmed this in words and action yesterday.

He made some slight adjustments to my scorpion stance that made a huge difference in my balance and the stretch that I felt. Gm Choi also improved my innae 7,8,and 9 as well. These small adjustments are the details that only a seasoned grandmaster can give you. We also worked on the two person kung-fu form, Chang-Kwan. Being GM Choi's partner for this make you sweat from the intensity! There is a jumping right leg twisting, shin kick that seems to be specifically designed to be the most difficult possible technique for my hip. In the two person form you actually smash your foot into your partner with this technique. My leg does not go too high yet, so GM Choi's foot hit my shin and I went down in pain, although I was fine after a few minutes.

This is a technique that will be very difficult to execute, but very beneficial for my hip to work the flexibility and strength that is required1

2/18/07 -

I'm happy that Kenyon College was able to make the committment to us to keep the July 22nd date for our Black Belt Testing. We have so many people coming from so many countries this year. My workouts are moving towards more of a mix of martial art basics and forms combined with my strength and cardio. The key for me is get as much martial art practice while keeping my overall conditioning and high.

2/12/07 -

Last week was tough getting ready for the tournament, but I was so satisfied with my performance and how the whole tournament ran! For most people, they never think they are good enough or ready enough to perform, compete, or test. The reality is that we are perfect in the NOW already, and that the best way to get grow and share what we have learned is to put it out there.

I encourage students to take every opportunity to demonstrate what you have learned. It could be you family, friends, or strangers like the upcoming Battle of Columbus. I am very happy that Kenyon College was able to finally confirm our original Summer Camp dates, so that I could make proper arrangements. I really hope I don't get "snowed-out" of my lesson with Grandmaster Choi again this week! I am really ready to work on the two-person kung-fu form.

A sincere thanks to Sally and everyone who gave many hours of time in planning, setting-up, running, and cleaning-up out tournament this year; it was really outstanding!