Let the training begin

So it's been 9 years since I last tested for a rank. I'm hoping with some focused effort I will be ready to go this October. I will spend the next 16 weeks preparing my mind & body to showcase all that I have learned in martial arts. I have been planning to test since last year. My endurance is far past where it needs to be for October. My speed & explosive power however is nowhere even close to ready. I will be replacing my 15-20 hrs of running with a gauntlet of drills to help with the quick movements that one needs to excel in the arts. Running 100 miles in the mountains helps the mental toughness & endurance, not so much on the speed it takes to dodge a punch or stuff a takedown. I just started this week on my 16 week plan & I'm already having a blast. Sometimes when you have been teaching so long you forget how munch fun it is just to train yourself. I'm very fortunate that this go around I have so many skilled treamates to train with. 9 years ago Josh & I almost killed each other not having enough partners to mix it up. I really do feel so lucky to have the people around me to train with. My plan is to blog each week of training. Many people over the years have asked me what my training is like. Well now they will get to read about it. Not the same as being apart of the actual sweat, bumps, & bruises. Still you can imagine from a distance. Now it's off to stretch my hips which have become super tight.

11th annual toy drive

Another great toy drive this year. I was a little worried that we would not have enough items for three places. As always everyone stepped up and made it happen. I hope that those who came and delivered the toys enjoyed the experience. Nothing beats the feeling of doing something for someone else and expecting absolutely nothing in return.

Echanted Rock Hike

The weather was just right for a hike out at E-rock. We started out on the loop trail and then took the trail that goes behind the main dome. After we watched some climbers we headed up echo canyon. Some of the parents & students kept stopping to shell out some push ups. I was fine just watching. I always like going up the main dome via echo canyon. Its less crowded & you get some different views than the main route. Everyone chilled out at the top for 30min or so before we headed back done the main trail. It was a lot of fun. I love seeing young & old enjoying this awesome place we have so close to us. Everytime I come out here it makes me apperciate it even more & want to get back soon.

Do you know how to take a fall?

Take a look at the form on this outstanding World Karate student. His head is tucked down with his hands out in front ready to absorb the final impact. Taken down in a sparring match or thrown off a bull, you never know when those Karate skills are going to get some use.

New staff

If you have not noticed there has been a couple of new faces helping out with the kids classes. Taylor just earned her black belt last month & has always had an upbeat attitude. Garrett started training @ world karate back in 02. He has earned both his jr. & first degree black belts. Garrett just finished his first year @ Texas Tech and will be helping out for the summer. Its great to have two really good people helping make classes even better.

Happy, sweating, living the sweet life.

Wow what a view. It was a great hike to the top of this hill @ Lost Maples. A quick bite to eat then it was back down to the water below for a cool down. The sun was mostly behind the clouds but the humidity felt to be 90%. Everyone was sweating- alot. This park was my first real experience with hiking @ 5 years old, so its always cool to come back and remember how remote and grand this placed seemed. This was my son's 4th time back and he always wants to come back. I only hope more people get to experience the joys of being outside. All the kids hiked & ran for miles with smiles. I think a lot of life's problems for young and old can be solved on the trail. Thanks to all that made the trip. I look forward to the next trek together