A Break Does A Person Good...

Well tonight was my first class this year. I must say, the break was a good one. It really shows a person what they've been missing. Tonight I made the trek to Appleton. From previous posts I'm sure you're aware if you've read them that it's my reflection/preparing/destressing time. My choice of music, my new found love, Reikei music. A beautiful instrumental mix that lets your mind wander and relax, listening to the beautiful piano music, I envisioned myself performing kata slowly and remembering the movements as I transition from movement to movement.

Entering the dojo from being away from it for so l9ng made me realize how much I've grown to love this place. This is where I belong. My home away from home. I noticed that Karla was doing the kids class, I gave her a quick wave and headed to the change room.

Getting out onto the mat after the kids class was over, I realized this was a perfect night to come back, it was only me and Karla. I knew I would get some really good review in and also have some "good ole girl" time. We worked hard, went through all my stuff, Ippon first to get the blood flowing, then Tae Kyo Kyu 1, 2 and 3 to continue the momentum, then slowed it down with Kihon for form... then we went into kata, we also did some self defense, reviewing my locks on self defenses 1-5, then went back to doing some blocking drills just to get the flow going again... we had lots of fun, chit chatting while we worked, critiquing each other and talking about the arts.

I had some issues with one of the locking techniques because I couldn't get my foot work to go where I wanted it to go, and it wasn't flowing like it should. Karla being an advanced belt and also having dance background, put it into terms I was able to grasp. I was able to do the technique with ease. I thanked her for all her help in my review and we joked a bit more before class was over. It was very productive despite the chattering and much laughter... grin. Sometimes it's nice to have these type of classes because it builds that forever friendship and feeling of family that I've grown to love.

Looking forward to Saturday's class because we'll all be there. I've missed my karate family when I was taking my break. Now it's time to get back on track and start learning more of the Do.