Even though it is pretty much over by now. I hope everyone enjoyed theirs.
I don't know what the weather's been like where you all are, but it's been cold and windy here for much too long. It's getting really old. And, our longest dry streak has been 3 days. I'm not all that upset about the rain since it means I don't have to do any watering but ugh. It's enough already.
Jacob had baseball pictures Saturday afternoon. We weren't sure if they were going to happen because it would try to rain every 20 minutes or so. Luckily, the rain held out until after the photos were over so we didn't have to reschedule. He has his first game tomorrow and the rescheduled rain out game from last week will be on Friday. With TKD testing quickly approaching, we're not sure if he's going to go to baseball practice on Thursday. There's another "ugh." Baseball practice. Every Thursday until the end of the season is baseball practice. We were sent at least 5 e-mails telling us that they'd be in Leawood (almost to the Missouri border and and around 119th Street). Not really that big a deal except for the fact that they start at 5:15 and go to 6:45. TKD is from 5:30-6:30 (it takes 20 or so minutes to get from TKD on 151st St. to Leawood). There is no way I could get all three kids to and from their activities on time. Luckily, we had it all figured out but it was still stressful. So, last Thursday, everyone met up at Leawood and we were all complaining about the distance. Then, we realized our coach wasn't there. Someone called and it turned out that he had told us the wrong field. Five times. Fortunately, the correct field is about 3 minutes from TKD so it won't be an issue. Phew.
Daniel had his first grade sing on Friday. Katie (Gwen's mom) took Hannah home with her so that I wouldn't have to pull her out early and I met Mike there at the school. It was quite a long program. Daniel was very nervous since he had a line or two that he had to do by himself. He did great, though. At one point, all of the kids stood up and he fell over. I don't think that anyone really noticed except for me and Mike but he was embarrassed. After, we went back to the classsrooms to pick up stuff and there were so many cute books, made by the kids, for us to take home. It's just now hitting me that the school year's almost over. This is Hannah's last week of preschool and the boys are out the Wednesday after Memorial Day. Where has this year gone?
We took the kids to see Speed Racer on Friday night. What a horrible movie. Of course, I was the only one that hated it. The kids and Mike thought it was awesome. The only good parts were the ones with Matthew Fox in it. My goodness he's good looking. Anyway, the kids have been asking to see it again (no). We're looking forward to the Indiana Jones movie. At least I am.
This morning, I was woken up by Daniel holding a Mother's Day poem for me. He was so cute and so excited with what he made. Each one of them made me some great cards. Unfortunately, I was so crabby and irritable this morning that it was hard to enjoy anything. I blame it on the diet. Freaking diet. I decided it's Mother's Day and diet rules don't apply today. This evening we went to Chili's for dinner and all I wanted to eat was their Southwestern Eggrolls. So, I got that and some spinach and artichoke dip for dinner. And I ate Jacob's cinnamon apples. I felt guilty for about 2 minutes. I've been so good on this darn thing that I deserved a day to eat whatever I wanted to. I even wrote it all in my food diary. Those eggrolls will keep me going for the next month or so.
Showing posts with label Tae Kwon Do. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tae Kwon Do. Show all posts
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Happy Birthday Daniel and TKD Tournament
Last night Daniel had his birthday sleepover. Three little boys showed up (one was sick and couldn't make it). I was amazed at how well behaved everyone was. Aside from going to sleep around 1:30am, they were great kids. Unfortunately, I couldn't find my camera (I finally did this morning) so I didn't get many pictures, but I did get this one...
(l-r)Josh, Michael, Daniel and Ryan. It's hard to believe he's 7! Where has the time gone?
After the kids left this morning, we headed to the TKD tournament. It was just a small one, mostly for the kids in our school. It was cute. They got different medals for each event. Hannah went straight 3rd places, Jacob had 4 second places and a first and Daniel had 2 first, 2 seconds and 1 third place. They really enjoyed the board breaking, especially since they've never done it before and they're going to have to for their (the boys) next testing. Jacob was the only one in the first round to break his board...even Jett (almost a black belt) struggled to break his and didn't do so until the second round. He was pretty shocked about it.
Waiting to compete...Daniel, Quinn, Jacob, Brandon, Jett and Hannah
Master Johnson decided to surprise Daniel for his birthday. He took him in the back room to try to wake him up (he was sleepwalking through the first few events) and everyone met him at the door and sang Happy Birthday to him.
Daniel was very surprised.
And he loved it.
Hannah does her musical form.
(l-r)Josh, Michael, Daniel and Ryan. It's hard to believe he's 7! Where has the time gone?After the kids left this morning, we headed to the TKD tournament. It was just a small one, mostly for the kids in our school. It was cute. They got different medals for each event. Hannah went straight 3rd places, Jacob had 4 second places and a first and Daniel had 2 first, 2 seconds and 1 third place. They really enjoyed the board breaking, especially since they've never done it before and they're going to have to for their (the boys) next testing. Jacob was the only one in the first round to break his board...even Jett (almost a black belt) struggled to break his and didn't do so until the second round. He was pretty shocked about it.
Waiting to compete...Daniel, Quinn, Jacob, Brandon, Jett and Hannah
Master Johnson decided to surprise Daniel for his birthday. He took him in the back room to try to wake him up (he was sleepwalking through the first few events) and everyone met him at the door and sang Happy Birthday to him.
Daniel was very surprised.
And he loved it.
Hannah does her musical form.
Daniel's musical form
Jacob's musical form.
Daniel tries to break the board.
Jacob gets last minute advice from Master Johnson (standing in the back on left) before actually breaking his board.
Master Johnson holds the board for Hannah while Stephen talks her through it.
Mike (after already breaking a board with his hand), tries to break through two boards with his foot.
He makes it through both.
Posing for one big picture
Master Johnson writes on the board Jacob broke
And on Daniel's
And on Hannah's (hers says, "I may be a yellow belt now, but I will break you!!"
Tonight, we're going out to dinner with Stephen, Roxanne, Jett and Quinn to celebrate Daniel and Quinn's birthdays. Hopefully we can all stay awake through it!
Friday, February 08, 2008
Hannah's First TKD Testing...and 700th Post
700 posts...that's just crazy!
Mike wanted me to ask if anyone else lost the left side of my blog because he did and didn't know if it was just him.
Anyway, tonight Hannah had her very first belt testing. She was so excited and couldn't wait to go. When we got there, we had to wait a little bit because they had a Hap Ki Do (I want to learn that!) class going on. Once she got out there, I couldn't believe how well she did. She breezed through her form and did all of the up/downs that the instructor told her to (series of different kicks and punches). When it was time for her to do her one-steps, she had the full attention of Grandmaster Lee. He was really impressed with how many one-steps she knew (5 of 6...most young white belts only know 3) and with how well she did in general. Before she was dismissed, she was asked how old she is and she holds up 4 fingers. Grandmaster Lee looked shocked. Mrs. Lee told her to tell Master Johnson that he did a great job with her. She was beaming from ear to ear. I would be surprised if she didn't get a decided yellow and not a recommended yellow(the recommended is what Daniel got when he first started while Jacob got the decided).
Hannah gets ready to test.
Doing her form.
Mike wanted me to ask if anyone else lost the left side of my blog because he did and didn't know if it was just him.
Anyway, tonight Hannah had her very first belt testing. She was so excited and couldn't wait to go. When we got there, we had to wait a little bit because they had a Hap Ki Do (I want to learn that!) class going on. Once she got out there, I couldn't believe how well she did. She breezed through her form and did all of the up/downs that the instructor told her to (series of different kicks and punches). When it was time for her to do her one-steps, she had the full attention of Grandmaster Lee. He was really impressed with how many one-steps she knew (5 of 6...most young white belts only know 3) and with how well she did in general. Before she was dismissed, she was asked how old she is and she holds up 4 fingers. Grandmaster Lee looked shocked. Mrs. Lee told her to tell Master Johnson that he did a great job with her. She was beaming from ear to ear. I would be surprised if she didn't get a decided yellow and not a recommended yellow(the recommended is what Daniel got when he first started while Jacob got the decided).
Hannah gets ready to test.
Doing her form.
Doing her various punches and kicks.
Hannah does one-steps.
Punching for another white belt.
More one steps. I love how she's up on her tippy toes to reach above the other kid's head.
Mike does his one steps
Mike spars.
Friday Coffee Talk
The snow day we had on Wednesday has really thrown me off. I completely forgot that yesterday was Daniel's 100th day of school (although with the snow day, I don't think it technically was) so I forgot to send his 100 Skittles to school with him. Apparently it was okay because he said Josh had a lot of extras and shared with Daniel. That was nice.
Hannah has not stopped talking about the fact that she missed kindergarten roundup. I keep telling her that she didn't miss it, it was just postponed. She would then scream, "I'm not going to get to go to kindergarten!" We went through this about 5 times yesterday (many more on Wednesday) and was thrilled when I got a voice mail from Mr. L, the principal, saying that it was rescheduled for two weeks from yesterday. Hannah still didn't quite get the concept, telling me that she'd have "kindergarten ride-up" today. Apparently, she told Roxanne from TKD that it is on Sunday. I can't wait until she gets the concept of time.
Speaking of Hannah, she and Mike are testing for TKD tonight. Hannah's very first testing cycle. Normally, she'd test tomorrow with the boys but with Mike caucusing tomorrow, we thought it would be easier for her to test tonight. That, and Mike will be able to see her test. We're not sure how Daniel will do tomorrow since Master Johnson told Mike that Daniel still has some work to do before Saturday. I will just be so happy when the boys move to the every other (or more) testing cycle. This time, they're testing for low blue...in April, they'll test for high blue (assuming they get their belt promotion)...in June they'll test for low brown...then they can't test again until October at the earliest. I get the impression that once you hit low brown, it takes about 6 months to get to the mid brown belt and then another six months or so after that to get high brown. I think it can take almost a year after that to get your black belt, so this is no quick and easy thing. I hope the kids stick with it. Getting that black belt is quite an accomplishment.
I got a phone call last night from Mrs. P, the school psychologist. She was making a "much overdue call regarding Daniel and the follow-up to what we began in September." Considering that all of the "test" results came back in early November, I'd say that it was, indeed, a much overdue call (almost 4 months). I think she sensed that I was annoyed (I actually laughed a little) and basically she just wanted to let us know about the progress Daniel has made in the classroom. You think he's made progress? Seriously, it's called he's getting older! Of course there's going to be progress in his attention span and behavior. It'll be interesting to see if this meeting actually happens since we've scheduled this thing twice before. I'll keep you posted.
Now, I have to figure out how to make a papier mache rat for Daniel's den centerpiece for the Blue and Gold Banquet. Wish me luck!
Hannah has not stopped talking about the fact that she missed kindergarten roundup. I keep telling her that she didn't miss it, it was just postponed. She would then scream, "I'm not going to get to go to kindergarten!" We went through this about 5 times yesterday (many more on Wednesday) and was thrilled when I got a voice mail from Mr. L, the principal, saying that it was rescheduled for two weeks from yesterday. Hannah still didn't quite get the concept, telling me that she'd have "kindergarten ride-up" today. Apparently, she told Roxanne from TKD that it is on Sunday. I can't wait until she gets the concept of time.
Speaking of Hannah, she and Mike are testing for TKD tonight. Hannah's very first testing cycle. Normally, she'd test tomorrow with the boys but with Mike caucusing tomorrow, we thought it would be easier for her to test tonight. That, and Mike will be able to see her test. We're not sure how Daniel will do tomorrow since Master Johnson told Mike that Daniel still has some work to do before Saturday. I will just be so happy when the boys move to the every other (or more) testing cycle. This time, they're testing for low blue...in April, they'll test for high blue (assuming they get their belt promotion)...in June they'll test for low brown...then they can't test again until October at the earliest. I get the impression that once you hit low brown, it takes about 6 months to get to the mid brown belt and then another six months or so after that to get high brown. I think it can take almost a year after that to get your black belt, so this is no quick and easy thing. I hope the kids stick with it. Getting that black belt is quite an accomplishment.
I got a phone call last night from Mrs. P, the school psychologist. She was making a "much overdue call regarding Daniel and the follow-up to what we began in September." Considering that all of the "test" results came back in early November, I'd say that it was, indeed, a much overdue call (almost 4 months). I think she sensed that I was annoyed (I actually laughed a little) and basically she just wanted to let us know about the progress Daniel has made in the classroom. You think he's made progress? Seriously, it's called he's getting older! Of course there's going to be progress in his attention span and behavior. It'll be interesting to see if this meeting actually happens since we've scheduled this thing twice before. I'll keep you posted.
Now, I have to figure out how to make a papier mache rat for Daniel's den centerpiece for the Blue and Gold Banquet. Wish me luck!
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Another Crazy Week
I am so looking forward to Winter Break. No gymnastics, minimal TKD and no school. I am certainly looking forward to the break. Poor Jacob was home with strep on Monday and, at about 4pm, he looks at me and says, "we weren't home at all today!" He was, pretty much, right. Between dropping Daniel off at school, taking Hannah to gymnastics and then to preschool, taking Jacob to the doctor and then picking everyone up again, I think we were home for about 1 1/2 hours on Monday (during the day). The ice storm on Tuesday slowed things down a little since it cancelled school and MOPS...it would have been nice to have a couple of days like that.
The boys found out yesterday that they earned their high green belts. Mike already has the blue markings for his belt (that's how they designate high from low) and the boys should get theirs on Tuesday. They are pretty excited. They have one more round of testing to go before they have to start breaking boards (and two before they test for their low brown belts)...that should be interesting. I'm just thrilled that Hannah is now in the boys' TKD class on Tuesday and Thursday nights. Maybe now I won't feel like we live there.
We got about 3 inches of snow yesterday...a lot less than the 4-8 they were predicting. That's just fine with me although the kids weren't too happy about it. They wanted that 8 inches. It was still enough to play in, and they did for about 2 1/2 hours yesterday afternoon. They came in for a brief hot chocolate break and then headed back out. I don't know how they stood the cold. It was 20 degrees with a wind chill of 8. They told me that they weren't cold...and I believe them. I remember playing in the snow for hours and not feeling it until I came in. I just can't remember the last time they were able to get out and play. The weather's been so bad that we haven't been able to go out.
Daniel was getting upset with his teacher about the fact that they were only doing Christmas stuff and no Hanukkah stuff. Leave it to Daniel to not let that happen. Wednesday, he convinced his teacher to dedicate a whole day just to Hanukkah. She even asked him to bring in a menorah so that everyone could see it. I guess he ended up showing the whole first grade (not just his class) how to light it and what prayer to say (he actually remembered the prayer). I was pretty proud of him.
Last night was the TKD Christmas party, hosted by the black belts. Members of our school and of our parent school were there. Roxanne and Stephen hosted it at their auto shop. It's not your typical auto shop. Stephen runs a Porche place...they fix and rebuild Porches. The cars he had there were amazing, and the place was huge. At some point, Roxanne forced a big plastic cup of wine into my hand and, not long after, I found myself doing the Electric Slide with her as Master Johnson acted as DJ. After the Electric Slide, YMCA and a couple of other dances, I decided that was enough and walked off the dance floor. Roxanne came up to me and asked me why I wasn't dancing anymore..."I'm too hot," I told her. "Yeah, me too," She said. "I'm afraid I'm getting stin-kay!" She says as she throws her hands in the air and heads back onto the floor. She cracks me up. The kids had a great time and so did Mike and I. I love our TKD school. It's just such a family atmosphere and everyone really cares about you...and misses you when you're not there.
I should really stop blogging right now...Mike's invited a few work friends over to watch football and I need to finish getting the house ready. Then, I get to look forward to another busy week (2 gymnastics classes, 3 TKD classes, 1 Cub Scout pack meeting, 2 Christmas parties, a MOPS meeting and a birthday party). I may just collapse when we arrive in Peoria next week!
The boys found out yesterday that they earned their high green belts. Mike already has the blue markings for his belt (that's how they designate high from low) and the boys should get theirs on Tuesday. They are pretty excited. They have one more round of testing to go before they have to start breaking boards (and two before they test for their low brown belts)...that should be interesting. I'm just thrilled that Hannah is now in the boys' TKD class on Tuesday and Thursday nights. Maybe now I won't feel like we live there.
We got about 3 inches of snow yesterday...a lot less than the 4-8 they were predicting. That's just fine with me although the kids weren't too happy about it. They wanted that 8 inches. It was still enough to play in, and they did for about 2 1/2 hours yesterday afternoon. They came in for a brief hot chocolate break and then headed back out. I don't know how they stood the cold. It was 20 degrees with a wind chill of 8. They told me that they weren't cold...and I believe them. I remember playing in the snow for hours and not feeling it until I came in. I just can't remember the last time they were able to get out and play. The weather's been so bad that we haven't been able to go out.
Daniel was getting upset with his teacher about the fact that they were only doing Christmas stuff and no Hanukkah stuff. Leave it to Daniel to not let that happen. Wednesday, he convinced his teacher to dedicate a whole day just to Hanukkah. She even asked him to bring in a menorah so that everyone could see it. I guess he ended up showing the whole first grade (not just his class) how to light it and what prayer to say (he actually remembered the prayer). I was pretty proud of him.
Last night was the TKD Christmas party, hosted by the black belts. Members of our school and of our parent school were there. Roxanne and Stephen hosted it at their auto shop. It's not your typical auto shop. Stephen runs a Porche place...they fix and rebuild Porches. The cars he had there were amazing, and the place was huge. At some point, Roxanne forced a big plastic cup of wine into my hand and, not long after, I found myself doing the Electric Slide with her as Master Johnson acted as DJ. After the Electric Slide, YMCA and a couple of other dances, I decided that was enough and walked off the dance floor. Roxanne came up to me and asked me why I wasn't dancing anymore..."I'm too hot," I told her. "Yeah, me too," She said. "I'm afraid I'm getting stin-kay!" She says as she throws her hands in the air and heads back onto the floor. She cracks me up. The kids had a great time and so did Mike and I. I love our TKD school. It's just such a family atmosphere and everyone really cares about you...and misses you when you're not there.
I should really stop blogging right now...Mike's invited a few work friends over to watch football and I need to finish getting the house ready. Then, I get to look forward to another busy week (2 gymnastics classes, 3 TKD classes, 1 Cub Scout pack meeting, 2 Christmas parties, a MOPS meeting and a birthday party). I may just collapse when we arrive in Peoria next week!
Saturday, December 08, 2007
Hanukkah, Testing and the Ice Storm
We went to the synagogue last night for the 3rd-5th grade dinner and service. We met a guy who's just curious about Judaism and was there to enrich his own faith and a lovely couple who are from Russia. They explained to us that the Reform, Conservative, Orthodox designations are purely an American thing...everywhere else in the world there are simply Jews. During the service, Rabbi L gave a very nice sermon on why we celebrate Hanukkah. He told us that the real miracle was not the fact that the oil lasted for eight days when it was meant to only last one, but was that for the second time in history, Jews had their own country (it is currently only the third time in history) and that was the miracle. He went on to elaborate even more, but that was the main point. I thought that was very interesting.
The boys had testing this morning. Hannah didn't test this time since she's not quite ready. We slip-slided our way out there since we had freezing rain this morning. Actually, the main roads were fine but the roads in our subdivision were really icy. Like going 4 mph and still sliding around icy. At one point, the tires began spinning and I was actually going backwards. Ugh. We still have a freezing rain advisory and they're expecting close to .5 inches of ice to build up. I'm seriously tired of winter.
Anyway, the boys did great during testing. At one point, Grandmaster Lee made the comment that Daniel kicked very good and high during his one steps. We were a little concerned that he'd have a problem with testing and weren't sure if he was ready but he did just fine. I can't imagine that they won't get their high green belts.
The boys had testing this morning. Hannah didn't test this time since she's not quite ready. We slip-slided our way out there since we had freezing rain this morning. Actually, the main roads were fine but the roads in our subdivision were really icy. Like going 4 mph and still sliding around icy. At one point, the tires began spinning and I was actually going backwards. Ugh. We still have a freezing rain advisory and they're expecting close to .5 inches of ice to build up. I'm seriously tired of winter.
Anyway, the boys did great during testing. At one point, Grandmaster Lee made the comment that Daniel kicked very good and high during his one steps. We were a little concerned that he'd have a problem with testing and weren't sure if he was ready but he did just fine. I can't imagine that they won't get their high green belts.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Where Has This Week Gone?
Is it really already Wednesday? Why do I find myself wondering where the days are going?
Saturday night, we went over to the synagogue for the PreK-2nd Grade Havdalah dinner. Gus even went with us. The kids had fun playing with the other kids and enjoyed the little service after the meal. Seriously, the music was so soothing that Mike and I thought we were going to fall asleep. LOL!
One of Mike's new favorite things to do is to get Daniel to recite a prayer that Daniel was learning for the Havdalah. It's in Hebrew, which makes for some very interesting things from Daniel.
Mike: Hey Daniel...Ba-ruch...
Daniel: Ba-ruch A-tah A-do-nai E-lo-hei-nu Me-lech (he'll stop here and repeat Me-lech if he doesn't think he has a strong enough ch sound in the back of his throat!) ha-o-lam (this is where he goes off track) bree abomen habernash AMEN!
The ending part changes often, but he's got most of it! LOL! He and Daniel are also up on most of the songs they sing during the family service on Sundays and it's not unusual to catch them humming or singing the songs to themselves. It's pretty cute.
Hannah got her little TKD uniform on Tuesday. When I was talking with Master Johnson about getting it, I told him that we're going to have pictures taken next week and we'd like to have them all in uniform for one. He then looked at me and said, "pictures, huh? Where's your uniform?"
Me: I haven't gotten my flowers yet.
Master Johnson: Yes you did...last week.
Me: Those were on my birthday! They don't count!
Master Johnson: Sure they do.
Me: Even Mike's Mom said they don't!
Master Johnson: Okay, okay!
Last night, we were talking with Roxanne and Stephen about the four of us leasing sleeping space from Dave. We're all there so often that we may as well move in. LOL! Daniel's all excited because Master Johnson invited them all to start the 6:30 Monday class for TKD, Ju Jitsu and Hapkido. Great. Jacob's not all that thrilled about it but he may as well do it if we're going to be there anyway. I'm a little nervous about it all since I heard Stephen ask Mike, "so, how do you think you'd do with some numchucks?" I missed Mike's answer but I know that I turned around and said, "no numchucks!" Personally, I think that Daniel would love Hapkido but the Ju Jitsu makes me a little nervous.
Saturday night, we went over to the synagogue for the PreK-2nd Grade Havdalah dinner. Gus even went with us. The kids had fun playing with the other kids and enjoyed the little service after the meal. Seriously, the music was so soothing that Mike and I thought we were going to fall asleep. LOL!
One of Mike's new favorite things to do is to get Daniel to recite a prayer that Daniel was learning for the Havdalah. It's in Hebrew, which makes for some very interesting things from Daniel.
Mike: Hey Daniel...Ba-ruch...
Daniel: Ba-ruch A-tah A-do-nai E-lo-hei-nu Me-lech (he'll stop here and repeat Me-lech if he doesn't think he has a strong enough ch sound in the back of his throat!) ha-o-lam (this is where he goes off track) bree abomen habernash AMEN!
The ending part changes often, but he's got most of it! LOL! He and Daniel are also up on most of the songs they sing during the family service on Sundays and it's not unusual to catch them humming or singing the songs to themselves. It's pretty cute.
Hannah got her little TKD uniform on Tuesday. When I was talking with Master Johnson about getting it, I told him that we're going to have pictures taken next week and we'd like to have them all in uniform for one. He then looked at me and said, "pictures, huh? Where's your uniform?"
Me: I haven't gotten my flowers yet.
Master Johnson: Yes you did...last week.
Me: Those were on my birthday! They don't count!
Master Johnson: Sure they do.
Me: Even Mike's Mom said they don't!
Master Johnson: Okay, okay!
Last night, we were talking with Roxanne and Stephen about the four of us leasing sleeping space from Dave. We're all there so often that we may as well move in. LOL! Daniel's all excited because Master Johnson invited them all to start the 6:30 Monday class for TKD, Ju Jitsu and Hapkido. Great. Jacob's not all that thrilled about it but he may as well do it if we're going to be there anyway. I'm a little nervous about it all since I heard Stephen ask Mike, "so, how do you think you'd do with some numchucks?" I missed Mike's answer but I know that I turned around and said, "no numchucks!" Personally, I think that Daniel would love Hapkido but the Ju Jitsu makes me a little nervous.
Thursday, November 08, 2007
Birthdays Don't Have to Suck
Okay, so I'm 32 now. When did that happen? LOL!
I've gotten to the point where I just don't look forward to my birthday anymore. Out of the past several years, there have been a couple that I've had to spend alone, and, aside from some phone calls and a visit from a florist, they hadn't been very special. So, I try not to build myself up and that way I'm not disappointed.
This year, I actually had a really nice birthday.
Mike had called during the day to wish me a happy birthday, as did Dad. I also got to hear the sonic boom from the Space Shuttle as it crossed overhead on its way to Florida. I didn't see it, but the boom was cool enough. And, Daniel wished me a "happy 24th birthday" which got him some huge hugs and kisses. Of course, the high from being called a 24 year old wore away quickly when Jacob told Daniel that I wasn't 24, but more like 45. LOL! I also managed to get the house all cleaned, which took a lot of stress off of me. Why is it that a dirty house just adds to stress?
After picking up the boys from school, we headed over to TKD for Hannah's class. Mike told Master Dave that it was my birthday, and he wished me well. As we were getting ready to leave Hannah's class, Roxanne and her boys walked in and she wished me a happy birthday too (she remembered from a few days ago). It was just nice to hear others (that aren't family) wishing me a happy birthday since that hasn't happened in a while. Quinn, the youngest of Roxanne's two boys, starts to give Daniel a "tattoo" and Jacob waits in line. Roxanne and I laugh and say that Quinn needs a show called Overland Park Ink. I really didn't notice Mike rushing out and then rushing back in but I had to laugh when I saw what he had behind his back.
Mike announces that he wanted to give these to me when Stephen was there but he would do it anyway since he had other witnesses. He pulls a vase of flowers out and hands them to me.
Me: They're very nice, but don't think that these count as "no reason" flowers.
Mike: Can't I give my wife flowers for no reason even on her birthday?
Me: No.
Roxanne: They are very lovely flowers. They look like something Stephen would have picked out. He'll be here in a minute.
Me: Yes they are very nice, but they don't count.
Mike: I need a black belt ruling. Master Dave, can you give your wife flowers for no reason on her birthday?
Master Dave: (thinking for a minute) Yes.
Mike: See!
Me: They don't count. (to Master Dave) Do you know what's riding on these flowers?
Master D: No
Me: When Mike gives me unexpected flowers, I have to join TKD
Master D: Oh. (laughs)
Mike: (says something like) Stephen ruined everything for me! (laughs)
Me: (laughing) I've waited for 9 years for you to turn into a romantic and it's just not happening.
Mike: (to Roxanne) Can you give Stephen one of the flowers as proof for me? (starts to pull a flower from my bouquet but stops)
Roxanne: (hearing Stephen's car pull in) If you wait a minute, I think he just pulled in.
We say goodbye and head to our cars, where we meet Stephen in the parking lot. Mike walks up to him, holding the flowers.
Mike: I wanted you to see the flowers I got for my wife.
Stephen: Those are nice. I would have gotten something like that for Roxanne.
Me: They don't count!
Mike: I asked Dave for a black belt opinion and he said they do count!
Stephen: Hey, at least it's a start. (in my opinion, he was agreeing with me that they don't count!)
The flowers Mike gave me
And then, for some reason that I missed, Mike gave Stephen one of my flowers. LOL! We then headed over to Cheesecake Factory for my birthday dinner.
Mike had the kids make me cards and he gave me a gift certificate for a massage and a manicure. He said that he was going to just schedule the appointment for me but thought that I may want to pick something else. I think I'm going to get a massage and a pedicure since I've never had one before. I think it was one of the most thoughtful gifts. He also told the waitress that it was my birthday so my cheesecake came out with a candle and a plate that said, "Happy Birthday Barb!" Mike and the kids sang Happy Birthday and that was the end of a very, very nice birthday. Thanks, Mike, for making my birthday very special!
I've gotten to the point where I just don't look forward to my birthday anymore. Out of the past several years, there have been a couple that I've had to spend alone, and, aside from some phone calls and a visit from a florist, they hadn't been very special. So, I try not to build myself up and that way I'm not disappointed.
This year, I actually had a really nice birthday.
Mike had called during the day to wish me a happy birthday, as did Dad. I also got to hear the sonic boom from the Space Shuttle as it crossed overhead on its way to Florida. I didn't see it, but the boom was cool enough. And, Daniel wished me a "happy 24th birthday" which got him some huge hugs and kisses. Of course, the high from being called a 24 year old wore away quickly when Jacob told Daniel that I wasn't 24, but more like 45. LOL! I also managed to get the house all cleaned, which took a lot of stress off of me. Why is it that a dirty house just adds to stress?
After picking up the boys from school, we headed over to TKD for Hannah's class. Mike told Master Dave that it was my birthday, and he wished me well. As we were getting ready to leave Hannah's class, Roxanne and her boys walked in and she wished me a happy birthday too (she remembered from a few days ago). It was just nice to hear others (that aren't family) wishing me a happy birthday since that hasn't happened in a while. Quinn, the youngest of Roxanne's two boys, starts to give Daniel a "tattoo" and Jacob waits in line. Roxanne and I laugh and say that Quinn needs a show called Overland Park Ink. I really didn't notice Mike rushing out and then rushing back in but I had to laugh when I saw what he had behind his back.
Mike announces that he wanted to give these to me when Stephen was there but he would do it anyway since he had other witnesses. He pulls a vase of flowers out and hands them to me.
Me: They're very nice, but don't think that these count as "no reason" flowers.
Mike: Can't I give my wife flowers for no reason even on her birthday?
Me: No.
Roxanne: They are very lovely flowers. They look like something Stephen would have picked out. He'll be here in a minute.
Me: Yes they are very nice, but they don't count.
Mike: I need a black belt ruling. Master Dave, can you give your wife flowers for no reason on her birthday?
Master Dave: (thinking for a minute) Yes.
Mike: See!
Me: They don't count. (to Master Dave) Do you know what's riding on these flowers?
Master D: No
Me: When Mike gives me unexpected flowers, I have to join TKD
Master D: Oh. (laughs)
Mike: (says something like) Stephen ruined everything for me! (laughs)
Me: (laughing) I've waited for 9 years for you to turn into a romantic and it's just not happening.
Mike: (to Roxanne) Can you give Stephen one of the flowers as proof for me? (starts to pull a flower from my bouquet but stops)
Roxanne: (hearing Stephen's car pull in) If you wait a minute, I think he just pulled in.
We say goodbye and head to our cars, where we meet Stephen in the parking lot. Mike walks up to him, holding the flowers.
Mike: I wanted you to see the flowers I got for my wife.
Stephen: Those are nice. I would have gotten something like that for Roxanne.
Me: They don't count!
Mike: I asked Dave for a black belt opinion and he said they do count!
Stephen: Hey, at least it's a start. (in my opinion, he was agreeing with me that they don't count!)
The flowers Mike gave me
And then, for some reason that I missed, Mike gave Stephen one of my flowers. LOL! We then headed over to Cheesecake Factory for my birthday dinner.
Mike had the kids make me cards and he gave me a gift certificate for a massage and a manicure. He said that he was going to just schedule the appointment for me but thought that I may want to pick something else. I think I'm going to get a massage and a pedicure since I've never had one before. I think it was one of the most thoughtful gifts. He also told the waitress that it was my birthday so my cheesecake came out with a candle and a plate that said, "Happy Birthday Barb!" Mike and the kids sang Happy Birthday and that was the end of a very, very nice birthday. Thanks, Mike, for making my birthday very special!
Tuesday, November 06, 2007
Yes, We're Still Here
Okay, so it's been a while since I've last blogged. That just makes this one that much more special. :)
We took the kids to see Bee Movie on Friday night and they loved it. Actually, I don't know who liked it more, me and Mike or the kids. I really hadn't expected to like it at all...especially since I had no idea what it was about. Totally funny and original. Go see it if you get the chance.
Saturday night, there was Dinner and a Movie at the cul-du-sac. Everyone brought a side dish and we grilled up hot dogs. One of our neighbors put up a big screen in their driveway and once it got dark, they showed Night at the Museum and Transformers. Hannah had enough by the time Transformers came on, so I walked her home while the boys stayed to watch. It was pretty chilly outside, but we all had a good time. At one point, I was handed a shot so that we could toast Dave, another neighbor, for his birthday. It was a huge shot and I was asked if I needed a straw. LOL! Anyway, about 5 minutes later, I was talking to Jackie (a former neighbor who only recently moved) and I told her that it was strange that I couldn't feel my lips. I knew I was a cheap drunk but I didn't think it was that bad. She asked me if I knew what the shot was. I said that I thought it was some sort of schnapps. She said that it was straight vodka. A shot of apple vodka and a shot of caramel vodka. No wonder I couldn't feel my lips!
Hannah started Tae Kwon Do yesterday. She loved it. When we got there, Master Johnson looked at us and asked why we were there on a Monday. I put my hand on my hip and just looked at him. The AH HA! light popped up above his head and he told Hannah to come out. There were two other little boys there with Hannah and they were all so cute. She did everything she was asked to do and even started learning some of the one steps. Too cute. At some point, Stephen came in and was a little shocked that Hannah was out there. Stephen's a good guy. At one point, he mentioned that there was just one left to start (he was referring to me) and I told him my condition for starting. He sighs and says, "great." Anyway, it'll be nice when she can bump up to the boys' class. I don't know how long I can take going out there four nights a week.
The boys have early release today and I hate that. Then it's back for another round of TKD and Daniel has a den meeting for Cub Scouts. Can someone at least slow the ride down a little?
Oh, and Garth Brooks is in town for the next several days (yes, Garth Brooks). It's either 6 or 9...I can't remember (I'm pretty sure it's 9). He's doing concerts with Trisha Yearwood at the Sprint Center. Every one of those concerts sold out. I'm not surprised. I'm a little bummed that we didn't get tickets (yes, I tried), but I have seen him twice before so I guess I can't be too upset. It just sucks that it's all that any radio station can talk about. :(
We took the kids to see Bee Movie on Friday night and they loved it. Actually, I don't know who liked it more, me and Mike or the kids. I really hadn't expected to like it at all...especially since I had no idea what it was about. Totally funny and original. Go see it if you get the chance.
Saturday night, there was Dinner and a Movie at the cul-du-sac. Everyone brought a side dish and we grilled up hot dogs. One of our neighbors put up a big screen in their driveway and once it got dark, they showed Night at the Museum and Transformers. Hannah had enough by the time Transformers came on, so I walked her home while the boys stayed to watch. It was pretty chilly outside, but we all had a good time. At one point, I was handed a shot so that we could toast Dave, another neighbor, for his birthday. It was a huge shot and I was asked if I needed a straw. LOL! Anyway, about 5 minutes later, I was talking to Jackie (a former neighbor who only recently moved) and I told her that it was strange that I couldn't feel my lips. I knew I was a cheap drunk but I didn't think it was that bad. She asked me if I knew what the shot was. I said that I thought it was some sort of schnapps. She said that it was straight vodka. A shot of apple vodka and a shot of caramel vodka. No wonder I couldn't feel my lips!
Hannah started Tae Kwon Do yesterday. She loved it. When we got there, Master Johnson looked at us and asked why we were there on a Monday. I put my hand on my hip and just looked at him. The AH HA! light popped up above his head and he told Hannah to come out. There were two other little boys there with Hannah and they were all so cute. She did everything she was asked to do and even started learning some of the one steps. Too cute. At some point, Stephen came in and was a little shocked that Hannah was out there. Stephen's a good guy. At one point, he mentioned that there was just one left to start (he was referring to me) and I told him my condition for starting. He sighs and says, "great." Anyway, it'll be nice when she can bump up to the boys' class. I don't know how long I can take going out there four nights a week.
The boys have early release today and I hate that. Then it's back for another round of TKD and Daniel has a den meeting for Cub Scouts. Can someone at least slow the ride down a little?
Oh, and Garth Brooks is in town for the next several days (yes, Garth Brooks). It's either 6 or 9...I can't remember (I'm pretty sure it's 9). He's doing concerts with Trisha Yearwood at the Sprint Center. Every one of those concerts sold out. I'm not surprised. I'm a little bummed that we didn't get tickets (yes, I tried), but I have seen him twice before so I guess I can't be too upset. It just sucks that it's all that any radio station can talk about. :(
Thursday, November 01, 2007
Well, This Should Be Interesting
We talked with Master Dave after the boys' TKD class tonight and decided that Hannah will start Tae Kwon Do on Monday. She seems to be excited about it. She'll do the Monday/Wednesday class (which is a white belt orientation class) for a few weeks and then move to Jacob and Daniel's class on Tuesday/Thursday nights. So, for the next few weeks, we'll be at TKD four nights a week. We may as well just move in for the next month! LOL!
After our conversation with Dave, I turned from the desk to get ready to go home when Roxanne (another TKD mom and a brown belt herself) very quietly says to me, "now we need to get YOU enrolled." Mike starts to agree with her and says something like, "well, we could work something out if you want." I said something like, "I'll give it some thought." and left. Seriously, my main hang-up is that I don't want to completely humiliate myself in front of everyone. I know that sounds stupid, but it's true. Somehow, I have a feeling that I'll be starting up with Hannah next week.
After our conversation with Dave, I turned from the desk to get ready to go home when Roxanne (another TKD mom and a brown belt herself) very quietly says to me, "now we need to get YOU enrolled." Mike starts to agree with her and says something like, "well, we could work something out if you want." I said something like, "I'll give it some thought." and left. Seriously, my main hang-up is that I don't want to completely humiliate myself in front of everyone. I know that sounds stupid, but it's true. Somehow, I have a feeling that I'll be starting up with Hannah next week.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Jacob's Photo Post
Jacob took over 100 photos during testing yesterday. Mostly of his friends. I love letting the kids take the camera because I get such a different perspective on things. Here are some of the best ones.
Mrs. Lee. She is Grandmaster Lee's wife and she basically keeps the place running. She also gives the kids candy. They like her a lot.
Mrs. Lee. She is Grandmaster Lee's wife and she basically keeps the place running. She also gives the kids candy. They like her a lot.
Alex. He was testing for his high blue belt. He also got kicked in the face during sparring and refused to shake hands with his opponent. It was pretty cute and funny. 
Stephen. He's a teacher at our school and was testing for his 2nd degree black belt. He and Mike tend to goof around a lot with each other. We wonder if he knew he was having his picture taken.
Jett in a locker. Jett is Jacob's age and a high brown belt (Jett and Jacob also are very similar in personality). He's also Stephen's (see above) oldest son and the only one in his family not testing (his mom, Roxanne, tested for her mid brown belt)
Lara. A second degree black belt and the boys' teacher. She's a sweetheart and could kick your butt.
Paige (our babysitter) testing for her mid brown belt. She got in some serious trouble from Grandmaster Lee for changing into regular clothes before testing was over. 
Quinn comes out to see what's going on. Quinn's a year younger than Daniel and is Stephen's youngest. He and Daniel are the exact same child.
I just thought this was funny.
Peter. He's Paige's little brother and is the same age as Daniel. He's a sweetie.
Jett had Roxanne's (his mom) camera, which is why Jacob took mine. I'm curious to see the photos he got!
Testing Photo Post
I'm going to post two different posts for photos as Jacob took off with my camera mid-testing. I thought it would be fun to post pictures from his perspective as well. For now, here are photos from mine.
The boys practice their form one last time before testing.
The boys practice their form one last time before testing.
Jacob and Daniel test for the judges.
Jacob and Daniel one-step spar.
Mike does his form for the judges.
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Green Belt Testing
I almost forgot that today is Deb and Jeff's anniversary! Happy anniversary to you guys!!!
Today was testing day for the boys. They were going for their low green belts this time. It's easy to see that I'm making friends within the school as Hannah and I were not sitting alone this time. I love that.
As always, first up were the white belts. There were a ton of them this testing period. Probably 3 or 4 waves tested, including three from our school. There is a possibility that next testing, Hannah will be in there.
After white belts, the yellows went and after yellow is orange, and time for the boys. They all did a great job on their form and one-steps. They then headed to the back to get padded up for sparring. Mike was up first and looked great. I had several people tell me that they had never seen him spar so well.
Then, it was Jacob and Daniel's turn. They do their best to match the kids up with height and age, and this time was no exception. Grandmaster Lee told the kids that there is no crying in Tae Kwon Do (he was joking) and we all thought that it was funny when the testing instructor actually told them, "no crying." They tell the boys to begin and both boys coume out kicking. Since the tournament, Jacob has a lot more confidence sparring and Daniel's love of it has been reinforced. All was going well until the end when Jacob took a kick to the stomach that had him upset. He held it in until he walked off, though. When they called time, Daniel could be heard saying, "ohhh," since he didn't want it to end. He's so funny.
We found out on Thursday that once you hit low blue, you have to start breaking boards as part of testing. That means the boys should be breaking boards at testing in April. Since this is quite an accomplishment for anyone, especially the kids, we decided to stay to shouw our support for our school. Mia, Peter, Quinn and Alex, all students in the boys' class, had to break a 1 inch board with a kick. The question came up that, "what if they can't?" That question was answered this afternoon. they give the kids about 7 tries to break the 1 inch board before they switch them to a 1/2 inch board. About 1/4 of the kids could break the 1 inch board and the rest had to use the 1/2 inch one.
Then, we watched as the brown and black belts took the floor. A first degree black belt, Stephen, from our school was going for his second degree and it was crazy what all they had him do. He had to break a lot of stuff. He had to break 2 inches of wood with his left hand, than another 2 inches with his right hand. Then two inches with each foot. On the second foot, Stephen felt a snap in his ankle and told Mike that he thought he broke his ankle...again (he had a fracture a couple of months ago). He didn't want anyone knowing because they would not have let him continue with testing. Of course, gossip at our school spreads like wildfire and by the time Stephen had to do his form, we were all on pins and needles watching the poor guy's ankle. He really sucked it up because he made it through his form, sparring and 3-steps (once you hit blue belt, you have 3-steps and not 1-step sparring). Amazing. Crazy and stupid, but amazing.
After testing, a group of us headed over to Arby's for a late lunch/early dinner. The kids had a blast playing with their friends as we basically took over the restaurant. Thankfully, it was pretty empty.
It was a long day, but it was fun and hopefully in a week, the boys will have their new, low green belts.
Today was testing day for the boys. They were going for their low green belts this time. It's easy to see that I'm making friends within the school as Hannah and I were not sitting alone this time. I love that.
As always, first up were the white belts. There were a ton of them this testing period. Probably 3 or 4 waves tested, including three from our school. There is a possibility that next testing, Hannah will be in there.
After white belts, the yellows went and after yellow is orange, and time for the boys. They all did a great job on their form and one-steps. They then headed to the back to get padded up for sparring. Mike was up first and looked great. I had several people tell me that they had never seen him spar so well.
Then, it was Jacob and Daniel's turn. They do their best to match the kids up with height and age, and this time was no exception. Grandmaster Lee told the kids that there is no crying in Tae Kwon Do (he was joking) and we all thought that it was funny when the testing instructor actually told them, "no crying." They tell the boys to begin and both boys coume out kicking. Since the tournament, Jacob has a lot more confidence sparring and Daniel's love of it has been reinforced. All was going well until the end when Jacob took a kick to the stomach that had him upset. He held it in until he walked off, though. When they called time, Daniel could be heard saying, "ohhh," since he didn't want it to end. He's so funny.
We found out on Thursday that once you hit low blue, you have to start breaking boards as part of testing. That means the boys should be breaking boards at testing in April. Since this is quite an accomplishment for anyone, especially the kids, we decided to stay to shouw our support for our school. Mia, Peter, Quinn and Alex, all students in the boys' class, had to break a 1 inch board with a kick. The question came up that, "what if they can't?" That question was answered this afternoon. they give the kids about 7 tries to break the 1 inch board before they switch them to a 1/2 inch board. About 1/4 of the kids could break the 1 inch board and the rest had to use the 1/2 inch one.
Then, we watched as the brown and black belts took the floor. A first degree black belt, Stephen, from our school was going for his second degree and it was crazy what all they had him do. He had to break a lot of stuff. He had to break 2 inches of wood with his left hand, than another 2 inches with his right hand. Then two inches with each foot. On the second foot, Stephen felt a snap in his ankle and told Mike that he thought he broke his ankle...again (he had a fracture a couple of months ago). He didn't want anyone knowing because they would not have let him continue with testing. Of course, gossip at our school spreads like wildfire and by the time Stephen had to do his form, we were all on pins and needles watching the poor guy's ankle. He really sucked it up because he made it through his form, sparring and 3-steps (once you hit blue belt, you have 3-steps and not 1-step sparring). Amazing. Crazy and stupid, but amazing.
After testing, a group of us headed over to Arby's for a late lunch/early dinner. The kids had a blast playing with their friends as we basically took over the restaurant. Thankfully, it was pretty empty.
It was a long day, but it was fun and hopefully in a week, the boys will have their new, low green belts.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Pumpkin Patch and Tae Kwon Do Photos
Before I get to the pictures, a funny conversation from tonight.
I'm sitting in the viewing area when Paige (our babysitter) runs in with paper towels in hand (the kids were cleaning the mirrors and windows to look good in the pictures) and says:
Did you say something to him?
Me: What?
P: Because he said something to me about cleaning.
Me: Paige, what in the world are you talking about?
P: Then he must have overheard my dad and Mike talking about me over cleaning your house.
Me: Who is the "he" you are referring to?
P: Master Johnson!
Me: What happened?
P: He told me to clean the mirror and I told him that I hated to clean and he said, 'that's not what Mike and Barb say.'
And now...the pictures, as promised.
Hannah on the hay ride out to the field
Hannah and Mrs. M, her teacher
Hannah's preschool class...is there anything cuter than a bunch of 4 year olds at the pumpkin patch?
All of the kids from our school who participated in the tournament last week with their trophies (Paige is the tall girl in the back middle)
Daniel, Jacob and Master Johnson
I'm sitting in the viewing area when Paige (our babysitter) runs in with paper towels in hand (the kids were cleaning the mirrors and windows to look good in the pictures) and says:
Did you say something to him?
Me: What?
P: Because he said something to me about cleaning.
Me: Paige, what in the world are you talking about?
P: Then he must have overheard my dad and Mike talking about me over cleaning your house.
Me: Who is the "he" you are referring to?
P: Master Johnson!
Me: What happened?
P: He told me to clean the mirror and I told him that I hated to clean and he said, 'that's not what Mike and Barb say.'
And now...the pictures, as promised.
Hannah on the hay ride out to the field
Hannah and Mrs. M, her teacher
Hannah's preschool class...is there anything cuter than a bunch of 4 year olds at the pumpkin patch?
All of the kids from our school who participated in the tournament last week with their trophies (Paige is the tall girl in the back middle)
Daniel, Jacob and Master Johnson
Is It Already Wednesday?
Where has the week gone? I can't even remember Monday. Seriously. Was there even a Monday this week? (and how do I begin to follow Mike's awesome blog?)
I had MOPS yesterday and I have to say that I have the best table ever. We all just kind of clicked. So cool. We've already got a playgroup going and are going to try to do a Mom's Night (or afternoon) Out once a month or so. Two of the girls at my table are pregnant and due in December and we've already started plans for a joint baby shower. That should be a blast. A few of these girls are also in the Bible Study that I'm in on opposite MOPS weeks. I've got to tell you that I'm so excited about making friends. That's what makes where you live great. I'm finally starting to really feel good about Kansas. Do you hear that, Mike?
Last night, everyone had Tae Kwon Do. The first class after the big tournament. I was chatting with Alex's mom (I really need to find out her name)...the same thing happened to him that happened to Jacob. The only difference was that he left right after, so he had no idea that he had a trophy coming to him. Alex's mom had me fill her in on what happened after their round. Mike has the tournament bug and was asking when the next one is (next spring). We are to head back up to the school tonight all uniformed up and with trophies for pictures. Master Johnson has hired a professional photographer to take pictures of everyone. I thought that was pretty cool.
I also talked to Dave (Master Johnson) about when Hannah can start TKD. He said that once he gets another orientation class going, she can start. He doesn't want to just throw her into the class that the boys are in because she'd be too overwhelmed. So, just like the boys did, she'd start in the orientation class for about a month and then move up to the boys' class. We haven't told her yet since we don't know when that's going to happen (they just ended an orientation class) but it may be before the end of the year. Ugh...then we'd be doing TKD Monday-Thursday for a month or so. I already feel like we live there as it is! LOL! That's okay. I can think of worse places to be.
Daniel also had his first den meeting last night. Jacob, Hannah and I did not attend, but I hear that it was a lot of fun. The family that hosted has a firepit in their yard and the kids got to make s'mores. They also made a family scrapbook to take home (not my idea...it's actually a requirement as a den activity). His whole den earned their Bobcat badges (everyone has to earn the Bobcat before you can earn anything else. It's the basics of Cub Scouting...the motto, promise, handshake, salute...you get the idea.) and it's already on his uniform. Jacob was disappointed that he has yet to get his, but he will at his next den meeting next week. (I hope it's next week and not tonight!) The boys are having a blast with Scouting. We got an e-mail yesterday about Jacob's den hosting another den campout at the beginning of November. His den really loves to campout. We are also attending Camporee (family campout) this weekend. So much camping. We should be pros in no time! Sometime between now and Friday, I have to get a bigger tent (the one the boys took last week barely held them) and two more sleeping bags. After this weekend, we should be ready to camp at a moment's notice!
The boys have picture day today, but I didn't get any photos of them before they headed out. Sorry about that. We have our morning routine down pat and if I try to throw something else in there, it really messes me up. Take my word for it...they looked good!
Hannah has a field trip to the pumpkin patch with her preschool this afternoon. Should be fun. Stay tuned for pictures!
I had MOPS yesterday and I have to say that I have the best table ever. We all just kind of clicked. So cool. We've already got a playgroup going and are going to try to do a Mom's Night (or afternoon) Out once a month or so. Two of the girls at my table are pregnant and due in December and we've already started plans for a joint baby shower. That should be a blast. A few of these girls are also in the Bible Study that I'm in on opposite MOPS weeks. I've got to tell you that I'm so excited about making friends. That's what makes where you live great. I'm finally starting to really feel good about Kansas. Do you hear that, Mike?
Last night, everyone had Tae Kwon Do. The first class after the big tournament. I was chatting with Alex's mom (I really need to find out her name)...the same thing happened to him that happened to Jacob. The only difference was that he left right after, so he had no idea that he had a trophy coming to him. Alex's mom had me fill her in on what happened after their round. Mike has the tournament bug and was asking when the next one is (next spring). We are to head back up to the school tonight all uniformed up and with trophies for pictures. Master Johnson has hired a professional photographer to take pictures of everyone. I thought that was pretty cool.
I also talked to Dave (Master Johnson) about when Hannah can start TKD. He said that once he gets another orientation class going, she can start. He doesn't want to just throw her into the class that the boys are in because she'd be too overwhelmed. So, just like the boys did, she'd start in the orientation class for about a month and then move up to the boys' class. We haven't told her yet since we don't know when that's going to happen (they just ended an orientation class) but it may be before the end of the year. Ugh...then we'd be doing TKD Monday-Thursday for a month or so. I already feel like we live there as it is! LOL! That's okay. I can think of worse places to be.
Daniel also had his first den meeting last night. Jacob, Hannah and I did not attend, but I hear that it was a lot of fun. The family that hosted has a firepit in their yard and the kids got to make s'mores. They also made a family scrapbook to take home (not my idea...it's actually a requirement as a den activity). His whole den earned their Bobcat badges (everyone has to earn the Bobcat before you can earn anything else. It's the basics of Cub Scouting...the motto, promise, handshake, salute...you get the idea.) and it's already on his uniform. Jacob was disappointed that he has yet to get his, but he will at his next den meeting next week. (I hope it's next week and not tonight!) The boys are having a blast with Scouting. We got an e-mail yesterday about Jacob's den hosting another den campout at the beginning of November. His den really loves to campout. We are also attending Camporee (family campout) this weekend. So much camping. We should be pros in no time! Sometime between now and Friday, I have to get a bigger tent (the one the boys took last week barely held them) and two more sleeping bags. After this weekend, we should be ready to camp at a moment's notice!
The boys have picture day today, but I didn't get any photos of them before they headed out. Sorry about that. We have our morning routine down pat and if I try to throw something else in there, it really messes me up. Take my word for it...they looked good!
Hannah has a field trip to the pumpkin patch with her preschool this afternoon. Should be fun. Stay tuned for pictures!
Sunday, October 07, 2007
Girls' Night Out and a Guest Blog
It's been such a busy weekend that I'm just now up to blogging about it.
Friday night was Girls' Night Out for me and Hannah since the boys were off being wilderness men. Soon after the boys left, Hannah and I headed out to dinner. One of her favorites is Outback since she can get snake (steak for those of you that don't know Hannahese). After a very nice dinner, we went bowling, which seems to be a favorite activity for the two of us. My average is beginning to increase the more we go, so that's pretty cool (I bowled a 154 and a 147 this week). We came home and Hannah was in bed and asleep by 8:20. Not a bad night for me. Hannah just loves Girls' Night Out (this is our second time doing it) and talks about it endlessly for the next several days.
And now...a guest blog by Mike...
The Moon, Kata, & God
Part I: The Moon
I took the boys camping on Friday night. The campsite was in Missouri and about 75 miles from home. The weather was nice, a little hot, but very clear. There were about seven scouts with five dads (two dads, including myself, brought two boys).
The boys were helpful in putting up the tent. We were camping right off of a lake and the boys were anxious to go fishing. All the scouts spent an hour fishing off the docks or taking canoes into the lake all came back with the result: No bites, no nibbles, no fish. But with setting up their lines, hooking the worms, and trying to catch fish, Daniel and Jacob earned their fishing belt loop.
After fishing it was time for dinner. Not being much of a cook myself, we planned for hotdogs and chips. The boys had a blast skewering their hotdogs and sticking them in the fire. Some dads actually brought steaks, seasoned them, and then skewered and cooked them like hotdogs. If I knew it was that easy - we would have been eating steak!
When it became dark, the scout master called all of the boys around the campfire and broght out a whiteboard and markers. He then announced that we were going to earn our astrology belt loop. The scout master quizzed the boys on the meaning of words like meteorites, astroids, planets, sun, and the galaxy. He then pointed out certain stars and planets.
He then asked the boys if they knew the main star of our solar system. One boy shouted out "the sun". He was then instructed to grab a marker and go to the whiteboard and draw a picture of the Sun and write out "Sun" next to his picture. The next question was: "What's the planet closest to the sun?" The boy that answered "Mercury" came up and drew Mercury near the Sun. Jacob correctly guessed that Earth was the third planet and drew it accordingly. He even included a little moon! With a little prodding by dad, Daniel correctly shouted out Neptune. Not knowing how to spell Neptune, Jacob accompanied Daniel to the whiteboard and whispered the spelling letter-by-letter so that Daniel could complete his picture. Daniel had an ear-to-ear smile that he was able to do this exercise with the older scouts. It was too cute!
The last requirement to complete the Astrology merit badge was to find the moon with a pair of binoucalars. The moon wasn't out but the boys would spot it at 6:00 am on Saturday morning and thus completed their Astrology merit badget.
The rest of Friday night was spent cooking s'mores, telling jokes and stories around the camp fire, and just running/goodfing around. The night wound down around midnight.
It was a fairly hot night and didn't really cool down until 2-3 am. Everybody got up at 6:00 am to see the moon and to see if they could catch fish. Everybody ate at 7:30 am. I couldn't find the bagels that Barb packed, so I gave the boys doughnuts and juice boxes. The other dads whipped out skillets and cooked bacon and eggs over the open fire. I have got to learn how to cook! Fortunately, the cooking of hot dogs and s'mores was enough for partial credit towards their Cooking belt loop.
In the course of about 14 hours, the boys put up a tent, went fishing, cooked their dinner, stoked the fire, hung around their pals, and earned three belt loops.
We then broke down the camp and left around 8:45 am for the Tae Kwondo Tournament.
Part II: The Kata
We went to the Tae Kwondo Tournament at the urging of our instructor, Master Johnson. The tournament has two main sections: Forms (or Kata) and Sparring. Forms are a prescribed routine of kicks and punches to demonstate power, profiency, and an sense of rythm. Sparring is full contact fighting, but with the protection of head gear, arm and legs pads, and a chest protector. The divisions of competion were broken down by age (essentially children, teenagers, adults, and seniors - and yes, I fell into the senior group!) and by belt class (low, medium, and black belts - all three of us were in the low belt class).
Master Johnson wanted the boys to compete in Form to build up Jacob's confidence in performing in front of a crowd and Daniel focusing on speed and power. He left the choice of competing in Sparring up to the boys - who both initially declined for fear of getting hurt.
As I was going to be there anyways, I signed up for both Forms and Sparring. I signed up for Forms to basically kill some time and signed up for Sparring to try and teach the boys to face their fears. Like them, I had a fear of getting hurt. I've been doing this for 6 months and bearly have gotten back into shape. I told them that during their lives they will face situations when someone is going to push them around and will challenge them. There will be times when someone won't let reason resolve the situation. They will have to either stand up or back down. Nobody likes getting hurt, but on reflection, it's almost always more painful when you back down and don't stand up for yourself. So, I entered the ring with the hopes of showing the boys how to face your fear, that fear is self restricting, and if you don't give it into you will build inner respect and confidence.
The Tae Kwondo tournament started by lining up all of the competitors by rank, taking us through some basic exercises to the background of Queen's "We Will Rock You!" The boys loved this and have been thumping with their hands and the feet the riff to this song.
Next was a demo by the high ranking blackbelts. We saw demos on board and brick breaking, self defense, and Forms. One blackbelt did a standing back flip and while in mid-air, backwards, broke two boards with his legs over his upsidedown head and body. It was jaw dropping!
Next was Forms. The kids went first. Daniel and Jacob were in two adjoining rings, with Barb helping out Daniel and me helping out Jacob.
The judges call the kids two-by-two and score them. Best scores win - with the top three earning trophies. While the boys are grouped in eight for expediency, they are actually competing with three other boys (two groups of fours each competing for first through third).
Jacob went before Daniel. Jacob is the star of his class and had been repeatedly told he had a great shot at first. I personally made the mistake of having told Jacob he was our families' best shot at a trophy - because I'm old and slow - and Daniel has dad's sense of rythm. This may have gotten Jacob overly confident. I thought he rushed through his Form and didn't really focus on power or rythm. Because Barb had been working with Daniel, she just caught the tail end of Jacob's Form.
Daniel was then called out on the adjoining mat, so Barb and I ran over. We had told Daniel to focus on completing his Form and not winning. This was the best we had ever seen Daniel. He didn't stumble and remembered the sequence of the kicks and punches. Seeing all the 6 year olds perform, was too cute!
Daniel's section finished before Jacob's section. The judges lined up all the contestants in Daniel's section - and the by the way they lined up - we were guessing that Daniel had earned third. We were very excited to see that he won something. We soon discovered that we looking at the line from the wrong direction, and what appeared to be third was actually a first place finish! Daniel was stunned and we were the proud parents. I ran up, hugged Daniel, and hoisted him the air, shouting: "That's my boy, that's my boy!" Daniel was all ear-to-ear smiles.
I was then called over to my ring to do Form before I could see Jacob's results. As I was lining up, I glanced back over to Jacob's ring and saw Barb hugging Jacob. They never came over to see me perform and I knew something was wrong.
As it initially turned out, Jacob did not place and was so upset that he missed my performance. Because of this, my family also missed my performance.
There are no group limitations at the adult level - but there are not a whole lot of low belt seniors. There were five in my group - so my goal wss just to medal, top three of five.
One of my instructors told me at level to perform each block, kick, and punch with enough power that it could break a board. To yell (kiop) very loudly and dramatically at the end of each sequence and not break closing stance until instructed. I thought I pulled this off fairly well and liked my chances of scoring in top three.
As they were announcing the winners of my division, Barb ran over and said she had to chase Jacob out the door as he announced he was leaving because he didn't win. As she, Daniel, and Hannah were chasing down Jacob, the judges began announcing the winners of my division. Third place - my name is not called. Second place - my name is not called. Crap this getting close. First place - they announce my name and with a fist pump and smile, I claim my winners trophy. As I am walking up, I am thinking "Damn, this will look good in my office for all to see. As I receive the trophy, the judge shakes my hand and whispers in my ear: "Sorry, we ran out of first place trophies - all we have left are "Special Recognition" trophies and he handed it to me. Walking back out of the ring, I'm now thinking: "Crap, I can't bring this into the office, it looks like a "I participated and didn't get hurt trophy." Without my family witnessing my performance or a trophy to show for it - you will all simply have to beleve I won this thing - I swear I did!
At this point, Barb has successfully stopped Jacob from leaving. Master Johnson all came up to us and told us their was a scoring mistake with Jacob. The judges had accidently paired Jacob's group with four older boys. They wanted Jacob and his group to reperform. Jacob refused. Not sure about the other boys in the group. To settle this, they took Jacob's groups original scores and ranked him - and Jacob finished third. At this point, Jacob didn't believe us and thought we were handing him a charity trophy. It was high drama. Neither Barb or us could settle him down. Master Johnson couldn't really do it either. Jacob eventually settled himself down.
The tourament was now moving to Sparring - and Daniel and Jacob announced they wanted to Spar. After a first place finish, Daniel now had confidence he could compete. Jacob was so angry at his third place finish, he wanted to Spar for redemption. Jacob and Daniel had found their own path into the Sparring ring for their own personal reasons, and papa was proud. I no longer had to Spar to try and teach the boys about facing fear - but I was with Daniel, I took first place in Form and now it was time to kick some ass!
Jacob was first to Spar. In practice, Jacob is very reluctant and defensive. He doesn't like the thought of hurting anyone and really just works on blocking. He needs to be constantly coached to kick and punch. Today was different. He was aggressive. Jacob was paired against a bigger kid. He stayed in the center of the ring. He executed lots of combinations. While he connected a lot, Tae Kwondo scoring is hard. You must actually make your opponent move backwards with a kick or punch to score. It was a three minute match. Jacob lost 2-1 and kept the bout very close. I came over to Jacob and whispered how pleased I was of the effort. No backing down. Good execution. Great sportsmanship. Papa was proud! There were only three in Jacob's division who chose to spar. Because he lost the first match, he finished third and claimed his trophy. It is tough to stand in there and take and give full contact punches and kicks. Jacob really earned his trophy!
Next was Daniel. Daniel loves Sparring but typically doesn't take it seriously. A lot his kicks and punches are rather random. But Daniel came out and, like Jacob, took this seriously. Daniel was also paired against a bigger kid. He threw good combinations and gave a great effort. I was coaching him from the sidelines - and everytime I said something he turned back to look at me and smile. I sooned learned not to say anything so he wouldn't turn away and get sucker punched. Daniel lost 2-0. He was also called out a second time, gave another great peformance and came up short again 2-0. The judges declared a two way tie for third and gave Daniel a 3rd place trophy. Daniel suspected this was a charity trophy and didn't want to accept it. I generally agree with that thinking - but if you can stand in the ring for two full contact bouts at age 6, you've earned a trophy!
Now it was my turn. Like my boys, I was outsized. I stand 5'6'' and was paired against a guy who was 6'3''. In this sport, height is a huge advantage. We bowed and the bout began. In the first few seconds, my opponent and I each landed a round kick on the other. The referee yelled: "point" and the judges scored 3-0 that I landed the kick (and moved my opponent backwards). I was up 1-0. Barb was in the first row of the stands about 10 feet from me. Our eyes met and we gave each other "a holy crap, I can actually win this thing look".
That first kick was the only one I could land. My oppenent was too tall for me. I couldn't connect kicks and moved to the inside to avoid his kick and punch. I punched the tar out of this guy. I easily out connected him. I couldn't move him backwards and all my punches went for naught.
My opponent became a poor sport. He protested almost everything I did. I also blocked his kicks hard sending him to floor several times. You don't score points for blocks. All of his protests and theatrics though, did rally a small crowd to my side. He did land two round kicks to my weak side and I found myself down 2-1.
At this point, I should have changed something up - but I didn't. I continued to block kicks, move inside, and tried punching him backwards - very tough to do with someone wearing a chest protector. I came in with a hard left hook, even though he is so much taller than I am decided to try and duck the punch. I ended up hitting him square in the jaw which is highly illegal. He bitched to the ref, and I apologized. But I have to tell you, that that punch felt great - it was orgasmic. My best shot of the day and it was illegal.
Now the weight of the equipment was wearing on me. I used too much energy working inside, and the equipment now felt heavy. I left my weak side open again and was scored against. I had lost 3-1.
The boys were really upset. They thought I won. It probably looked like to the average person that I had won. My opponent was out punched and fell down at least twice. As it was explained to me aftwards, Tae Kwondo is about technique and is scored on technique- not on power.
I came over to Barb and smiled. Didn't matter that I lost, it was way cool to go into a ring and duke it out - and I lived to tell about it. Besides, I still had my Special Recognition trophy! Two of the five in my group, decided not to spar - which handed me third place trophy.
I also need to comment on our dojo. We had about 30 people compete. We were a tight nit family. Everybody rooting for each other. The families helping each other out. The high black belts coaching in between sessions. It was a very cool feeling.
End result: Three Ginsbergs in a total six events. Total trophies won: 6 (two firsts and four thirds).
We then went to out to dinner. After coming home, we were all exhausted. We took baths and ended the evening.
Part III. God.
It's now Sunday morning and we are at synagogue. During the family service, I began reflecting on the week. The camping trip was a great father-sons experience. The girls had a girls night out on Friday and had a great time at Outback and bowling. We all learned so much about ourselves and each other at the Tae Kwondo tournament - we all passed our individual tests. It was now time to thank God for giving me my family and for our love of each other.
-Mike
Friday night was Girls' Night Out for me and Hannah since the boys were off being wilderness men. Soon after the boys left, Hannah and I headed out to dinner. One of her favorites is Outback since she can get snake (steak for those of you that don't know Hannahese). After a very nice dinner, we went bowling, which seems to be a favorite activity for the two of us. My average is beginning to increase the more we go, so that's pretty cool (I bowled a 154 and a 147 this week). We came home and Hannah was in bed and asleep by 8:20. Not a bad night for me. Hannah just loves Girls' Night Out (this is our second time doing it) and talks about it endlessly for the next several days.
And now...a guest blog by Mike...
The Moon, Kata, & God
Part I: The Moon
I took the boys camping on Friday night. The campsite was in Missouri and about 75 miles from home. The weather was nice, a little hot, but very clear. There were about seven scouts with five dads (two dads, including myself, brought two boys).
The boys were helpful in putting up the tent. We were camping right off of a lake and the boys were anxious to go fishing. All the scouts spent an hour fishing off the docks or taking canoes into the lake all came back with the result: No bites, no nibbles, no fish. But with setting up their lines, hooking the worms, and trying to catch fish, Daniel and Jacob earned their fishing belt loop.
After fishing it was time for dinner. Not being much of a cook myself, we planned for hotdogs and chips. The boys had a blast skewering their hotdogs and sticking them in the fire. Some dads actually brought steaks, seasoned them, and then skewered and cooked them like hotdogs. If I knew it was that easy - we would have been eating steak!
When it became dark, the scout master called all of the boys around the campfire and broght out a whiteboard and markers. He then announced that we were going to earn our astrology belt loop. The scout master quizzed the boys on the meaning of words like meteorites, astroids, planets, sun, and the galaxy. He then pointed out certain stars and planets.
He then asked the boys if they knew the main star of our solar system. One boy shouted out "the sun". He was then instructed to grab a marker and go to the whiteboard and draw a picture of the Sun and write out "Sun" next to his picture. The next question was: "What's the planet closest to the sun?" The boy that answered "Mercury" came up and drew Mercury near the Sun. Jacob correctly guessed that Earth was the third planet and drew it accordingly. He even included a little moon! With a little prodding by dad, Daniel correctly shouted out Neptune. Not knowing how to spell Neptune, Jacob accompanied Daniel to the whiteboard and whispered the spelling letter-by-letter so that Daniel could complete his picture. Daniel had an ear-to-ear smile that he was able to do this exercise with the older scouts. It was too cute!
The last requirement to complete the Astrology merit badge was to find the moon with a pair of binoucalars. The moon wasn't out but the boys would spot it at 6:00 am on Saturday morning and thus completed their Astrology merit badget.
The rest of Friday night was spent cooking s'mores, telling jokes and stories around the camp fire, and just running/goodfing around. The night wound down around midnight.
It was a fairly hot night and didn't really cool down until 2-3 am. Everybody got up at 6:00 am to see the moon and to see if they could catch fish. Everybody ate at 7:30 am. I couldn't find the bagels that Barb packed, so I gave the boys doughnuts and juice boxes. The other dads whipped out skillets and cooked bacon and eggs over the open fire. I have got to learn how to cook! Fortunately, the cooking of hot dogs and s'mores was enough for partial credit towards their Cooking belt loop.
In the course of about 14 hours, the boys put up a tent, went fishing, cooked their dinner, stoked the fire, hung around their pals, and earned three belt loops.
We then broke down the camp and left around 8:45 am for the Tae Kwondo Tournament.
Part II: The Kata
We went to the Tae Kwondo Tournament at the urging of our instructor, Master Johnson. The tournament has two main sections: Forms (or Kata) and Sparring. Forms are a prescribed routine of kicks and punches to demonstate power, profiency, and an sense of rythm. Sparring is full contact fighting, but with the protection of head gear, arm and legs pads, and a chest protector. The divisions of competion were broken down by age (essentially children, teenagers, adults, and seniors - and yes, I fell into the senior group!) and by belt class (low, medium, and black belts - all three of us were in the low belt class).
Master Johnson wanted the boys to compete in Form to build up Jacob's confidence in performing in front of a crowd and Daniel focusing on speed and power. He left the choice of competing in Sparring up to the boys - who both initially declined for fear of getting hurt.
As I was going to be there anyways, I signed up for both Forms and Sparring. I signed up for Forms to basically kill some time and signed up for Sparring to try and teach the boys to face their fears. Like them, I had a fear of getting hurt. I've been doing this for 6 months and bearly have gotten back into shape. I told them that during their lives they will face situations when someone is going to push them around and will challenge them. There will be times when someone won't let reason resolve the situation. They will have to either stand up or back down. Nobody likes getting hurt, but on reflection, it's almost always more painful when you back down and don't stand up for yourself. So, I entered the ring with the hopes of showing the boys how to face your fear, that fear is self restricting, and if you don't give it into you will build inner respect and confidence.
The Tae Kwondo tournament started by lining up all of the competitors by rank, taking us through some basic exercises to the background of Queen's "We Will Rock You!" The boys loved this and have been thumping with their hands and the feet the riff to this song.
Next was a demo by the high ranking blackbelts. We saw demos on board and brick breaking, self defense, and Forms. One blackbelt did a standing back flip and while in mid-air, backwards, broke two boards with his legs over his upsidedown head and body. It was jaw dropping!
Next was Forms. The kids went first. Daniel and Jacob were in two adjoining rings, with Barb helping out Daniel and me helping out Jacob.
The judges call the kids two-by-two and score them. Best scores win - with the top three earning trophies. While the boys are grouped in eight for expediency, they are actually competing with three other boys (two groups of fours each competing for first through third).
Jacob went before Daniel. Jacob is the star of his class and had been repeatedly told he had a great shot at first. I personally made the mistake of having told Jacob he was our families' best shot at a trophy - because I'm old and slow - and Daniel has dad's sense of rythm. This may have gotten Jacob overly confident. I thought he rushed through his Form and didn't really focus on power or rythm. Because Barb had been working with Daniel, she just caught the tail end of Jacob's Form.
Daniel was then called out on the adjoining mat, so Barb and I ran over. We had told Daniel to focus on completing his Form and not winning. This was the best we had ever seen Daniel. He didn't stumble and remembered the sequence of the kicks and punches. Seeing all the 6 year olds perform, was too cute!
Daniel's section finished before Jacob's section. The judges lined up all the contestants in Daniel's section - and the by the way they lined up - we were guessing that Daniel had earned third. We were very excited to see that he won something. We soon discovered that we looking at the line from the wrong direction, and what appeared to be third was actually a first place finish! Daniel was stunned and we were the proud parents. I ran up, hugged Daniel, and hoisted him the air, shouting: "That's my boy, that's my boy!" Daniel was all ear-to-ear smiles.
I was then called over to my ring to do Form before I could see Jacob's results. As I was lining up, I glanced back over to Jacob's ring and saw Barb hugging Jacob. They never came over to see me perform and I knew something was wrong.
As it initially turned out, Jacob did not place and was so upset that he missed my performance. Because of this, my family also missed my performance.
There are no group limitations at the adult level - but there are not a whole lot of low belt seniors. There were five in my group - so my goal wss just to medal, top three of five.
One of my instructors told me at level to perform each block, kick, and punch with enough power that it could break a board. To yell (kiop) very loudly and dramatically at the end of each sequence and not break closing stance until instructed. I thought I pulled this off fairly well and liked my chances of scoring in top three.
As they were announcing the winners of my division, Barb ran over and said she had to chase Jacob out the door as he announced he was leaving because he didn't win. As she, Daniel, and Hannah were chasing down Jacob, the judges began announcing the winners of my division. Third place - my name is not called. Second place - my name is not called. Crap this getting close. First place - they announce my name and with a fist pump and smile, I claim my winners trophy. As I am walking up, I am thinking "Damn, this will look good in my office for all to see. As I receive the trophy, the judge shakes my hand and whispers in my ear: "Sorry, we ran out of first place trophies - all we have left are "Special Recognition" trophies and he handed it to me. Walking back out of the ring, I'm now thinking: "Crap, I can't bring this into the office, it looks like a "I participated and didn't get hurt trophy." Without my family witnessing my performance or a trophy to show for it - you will all simply have to beleve I won this thing - I swear I did!
At this point, Barb has successfully stopped Jacob from leaving. Master Johnson all came up to us and told us their was a scoring mistake with Jacob. The judges had accidently paired Jacob's group with four older boys. They wanted Jacob and his group to reperform. Jacob refused. Not sure about the other boys in the group. To settle this, they took Jacob's groups original scores and ranked him - and Jacob finished third. At this point, Jacob didn't believe us and thought we were handing him a charity trophy. It was high drama. Neither Barb or us could settle him down. Master Johnson couldn't really do it either. Jacob eventually settled himself down.
The tourament was now moving to Sparring - and Daniel and Jacob announced they wanted to Spar. After a first place finish, Daniel now had confidence he could compete. Jacob was so angry at his third place finish, he wanted to Spar for redemption. Jacob and Daniel had found their own path into the Sparring ring for their own personal reasons, and papa was proud. I no longer had to Spar to try and teach the boys about facing fear - but I was with Daniel, I took first place in Form and now it was time to kick some ass!
Jacob was first to Spar. In practice, Jacob is very reluctant and defensive. He doesn't like the thought of hurting anyone and really just works on blocking. He needs to be constantly coached to kick and punch. Today was different. He was aggressive. Jacob was paired against a bigger kid. He stayed in the center of the ring. He executed lots of combinations. While he connected a lot, Tae Kwondo scoring is hard. You must actually make your opponent move backwards with a kick or punch to score. It was a three minute match. Jacob lost 2-1 and kept the bout very close. I came over to Jacob and whispered how pleased I was of the effort. No backing down. Good execution. Great sportsmanship. Papa was proud! There were only three in Jacob's division who chose to spar. Because he lost the first match, he finished third and claimed his trophy. It is tough to stand in there and take and give full contact punches and kicks. Jacob really earned his trophy!
Next was Daniel. Daniel loves Sparring but typically doesn't take it seriously. A lot his kicks and punches are rather random. But Daniel came out and, like Jacob, took this seriously. Daniel was also paired against a bigger kid. He threw good combinations and gave a great effort. I was coaching him from the sidelines - and everytime I said something he turned back to look at me and smile. I sooned learned not to say anything so he wouldn't turn away and get sucker punched. Daniel lost 2-0. He was also called out a second time, gave another great peformance and came up short again 2-0. The judges declared a two way tie for third and gave Daniel a 3rd place trophy. Daniel suspected this was a charity trophy and didn't want to accept it. I generally agree with that thinking - but if you can stand in the ring for two full contact bouts at age 6, you've earned a trophy!
Now it was my turn. Like my boys, I was outsized. I stand 5'6'' and was paired against a guy who was 6'3''. In this sport, height is a huge advantage. We bowed and the bout began. In the first few seconds, my opponent and I each landed a round kick on the other. The referee yelled: "point" and the judges scored 3-0 that I landed the kick (and moved my opponent backwards). I was up 1-0. Barb was in the first row of the stands about 10 feet from me. Our eyes met and we gave each other "a holy crap, I can actually win this thing look".
That first kick was the only one I could land. My oppenent was too tall for me. I couldn't connect kicks and moved to the inside to avoid his kick and punch. I punched the tar out of this guy. I easily out connected him. I couldn't move him backwards and all my punches went for naught.
My opponent became a poor sport. He protested almost everything I did. I also blocked his kicks hard sending him to floor several times. You don't score points for blocks. All of his protests and theatrics though, did rally a small crowd to my side. He did land two round kicks to my weak side and I found myself down 2-1.
At this point, I should have changed something up - but I didn't. I continued to block kicks, move inside, and tried punching him backwards - very tough to do with someone wearing a chest protector. I came in with a hard left hook, even though he is so much taller than I am decided to try and duck the punch. I ended up hitting him square in the jaw which is highly illegal. He bitched to the ref, and I apologized. But I have to tell you, that that punch felt great - it was orgasmic. My best shot of the day and it was illegal.
Now the weight of the equipment was wearing on me. I used too much energy working inside, and the equipment now felt heavy. I left my weak side open again and was scored against. I had lost 3-1.
The boys were really upset. They thought I won. It probably looked like to the average person that I had won. My opponent was out punched and fell down at least twice. As it was explained to me aftwards, Tae Kwondo is about technique and is scored on technique- not on power.
I came over to Barb and smiled. Didn't matter that I lost, it was way cool to go into a ring and duke it out - and I lived to tell about it. Besides, I still had my Special Recognition trophy! Two of the five in my group, decided not to spar - which handed me third place trophy.
I also need to comment on our dojo. We had about 30 people compete. We were a tight nit family. Everybody rooting for each other. The families helping each other out. The high black belts coaching in between sessions. It was a very cool feeling.
End result: Three Ginsbergs in a total six events. Total trophies won: 6 (two firsts and four thirds).
We then went to out to dinner. After coming home, we were all exhausted. We took baths and ended the evening.
Part III. God.
It's now Sunday morning and we are at synagogue. During the family service, I began reflecting on the week. The camping trip was a great father-sons experience. The girls had a girls night out on Friday and had a great time at Outback and bowling. We all learned so much about ourselves and each other at the Tae Kwondo tournament - we all passed our individual tests. It was now time to thank God for giving me my family and for our love of each other.
-Mike
Saturday, October 06, 2007
Photo Post
The boys had a great time at their campout. We also had a very successful Tae Kwon Do tournament. Can you believe that Daniel got first place in his division in form? Shocking...that's for sure. Mike promised to guest blog later, but for now, here's pictures.
Jacob fishing
Jacob fishing
Daniel putting a log on the fire with some help
Jacob, Daniel and Lara (one of their TKD teachers...she's all of 15 and a 2nd degree black belt) share a laugh
Hannah, Mike, Jim, Deb, Mia, Crystal, Brandon, and Martin (in the hat in the back) watch the boys spar
Most of their TKD class...back row...Crystal, Brandon, Jacob...front row...Mia, Daniel, Peter and Alex
Daniel competes in form
Daniel and his first place trophy
Jacob competes in form (this one's a long story...the short story...he competed against 8 other kids when they were only supposed to compete against 4. He didn't place. Once they realized the error, they re-split the kids up and using the scores, he ended up getting 3rd in form)
Jacob decided to spar. This was the best job he ever did sparring.
Jacob earned 3rd place in sparring.
Daniel decided to spar as well (he also got third)
Mike spars. He got third as well (but a first in form)
The boys and their trophies. They really cleaned up today.
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