My Journey in the Martial Arts

effects of abusive behavior

2010-04-30T17:38:00.000-07:00

Personally, I feel that the way I was treated at Villari's was abusive was at the very least abusive. I really feel this at the very least agitated my mental illness. If it hadn't been for Villari's perhaps I could have gotten into the military.

I know that after world war two alot of G.I.'s training overseas. They werent' treated too well when they trained over there. However, I feel that it doesn't have to be things don't have to be this way.

You know a score of 80 will get one into the service academies. I had a 128 on the asvab. However, they wanted me to lose weight. So I joined Villari's in Reedsburg.

Personally, I feel that the community would be better off without Villari's. Teaching people how to defend themselves is one thing. But training people to fight to do mortal combat is another thing.

Additional Income Center for the Jade Dragon Martial Arts Academy

2010-04-29T08:31:00.001-07:00

One thing is I have less of a problem with Jim Embrossi then I do with Jim Schulenburg. Why? For one thing, now who told Jim Embrossi that I stole a kids bo staff? Now he thought I stole it.

Perhaps one of the reasons, Jim Embrossi was picking on me was that Jim Schulenburg didn't tell him about the stuff I did for the school. For instance all the help with special events or the stuff I did when they expanded the school. Another thing is Jim Schulenburg still owned the school while Jim Embrossi was running it.

This is not too say I agree with everything Jim Embrossi's does. For example, when someone is being nice to his kids and teaching them things, he shouldn't be paranoid as to think everyone has alterier motives. I was really being nice helping his son so as to gain favor with him.

Personally, I think Jim Embrossi should teach ToShinDo at his school. This would distance himself from Villari's. This would also give him another revenue stream. Also he could have them help do black belt tests, go to there seminars, etc.

Another thing is he could give a person a free lesson. Then based on that lesson he could determine which class they would best fit into. Karate is about standing one's ground. That's something some people need to learn. Others may need to be more elusive.

A word for Rayden

2010-04-28T05:58:00.000-07:00

Don't know the guy personally, seems like an alright fellow. But he would do well to remember, he can win all his battles and lose the war. Likewise he can lose all his battles and still win.

What do I mean by this? The earth has such biological diversity in it. One of the reasons he's stayed while others left is because of that diversity. If we are not careful we could lose that diversity. Then the earth would become a dead planet. If we lose this diversity then what? How many of us could fit on spaceships? How many could survive the prolonged absences of gravity?

For instance, I volunteered at a local charity helping to take down an old electric fence. Now a reaction I get is "Oh, that must be fun." Well, there's an important aspect to it. Take for instance how many times I've gone there this year. If they had to pay someone to do that work I've been doing it would ad up to more then a few hundred dollars. That's the same as giving a check to the local charity.

Now I would like to think by me helping out at the charity it is helping to keep the earth from becoming a dead planet. I've also helped raise funds for the charity. Though I donated to a different charity this year. I'd like think that a continued effort would help to keep the earth from becoming a dead planet. Though that is something that we all could benifit from.

2010-04-24T18:32:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IFACrIx5SZ0

This video has a family of Orangutans. They use tools, use boats, into DIY. I thought this was interesting.

Psychically Violent People

2010-04-24T06:21:00.001-07:00

I think Jim Schulenburg is psychially violent. After I quit Villari's he showed up at my work, and at my college saying a bunch of lies about me. Now I was content to let things go.

A rumor spread around is the equivalant of a minor curse. It's not true what they say that "Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me." Words can indeed hurt, and hurt HARD!

So I ask you is this a good person? If a person doesn't pay him money to go spread lies at their work and college? Would a good person really do that? I think not!

If Jim Schulenburg hadn't gone to my school, I would have let things go. But now how can I? After he has damaged my brand? After he has effected my good name?

He is an enabler, no he is the root of the problem. I used to think he didn't know. Then I thought he couldnt' do anything about it. But now, I know he is the root of the problem. He is just as responsible as the people under him for the acts they have committed if not more so because he trained them. By all rights he and his cohorts should be in Jail right now awaiting trial.

stop the Crunches!

2010-04-24T04:27:00.000-07:00

Greetings,

I remember doing alot of crunches in Gym class, and martial arts. It actually turns out this is not a good exercise for the midsection. However, push-ups are! However, there are different exercises that are. One needs to move naturally like they would in real life.

Extortion by martial arts teachers of their students

2010-04-23T11:32:00.000-07:00

In the shaolin temple, a student would study under his teacher for many years. He would indeed serve him. However, there would come a time in which he would "Leave the Nest" so to speak.

A period of free work is indeed necessary to help one gain confidence in their skills. However after that period, once one has acquired meaningful skills one should be paid for the use of those skills and paid well! Teaching martial arts is a skill in and of itself. One must send out disciples into the world.

However, I do not feel one should be expected to continuousily serve their martial arts teacher. A student should respect his martial arts teacher, but the student expected to work for free at their school teachers school. I feel that is extortion.

All a person should need to teach is liability insurance, registering their name with the local county court house, five hundred dollars of fliers, ads in the local paper, and flyiers. I feel that investing alot of money into a school leads to "Inefficient use of capital." If one invests alot of money if a school then they must get a sufficient return on that money.

Let's help preserve Shaolin

2010-04-23T10:49:00.000-07:00

Greetings,

The USA Shaolin Temple is now seeking to raise funds for a new temple. Let's help preserve Shaolin for future generations. If you don't have alot of time to help raise funds please give a donation. If you enjoy reading my blog please donate to the Temple.

Why would someone raised in a Christian home help buddhist monks with raising money for their temple? Personally, I believe that it is not enough to just preach god's love. One must also live it.

It is not enough for a person to say "God loves you," to a person who is hungary. We must show God's love. So the best way to show God's love to the Shaolin Monks is to help them.

Some believe in the seperation of Church and Martial Arts. Well, that's kind of hard since Shaolin is Buddhist in orgin. Throught the history of martial arts there has been Buddhist, Confuscists, Taoists, etc.

Ideas for the Warrior Sage

2010-04-23T05:24:00.000-07:00

Here are some ideas for the Warrior Sage:

It may be a good to put the requirements or starting one's own school on their homestudy program, so that one knows for certain what the requirements are. That way, people will be under no illusions when they buy the program.
Perhaps he could put on his seminars at his studio. He might need to expand his studio. I'm not usually not much into overhead, however, his studio could function as the national headquarters.
He may wish to utilize wiki's with print-on-demand technology. For example, he or his students could write a book and put it on a wiki. Then when it's proofread export the file to a website. Then people would get the up to date materials. Perhaps utilizing amazon.com's technology.
He also may wish to expand into website hosting. For example, websites for his systems schools, blogs, etc.
He could also have an affliate program to sell his merchandise.

Don't blame the economy stupid

2010-04-22T22:20:00.000-07:00

Some people might blame the economy for the recent turn of events. I am not one of those people. Do good people say "Oh, well the economy isn't good right now," No! They go work harder at making more money.

I think this applies specifically to martial arts studios. If a person isn't making what they want they should reexamine there marking efforts. Perhaps they need to put out some more marketing. Perhaps they need to do some more marketing promotions. When things get tough, the tough get going!

One shouldn't rely on other people to do things that they must do for themselves. This is true with the running of a martials studio as well. IF a student CHOOSES to help, that's great book it and go on. But don't EXPECT it.

Personally, I think Master Schulenburg needs to make Michael Massie one of his consultants. He needs to buy his materials and study up on this stuff. He shouldnt' rely on his FORMER students to do his work for him.

American youth to fat to defend US

2010-04-22T02:21:00.001-07:00

Greetings,

I saw this online, and thought "This could be really cool marketing campaign for martial arts." For example, perhaps even running a military prep program for people who want to get into the military. For example, getting people who want to join to do the prerequesite run, situps, pushups, and pullups.

Perhaps martial arts studios could even run a Junior prep program. This way it would help get kids in shape to join the military. I know something like this would have helped me when I was that age.

Jim Schulenburg's gone soft!

2010-04-22T01:30:00.001-07:00

I feel Jim Schulenburg's gone soft. Why? How could I think such a thing? It's very easy really.

A black belt is something that should be coveted. It should be a badge of honor. It should be a symbol of one devotion as well as commitment. Personally, I think a black belt should take ATLEAST ten years to get.

A black belt ought to be like the Marine's rifle. The marine's take pride in the fact that it's takes three men to take a rifle from a small marine. The blackbelt ought to be the martial artists rifle.

Personally, I think they should spend three years just teaching one pinion. With a good foundation with that other forms would be better. If you don't have one pinion down what's the point in teaching more advanced forms? Now I think other techniques should be taught as well, such as club, knife, etc. For example, higher belts could "roleplay" attackers for the lower belts. Thus learning while they are helping each other.

INADDITION, they ought to incorporate more ground defenses into the curriculum. Now I'm not saying teach Brazilian Jujutsu. But legally it's better to fold with someone then strike.

INADDITION, I feel that the candiates for black belt test ought to LEAD a service project before they even get to belt test. Then there would be none of this, "of well we passed the test so we're blackbelts now, " manure. It is not setting a good example, for the rest of the school if you don't finish yours.

INADDITION, the members of the leadership team ought to be selected by the people who are helping people. It ought to be a prerequest to be on the leadership team that you are setting a good example. If you can't work with another person one on one, how are you going to work with a larger group of ten or more?

Secondly, a second degree ought to signify a lifetime commitment to the martial arts. It should be hard won. This is where Jim Schulenburg has gone soft. Perhaps he shouldn't let certain individuals go for their second degree. If he had done so perhaps he would be in a better position now.

Being productive

2010-04-22T00:02:00.000-07:00

Personally, I don't feel that Jim Schulenburg has been productive. He needs to prioritize his time. For example, his FIRST priority ought to be school owners, and people trying to setup schools.

Why? In the shaolin monastary there were three types of people. Masters, disciples, and students. I feel that teachers, would best fit into the disciple category. Then the teachers could work with mostly with the students.

He could then spend his time doing what Masters ought to be doing. Focusing on promoting the martial arts. For example, he could write articles to get publicity for his businesses. He could then submit these to websites, and then get a link back to his school.

Another thing is perhaps there would be more Villari schools if it weren't for his ineptitude. For example, Elite a similiar franchise has four schools. Villari's has three. Now correct me if I'm wrong but there is a numbers advantage here? For expansion of the systems territory ought to be one of Jim Schulenburg's top priorities.

For example, they used to have forty people come from Mauston. Now they have thirty. Now there is three martial arts schools in that town. Perhaps if Jim Schulenburg had been prioritizing his time there would be a Villari's instead of an Elite in Mauston.

I'm not saying a Villari's could never be in Mauston. But it would be alot more difficult now. It might take a Master to open one there.

For example, he could help Johannah Brook start a Villari's Dance school. It could focus on Inan Escrima, perhaps expand to Capa wara, then to other dances. Then he would get an additional share of revenue from it.

Living in the past

2010-04-21T06:09:00.000-07:00

You know I really feel Master Schulenburg is living in the past. For example, he wrote a program for his wife. What's wrong with this? Why reinvent the wheel when you don't have to?
There are other programs out there for martial arts. Couldn't he find one that fit his needs? Instead of spending the time programming it himself?

Or let's say he couldn't find a program to fit his needs, couldn't find an opensource program then alter it to fit his needs and submit the code? Then others would be able to use the program and he could used it to drive traffic to his business. But no instead he has selfishly decided to keep it for himself.

Or perhaps he could find someone else to make the program instead and given them a royalty for their work. Then he wouldn't have to spend the time programming himself. Also he would help get other people work.

Does a master craftsman spend all his time doing all the work himself? Or does he have tell others what to do? Shouldn't a master craftsman use the right tools for the right job? Shouldn't he be guiding the apprentices and journeyman in their work?

The defination of a Cult

2010-04-18T12:44:00.000-07:00

Greetings,

I looked up the defination of a cult, and I thought I would share it. This is how I view the Villari organziation. At first you are given alot of encouragement.

However, there is a new martial arts studio in town. Green Dragon Martial Arts Academy, located down town Reedsburg. Led by Jim Embrossi, a 3rd degree black belt in the art of Shaolin Kempo Karate, and all around great guy. So what if he went after me with a sword? He thought I stole from a kid.

But seriousily, I would highly recommend checking out Green Dragon. I think alot of my problems with Jim Embrossi have just been misunderstandings. He's really a great guy.

If fact if I knew his website I would put it on my blog. But alias I don't know where it is. I even looked it up in a search engine.

Observe nature

2010-04-17T22:41:00.000-07:00

Any martial artist would do well to study nature. They would well to make a study of the animal kingdom. They would for instance Eagles.

Notice how the Eagle positions itself downstream of the fish. Notice how its suddenly swoops and snatches it's prey. Is the sixe of the brain center any bigger between an eagle and a rabbit for instance? Also are there other birds that it also consumes such as osprey, and other birds?

What about the Lion? Perahps in america, there are not african lions but there are mountain lions. Notice how they approach the hunt.

Also one should observe turtles. Turtles? Why turtles? Well, grasshopper, turtles can live a long long time. So perhaps it would be wise to study them.

Also, one should study Bulls. Why Bulls? The bull is a traditional style of style. They stand they're ground.

They're are other animals as well. For example, the swallow may be a good animal for people who are not as big as others. While the wolverine may be a another good animale to study.

My goal

2010-04-04T06:13:00.000-07:00

One thing is I want to finish my Okinawin Kobudo Blackbelt before going to studying other martial arts. This may require me starting over as a white belt. However, I want to finish what I started. Also I want to study Inan Escrima.

After that I haven't decided what I will take. I'm thinking Brazilian Ju-jutsu. It would definately improve my chin na, as I find someone with a background in grapplying such as wrestling or Brazilian Ju-jutsu can pick it up easier.

Of course, too I am interested in Yoga. It would improve my internal energy. Also it may help with my flexibility. There also would be kumdo which I have some interest in.

Added a widget

2010-04-04T04:32:00.000-07:00

Greetings,

It's been a long time since I have updated this blog. I think I see cobwebs in the html, lol. Anyway, I wanted to let my adoring public know I'm still out there.

I've added a widget. Also I'm considering taking the adbrite banner down as I don't really feel it contributes much to the site overall. I have given it enough time.

I am thinking about making some martial arts video's. Then posted them on youtube. Then I will post links to them here.

For example, I bought a homestudy system. I really like how it's what I have seen watching the first three tapes. However, I couldn't watch more then that since my dvd player wouldn't work. I am hoping that I can eventually.

I will need to find a "Training Partner" a.k.a. a throw monkey to demonstrate the techniques on. However finding one may be difficult. Since I don't know many in the area. I dont' want to just toss someone around who doesn't know how to fall.

Brain Fart

2010-01-30T14:22:00.001-08:00

Greetings,

Well for those people who are martial artists you know about the "Brain Farts." So I thought it interesting, when I found an article on the subject.

help support a friend

2008-11-17T13:40:00.000-08:00

As those have read my previous blog, know of the situation of one of my myspace acquantences. He facing losing his house. So if you feel like please stop by his store.

a call to arms

2008-11-12T20:32:00.000-08:00

I would like to think, we as martial artists represent the best. That we regardless of our affliations, our organizational ties, would help out a fellow martial artist if we could. I now call upon those who read my blog for help, not for myself, but for another. No less deserving, perhaps more so.

He seeks to hold onto his house, his home, his castle. He's been hit by jobloss after jobloss. As many others have as many who have.

If you could please send him a small donation. Five, ten, maybe 20 dollars, nothing large. But if enough of us did it, perhaps it would be enough to help him keep his house.

suppliments I plan on taking

2008-11-12T13:15:00.000-08:00

So I'm going to try taking some suppliments. Here they are:

Ginsing- Help me mentally, going to try a small dose and see if it helps, also supposed to help get more energy
Melatonin- More restful sleep, might take it occasionally
Vitamin - My pschologist suggested this one. Supposed to help with depression. I dont' get out outside alot, even more so in winter.

Dental Health

2008-11-12T13:10:00.001-08:00

So my previous instructor told me that alot of qiqong masters before they train you expect you to brush your teeth. I have also heard Doctor Waters, that is the one thing he wished he would have listened to his parents about. Basically if you keep the mouth opening clean hopefully the rest of the body will be.

I have been hoping drinking less soda, eating more fruits and vegatables could replace my regular brushing. Since alot of processed foods have added sugar. Also I heard eating raw brocoli will help.

However, after going to the dentist the assistant asked me if I had gingavitis. So now I'm back on brushing, here is my plan:

Brushing- Using an organic toothpaste and a motorized brush. A little stonger than my old one, but well that's not a bad thing.
Flossing- using dental picks, I've heard using un sanitized picks can kill you
Mouth rise- This I got from my mouther, again organic.

So there is my new dental regime.

stretching before exercise bad

2008-11-07T07:18:00.000-08:00

So I remember in martial arts class we did a few laps before stretching. Turns out this is the way to go, according to this article.

latest marketing efforts

2008-11-02T07:06:00.000-08:00

We'll I've been giving out my business cards. I got my cellphone working, so I've been putting that on there. Maybe someone has tried calling me but not gotten through. So that's why I'm going to put my cellphone on it. Also I'm going to put a free evaluation.

people can be irratating.....

2008-10-31T17:53:00.000-07:00

Now when I was assisting a tai chi class, one older lady was able to use the tai chi to get off a walker. I offered to teach a woman using a walker tai chi, but she turned me down. I know it would help her.

Another older woman, suffers from arthritis. Now tai chi has been shown to help with arthritis. However, she won't even try it.

How I dealt with a conflict at work

2008-10-31T17:47:00.000-07:00

So I got hit at work today. So what I did is told security about it first. Then I told my supervisor.

It's not that it hurt or anything. Quite frankly I've taken far worse. It's the principle of the thing.

It was uncalled for. Thing is if he hits me, then who won't he hit. I'm 5'6", and a blackbelt. Now I didn't press charges because maybe he was just joking around. He's got a family. But if he does it again I will.

I saw this and I thought to share

2008-10-26T19:47:00.001-07:00

I saw this and thought I would share. I think that what he is saying could apply to martial arts studios as well.

How to end a fight

2008-10-12T18:02:00.001-07:00

So I saw this, and thought about sharing.

time to regroup

2008-09-28T18:11:00.001-07:00

I haven't received one call yet from anyone that I know of. This is kind of disappointing, yet I know I will have to keep going. Perhaps the problem is I don't truely know how to market. The other thing I have been thinking is that I have been trying to start a school on a shoestring. Perhaps I need to save up some money for it.

marketing, marketing, marketing,

2008-09-13T17:52:00.000-07:00

So I've put out some fliers for classes. Haven't gotten any calls. So I need to get more out. Also looking at adverting in the local paper once I get closer to lauch. Got some business cards to give out. I'm also having a site professionally done. It's going to be a one page no thrills site but that's all I really need at this point. Once it's done I can activate a campaign on adsense.

shaolin kempo kvd's

2008-09-05T10:42:00.000-07:00

So I got some shaolin kempo dvd's. I was watching the white through blackbelt one. The forms are a little different than I remember. But I suppose that is to be expected.

these two chinese guys I know

2008-09-01T23:39:00.000-07:00

So I work with some people from China. Guess what they eat everyday? Ramon noodles. Why because it's cheap. I thought that was kind of interesting since I like going to chinese. I mean I kind of like eating different style of dishes. But I think it's kind of funny that the real "chinese" food is alot less varied.

tournament

2008-08-30T08:37:00.000-07:00

You know I was thinking too bad the there isn't a tournament for shaolin kempo karate stylists in the area. I mean most of the tournaments are for taekwondo oriented. It would be nice to get a bunch of the shaolin kempo karate school like Elite, Villaries, and even Hamburg's together. That way everyone would be competing on an even playing ground. To bad though that's not probably going to happen.

GDXDCVD16292682

2008-08-29T18:50:00.000-07:00

What is GDXDCVD16292682? It's the confirmation code for Bushido's referral program.

small dojo big profits

2008-08-28T13:29:00.001-07:00

So I've found the small dojo big profits book. In my opinion it's the best information I've seen on martial arts. You can take the link on the sidebar to the page.

To me this information is better than what I got from the Villari organization. By the way, I'm no longer with the Villari organization. I've choosen to go independant.

so I'm back

2008-08-25T22:35:00.000-07:00

Yeah been a long sabbatical but I'm going to start training again. Found some nifty dvr's, and a online book about starting martial arts school called "Small studio, Big Profits". I highly recommend it.

free software in martial arts

2008-02-04T14:25:00.001-08:00

A couple of thoughts from me, is that everything I wanted to do with Championsway, I can do with free software. For example, want a webpage? Myspace has free group pages. Want a store? Amazon has associates program where you can get a 10% referral fee, on things people buy. Want to call people up? Skype can call landlines for a small fee. Need word processing software? How about open office or google docs?

running

2008-01-07T10:04:00.000-08:00

I thought this was interesting. Alot of martial artists I know do alot of running.

ninjustu

2008-01-04T13:30:00.000-08:00

I saw this interesting link on ninja's. Thought it might be interesting.

5 most dangerous tai kwon do kicks

2007-12-27T20:11:00.001-08:00

Well, saw this and thought it might be interesting. Didn't know tai kwon do had low kicks. Kind of reminds me of a shaolin sweep. But hey that's just me.

2007-12-19T12:48:00.000-08:00

I was reading this blog and it talked about sun-tzu's art of war. Well, here are my thoughts. The core of sun-tzu's writings are about people. Without people, one cannot know the information to decide the strategy one should use. However, now it is possible with the internet to gather information without people. Not that people are not necessary, but rather that there are other means of gather information.

dire wolves versus grey wolves

2007-12-12T12:56:00.000-08:00

So I was watching something on the discovery channel about Dire wolves. Now the Dire wolves, were bigger, more aggressive, and were in larger packs then the Grey wolf. However, what the Grey wolf, was adaptable. So when the big animals the wolves the Dire Wolves relied on for food died off, so did the Dire Wolves. While the Grey wolf survived to this day. Interesting.

Flinging snow

2007-12-09T18:10:00.000-08:00

I was helping my dad get snow out of the drive way. As we were shoveling, my dad told me to fling the snow farther so it wouldn't pile up at the edge of the driveway. It reminded me of my bo staff work.

How to boost the brain

2007-12-03T16:53:00.000-08:00

I saw this article on boosting the brain. As a martial artist I think it's always a good idea to be mindful of such things.

how to quit caffeine

2007-10-31T15:54:00.000-07:00

Greetings, I've mentioned I've trying to quit drinking caffeine. Well, I'm drinking alot less now. But here's an article on doing quiting drinking caffeine.

interesting link on why men don't live as long

2007-10-18T04:48:00.000-07:00

I saw this and thought it would be good. For me, their isn't alot of competition, since I'm waiting for the woman got has chosen for me. Not saying though that I wouldn't like a women.

my great great grandparents

2007-10-13T18:03:00.000-07:00

So my aunt came to visit. I found out I have ancestor's who have lived to be eighty, ninety, and some in the 100's. That is without the aid of technology. So I believe I have the right stuff.

Ladies of Pain

2007-10-12T09:16:00.002-07:00

Recently I received this from some of the people on myspace:

REPOST FOR SAM OF LADIES OF PAIN
Body: I NEED HELP!!!!
Body: Dallas of Team Apocolypse got my girl a fight......AWESOME....

It is in Texas....the promoters will ONLY pay for Hotel.......(this was originally for a local girl). This is a GREAT Opportunity for TEAM USA and lil bit to get recognized.......

I am looking for someone who might be able to sponsor our girl (plus corner) to go to Texas.....the flight for BOTH is $644.00.......I will pay out of pocket for food and taxi......

Is there ANYONE with a travel voucher? a donation? just a lil bit of love for my girls?

THANKS FOR HELPIN AND READING!

AND THANKS DALLAS...I hope she can go!

sam~

Now I know their are some who are into this who mma thing. So if your feeling charitible feel free to give if you want to. Their website is http://www.myspace.com/usaladiesofpain

24 hours without caffeine

2007-10-12T09:12:00.000-07:00

So I went twenty four hours without my regular mountain dew, mellow yellow, vault etc. I know it's a small way but I have a secret weapon in my fight. Chocolate. Yes, hot chocolate, chocolate captain crunch, chocolate cake, etc.

my tai chi sword handle

2007-10-12T08:58:00.000-07:00

So my dad asked about cutting up some blanks for my tai chi sword. I'm probably going to need to carve a few before I get it right. One thing is I want to have a square whole for the sword, instead of a round whole in the handle so the sword doesn't roll around.

wing chun video I saw

2007-10-05T06:00:00.000-07:00

Well, found a wing chun video I think is good. Here's the link.

Chocolate

2007-10-03T16:37:00.000-07:00

You know speaking of diet, I have a hunkering for chocolate. Perhaps this is the reason why.

myspace

2007-09-30T08:31:00.000-07:00

Personally, I've come to the conclusion everything I wanted to do with Championsway, I can do with Myspace, without costing me a cent (well for the webspace). For example, I can join groups, then make Friends with other martial artists. I can send out bulletin's to my friends. I can put martial arts videos and pictures up.

From digg

2007-09-28T09:41:00.000-07:00

I found this on digg.com. Just thought, it might be interesting.

2007-09-22T18:18:00.000-07:00

So I've been thinking, how could one best instill martial arts lessons into today's generation. One idea, is a theme park. A theme park? Yes a theme park.

For instance, take ninja warrior program, now image a big obstacle course. I mean the obstacles would have to be "dummed down" so no one got hurt and such. But alot of people like obstacle courses.

Or image a big maze with where people their could be projectors on the wall. Then without notice, an image of someone attacking you came on the wall. People would have to do the maze under a certain time limit.

Or image a remake of the shaolin temple. In a tourist town people might want to come and see it. Most might not make it too the "real" temple anyway.

2007-09-19T05:20:00.000-07:00

Where I want to start a school, the market is over saturated. I mean you have two franchises that are opening up school's in the area already, and the population is like of the town is 6,000. Also, the studio I studied at is 45 minutes away. So people do go come from there. Now if the city was a bigger city, let's say 20-30,000 of the area, then maybe it might be posssible.

Personally, I would be willing to teach for free, live out of the studio, and work a full-time job. Why? Because I find that is how I meet the people who I like being around. Now people look at me and look at how much stuff I've done at karate, and think I'm "naive" for doing it.

One thing is people have gotten me jobs because I've helped teach for free. I'm not saying, that one should go into teaching expecting that of course. However good people do know good people. For example, 90% of the jobs are unadvertised, and if one is capable of teaching well then might have other skills as well.

2007-09-18T05:56:00.000-07:00

I was looking at some of the latex larp stuff. Perhaps this could be used in weapons training for sparring.

2007-09-17T19:22:00.000-07:00

Alot of people are want to study at the Shaolin temple like it was in the old days. This involved basically being an indentured servant for a couple years, living on whatever your "master" gave you. You live in seclusion for 10-20 years training. Then you take you lift a metal box with your forearms, burning a tiger and dragon into your forearms. Then a chamber leads you to the outside where you must spend several days in the wild.

Then there's the other extreme. Where people can just buy a belt also known as the "McDojo." Just sign the dotted line and you get your belt. Doesn't matter whether you can fight your way out of paper bag, you will get many trophies.

Personally, I would like to do the third approach. To live in a community of like-minded individuals who enjoy the study of martial arts. Who wish to help each other become better. This is my dream.

My cat climbing a wall

2007-09-13T17:13:00.000-07:00

I was chasing my cat to take him back inside the house, when he jumped over our six foot walls. What he did is he at first leaped onto the wall then used his paws to "catapult" him over the wall. It was interesting to watch.

going to take a break from martial arts

2007-09-03T18:58:00.001-07:00

Well, I've given it some thought and I've decided I'm going back to college. I might as well finish and get a degree in something. Once I have a degree I'll be able to afford more martial arts training.

2007-08-27T19:24:00.000-07:00

You know I read an interesting article written by a Tai kwon do practicioner, as to why sport martial arts is good. The basic premise was that your life is more in danger of a heart attack, stroke, etc. then getting attacked. Which I can understand. But couldn't one do a self-defense and get that exercise in?

blackbelt class and combinations

2007-08-27T19:20:00.001-07:00

So I went to blackbelt class. So we each person would do combinations that was out warmup. Then we got into doing each combination then doing it on various people, and having it done one us. We got up to 28 combination I believe.

anti-biotics

2007-08-21T18:25:00.000-07:00

Well, I slept for most of the day today. Probably an effect of the medication. I don't know, aren't I taking this pill to increase how much I can work?

antibiotics

2007-08-20T13:31:00.000-07:00

So I went to the doctor's office. He prescribed some anti-biotics. Thing is though, usually I eat more fresh vegetables and fruits. Lately, been eating more food from home. Maybe it's a sign.

2007-08-19T21:21:00.000-07:00

So I wanted to stop drinking soda. Went three days then get headaches. So my next solution is to go organic. I can buy organic soda. Have it special ordered to save costs. My cut down on the stuff.

ninja's

2007-08-19T09:39:00.001-07:00

I saw this link to a site on ninja's thought it would be interesting.

2007-08-08T17:06:00.000-07:00

Over the last month I have been working on my website, www.maustonskkacademy.org. Trying to get it ready. I'm planning on putting some videos on it of my bo staff work on the site. So you may want to check it out in a few months.

Tiger Balm

2007-08-08T12:23:00.000-07:00

So I was sore from the blackbelt class monday. So I put some tiger balm on my thighs. Probably should have aimed more for under the thighs but live and learn. Just make sure to wash one's hands good after applying it. I got some in my eyes and it took awhile to wash my eye out. I feel it doing something.

a shaolin senitivity drill

2007-08-07T05:38:00.000-07:00

So we started class by doing a combination, then doing a cardio exercise. I have like 30 combinations, so needless it was hard. So what I did is start with one combination. Then the next person started with two combination and so on and son.

Then we each picked a form. Give wanted us to "be in the fight". To simulate multiple fights in each form.

Then we worked on a shaolin sentivity exercise. Basically one of us would half-moon forward then do a frontball kick. Then the other person would half-moon back and both people would do a crunch. Then it would reverse. Eventually we went into doing it with both legs. It's kind of like pushhands in a way. It gets into some nice applications.

Then Jim took some pictures of me, with his digital camera. Then filmed me doing some of my bo staff work for my website. He recommended that I come up with an outline for the video and redo it, since I'm doing it off the top of my head.

2007-08-03T12:27:00.000-07:00

In the game of Go, it's best to spread one's pieces out. That way one, you gain more territory. However, I don't know if it might be better to group martial arts studios. For one thing, it's easier to support two studios close together. Another thing is if you have different people running these studios then they can grow exponetially.

wavemaster forest

2007-08-01T18:51:00.000-07:00

So with the blue through green/brown belt class, we started them with a few laps, duckwalking, crabwalking, bear crawls, skipping, etc. There were new kids in the class so had the kids introduce themselves.

Then we put the wavemasters in the center, and lined the kids up. Then had the kids go through and strike the wavemasters. The goal was to catch the person infront of them. The next thing we did is divide up the kids into lines. One person would go from each line, they would halfmoon through the wavemasters then defend themselves. The next thing we had them do is halfmoon with their eyes closed. Then get tapped when they have to defend themselves. The we had the kids practice the eight point blocking system, while they are going through the wavemasters. Then we put all the wavemasters together tightly and had the kids walk on them. Then we played a game. We did the same thing for the next class.

2007-07-28T19:53:00.000-07:00

You know I used to think it was more important to have a good teacher than to be in a good system. Yet, I'm beginning to reconsider that. For example, if the system says one thing, the teacher can be overruled. Also, what if the teacher can't keep teaching and someone else takes over.

Jumping the dragon's tail

2007-07-23T20:42:00.001-07:00

With the white through purple class, Jim D. said to make two lines, and the kids just stood their except for one. So we had the kids run in place till they formed two lines. Then we had the people in the last belt test come forward and gave them a hand. Then we had the kids bow in, mediate, then do some laps. I put a rope under a wavemaster and the kids jump over it. I called it the dragon's tail.

Then the kids we did some stretches. Then we broke into groups. I worked with two yellow belts, and took them through almost everything on their card. Somethings they had to be reminded of. But that's working with kids. For a game we played jump the dragon.

Bill lead the next class in a some laps, some were figure 8's. Then we rotated between cardio exercises, and stretches. Then we got out wavemasters and paired up on wavemasters. We did various strikes and kicks, then rotated around doing punches and kicks. Then each group broke off and practiced a form they later demonstrated for a class. After that we broke off and worked on some things. We worked on Hansuki for a little while along with 30 combination and 6 kata. Then we lined back up and did several more forms.

being mindful

2007-07-20T06:09:00.000-07:00

So to get the kids warmed up, I threw some rubber knives and foam bats and the kids did laps with them. We did shuffling front and back, backwards, and skipping.

I worked with the blue through green-brown belts on the eight point blocking system with natural strikes, and half-mooning. I would call out numbers in order and have the go back and forth, then call even and odds, and for the last thing I did random numbers. Then we went into forms and I had them do forms at different angles to the room. For a game we played snowballs.

Then for the green-brown through blackbelt class we did the same thing with the kids class with rubber knives on the ground. Then we got into a gauntlet and did ju-jutsu techniques with a partner. Then we would rotate partners. For the last part of class we broke off into groups. Me and another blackbelt then worked on combinations and knife techniques.

2007-07-17T05:17:00.000-07:00

So often in the martial arts, an organization gets to be a certain size then it splits. One thing I've been wondering about is perhaps it would be better for there to be school owners who own multiple locations, then have a person running the school. If you would have multiple school owners for the same number of schools then that would be that many number of people your going to be dealing with.

sideclub footwork

2007-07-16T20:29:00.000-07:00

So I helped teach two classes tonight. A blue through green-brown class, and a white through purple belt class.

So anyway, I stood by the door while the kids were running laps to make sure the no one would open the door we have an accident. Then I did the led the warmup. I worked with two bluebelts. I had them do a form various different ways, including avoiding snowballs, frisbees, etc. Then reviewed all the material on their card. For a game they played jump the dragon.

Then for the white through purple belt class, we had them run laps over wavemasters. That didnt' work out so we had them jump over blockers. Also two people would randomly do overhead attacks.

Then we did the stretching. Jim D. then led the kids in a serious of punches and kicks. The helpers got out shields and were moving targets for the kids. I put down so cones to help the kids get deeper horse stances.

I worked with one yellow belt on a tiger kempo punch self-defense technique, and a sideclub. What I did with the sideclub is put a bat down, for her feet to follow. It seemed to help.

For the last thing the kids played snowballs. Then the kids dodged as the helpers threw them. Last thing the it was the kids versus the helpers.

2007-07-13T20:16:00.000-07:00

softness prepares for the hard

One thing I'm wondering in the Okinawin Kubudo, is if perhaps their is too much hardness. Perhaps if there were more softness, then people would be more able to do the hard style. For instance I was told kenjutsu is not for everyone. So why then should it be part of the entire school's curriculum? Perhaps a seminar or two or even a class.

kempo heats

2007-07-12T22:32:00.000-07:00

So I bowed the kids line up and bowed them in. As they were mediating had them repeat that they would go to the bathroom before class. Then I setup some stacked mats and had them run eight laps quietly as possible. That was to help them to learn to be more quite before the next class.

So Jim D. ran them trough some cardio stuff, then we broke into groups. I worked with the lower blue belts. First I had them work on one pinion. One thing I had them do is hold pieces of belts while they were doing the form. Then I had each one do a kempo and the rest of the group would do that kempo. Then we went into a circle of fire with kempos. Then I reversed it so the person in the center would attack instead of defend.

Then for the last part of the time one of the blackbelts got done with the person she was working with so she played the attacker. I put up a mat and she was behind the mat. Then she would do various attacks; sideclubs, overheads, knives, kempos, etc.

For the last part of class we played frisbees. The kids played some games amongst themselves. Then it was the blue/green-brown belt class against the green-brown/blackbelts.

So the next class I warmed the class up with the same thing I did before, but this time instead of dots I put rubber and wood knives on the ground. My purpose was to see how many people would step on the knives. Also, I asked a brown belt how many laps it had been.

Then Devin S. had each person do a 15 second stretch. After that we did as many heats as possible. I got 19. Usually I can get atleast ten more of that. Then we did heats of kempos. We did each animal about two turns then the person would rotate out.

Front ball kicks

2007-07-12T22:25:00.000-07:00

The kids forgot their cards so I had the kids run in place. Then one at a time they were to get their cards and put them in a pile. It also served as a warmup.

Worked with the white belts on front ball kicks. I explained that one was hit the bag when doing a front ball kick with the ball of their foot. What I did is have the kids put on sparring footwear, then told them not to hit the wavemaster with only the bottom of their foot.

Worked with purple belt on the material for her fourth stripe. Basically worked on sideclubs on and overheads self-defense techniques. I started to go into two pinion but I figured it was enough with those techniques.

more chin na

2007-07-02T18:40:00.000-07:00

I helped monday teach classes. So we lined everyone up, and had them run around. So I went and got some frisbees and waited till the kids started running. Then I opened the door and started throwing at them. It was so they get used to dodging them. Anyway, switched to a foam bat to keep the kids away from the concrete.

Then we split off into groups. I worked with a green-brown and a green belt. We worked on the spinning reverse crescent kick, and the bow kick for awhile. Then we worked on sideclubs and overheads. What I had them do is each would take turns doing it, then the person who hesistated first or copied had to do five pushups.

Then the last thing we did is played a game. What I had the kids do is all line up. Then when I would call out a technique they were to do it. If the person to hesitate first would then go sit down. Were were running out of time, so we did all previous techniques.

With the white through purple belt class no one remembered to get their card. So what we did is had the kids run in place and each person individually went and put their card on a pile. Then I had the kids line up in two rows and face each other. Then they were too look at each other and be faster than the other person while doing punches. Then I had the kids turn too the back wall, while I did reminded some people of some punches. Then I we did the same thing with kicks. Next we broke up into groups.

I worked with three yellow belts. But we kind of had to switch gears a minute since we were giving someone a belt who couldn't make it for the belt test. So I had the kids line up, and be the attacker. Then we all got in a circle and awarded the kid his belt. So then we moved played a game of frisbees and that finished up the class.

So then I went too the green-brown through blackbelt class. Then we moved did our laps. Then did some cardio exercises and some stretches. Then we went into circles and did side clubs, overheads, and kempo punch defenses. For the last fifteen minutes we did a bit of grappling. Travis B. showed a Chin Na technique and we all paired up and worked on it.

2007-07-02T09:01:00.000-07:00

To practice the "Drunken Monkey style" one usually must drink copious amounts of certain beverages. Although there is another way. At work we have a carts that get busted up, needless to say they move around a bit when you push them around.

2007-07-02T08:58:00.000-07:00

Hard versus soft

Soft has a negative meaning to it. Most people when they think of soft equate it too weakness. When I think of soft I think of flexibility, being able to adapt to the situation, controlling how much force one uses.

2007-06-28T05:32:00.000-07:00

"The fastest draw is when the sword never leaves the scabbard,
The strongest way to block, is never to provoke a blow,
And the cleanest cut is the one withheld."

Unknown

The wall part 6: The second coat

2007-06-27T19:33:00.000-07:00

So Jim and company did some more work on the wall. Some of the kids and I kicked around a bag before class. I hope it helps develop their kicks.

So the kids did some laps. They did figure eights on the squares. They were not to touch the blue while this was going on. But us instructors got out noodles and stuff that they were to avoid. I got out a rope and put a wavemaster atop one end and wiggled it.

Then we broke off into groups. I worked with the green-brown belts. I had them do kempo's and the person who hesistated first had to do pushups. Do know if they understood me or not. Anyway then we went into doing kempo's with takedowns.

We then played a game of snowballs. The kids played for a few games then it was them versus the instructors. Well, I caught of few of the firsbee's.

So next class came in, so had them do some things back and forth such as run back to the wall and run back or do some shuffling since we don't have as much space now. So after that then we broke into groups. I worked with three yellow belts. I went through the first stripe material, I thought it was a good review for everyone. One thing is I really broke down 3 combination. I was thinking it would be cool if we did that with more of the cominations.

Anyway, then we played a game of frisbeees. One thing I was thinking is if the kids weren't honest about getting hit, we could just throw the frisbees at them instead. Then the kids were to put away the frisbees.

Then it was time for the green- black belt class. So we lined up and started doing laps, then started doing figure 8's. Then we did every other person did a 15 second cardio and everyone else did a 30 second stretch. Then we went into combinations.

The blackbelts then broke off, and started working on hansuki. After working on that I worked on 6 kata for awhile. Then we lined back up and that was the end of class.

Outside obstacle course

2007-06-20T20:33:00.000-07:00

So I lead the white through purple belt class. I warmed them up outside, we had them do laps. Did some stretches. Then I had them get their shoes and go outside.

Next the class did some strikes, kempos, and started into one pinion. I was kind of waiting to get the obstacle course setup. It took longer then I thought it would. But I guess maybe I should have been clearer. We four teens helping.

What we had them do is put stair masters over the pipes outside. Then the first heat the kids were too run to me clap my hand and run back. Then the next time they had to hit some square shields with front ball kicks. Then the next time we added front two knuckle punches.

Then it was almost the end of class so we went inside. It was hard for them to understand me how I wanted them to line up. Then the class bowed out.

The next class started and the kids lined up. I was trying to get the course ready. So first the kids were to run across the things and grab a yellow bat and hand it off to the next person in line. So the next person in line would put it back. Then the time heat we did the opposite thing, and I did like we did before with front two knuckle punches and front ball kicks.

Then we broke off into groups. I worked with a green-brown belt with 4 pinion and ten combination. A little more work and she'll have those things. Then we went inside and worked some more. Next we played a game of ultimate freeze tag. We switched out a yellow bat for a fuzzy dice, because their wasn't alot of people in the class.

2007-06-20T10:04:00.000-07:00

My approach to starting a school

Here's my approach. Before I even have a physical location, I want to have a client list. So when I open the doors, I already have money coming in. It's one thing to already have people your working with and start a school, but it's another to not have anyone and open one.

The Wall part 5: The sanding

2007-06-20T05:55:00.000-07:00

Well, got done with work early, and Jim had Tammy and Dan help sand, so I helped too. Helped pull some wires. Also helped sand the plaster.

Vicky and Tammy worked on one side, while I worked on one side. Then Vicky helped me on my side.

The Wall part 4: Mudding

2007-06-19T22:11:00.000-07:00

So Jim and Dan finished putting in screws, taping, and mudding the wall. I was unable to help out because I was working. I believe they all worked on pulling wires.

So I helped teach monday. The kids class. First we had them stand in front position. I put dots on their front position to help them get better. Then we put feet for them to stand on. Next was crane stance. Next they put them on the ground, and jumped over them doing bunny hops.

I worked with a white belt checking him for his stripe. He didn't get it, but I reviewed the material with him. I got through about four things with him. I'm hoping he will get it soon.

Then for a game the kids played ultimate freeze tag. It where when they get hit they have to do some pushups. I guarded the drinking fountain, and dan guarded entrance.

Next came the green through blackbelt class. We did some laps then did some cardio exercises. Then the blackbelts broke off. Me and Bill S. worked on hansuki, and some blackbelt combinations.

After that I went to the blackbelt class, worked on 20 on up. I got a new combination 30 combination. Worked on correcting some issues with 25 combination.

The wall part 3: The Danger room

2007-06-15T17:39:00.000-07:00

So I helped Jim with the Drywalling today. I helped put more pieces up, and cut a few out. Also helped mark marks for the screws, and cleaning up. Jim S.'s son Terri showed up, and helped a little bit. Which was nice of him.

So what's left now is putting the screws in, tapping, mudding, and sanding. Jim might have some help come sunday. So we'll see if he needs my help monday.

The new room or "The Danger Room" as I like to call it is going to have a projector. The people are going to be able to play dvd's lifesize of aerobics, or kickboxing, etc. Jim S. is planning a divider to make to cut the lights.

2007-06-15T07:38:00.000-07:00

One thing my instructor recommended is that I start a school, then six months later adopt the Villari system as the Villari system. Basically, they don't want me to infringe on the Villari name. If I run it as a shaolin kempo karate school that's fine.

The Wall part 2

2007-06-13T17:49:00.000-07:00

So I helped Jim work on the wall. I marked some spaces for him to put in screws in. We put in more drywall up, but a piece broke. We put up about as much as we could. So Jim's going to order more drywall.

Anyway, I helped with the white through purple belt class. I worked with the purple belts, and an orange belt. I worked with them on strikes, then worked with them on some stances, and other techniques. Then I put some mats, and some wavemasters and come one at a time. Then I would play the attacker so they could do the proper defense.

We played tug of war for a game. The little Ninja's versus the little Dragons. Then we played instructors. So the first time me and Jim let it go. Then the next time I tried to keep it going, but I let the instructors win.

Next class lined up and mediated. Then we had them run a lap one lap jogging, one skipping one lap, shuffling to the inside one lap shuffling to the outside. Then I had the kids do it again but would stop them and do strikes, kicks, pushups, and situps. Then Josephine, and Brittany, did some stretches.

Then we did some kicking drills, front ball kicks, instep kicks, crescent kicks, rising knee, roundhouse knee, etc. The kids were having trouble turning their hip over, so I took two wavemasters, put a stretched a rope in between them. Next we had the kids line up and do heats of roundhouse kicks, hook kicks, crescent kicks, and reverse cresent kicks.

The kids were getting tired, so we split off into groups. Brittany worked with the green belts. Josephine worked with the upper blue belts. Then Jim D. worked with the green-blue belts. I worked with the lower blue belts.

What we worked on with one kata. First I had them do it. Then I had them do it individually. Then I had them yoke the form, but I had them do it with shields, yellow bats, and helmets. So to avoid injury.

Then the kids played frisbees. I was kind of tired from helping with the wall today, so I didn't stay for class.

The Wall

2007-06-13T07:29:00.001-07:00

So Jim S. and company started work on the wall saturday. It's basically two seperate walls, since Jim S. wants it sound proof. I going to be helping with the monday classes since the classes are going are going to be held later.

Anyway, I helped with the monday night class. So we took the kids outside. Then Jim D. had the kids run past him and grab a clover and run back. Then he had them run and grab put it back. Then we had the kids lined up and do a tiger technique.

Then we took the kids inside, and so I worked kids on two side clubs techniques. I had the kids line up and then I would do an overhead club attack. Next it was time for a game, in which we saw who could stand in a crane stance the longest. We did this on each foot.

The next class started and I lined up. We did running around, and some stretches. Then I worked with one person on 4 pinion. I showed him the beginning of the form. To make sure he had it I had him do some things like do it part of the form on wavemasters, I yoked the form (played an attacker), and put up mats, then had him dodge the balls.

For the blackbelt class, Jim had us take one form, and work on it. Then we each demonstrated it too the class. I took four wavemasters and did one pinion. The reason I did one pinion is because their are some changes since I'm a blackbelt I need to work on.

Jim S.

2007-06-13T07:28:00.001-07:00

Bruce

2007-06-13T07:26:00.000-07:00

Dragon circles

2007-06-05T04:40:00.000-07:00

So I went to the monday night class. First Travis led us out doing six laps. Then Bill led us doing some stretches. Then we did a gauntlet doing combinations.

When Jim came back he had us do doing rings of fire. Then he said what we call a ring of fire, Master Bombelier's school calls a dragon circle. Then he had us move the circle around while we were doing front punches. They have another twist too. In that they have two circles going at once.

Then we did some forms 2 kata and Statue of the Crane. We had to do 2 kata again. Then we mediated for a few minutes.

Then Jim Schulenburg came in and did a blackbelt class. So I stayed for that. I learned the black belt way to do one pinion, plum tree, and worked on the ten point blocking system. Then Jim S. showed me 29 combination.

spiderweb obstacle

2007-05-31T20:06:00.000-07:00

So me and Dakota set up an obstacle course for the little white through purple belt class while Jim D. was leading them through some things. First obstacle we had was two wavemasters with a rope connecting them a "spider web". Then a rope the kids were two bunny hop over till they reached a wavemaster. Then some cones they were to run past, then some steps they were to run up, and jump, do a roll, and defend against a overhead club attack. The kids had a little trouble with the overhead club. So I reviewed it several times. Anyway, then the kids were to run on some dots, and black and get some strikes in.

We had the thought of the week. Then we did the obstacle course again while Jim D. checked the kids to see if they were ready for a stripe. Then I changed it to a sideclub instead of an overhead defense. Then we cleared everything away. The kids helped too but I got the big stuff. We played a game, kick the bags.

Next class lined up. We started them running with half the circle then had them do jumping jacks. Then had the run around the whole dojo. We did the thought of the week. Then we broke off into groups. I worked with one green belt on strikes. He needed a couple of them for his next stripe. He also didn't know 18 combination. So I taught him that. I think he probably had it he probably just forgot. Then we played snowballs for a game.

2007-05-30T08:25:00.000-07:00

I was reading an article that was discussing whether today's Judoka are as good as yesterday's. One thing it discussed, is traveling costs. For instance, to train an olympic judoka, you would probably want go to training camps where you could get instruction from the best. One thing though, is it is easier to send one person somewhere then a bunch of people.

An example of this is that by the time an owner of a martial arts school goes to seminar, he might as well put one on at his school. One reason is that then he get's help defraying the cost of the seminar. Also, your working with a bunch more people.

The Hill

2007-05-26T03:37:00.000-07:00

So I started the weapons class out. Brad was a little late. So I ran with them doing some laps, then did some jumping jacks, push ups and sit ups. Then did some stretches, and warmup stuff. Then started doing some forms. A couple people putting much into the form. So I had one person demonstrate the form and pointed out some of the good things about the form.

Then Brad took over and I went through some bo staff forms. Then I worked with a liliana giving her part of her next form. I showed her the movements, then had her do them on a small wavemaster. I would push it over, when she did an axe strike. Then I had her that part of the form to different angles. Then I would throw a bag and have her hit it while she did the form. Then for the last thing I had her do it on a stacked mat.

Then Brad worked with me. He showed me part of my next bo staff form pronounced Tokomeany. It combines three of the other beginning parts of the bo staff form. Which is interesting. I did another of my upper staff forms.

Then it was time for empty hand class. I had the people line up and mediate, and collected the cards. Then I had them do six laps, some jumping jacks, situps and pushups. Then Jim took over and we did this thing where we jogged in place. Then when he said "down" we would do two pushups. If he said "up" we would do two jumping jacks.

The next thing we did this thing where we laid down in a line and the first person would jump over other people. Then the next person would go. We went across the room several times in this manner. Then everyone was in push up position, and we would crawl under everyone. Then get into a pushup position.

Then we climbed the ropes. I didn't get very far. But I tried.

Then we went and climbed the "hill". We did several forms, such as 1 pinion and Statue of the Crane. Then Jim D. had us do a ring of fire. I grabbed a corn cob and attacked with it. Then next time I grabbed a corn stock. I thought it provided some comic relief. Then we walked back in and bowed out.

2007-05-24T06:16:00.000-07:00

Colors of Character

One idea I had with the Colors of Character is perhaps that instead of Self-discipline, Self-Control, and respect, we instead do the five rules of the school. That way it ties into the rules of the school.