Then Sensei Yaguchi broke from the template slightly, having a bit more partner training than normal.  We did a series of three-time attacks today, mostly focusing on a chudan-jodan-chudan series of attacks.  The defender was allowed any blocks they wanted and the standard reverse punch counterattack.  I noted a few of Yaguchi’s senior black belts were working on reaching a long way with each punch and it was rather effective.  After that, Sensei Yaguchi called the 6th degree and higher black belts out to have them perform 5-time attack.  There was one pair that was particularly interesting to watch.  One of the instructors was really projecting with his punches and happened to tag one of the others in the face slightly.  The other guy proceeded to respond with his series of attacks on his turn, opting for what appeared to be a series of pressing blocks in lieu of the first four punches, opting to cover distance to try to land what appeared to be a strongish final punch.  It didn’t work out so well (not to mention looking a little… well… odd), as it was roundly blocked and then countered.

Since I had to make it back home so I could get to work by 8 am for a meeting, I had to leave a few minutes early right as the rest of the black belts were heading into Gankaku.  Probably best… I’m not sure I could have made it through that kata if I had to do it in 15 seconds… my memory of it is just not that strong yet.  The last day of Kangeiko is tomorrow!

Meanwhile, Dad started to teach me how to make a family recipe for capeletti, a Northern Italian chicken, cheese, and pork ravioli served in chicken broth. My grandma has made it for years and this tradition is slowly being passed from her to my Dad. Because of this, now I get to learn.

After a miscue with some dry dough, we got a full 13 x 9″ baking pan full and I feel pretty good about repeating the process. That’s all for now, aside from the fact that I am considering my goals for next year.

We’re getting down to the last few days here in IL, filling this time with friends and family is a good way to not dwell on the fact that our time in IL is short. I enjoy spending time at home with family and friends and always hate to see it end.

That is all for now: tomorrow I get to learn to make capeletti!

After that, we hung out around the house and watched some movies, “The Man Who Saved Christmas” and “Charlie and The Chocolate Factory”. A nice, relaxing evening! More soon!

That’s all for now, more holiday excellence soon!

I got some interesting gifts this year: a hand grenade (demilitarized), the handbook to the Jedi Order, an iRig to allow me to play my guitar through the iPad, several cool books, shirts, and other neat nerd gear.

My unborn baby, however, has already made out like a wee little bandit and her shower isn’t even until Monday. We are going to have to ship back a lot of baby gear or get a bigger car.

Now we have settled in under our blanket of snow to watch A Christmas Story and relax before it is time to run the family gauntlet tomorrow.

Merry Christmas to everyone!

I believe that tonight is going to continue in similar fashion, it is
so nice to actually be able to relax. More soon!

So far it has been good to be home and nice to relax and get caught up with things here in IL. Not much else to report for now, planning an additional karate workout on Thursday for good measure!

The second class was all partner drills, and it was nice to get to spar with some of my friends from home.  I felt good during the workout tonight, I probably could have stood for a deeper stance but my power felt decent and my timing worked on several occasions so I can’t complain.

More soon!