Its been hard work around New York Aikikai. The uchi deshi are tearing down a wall to make the downstairs office bigger. We’re fixing up all the toilets. I am getting rid of unnamed items in the women’s locker room. Its a constant battle upstairs to keep the sink free of dishes. There is also a cold going around. Its my turn now. It seems like all the uchi deshi are catching it. I got sick just in time for my brothers wedding in Chicago (which was beautiful).
In my own training life I have noticed that I eat a ton and sleep more. My legs are always tired so I try to minimize trips up and down stairs. The training is wonderful. I love all the unfamiliar techniques and entrances. Sometimes I feel like a beginner and at other times I am comfortable with the technique. A teacher named Hal Lehrman is quickly becoming a favorite of mine. His techniques are powerful and open at the same time. He uses very abstract language to describe the mechanics of each movement. It keeps the class interesting.
Sensei just got back from Japan and brought a friend of his, Yokota shihan. He will be teaching a class this evening. I don’t know much about this particular teacher except that he speaks English well.
On a more personal note, I have just secured a part time job as a nurse. I will be working in a preschool three to four times a week. It shouldn’t cut into my training too much. The commute is a bit long though.
Sounds exhausting, Tonya. I’m curious about the new techniques you are learning. Would it be possible to describe one?
Congrats on securing a job! I think working as a nurse in a school setting is perfect for you. I’m thrilled!
Your bio is in the works for the newsletter. Dee and I made it back to Jax last week and I’m still trying to catch up.
We all miss you!!!!
I’m glad you got a job.
Tearing down a wall? That sounds interesting.
I took a peek at the NYA schedule; that’s a lot of classes!
Thank you for finally posting an update. I’m glad to hear you are well and busy, though sorry about the illness. I suspect you will be subject to a lot of strange viruses living in such a dense and diverse population. You should take at least 3 grams of Vitamin C every day, whether you’re sick or not. It will help your body recover faster from illness and injury.
Be thankful for your work; I got laid off on Tuesday. It’s not so bad, really. At least I have Aikido to look forward to, though I’ll be glad when this blackbelt test is behind me. I think Jerry would agree!
Buck
Buck
You said it brother. One way or another, it’ll be over in a month.