Yellow Belt

A couple nights ago Thing 1 tested for her yellow belt in Shito-Ryu Karate. I wanted to take pictures, but we were so hurried trying to get out the door that I forgot to grab the camera. Not that I could've gotten any good shots - all but the students had to observe from outside the dojo.

Present at the testing was Shihan Fumio Demura, a kind old man with a playful demeanor. As a "special guest" I knew he was important, but it wasn't until I started researching Shito-Ryu Karate that I figured out who he is - the director and chief instructor for Shito-Ryu Genbu-Kai International (an organization that encompasses 25 nations and thousands of members) and Pat Morita's stunt double. Pretty cool. Once judging was complete he instructed the students in an hour-long class. By the end of the evening he had white belts throwing black belts to the ground - Thing 1 was practically glowing with pride and excitement.

Thing 2 was less enthralled. While he wasn't quite ready to test, Jack still wanted to tag along. His interest lasted for all of 10 minutes. The rest of the time was spent feeding a vending machine, running up and down stairs, hopping off his chair, and chatting with strangers. Nothing new.

Today Thing 1 received her yellow belt and her Certificate of Proficiency along with the rank of Jr. Kyu (9th). I am so excited for her - and a little jealous. She's on her way to becoming a lean, mean, (and very cute) fighting machine.

A big thank you to Sensei Tracy. Addy is more confident - both in body and in mind. She worked really hard learning Kihon Kata Ichi and now will move on to the advanced class.

I suspect before too long Thing 2 will quit running stairs and hopping around the room so he can join her there.