Monday, July 7, 2008

Welcome back...

I remember watching Welcome Back, Kotter when I was a kid.  Well, I feel like I'm watching a whole new bunch of Sweat Hogs come back for their third try at passing 8th grade!  

Yes, I have changed the lists.  Get over it!  

No, I'm just kidding.  Everyone seems to have responded very well to the changes I made over the month-long hiatus.  The new rank requirements will make us all more adaptable, effective martial artists.  Remember, I have added absolutely nothing.  I have removed dozens of techniques from the requirements, and rearranged many more.

Peter came back sporting his new orange belt.  I could just hear his brain thinking, "Boy, I'm glad I got promoted before the change in requirements!"  Pete was in rare form, reversing Christopher's throw with a nice sume gaeshi (I'm betting he didn't even know this technique had a name) to take Chris down for the pin.

Joe Larsen had Chris's number tonight as well, putting him away with a guillotine choke after Chris followed my instructions about going for Joey's leg with more than just his arm.  Joe had some great jokes tonight tonight as well.  Great to see him back.  Overall, I would say Chris did an excellent job leading most of the class in spite of being greatly distracted by Brionna, who was watching for part of the time.  I'm sure I have a gi that fits her, too!

Ian Klane wandered in tonight as well: the return of the Prodigal Son, so to speak.  He was pleased to know he wouldn't have to surrender his rank as payment for his absence.  He worked very patiently with Katie Gallant, though I suspect his sunburn contributed to his tolerance for simpler techniques.  Truth be known, Katie is a stud!  She rocks like Journey on the Escape album, like Van Halen in Jump, like, like, like Donny Osmond in Puppy Love!  I'm looking forward to Katie's promised gymnastics demonstration on Wednesday.  She is going to do a reverse apple turnover!

Jamie Smith did come in tonight.  She is going to take a little time off from class as she adjusts to Jon's departure for the Navy.  We all miss Jon, but, I'm sure can speak for the rest of the class in saying that I know she misses him most of all, and that we love her very much and want to be a support to her through this.

Lastly, don't forget to download and print out the latest list from the link below to the senior lists.  Bring it to class to keep your notes.

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