It has been a very long winter in Maine.
As I write this, I am attending a dermatology lecture in San Juan, Puerto Rico. It has been raining, but not snowing.
Sensei Jon is leading class in my absence. I will miss two classes.
The flu has mostly come and gone now. Class is booming. Soon, we will be getting ready for the September reunion. That will include a kata contest. Kata contests are an excellent way for jujitsu students to master difficult techniques. I have always enjoyed them because they force me to perform a technique under pressure.
We have recently enjoyed Tsai-Lung Tsai's presence in class. Tsai is a sankyu (3rd degree brown belt) in Kodokan Judo. He is actually a visiting medical student in my practice at the moment. His throws are absolutely a pleasure to watch. Take advantage of his perspective on throwing.
Jason Gogan has earned his belt stripe. That is the first, small step in a lifetime of martial learning. Jason brings his intensity and experience to our class. We all benefit from his participation.
Megan Forbes earned her White Belt with Green Stripe last week as well. Congratulations Megan! We are all very proud of you. Megan will agree that respect for parents remains the single most important characteristic I seek when promoting junior students.
Megan's mom, Amy Forbes recently received her Orange Belt. Congratulations on finding your inner Tiger, Amy.
We had Tommy LeMieux back briefly last week. It was great to have him back on the mat, even briefly. I hope he will find the time in his busy schedule to work with us again. Thanks, Tommy!
