Black

Three years ago I started martial arts along with Miss Munchkin.  Mostly I wanted her to learn self-defense skills and she agreed to the lessons as long as I took them with her!  Along the way, I’ve learned some valuable techniques, become physically stronger and made some wonderful new friendships.

Miss Munchkin and I have been testing for our Black Belt over the past six weeks.  Last week was our final test.  It was 2 hours long!  Before class started, we had to complete 100 situps, 75 pushups and 25 laps around the dojo.  Then, for the first 30 minutes of the test, we were pushed to our limit physically with strenuous drills and exercises.  After we were good and tired, we were asked to demonstrate all of the techniques we’d learned over the past 3 years.  Kicks and punches, escapes from various chokes and bear hugs, throws and grappling on the ground. Then we sparred.

At the end of class, we learned that we’d passed!  The following night we received our Black Belts in an official graduation ceremony.  We also read a 3 page paper that we’d written about our “journey though martial arts”. 

I’m so glad testing is over.  It is one of the harder things I’ve ever had to do.  I’m really proud of Miss Munchkin for hanging in there though it all and of myself, for doing this at age 40!


Reading my paper

Miss Munchkin graduating

Getting my new belt

The graduating class (we’re on the right)