Candidate Journals

Wow yesterday was a long day and I am feeling it today. Our show did not get over till 8:00pm- - - so then it was late dinner and up past my bed time as Mr. Sandman usually captures me by ten. It was definitely worth it as met a bunch of new peeps. The gym did not happen this morning but will try after the show today- -if my legs can stand it. Between clients have my study guides out so at least some productivity on the TKD front.

Happy with my progress over the past two days. Nice that I did not have to start work today till after lunch so the free time this morning was greatly appreciated and put to good use. Got some very strange looks in the hotel gym but gotta do what ya gotta do!!! Hope everyone has a great weekend.

I wish it was just the hair - -that's nothing- - - but I knew it was going to be a challenging week. Unfortunately my TKD requirements had to take second seat to some other obligations- -that work stuff- - -but all is good- - - I am not going to stress about it. The kicker was the unexpected tooth fairy came and he/she/it was not good to me. My entire right side of my face is in throb mode and I have to fly tomorrow and be gone for work. Almost comical - my dentist is moving so closed this week but was able to get in with someone else for emergency visit this afternoon. They did not see any cracks/fractures, just a bunch of Neanderthal dental work, but some abnormalities on the film- -conclusion infection- -. Medicine then evaluate when I get back - if not better it's a...

Crazy busy day at work which is pretty much normal. Had appointment after work to get the gray sparkles removed which turned out good as I was able to have meditation time. Got home later than planned so went for run then got some requirements in. Dinner now time for bed. Its going to be a long week and want to pace it and get some rest. Am hoping with upcoming work trips that can knock out a few essays.

Today plugged away at some domestics and requirements along with a nice visit from our niece and her daughter. Surprised I could even move this morning after yesterday - - tight but at least I am moving. This coming week is going to be a tricky one with getting requirements in and classes. Our location is closed this week but lucky I have options - - -obstacle is going to be work and being that I leave Friday for back to back trips will make it challenging. Just going to take it day by day and do what I can. 

Wow what a productive day!!! Up early, few loads of laundry, 3 mile run then off to North Charlotte for classes. Got there at 10:00 and worked with Jerome on SD & Poom's then black belt class and sparring. Yup I was tired, sparring class was a blur. Thanks to my two partners Michaela & Courtney they kept me going. Major light bulb moment today- -learned new SD and actually was able to retain the 1st four in just one class - -that is so not like me. Good day overall but done with requirements today as I am going to listen to my body. Hydrate more and maybe I will not be so tight- - - -. Hope everyone has a great weekend!!!

Ahhhhhh Friday - - - -got home and went into machine mode with requirements. Decided to go for a run at 4:30 -- oops mistake. Will be smarter next time and go in the morning when it is not as hot. Happy with accomplishments for the day. Now time to focus on cleaning, laundry and groceries so will have more time on Saturday & Sunday. Happy weekend to all!!!

Well let me start by saying that Wednesdays have become wipe out Wednesdays. No requirements - -nada- -and not good. Have to figure this day to make it in my favor. Had a meeting after work and by time I got home I was toast. Now today another story. Got to the dojang early and was able to work in quite a bit of physical requirements while keeping an eye on the 4:30 and 5:00 classes. Lead both the 5:45 and 6:40 classes and knocked out a bunch of physical requirements since it was red stripe day. We have a good team at South Charlotte and can not thank Inst. Tucker enough for being there tonight!!!!!

Day 11 of cycle complete, not sick, no major aliments, progress is positive so I am a happy camper. Requirements could always be more but satisfied where I am at. Straight to dojang after work, chlorox queen 1st, knocked out some requirements, helped in classes along with leading warmups, then took adult class. Glad Jerome is on cycle we laugh alot!!!!

Great BB class at South Charlotte tonight with Master Evins!!!! Lot's of review and yup it was a workout- - - - and hot. Thankful he was able to visit so Master Chin could go home and rest. Looking forward to a productive week.

I am going to happy dance today - -write this one down - -I ran twice today - -and by choice. Requirements were ok but on the domestic front all was complete so can go into the week with focus on work and requirements. I am finding out that altering my requirements on some days is going to work best instead of trying to do everything all at once.

Whew!!! very long day. Mentor session with lots of review on poomsaes, black belt class then sparring. I survived!!! Have to thank my partner for not schooling me to bad. Learned some new things, lost on some but will take a few pieces at a time and it will come together. As soon as I got home had to clean up then go to a 50th b-day party, quick bite to eat on the way home now time for bed. Going to sleep good tonight!!

Great class tonight at South Charlotte, hello come visit!! Happy with the requirements that were able to accomplish - - -oh on the ones not so. All will blend together in time and just very thankful for the extra weeks on pre-cycle. My summers are a mess with work and looking forward to mid August when I am back in town and can better control the time management. Happy dance for the weekend!!!

Let's just say Wednesdays are not the best for me. Crazy, insane busy day at work - - - -got home- -sat on the sofa for a moment and it was all over. I went to a happy place all snuggled with the fur balls for more time than should have allowed. Oh well - got some requirements in but am recharged. Besides the girls needed cuddle time.

It official that cycle is underway - -hello tailbone has awoken - -Neosporin!!! Great day and still kicking so I am a happy camper.

Good day, not great on the requirements but happy with my accomplishments. Find the balance and do what you can do with setting priorities. It is just the beginning of our journey and you will face obstacles, meet them head on and do your best.

Very productive day today, at the HT by 7:30, home and unloaded by 8:30, laundry done, house clean and actually got in some requirements. Could not ask for anymore!!

First day of cycle complete- - happy camper!!! Great class today, good seeing everyone and look forward to many more. Focus now is working on time management, multi tasking but confident I will figure it out. Now if my brain can remember everything and quite overthinking all movements I would be in even better shape.

Awesome night at S. Charlotte!!!! Did not get many requirements complete but all is good. Took photos while Grandmaster Lee taught the senior tigers and junior wong ho then adult class. Great evening and looking forward to a productive weekend. The meds are working as I am finally feeling human however the steroids make me nuts, well more nuts than usual.

Happy dance - - - running complete!!!! Took everything I had to finish that tonight so nothing else accomplished but I am ok with it. Just hope tomorrow these new meds kick in so I can get back to normal.

Yikes I have the energy of a pin head. Got to dojang and got some requirements in, not as many as I would have liked, helped in senior wong ho, worked with mentee then had nothing left for adult class so headed home. Dinner, stretching, which is my memitation time, then off to bed. Doc called in another prescription so lets hope that knocks this out of me. Tomorrow is another day.

Busy day at work, but that's the norm, then off to South Charlotte for focus on requirements. Still not feeling the greatest so pretty much stayed in small room and did not venture out to the big mat to help in class. Stayed for BB class which was great. Worked on Hapkido form 1, now lets see if the brain can remember it. I am still struggling to refresh 14 thru 20, for some reason they do not want to process. Hope for another productive day tomorrow.

Finally starting to feel human again. Energy level low but happy I got something accomplished. Treadmill wipped me out so ended up with a nap. Other than that domestics, groceries and a couple errands that did not get done yesterday so no complaints. Hoping for a good productive week!!!

Please - - -please - - -please let there be some light at the end of the tunnel. Over two weeks with this crud and I am so done with being sick. No class today which really ticked me off but would not have lasted more than 5 minutes and it would not have been fair to all the candidates, last thing they need is to get sick before next weekend. Tried to run a few errands today and that did not work very well. Came home and pretty much was a couch potato with the most strenuous duty of the day being laundry - -yippy what fun. Kept looking at the treadmill and that was about the extent of that - -good intentions but need to be smart. Positive thoughts I am going to wake up tomorrow morning feeling better and get back on track- - if not back to...

One step forward two steps back but its all good, could always be worse. I may not finish all my requirements on time however I will finish. Guess sometimes things happen for a reason, have not been able to do much so maybe that has given my shoulder a chance to heal. Hope for a good night sleep and see what tomorrow brings. Main goal finish my running by end of weekend.

All I am going to say is that tomorrow is another day!!!

Finally starting to feel better so let's hope it stays that way - -I am done being sick - -no more - -enough. Unfortunately the weekend was knocked out with other obligations -- really my husband just thinks I am super woman and likes to put me to the test. Ireland guys are in town for golf so house full of peeps for dinner tonight and I am sure it will be entertaining. Just want to be back at full pace tomorrow, get things straightened out at work and focus on requirements.

Doing better today but not at happy dance yet. Made it for 5 hours at work today so I am starting to see light at the end of the tunnel. Came home and slept a few hours but did get on the treadmill after that. Pace was pathetic, evertime I tried going faster the cough decided it was going to also. Thats ok it was progress and I am good with that. Hope I am better enough tomorrow for my lesson and then Saturday class - - - -please about to go stir crazy.

Well made it to office for a few hours today so that is definitely making progress. Finally starting to feel better but still have the energy of a pin head. After I slept the afternoon away I tried the treadmill, that was a disaster on the pace but I am happy because it was something. Going to get a good night sleep and hope for better tomorrow.

Stick a fork in me I am done! Three days in bed with this crud and I am about to go nuts. Sunday never left house, Monday went to office for a couple hours before doctor and pharmacy then today only have been out for fur ball to piddle. I have had enough of being sick! ! ! Make this go away please - - - - .

Down for the count - -it's not the change in the weather - -in bed all day today with whatever this crud is. Not good - - -Sunday's are my productive day where the domestic duties get caught up and at least a few hours of requirements. Got up before 6:00 to get his tailgate food ready then it was straight back to bed, never left the house all day. Just got enough ambition to put a load of laundry in but think that will be the extent of it. Maybe will feel better tonight and can at least get some stretching/meditation done. What a wasted day- - -not a happy camper.

Was very happy to end this week - -it was a long one. Had my lesson with Master Chin yesterday afternoon which I am always thankful for. Held off on the new Hapkido form but will start on that next week. Still feeling a little under the weather and did not want to pass it along. I truly just think it's the change in the weather - -well at least I hope it is just that. Chest still sore, worse in the morning, scratchy throat and fatigue. Had our neighborhood social last night and that was very nice. Took the "ladies of Leeds" with us and that is always a blast - - -if I make it to my 80's that is exactly how I would like to be - -they are a hoot. Looking forward to the tournament today then special birthday party tonight for Sian - - -another big...

No happy dance today. Left work early, straight home and to bed, not even the sofa. Not feeling well just hope it's a quick bug. Sitting on the sofa now looking at the treadmill thinking I have to get at least something accomplished with requirements. Lets see what the evening brings - - - - -.

Just wiped out today and no requirements accomplished. Got home from work and fell asleep, yikes!!!!! It is what it is and hopefully will wake up in the morning ready to go.

So not going to dwell on the darn fairy that should be helping me out instead of hindering me but yikes what is it about the kitchen. Now the faucet needs a thingy so it does not leak and the dishwasher has become possessed and decided it wants another life somewhere else. That is three in the kitchen you are done - -fix it all and move on. Nutty day at work with some very trying clients - -be nice or karma will get you - then off to South Charlotte. Got in some requirements, helped in class then adult class. Very nice evening of red stripe, thank you Inst. Hsin!! Would have liked to increased on the requirements but sorry folks if one of the little's asks a question, wants the belt tied, or just would like to joke around, you find out what is most important to your journey....

Had a great, and very productive, day!!! Up early and hit the treadmill hard along with a few requirements. Costco, HT and back home with groceries before the game started. Had a miserable him in the house, imagine that with the way the Panthers played, then icing on the cake with the Steelers, so I exited to the carport, along with mr. spark, and did nothing but requirement focus. Such a beautiful day out - - enjoyed every minute of it. Got a ton accomplished and even tried some pushups. They were pretty ugly and not great form but it's a start. Attempted the pull-up's & burpees but that is going to have to hold a bit longer as I could immediately feel the shoulder. See how l fair in the morning and just take it one step at a time. Going to be smart and listen to my body. It's...

I believe I have a little jinx fairy following me around. Headed up north for black belt class then back home and the goal was knock out the domestic duties and work on requirements. Just as I was finishing cleaning the house I notice a bunch of water in the kitchen. I was like why are my feet all wet???? Big leak under the sink so that was fun taking everything out and cleaning up. Needless to say not a quick task - -so tonight it will be off Home Depot for new disposal. Found the culprit disposal has hole in it so yup every time you run water instead of going down the drain it goes in the cabinet. Could have been a lot worse!!!!

Yesterday was a major bad hair day but thankfully it's over. Crazy busy at work, after work stopped at client's to take care of some items - - of course issues - -ended there a couple hours then lifting - -doing some things I should not have been - -and ouch the shoulder nicely reminded me I was making a bad decision. Got home then ended up on a call with client for over an hour. Long and short by time I was done preparing & eating dinner I was toast. No requirements or anything other than good night time. Even thought I am behind I am not going to short cut myself on requirements. I said at the beginning that I would not count any of my walking as running - -unless it was having to power walk a short bit on a run to get thru the run and...

Pretty uneventful day, work, dojang then home for dinner. Tired so retiring early this evening.

Have known that things do not always go as planned but come on it's been consisent one step forward then two if not three back. Maybe this cycle was not met to be or its just me trying to juggle too much or I have finally gone completly nuts. Either way I am just going to keep plugging along and get done what it can even if it takes longer than planned. Met with the doc this morning and I am a proud owner of a frozen shoulder. Yup I gave him a look like are you joking! Gave me the techincal name but I was oblivious, just keep it simple doc- - -click those red shoes wave the wand and fix me- - -yup he laughed - - -not going to happen that way. Long and short injections in the shoulder, major ouch, then physical therapy starting next week. I...

What a great Sunday!!! Now just let's see the outcome of the game, not looking good for us. Cooked all morning for tailgate then took my nephew, and his friend, down when they got in town. Stayed for a bit then headed back to the house. Based on what I saw coming home I ran, had to mix some walking in with it, back down to our tailgate spot, got the truck and brought back home, then will head down and get the guys after the game. Only able to get a few requirements in but the ones I got in I am good with. Looking forward to a very productive week and a positive doctor appointment tomorrow.

Had a great time today at the Grandmaster Gay seminar - -very cool. Requirements had some issues today however for some insane reason I decided to become Forrest today. Got 4 miles in this morning before the seminar then jumped on the treadmill again tonight. Have family coming into town for the game tomorrow so I have a feeling that the weekend is not going to be as productive as I wanted but you never know - - - -.

Happy its Friday, very productive day. The stacks on my desk at work are seeing the light of day and left early so what a great start to the weekend. Went to South Charlotte and was able to get in a fair amount of requirements before testing, very thankful for that time. Testing went great as we had both a 5:00 and 6:00 group. Kids did fantastic and even better 3 adult white belt ladies rocked it!!!! Looking forward to the weekend, it will be crazy like most but that seems to be par for the course.

Crazy day at work but that's the norm. Busy day/night at South Charlotte since it was photo day. One little tiger was so excited, got his belt tied, all spiffied up, so I say ready for your kodak moment. His answer- - -no I am getting my picture. Yup I am old!!! Good night in class with lots of kicking- - -green stripe week. Still struggling with trying to get requirements in but I will not get discouraged.

I am conceding Wednesdays, the towel is tossed. For me its more like wipe out Wednesdays, maybe its because its the only day I do not go straight to the dojang after work. Gotta find a solution to this and even spark does not help.

Last night great black belt class and even got a sparring class in. Photos on thursday so slight adjustment to schedule and had an unexpected extra class. All very good and it gave our competition team a little different change of pace with the elders in class getting abused. Thank you Inst. Hsin!! We may not be as quick, jump high or land a head shot but we have years of wisdom to share. Tonight was non stop and great to meet with my mentee William. He is so willing to learn and focused, I can not wait till his time comes to test and go on cycle, no doubt he will. I am not where I want to be on requirements but I am confident it will all work out in the end, if not I have my AARP card and heating pad so all is good. Night I need...

Positive day - -up early to start requirements - -take grandma to airport- - then off to work. Just realized after looking at my book, it's kind of a mess, got soaked on Saturday, that I have entered requirements on the wrong days --yikes - -think I got it fixed. Lesson learned put the glasses on next time. It is going to be a good week!!!!!

Great time at the PMAA seminar! Brain on definite overload but still had a blast, it just takes me alot longer to process things but it's all good. Good drive back, stopped and got peaches then onto domestic duties. Requirements not great today but ok with it. Going to bed if a few, shoulder hurts, yup over did it, and hopefully not getting sick. Tomorrow will be another day and fresh start to the week.

Hello brain overload! Awesome time last night and today now lets see how much I can remember. Got some requirements done and if I had this beach as my back yard the requirements would be done. Will log everything when I get back, book got soaked so drying out.

Hi ho hi ho it's off to the beach we go!!!!! Looking forward to the weekend.

Crazy day!!! Doctors appointment lasted longer than expected so it snowballed for the rest of the day. Just got home now need to scramble so I can get out to Monroe by 7:00. Unfortunately no TKD tonight other obligation but all is good. I am looking forward to being off tomorrow and the weekend. Maybe there will be a little light at the end of the tunnel for catching up.

What is it with Wednesdays- - -requirements in a different world today - - -no excuses I will do what I need to do to be able to take Friday off and enjoy the weekend. I will say it was an adventure tonight, grandma, white hairs, the fur balls, Pint and Fu Man Chu - -try to figure that one out.  

Great class last night!!!!! Yup my brain got a refresh on hapkido, since my mind went completely blank on Saturday, then we rolled and rolled and rolled and rolled some more. Dizzy lizzy was an understatement, by time I left everyone had two heads but positive side my shoulder was numb so could not feel it and think I was finally starting to get the hang of it. This tucking the leg is challenging for me. Tonight was a full house in the junior and last class- - very productive.

Happy dance, happy dance, happy dance!!! Thought I was going to be very sore this morning from yesterday's requirements, I was incorrect. Not to bad this morning, got my run done and some pushups & sit up's and now need to head off to work. Will hit it again after work along with BB class tonight. Hope everyone has a great day!!!

Very productive day on the home front and with requirements. The errands that had to be run knocked out some time I needed with requirements but I am happy with what I accomplished. I have a feeling my body will not like me in the morning. Night all I am tired!!!! Go Panthers - - - -

Great day today and productive in my little world. Black belt class then sparring - -whew I was tired when it was all said and done however executive decision was made. From now on if I do both classes it's Rita's on the way home as a special treat. Requirements were not quite where I wanted them to be at the end of the day but the domestics are don,e except for groceries, so tomorrow is major focus day on requirements. I am gong to want to catch up in one day, well at least try, so I know come Monday by body is going to say what have you done to me. Hope everyone enjoys the rest of the weekend!!!

Fantastic class at South Charlotte tonight- - - non stop and a great mix - -yup we left soaked!!!! Normal- - left work then to the dojang, did requirements where I could work in and helped in class. Bottom line I am way far behind so I need to figure out my time management and basically put a wiggle in it. Wednesday night is the only night that I come home straight from work and I was so tired last night when I got home I sat on the couch and next thing I new my sandman captured me and it was all over. Got up, made dinner- - quite yummy - -roasted rosemary pork tenderloin and spinach/strawberry salad, then straight to bed. Quite embarrassing - -no requirements in but obviously my body was saying something else. I was out like a light by 8:30. Looking forward to a great weekend!!!!

Just had a light bulb moment - -concerns with my time management (work is nuts- - no beyond nuts)- -solution have an IV drip of spark connected to me so I can function on no sleep- - -got to work on that one. Great class tonight, Inst. Hsin likes to push us on the physical side, love every minute of it just have to think I can get thru this without them having to come carry me off. I may not be the first to finish but I will finish. On a positive note my back and knees finally feel better but the shoulder still has issues. Pretty much normal when I get back from shows so will let it go a bit longer and hope for the best. I always think it can be worse so will just modify a few things in the mean time and see where it...

Yup there is some labor going on today. Groceries done, bills paid, house clean, big batch of Bolognese simmering, laundry a work in progress and it's just too stinking hot to iron. Now I am going to be selfish and take some me time and try to focus on requirements in between the laundry. I see some Spark in the future today - - -.

Requirements down the tube this weekend but it is worth every minute of it, having a blast. Watch out next week its time to play catch up. Hope everyone enjoys the extended weekend and good by summer ready for the fall.

Happy dance, happy dance, happy dance - -great day today!! Finally seeing the light of day on my desk and awesome class tonight. Looking forward to the weekend as I get a special surprise on Saturday - -more to come on that later. Night all, need some sleep - -thinking not much of that will happen over the weekend.

Great class tonight in South Charlotte - -lot's of focus on back to the basics. Did not get as much done as would have liked but hey it is what it is. Sometimes things do not always go as planned so just have to roll with it and be confident it will all work out in the end.

Great black belt class tonight, thank you Master Chin. Major review of Pal Gwe Il, Yi & Sam now lets see if my brain can retain it or tomorrow will show the senior moment.

It has been non stop all day an with a lot of luck hope to have the house in order, along with dinner, before guests arrive. Yikes another 10 hours in the day would be really helpful along with the house and laundry fairy - -hey a girl can wish - - - -.

What a great day seeing everyone at pre test and all did awesome!! Some body parts just keep snapping, crackling, popping and saying hey what are you doing to me. After this weekends other obligations will finally have some time freed up to focus more on cycle requirements. All is good!!!

Have been away for a while and first class back tonight. Thanks Master Chin and Inst. Hsin I did my best to keep up but mind and body still mush and will take a few days to get back in motion. I know I am way behind but I will catch up- -guess I am use to challenges. Night all I am tired and desperate for some sleep.

Happy 1st official day of cycle to all!!!!!! Missed class today, and the meeting, but out of town at last show of the year. Was able to get a nice run/walk in this morning but rest of the day/night is pretty much shot with work obligations. And no, just incase any one asks I did not run all those miles this morning - - -I did have to run, then walk, run some more then walk. Love the app on my new phone that tracks all your steps and miles. See everyone soon!!!

Great day yesterday with black belt & sparring class - -thank you Masters Hartle & Knight!!! Also big thanks to Miss Amanda for being my partner in sparring- -she is quick - -I had to run like a chicken a few times- -well more than a few times. Back in town and trying to work the time management so I can focus on requirements. It will be a very bumpy road the next few weeks at work, preparing for back to back trips, so being realistic about where my focus needs to be. All is good and the balance will come in time.

So as normal for myself not everything always goes as planned. My requirements are in the dumps as time is an issue and I have to make a choice. Covered up beyond at work - -and so thankful for that - -and am finally taking an entire week off to visit family and partake in many different celebrations. If I do not get everything in order before I leave, vacation will be spent worrying and fielding calls. So my choice is work will be the priority over cycle, for the moment, but I am not worried, I know when I focus I can do anything I put my mind too. So if you look at my requirements you know what is up and that I have not fallen of the planet.

Well game on - - -it's time to focus and get a plan. Have a crazy few weeks coming up so the requirements are going to be all over the board, if some days I even make it to the board, but all is good. During cycle you are going to have your up's and down's then toss in some other obligations, unexpected whatever's, but in the end if you want it enough you will find a way to make it work out.

Well it's day 70 and I am alive so I am a happy camper!!  It has been a challenging journey but all is good.  All I can say it is up to you what you make of a journey.  Looking forward to the next one.

OK executive decision made no more slump days - -I have had quite enough.  This week has been a struggle and not productive on the TKD front.  Oh well it is what it is and time to be over it.  Looking forward to working with my mentee, Jillian, after work then helping in classes.  Will stay for adult class and hopefully will have enough juice left to get through it.  Looking forward this weekend to the Fall Festival.

Yesterday I took the day off to focus attention on other items that I have let go while trying to catch up during cycle.  All was good but then today I felt like I was in a total fog all day.  It was definitely a slump day with little productivity on anything.  At work I was out of sorts most of the day then went to help in classes and work on requirements.  About 3/4 way thru black belt class I just looked at Inst. Hsin and said I have nothing left, that is not like me.  Oh well guess every day can not be a happy dance day and hopefully it will be better tomorrow.

Whew - -physical and written test complete, everyone did a fantastic job today!!!  Now it's time, even more, to stay focused.  Thank you Inst. Randle & Weeks you were great partners. I ran errands after class and by time I got home I was spent.  Yes I admit it, I was tired, curled up on the sofa and out I was for an hour or so.  Made the decision that I was going to take the rest of the day off from TKD and focus on the domestic front.  Family coming in town soon and do not want to get too far behind.  All about balance.  Have a couple committments tomorrow, and tomorrow night, so am thinking it might have to be a light day.  It's all good and I am happy where I am at.  Hope everyone enjoys the rest of the weekend. 

While I may not have been productive in regards to physical requirements today I was very productive in other aspects.  Had lesson with Master Chin today and she got me on track with the items I was not certain on.  Much better but still work in progress.  Went to class in Mint Hill tonight and as always great class, thank you Master Burkart.  Got to see Inst. Tucker tonight and what a positive influence.  All is good and looking forward to tomorrow!!!

I am a happy camper tonight, happy dance away.  This has been a very challenging cycle for me, and I know everyone else, but bottom line if you want something, and focus, you can do anything you put your mind to.  Requirements complete and the mail man put the icing on the cake when I got home.  Stressfull day at work, but will figure it out, then off to South Charlotte.  OK if you have not figured it out yet I am with Master Chin & Inst. Hsin at South Charlotte.  Did my queen of colorox wipes thing, got all the leaves off the walkway, finished requirements, helped in class then stayed for adult class, very productive.  Had a fantasic class!!!!  What I enjoy the most is that it's not a teaching method of do this, they explain why we are doing it.  It's blue stripe week and while sparring combinations are important,...

Well busy, crazy day at work, but hey what's new, then off to South Charlotte.  I was not as productive on requirements today as I wished but I did get a ton accomplished.  Sometimes time management does not go as planned but in the end it all works out.  Helped in 3 classes tonight, worked with both my mentee and mentor.  Again can not say enough I am very lucky to have the support system I have.  Ms. Tucker rocks and Jillian & Luke are the best!!! I would just like to finish ahead of schedule so I can focus on knowledge, fine tuning everything and I do not want to be stressed.  This is a journey, I want to enjoy it and do things for the right reason. 

Well it's Day 60 and I am still standing so that's a good thing.  I could be in better shape but happy with where I am at.  Pretty uneventful day same old, same old -- work then off to classes.  Got to meet with my mentee's today and that is always a pleasure.  They are fantastic and make my day.  Helped in the 5:40 class then stayed for adult class.  Thank you Inst. Hsin for another try to make us drop +++++ class.  That is definitely a way to challenge yourself.  It's all about focus and getting into a zone.  I may never be quick and fast but I will last!!!  On another note if anyone has sold panda tickets if you could please bring them to class Saturday so I can get everything ready for the Fall Festival.  Tickets will still be available at the festival for chances to win!!!  The furry ones...

Well happy camper I was not today at work.  Just seemed like everything decided not to go as planned then a few other thing on top of that to boot.  Oh well it will be better tomorrow and truly could have been worse.  Got to S. Charlotte after work and focused on requirements, helped in junior class then great insane class with Master Chin & Inst. Hsin.  Master Chin focused on staff forms which was a big help.  It's not a matter of doing the form but being precise on your execution.  I know the forms but now trying to focus on making them more powerful.  Lot's of review on the knife and I swear I am going to get it.  I am up to 7 so happy dance for that it just needs to be more fluid instead of mechanical.  I think too much.  Last but not least was TKD++++++++.  Inst. Hsin...

Well it's day 58 and I feel good!!  Pounded on requirements today between laundry, groceries and ironing.  Got to meet with my mentee today, Luke, and it was great.  Today was his 7th birthday and we met in the parking lot at the grocery store and had a perfect session.  Found a nice grass area with shade tree by the bank and he did his thing while mom did her thing.  Such a special boy then he was off to finish birthday celebrations.  Finished the Kwan essay so relief on that one.  Trying to study for the test and just hope all goes well.  Everything is starting to run together.  I know most of it but when I start to write it down I go blank.  I will figure it out just hopefully by the end of the week.  On a very sad note it's Master Moon's "temporary" last night in Charlotte.  I will miss her...

What a great day!!  Fantastic class today got to cover lot's of things with Master Knight & The Hartles.  Sorry had questions but it was great.  Thank you Mr. Weeks you are an awesome partner. Met with Ms. Tucker and as always she can answer any questions.  I was in the full of questions mode today.  Got home and yes took a small cat nap, needed it.  Got up and being very productive kicked in.  Since the domestic fairy did not show up I clicked my heels, waved the wand and made it happen along with several requirements.  Husband got home from golf and figured it was best to stay out of the way - - good idea.  Looking forward to another good day tomorrow. 

So ready for the weekend!!!  Good day at work, not so good day at doctor and awesome time at testing today.  Three different testing classes and they all rocked!!!  Great job everyone.  All I am going to say if it is the last thing I do I am going to complete these requirements on time.  The time management is getting to me but I have got this and know there is always a solution to everything.  All is good and ready for class tomorrow then focus on requirements, essay, study for test and of course the dreaded domestics.  At this point a house fairy would be really nice - - - -.

Well today was actually a good day.  Crazy busy at work then went to South Charlotte and focused on requirements, met with Jillian, to work on her belt requirements, helped in class then stayed for 6:40 class.  All was going well till I got home and realized I left my knife, black belt book and notes book on the ledge.  Want to talk about freaking out.  That's not me I normally do not leave things.  Oh yes Inst. Hsin I will do pushups tomorrow.  So now I can not log my requirements because all my stuff is all snug as a bug at the dojang.  URG!!!  Other than that all is good because it could be a lot worse.  Guess I will log double tomorrow night after helping with testing.

Pretty uneventful day.  Had the day off work to take care of a few personal appointments then went and helped with the early classes.  Did not stay for sparring class because I wanted to be able to focus some time this evening on the Kwan essay.  My computer is having a blast with the auto spell check.  Hello computer these are real names quit changing them on me.  Guess talking to the computer and telling it no does not really help but it make me feel better so I will continue to talk to it.  Would like to be further along with my progress but happy where I am.

Productive day at work then off to South Charlotte.  Helped around where needed, worked on requirements then stayed for class.  My brain has had a melt down on the knife 1 thru 10 - - -someone please turn the light bulb on in my head - -why is this being so difficult.  Light bulb moment please and soon.  Got to meet with my mentee Luke and he is unbelievable.  He catches on so quick and has this smile and energy that just makes you want to do the happy dance.  Got to talk with my new friend Jillian for a bit and she has agreed to come to class early to work with me.  I am very luck!!  All is good and I am planning, and hoping, for a productive day tomorrow.  Still feeling sluggish and just hope that I do not get sick.  On another note my knees have been...

I do not know if I have just hit the wall with exhaustion or if I am coming down with something.  Slept in a bit this morning, which is not normal, then hit Costco & HT.  When I got home I curled up on the sofa and lights out.  It was a long nap and I did not feel revived afterwards.  Decided that maybe I need to take a small break so spent some time in the kitchen getting meals ready for the week and such.  After I tried to work on pushups & situps and did ok.  Jumped on the treadmill and was pretty happy there.  The TV was on so I said put the DVR Chicago Fire on which kept me going.  I know I am a very slow runner and my pace is not improving much but at least I have the endurance so that is good.  I am done for the day.  Going to...

Today has been a great day.  Demo in freedom park pretty cool then class in south charlotte was incredible.  My hand is still taped up and will remain for the rest of the day.  Mentor session this morning also.  Be back tomorrow as its taking me twice as long to get things accomplished this afternoon and have dinner obligations tonight. This is going to be interesting.

Happy camper!!  Very productive day on requirements.  Has lesson with Master Chin this afternoon, thank you Master Chin you are the best, then black belt class in Mint Hill this evening.  Got to Mint Hill early so was able to attend the 5:45 class and also help in class.  It was the first time I helped at another school and was not quite sure what is acceptable.  I had the white belts so I figured if I started saying drop do situps, pushups, punching, kicking, blocks and squat thrusts in between they would think I was nuts.  Hey is was poomsae week so we did a lot of Kwon Sool, even criss cross apple sauce Kwon Sool.  Even though very repetitive I tried to explain the why of things because that was one of my main things when I learn, please explain to me as it helps make me understand.  Black belt class was...

Pretty uneventful day.  Hit requirements hard and had class at South Charlotte tonight.  Worked on many different areas in class as some of the students will be testing next Friday.  Looking forward the weekend and just going to keep plugging away.

Finally it's time for the happy dance, I am in green on tracking in all except one item (mentee) and I could not be happier.  My mentee, Luke -- who is the best, is only at class on Tuesdays because of other obligations.  Hoping that I can scoot away and meet with him a few extra days to get caught up but if I do not it's ok- - he is so worth working with.  I will be there for him on his next test regardless of cycle testing and requirements.  I am very lucky!!  Got to South Charlotte about 4:00 today and hit requirements hard.  My little friend Johnathan was there, all of 3 years old, that helps with my requirements on Mondays & Wednesdays.  He likes to know what I am doing, why I am doing it, what is next, when is the Panda going to find a home and can...

Pretty random day with work and requirements.  I would like to do the happy dance for having all green on tracking but it is not quite there yet - -bummer.  Got to dojang early today and requirements, requirements and requirements - -the mom's think I am nuts - -but it's all good.  Helped in one class, met with my mentee Luke, he is awesome - -all of 6 years old and wide open then stayed for adult class.  Then off to doggy spa (ie. petsmart) where little one was enjoying her time of beauty.  We have a furry little office dog, Ms. Roxy, that I share joint custody.  She is the sweetest little rescue and would not trade her for the world.  Time to go have some Roxy time then will hit it hard tomorrow.

Great day at work then hi ho hi ho it's off to the dojang I go.  Got quite a few requirements in before work today then did as many as I could between helping in class then black belt class.  Best of all Master Chin is back!!!!  It was great seeing her & Emmy and they both look fantastic.  Well Master Chin looks like she did not even have a little one and the little one is as cute as a button.  Class was great tonight covered many different areas and I am just trying to stay focused on learning the new curriculum.  Baby steps I can not get it all at once.  I am getting there, it's slow but I will get it.  I do not know what was up tonight but was having a terrible time with back falls.  We did a bunch last week and I was fine...

Very busy day with requirements and domestics.  I am tired now and going to go study before turning in for the night.  I was pretty much back & forth all day on the carport doing requirements and in the house cooking & laundry.  I will say this, if I could do the test on my carport I would be good to go on the curriculum I know- - still a few things that are a work in progress.  As soon as I get on the mat, especially at North Charlotte, my mind runs wild and I start the delightful creative forms where I just mix it all together.  All in all very good day and even better the Panters won - -no grumbling in our house tonight.  The other half is not a good sport when his team does not win.  Looking forward to great week and even better next Saturday.

Yesterday was not a productive day for requirements.  Had a great day at work, got home and the intention was to knock out requirements before going to class.  I sat down on the sofa for a minute just to unwind and next thing I knew - - sound asleep.  Well I guess my body was telling me something and nothing I can do about it now.  Went to Mint Hill and had a fantastic class.  I am going to get this hapkido down eventually - -for some reason 12 thru 20 is all running together.  Going to focus this morning on requirements then off to class at North Charlotte.  Have to leave after class to get my husbands tailgate stuff together but hope to be able to work even more requirements in for the afternoon.  Tomorrow night we have a 25th anniversary party so I have to be productive all day.

This week has had it's up & downs and looking forward to a great weekend.  Finding the balance between work, domestics and catching up to everyone else.  It's all good and I will get there.  After work, off to the dojang to work on requirements, then helped with the little tigers, they just crack me up, lead warm-ups for them then lead warm ups & punching for the adult class.  Great class tonight!!!!  Sometimes it's not just about warming up, learning and execution of techniques but it's thinking about what you are doing and trying to articulate it.   That was a good one Inst. Hsin & Master Moon!!!  Luckily for me if I write the motions down, in my strange way, I can absorb better than watching a video.  It's all about trying something new and finding what works for you.  No right and wrong everyone learns differently.  Panthers home this week so have...

Busy crazy day yesterday.  Took day off work due to am obligation, ran errands then off to S.  Charlotte.   Picture day so lots of energy and thought, what kinds of weapon should I pick for my photo.  Spent most of the day there and worked on requirements between parent questions and class.  Today I got to meet with mentor and think I am finally straight, straight not perfect, on a few things but much more to go.  Struggling with some of the curriculum but I will get it figured out.  Almost caught up on requirements so I am a very happy camper!!!!  All is good just keep plugging away.  Looking forward to weekend.

Well start of the day not too good!!  Up early to get the run out of the way.  Got to work to find my computer responding to a different world, the router decided it was going to have a mind of it's own then to boot three of our incoming phone lines down completely.  Needless to say most of my day was not productive just trying to get everything up and running.  Luckily had the laptop that I could at least remote for emails and communicate with clients.  Good news all was running by time I left so let's just hope.  Talk about putting a monkey wrench into the day - -.  Spent late afternoon at dojang working on requirements, helping in class, leading warm-ups then black belt class & pmaa.  Ran out of time for TKD+ but all is good we needed to spend the time and work on staff...

Pretty productive day - - -domestics caught up, well as caught up as they will get, and happy with requirements for the day.  Decided to stay away from the run and burpee's today in hope that my knee's will not be as sore.  Front stances are an obstacle right now but it will get better.  The old bones have a mind of their own.  Trying to focus on catching up on  requirements, remembering everything and learning the new curriculum.  My brain is going into mush mode more than normal so I just have to break it down so I do not go into overload.  I would just like to see everything "green" on the tracking.  Looking forward to a good week!!!

Last night went to black belt class in Mint Hill and as always Master Burkart rocks!!!  Great class and my partner Lauren was amazing.  Super quick learner and fun!!!!!.  Met with my mentor this morning and worked over staff 1 & 2, bolo, wang ho 2 and hapkido.  That was alot for my brain to absorb but did ok.  Inst. Tucker is an awesome teacher and can break down everything so I understand.  Even though my execution may not be 100% correct it's baby steps getting there.  Off to black belt class in North Charlotte and what a great class it was.  Unfortunately have a event to attend this evening so could not stay for sparring.  Have to spend some focus on the domestics in order to set up time tomorrow for requirements.  Thank you Miss Miranda & Miss Julia for assisting with the Panda Adventure.  I hope you guys, and the other...

It was not the best of days but it could have been worse.  Normally I am at the office by 7:00am, at the latest, so yes I am a morning person.  When on cycle I try to get up before 5 and get my run in and unfortunately time does not permit for much else.  Today I got up and my knee's just said what have you done to me.  Yes thank you Inst. Hsin- - I lost count on the squats and suicides on Wednesday night and guess what- - - my body told me Thursday morning.  It was great though, I enjoyed that class very much - - -have to bust his chops.  So off the office I went.  The grand plan is to stop at work every so often and do situps & pushups.  Yes well the grand plan is not working.  We are very fortunate to be busy so...