Spring 2025 Black Belt Cycle

Candidate Journals

King Tiger Tae Kwon Do Black Belt candidates blog daily about their journey: their thoughts and feelings, their struggles and successes; their pain and their encouragement. Follow along on their journey; words of encouragement are always welcome!

Journal 3

Today I woke up at five in the morning so I could go to my pre-test. And the Run was tiring, then I took a bus To the North Charlotte school, and we did push-ups situps v situps Burpees planks and last jump rope. then I went home at 9 o’clock, and then I played some games on my Nintendo switch and I beat the last gym leader in Pokémon.

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Journal #3

Today I had to wake up really early because I had to go to pre-test and I had to run 1 mile and it hurt really bad. Then we went onto the party bus and then we went to North Charlotte King Tiger Dojung. We did push-ups sit ups V sit ups, jump rope, and plank then we did our Poomsaes and then we finish The pretest I felt really scared at first, but once I did it, it felt good and then I went home at nine in the morning!  

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Pre-test

Hello everyone, I have not been doing my journals because I was on vacation, we went to Hilton Head and had lots of fun. But I am going to talk about pretest. Today was pretty hard especially the two miles but I ran the whole way and did not walk a single time, I did stop for water once because everyone needs water. But I thought that everyone did a great job with the running and with the Pretest, I hope everyone one is having a good summer and a good cycle. Bye.

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Pre-Test

Hey guys, so we all know that the Pre-Test was today, and I'm not going to lie, it was fun. I had a good time with all of the running and the exercises, and the poomsaes were fun too. Jovi though, what the heck man! You been holding out on us?  Anyway, that plank was crazy, eight minutes! Jovi is a lot stronger than he lets on, but now he has to beat eight minutes for the end of cycle. Anyway, don't to keep this too long you know, so see you guys next week and good luck to the Bocho's. 

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Peter's blog

Yesterday I went to play basketball,  watched a movie and did all of my requirements so it was a pretty chill day

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Day 7

Today I woke up and it was cloudy outside, it rained a lot. I was doing my requirements when it finally hit me that the pre test was tomorrow. To be real, I’m not that excited to wake up extra early to run 4 miles but I gotta do it.

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Day 7

The end of week one is here.  I had to do some extra catch-up because I was avoiding a few things - mostly rolls and falls.  I don't mind the falls so much but the rolls make me dizzy if I do too many in a row.

So far I'm not hitting that exhausted stage where I question my sanity for doing this again.  But I am journaling when I should be asleep; I have three miles to do in the morning and I don't run well - or at all, really.

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Pretest Prep

Got up early today to go on errands. Practiced my German early and did my physical book requirements and started on my essays. Prepared for the pretest tomorrow and I hope everyone passes.

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Journal #7: getting it done

Today I had a list of things to do. The normal things. I did some cleaning and relaxed some. I practiced at King Tiger and took 2 classes tonight. I am a little nervous about tomorrow. Excited to see everyone. Best of luck to all.

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Day #7 - 7/19/2024

Today I joined the sparring class at King Tiger Harrisburg, NC which goes towards my weekend and sparing cycle requirements. We had a lot of fun pad kicking, and practicing sparring combinations. I was only able to complete about 60% of my daily cycle requirements today and need to confirm if this is okay on training days.

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Pretest tomorrow

This Friday, I worked on some requirements before I went to class for rolls and falls. We were able to do our bocho to second Dan self defenses for refreshment. Gonna sleep in prep for tomorrow.

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Good luck tomorrow!

Wishing all my fellow candidates a restful sleep and awesome performance tomorrow! I was thinking that it would just be Mark and myself at the track at midnight (or slightly after) doing their milage but I realized there will be others out there with us watching the sun rise as we finish up our milage.  I made sure to plug in my headphones so I've got plenty of music.  See you tomorrow on the track!

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Starting Late

Even though I started late I feel like I'm catching up. I did some pull ups, push ups and sit ups. I ran a mile in 8 minutes and I did burpees. I took my first Black Belt class today and my first sparring class yesterday. I chose my mentee this week and am still working on scheduling a mentor session.

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Nice day

Today I went to camp and left early so I could do my exercises before my grandparents came then I went to do the rolls and falls class and the black belt class ate chipotle and that’s really it. Good night.

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Journal 5 - Fantastic Friday

I hope everyone had a fantastic Friday and are excited for a super Saturday!!! Today I got up and played with my puppy! Afterwards, I went to the allergy place and then to my dermatologist appointment. I then came home for lunch and played around with Fred (my puppy)! I went to taekwondo and did The rolls and falls class. Friday Blackwell class was great. We worked on self-defense and I felt like it was really spending my time wisely. Then I went to chipotle and sat there for like 20 minutes waiting for our food that should’ve been ready 10 minutes before that!!! It made me so mad, but that’s in the past now. After I came home and ate my chipotle. We watched a show after that as the family and then headed up and hang out with Fred! Tomorrow is the pretest so I hope everyone knows their...

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Day 7

My body does not hurt anymore from all of this discipline, it has now gotten used to it. wake up early for the Pre-Test tomorrow!

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Preparation

I didn’t really do any physical requirement today, I don’t want to be sore today, and really push myself tomorrow! I was also going to do them at for lunch, time got the best of me. I was do ahead of on my work, but there only so much preparing I can do. They’re is only much you can control. So left work a little late, and very tired. I didn’t know if I had enough energy to make it to sparring and black belt class, I wanted to drink an energy drink. But I drank coffee and milk instead and talked to my boyfriend. that helped a lot  Sparring and black belt class was a great. I learned something new from Master Knight. Instructor Foster did a fine job leading the class.  

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Here We Go

I just finished getting ready for pre-test tomorrow. Workout gear, uniform including belt, jump rope and BBC book with pen are all set. I am a zombie that early in the morning so it would not be wise for me to wait until then. Water...check. Gatorade...check. Energy shot...double check. Have a good night, all!!!

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Last day of basketball camp

Today I woke up, brushed my teeth, ate breakfast and went to basketball camp.  We played knockout and other games.  At the end I got a t-shirt.  Then I want to Barnes and Noble and I saw Mrs. Jen looking at books.  I went to my first rolls and falls class and then did black belt class.  I'm going to bed early tonight because of pre-test tomorrow. 

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Need to focus

I’m having trouble focusing especially with requirements so I need to get my mind on track with that. My days have been good, went mini golfing and had s'more's. Goodnight everyone.

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Friday is here

Henry and I are getting into a good habit of getting out the door early before it gets too hot and it's been really pleasant to be out before the heat hits. Today it was good because we beat the rain! (it's currently raining steadily)  Came home and showered because I am just constantly gross. (I swear I stunk up the place at sparring last night -- and I don't mean my technique (which isn't great either!)) Worked on some self defense after that so we're ready if Master Natasya decides to pre-test that at Black Belt class tonight. Will be working on poomsaes later to be ready for pretest in the AM.  Follow us on IG: https://www.instagram.com/rupeblackbelts

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7/19 Curtis Journal

Got up this morning and did my Friday Morning Kettlebell workout. Luckily it had lots of running, pushups, sit-ups and planks So I'm counting some of that toward my required exercises. Coffee in the morning with some friends after working out is always a nice entry into the weekends. I'm a little behind on some of my requirements but I hope to finish everything up today before friday night class. Tomorrow's pretest will be here soon!

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Journal - Day 7

Good morning, everyone! Yesterday was quite a long day. I finished my requirements quite early in the morning, and then finished my assignments. Today, I am about to head to Tae Kwon Do and help out with summer camp and take class later in the evening. There’s only one more day till pretest!! Have a wonderful day everyone!

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LMP July 19

Time for coffee.......showered,  and going to camp. I'm going to attempt to work with my mentee, but it's always a challenge to grab her for just 10 minutes.  I went a Jr. Tigers class last night and assisted...yay! 1 down, 19 to go!  I also heard and saw two candidates run warm ups, they did a great job!  I felt a little more confident at sparring last night, but still do not like getting hit in my head.  I'm also getting signatures in my book which is exciting....now only if I can get my scores correct on the website chart. 

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plugging away

Still trying to find a rythm for everything. I'm still waiting for my house to get put back together, its hard to get into a routine when we're down to 1 bathroom and wife and kid are having to share a room. That I really wanted to wait until i get my baseline this saturday before i really hit everything hard. 

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Day 7

During the day, I did most of my requirements at home. I then went to class and gained leadership credits and helped assist the class afterwards. We then did sparring after that I went home to rest. 

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Day 6

Another tiring day of the cycle, only difference was going to sparring class in the evening. I seem to have outgrown my sparring gear after 3 years, so definitely need to get some new stuff. I’ve been working on my arm strength because my arms have been quite lazy after the last cycle I was on.

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Day 6

Still getting back into the groove but I got my physical requirements done earlier today than yesterday so that's progress.  I'm getting close to being able to do a full minute of pushups or sit-ups without having to stop, though my shoulders and back definitely need some stretching afterwards.  I'm behind on my pull-ups so I did some more of that as well. Tonight was the first night back in sparring in a while.  I had wanted to ease back in before the cycle started but my ankle sprain got in the way.  Overall another good day but Antoine kicked my butt in sparring - as he usually does.  I know I'm not very good but he's smooth and fast and seems like a natural.No class tomorrow so I won't have to drive down to the dojang.  Saturday morning, on the other hand, is a whole other matter.  See y'all then.

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Welcome back to sparring!

First sparring class is in the books (literally)! Instructor Max comes up with good ideas for sparring and keeps things moving and fun.  I don't really like wearing the hobuk as it makes me feel claustrophobic.  Unfortunately that thing isn't built for...erm...certain assets, shall we say.  I really wanted to check on the garden when I got home, so I went out back with my flashlight  sneaking around my own back yard to take a peek.  I need to pick tomatoes as they are ripening like crazy, and I pulled off a small cantaloupe and a cucumber that had to be at least 14 inches long.  Looks like we have some watermelon growing as well.so we'll see.if we get any off this year.

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7/18/24

Today I woke up and as usual ran. However, today I ran with a friend of mine for a few miles and joined him and his team after my run for core and stretching. Afterwards I did some requirements before leaving for work. Today was fairly crazy as it felt like there was an endless number of campers, but once classes started everything calmed down. I did some more requirements between the end of my shift and sparring, which was proceeded by a mentor session with Master Marcus. I finished off the day with some stretching and reading. 

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Next day of the cycle

I did some requirements and went to my first sparring class in a while it was fun then I got done with my self defense, poomsaes, and kicks and I was done. Good night.

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Journal #6: lazy morning

This morning was relaxed. Then it was time to start requirements. I spent the afternoon late evening at TWD getting requirements but not taking class. Not much to exciting as I have not had any fun outings. However, my grandparents come this weekend to stay till next week. I may have more to write about then. I think I decided on my new skill. Hope to do this next week. Tomorrow I have to get motivated to create a rough draft for my technology challenge essay.

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Journal 4 - Another Terrific Day

I hope everyone had a terrific Thursday. I know I did because I spent time with my puppy, Fred, and I went to TKD. I took a class, helped out with a class, and took sparring. I hope everyone is practicing their poomsaes for Saturday and everyone is going to do amazing! Good night everyone. Hope every has a fantastic Friday!    P. S. Today is National Sour Candy Day!

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Fun Day

Today, I went for my run in the morning and it was quite peaceful and enjoyable. After we went to the Dojang, and we did the ninja course for Master Evins summer camp. It was a great group of junior tigers mainly and they had a lot of fun doing the course, and we also had a great time. After that we chilled for a while, and my friends came over and we had so much fun. We swam in the pool and played for a few hours. After that we headed to work at the Dojang to teach classes. I helped out for a bit before my shoulder was hurting really bad from a mountain bike crash, and I landed on my shoulder. So somethings going on there. Other than that the classes went great and everyone had a fun day.

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Day #6 - 7/18/2024

Woke up sluggish today so I did not practice first thing. Got some coffee and completed some official work. Later I was still feeling sluggish but started my daily cycle anyway. Ran half a mile and got some sweats working, then stretched and the mood changed.  After I was done I drank about 2.5 liters of refreshing water, which made it all worthwhile!

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I deserve ice cream

Today, I did my run first thing, then did my requirements during the course of the day in between work meetings and bug fixes. Dylan and I went to the gym at lunch, and then went to the 6:00 class then the sparring class. After the sparring class, I felt that I definitely deserved ice cream, but I didn't get any. I'm feeling pretty confident about my poomsae's and self defenses. Tomorrow I will study.

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Antoine Hicks Black Belt Journal #4 (3)

Antoine Hicks                                                                                                                                                            7/18/24   Got up around 5:30 am, and did my German early, went on my jog around the neighborhood. Got home and practiced everything for Saturday. Got to tkd at about 6:15 to help with the 6:20 class. helped out with some high  green belts on self-defence. Then I did sparing class drills, and the sparring portion. Got home around 8:50, practiced a little and im currently preparing to take a nap.   ...

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Big day 7/18

I started my day with a coding class which usually never works but today it did so that's good. I caught up for today AND tomorrow for physical requirements so that's a nice burden out of the way. I then went to 6pm class and attended sparring which would've been nice if my foot hadn't been hurting because of my Sever's. after that I went to Sabor and had some nachossssss.

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Ben Karki Day 6

Today, my sister got poked in the eye by accident at summer camp. We left early so she could get a checkup. The doctor told us that her eye would heal on its own in a few days. After the checkup, I assisted a junior tiger class while my dad went to buy a jump rope. He did not find any pull up bars at the store. Afterwards, I completed all of my requirements and ran outside for 1.5 miles. I will see you on Friday.

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Ben Karki Day 5

Today I went to my YMCA summer camp, as usual. When I came back home, me and my sister went to our Wednesday swimming class. After that, I completed all of my requirements and ran outside for one mile. I was still getting used to running, so I was very tired when I came back inside. I will make sure to buy a jump rope and a pull up bar tomorrow so I can complete those requirements. Have a good evening.

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7/18

Today I woke up and went on a run. Then I did some of my requirements for taekwondo. Then I Did my chores I also played Pokémon on the Nintendo. After that I played with my sister and her friend. Then I went to taekwondo and did 2 classes,and now I’m done for today.

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Heat

Sometimes I have to get my requirements done in the afternoon just because that’s when I wake up. So I’ve been working out in the heat and it does make such a difference. I’ve been getting some requirements done during my lunch break too. I might try to get it done after work rather than before work. But my body is adjusting to the challenge.  But now the AC stopped working in our apartment. So all last night and today it was at 84° in the house. I woke up today feeling so sluggish, I turned on a fan and tried to make sure me and the animals had enough water and air circulation. The maintenance guy came and brought us a window unit, so now I feel more comfortable, leaving the pets at home. I kept thinking about going to Chick-fil-A, getting some ice cream or milkshake. Or getting a...

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7/18 Curtis journal

Here we go, Thursday, another morning of running and exercises down.  Unfortunately work has been a little slow the first half of the year. and now, as I wouldn't mind having the time and ability to focus on this black belt cycle everything is full speed ahead! It's nice to have Abigail doing this with me so we can hold each other accountable and work together on the daily requirements. See everyone at sparring tonight!

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Fun times

Over the course of the last couple of days I’ve had a great time swimming at a pond, going out to lunch, playing at the arcade, and getting into the black belt mindset. I’m giving it my all and when I take my pretest I will destroy it. I am prepared to do this.

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Day 6

Hello. I am not sure if I am ready for tomorrow, as it is my first cycle. Today I went to sparring and Black belt class. we practiced all poomsaes and some self defenses. Just getting ready for tomorrow. I am feeling apprehensive about pull ups tomorrow, because I am terrible at them. I could probably do 2 or 3 in one minute. But as It is the pretest, I will be able to improve before the BIG test. See everyone bright and early tomorrow. UPDATE:I can do more than 2 or 3 pull ups in a minute. 8 is average amount.

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Day 6

Good morning to everyone, Pre-tests are soon and make sure you are practicing and actually giving effort. Even though our muscles hurt, its not supposed to be easy. So go challenge yourself before Saturday.

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LMP July 18

Time to get going....camp, cycle requirements and physical stuff, assisting in class, and sparring this evening. I left my required reading in reach of my Pomchi, he decided to read it too....fortunate for me, he only wanted to read the back cover!  I think I'll challenge my campers into a competition of my physical requirements,  that way I can get mine done before 8pm .  Hope everyone is doing great 

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Day 5 - 7/17/2024

  Training day used to be fun, but basic. Now it’s giving me brain like NCU. A lot happened today, my first official training day since cycle began. We practiced Kwonso, Chagi Sol, Taeguks, Koryo, Keumgang, Pyungwon, Taebek, and JiTae. Also self defense from white to green. While I had already covered all my daily cycle requirements earlier in the day. I also met some of my mentors and mentees today, as well as some of GM King’s students. One more critical thing that happened today is we moved the North Charlotte Toad to rearrange the Dojang. Every time we move the Toad I am reminded of Naruto’s master Sage Toad Fukasaku, who thought Naruto Sage Jutsu at  mount Myoboku. This was a technique that allowed the user to mix nature energy with human energy, to complete  techniques that would otherwise be impossible. Guess we are in Sage mode now ;)

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Journal - Day 6

Good morning, everyone! Yesterday was a long day. After finishing my requirements, my friend came over and we hung out for awhile. We went for a walk, and then ended up at her house. It was a lot of fun. After that, I came home and had dinner when my brother's friends came. Today, I woke up an hour ago, but my body is begging me to go back to sleep. I am planning on mainly focusing on my civics class today and then knocking out my requirements because there is a final coming up that is 25% of our whole grade. The pre-test is in 2 more days!! Have a wonderful day!

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7/17

Day 5 of cycle was awesome! I finished up my pretest and I have to work on some poomses, but it went well. I got to help in class and do punches and kicks. And I also had water camp again which was fun but I got a little sunburned. My workout went good I went and worked on my poomses and that was it. I am ready for day 6.

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couldn't make class

Weird day. Had to get the animals out of the house to do mold killing house fogging. On top of that the A/C was out which ended up being a $600 repair Not covered under warranty mind you do to it being and "act of god" for lack of a better term. So, i had to try an sleep at my folks' house today which wasn't great esp because of phone calls coordinating the HVAC tech and the mold techs. As soon as my house get back to normal in a couple weeks hopefully i can get into a better routine. 

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I Got A Plan

Midnight came around fast and I missed my time to post. This will be my EARLY post for Thursday.  I had a good yesterday with requirements, class assistance, warmup and black belt class.  I will always have something I can improve, of course. I have a mentee now which I am glad about. It was a struggle getting someone that is committed last time. However, if I have a problem again, there is a plan B to be successful.

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Making a habit

 Yesterday, I did my requirements. Today will be my first sparring class in a very long time. 

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Day 5

Today I woke up and did some driving practice. When I got home I ate lunch and did most of my requirements. I stretched a lot today so I definitely feel better after finishing everything. In the evening I went to black belt class and it was mostly color belt review.

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7/17/2024

Hi King Tiger Family. Definitely late but good day. I got some requirements done today and basically caught up so I am feeling better. I am ready for sparring tomorrow night. Excited. It has been a while so will need to work back into the groove. I am still pretty sore but pushups were easier this morning so that was good. I had a pretty good day at work. I am going to head to bed soon but first I am going to read some bible. I like doing that before bed and also pray. I find prayer helps me get to the right place before bed. I hope you all have a great night. Take care. 

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7/17/24

Today was a very long day. Some of the highlights of my day though, were: learning more students names at King Tiger, while working; talking with my pastor at bible study about both positive things and recent struggles of mine; and lastly getting two good runs in. I have been ramping up my training, heading into cross country season and am excited to see where my running journey will take me this year. 

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Day 5

It's been another weekday and therefore another internal fight over when to step away from my desk and practice.  I did better today - I got most of my daily physical requirements done before lunch and finished the rest after.  I'm still not happy with the timing but I know what I need to do.This is day three of the dietary challenge.  I picked something that I knew would be an actual challenge - I didn't want a cakewalk and a resulting cushy essay.  But now I'm noticing just how many of my regular, everyday foods contain what I'm giving up, including most of my go-to snacks.  I'm going to have to spend some time at the grocery figure out what's still safe to eat.  It's not as bad as when I was vegan for a few years but, fortunately, I know how to cook and bake and might just have...

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Already started

So full disclosure: at some point in the cycle I always think "why in the world did I sign up for this?!? Is that extra stripe really that important?" Usually this hits about halfway through the cycle, but this time here we are and we are even at the pretest yet! I know it will pass, but right now it's a matter of pushing through.  It will get easier, just riding the struggle bus right now.  I also know it has more to do with other factors I won't go into at this time, so hopefully things level out soon.

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Journal #5: challenge complete

Today, I completed my second 12 hours of no technology. Without technology consuming my time I found myself reading more books and taking naps. It was not an easy challenge. I took a trip to the public library and found a book to help with history of Kwon essay. Not sure how I am going to write four pages. That intimidates me. I tried my new shoes tonight, feet are sore. My time on my run increased a bit. I have to remember to go my pace and see my friend when the run is over.

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WELCOME TO THE CYCLE!

Cycle is tough right now. I forgot how hard the cycle is. I don’t have a mentee yet but I had a mentor session and helped with class today but it’s a lot to do every day but I’m looking forward to going to the beach.

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Antoine Hicks Black Belt Blog #3 (2)

Antoine Hicks                                                                                                                                                             7/17/2024           Woke Up around 8:am. went to the store with my grandma. Came home and practiced my most weak points of color belt curriculum. Went to tkd about 6:20 because i thought class time was 6:30. We started blackbelt class at about 7:10......  After class i came home, and started my nutrition challenge of not eating after dinner. before winding down for bed I practiced my German.

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Journal 3 - Fred the Puppy

Today was a wonderful day! I hung out with my puppy, Fred, and we had an amazing time. My friend came over and we played with the puppy. Tonight I went to TKD and helped out and took class. When I came home, I played with Fred and now I'm writing this journal. I hope everyone has a terrific Thursday! Good night!   P. S. Today is National Hot Dog Day!

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7/17

Today was a great day. I ran my mile on a baseball field and went so much faster. I got 12 minutes and I did half of my exercises on the field and half at home. Also I worked on my poomsae self defenses and kicks. Last, I feel like I am getting better and stronger each and every day.

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Basketball camp

Today was the third day of basketball camp.  My sitter dropped me off, we shot some hoops, did a scrimmage and I scored.  Before basketball camp I worked out at Champions again.  I ran a mile and did my exercises.  My mom took me to Taekwondo.  I worked with Instructor Logan on poomsaes.  At home my family watched basketball.  

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7/17 journal

Today I woke up and got packed to go back home because I was camping. Before I left I went kayaking then I went back home. When I got home  I did some of my requirements for taekwondo. Then I played outside with my sister and her friend. After that I got ready for taekwondo and then left with my dad. We did 2 classes, and we are done for the day.

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Journal 2

Today I woke up ate breakfast and then did some of my requirements. Soon I’ll be on week two! Then I went in the pool in our backyard I played with my brother and sister and then I went inside to play some Minecraft and then we got ready for taekwondo. I did a mentee session with my mentee then we went home and ate spaghetti for dinner.

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Journal #2

Today I woke And I ate some food after that I sat down for like a little bit and I Went in my pool .then I did my requirements. I did one pull up and then I did My black belt workbook .then I went to class. I helped that one and then I took one. I also took my First mentor session with Master Chelley. 

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Peters blog

today i went to jail for a tour. the prisoners were trying to scare up but were actually pretty funny.

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Curtis 7/17 Journal

Well journaling seems to be the hardest thing for me to remember. Got up for the 2nd day in a row and did 2 miles and a few minutes of each of the exercises.  I've said this a lot, but trying to remember all the self-defenses and Poomsae's is like unlocking a different portion of my brain that what I use at work.  Sometimes I feel it's just having the confidence to take the next step, and generally it's the right one even if I'm doubting myself. Still mixing and matching Poomsae's. Hoping this week is the hardest in terms of making the routine, and the weeks to come I'm able to just add to it.

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LMP July 17

I didn't sleep well last night, all I can think about is tbe pretest on Saturday,  the 26 laps ( 4 miles) I have to try and do, the situps I can not do with out someone /something holding my feet, the pull-ups I've never been able to do, and embarrassing myself infront of a bunch of kids. It's honestly all I can do from tearing up.  I think I'll be okay after the pretest is over.     On top of that, what is being asked online verses our book is different.  The book wants you to spend 'x' time doing your physical requirements, poomsaes, self defense, ect, but online is asking amounts. 

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Journal - Day 5

Good morning, everyone! Yesterday was a nice, long day. After finishing a few of my requirements, we headed over to Tae Kwon Do. I helped out with summer camp for a little, and then classes started. The classes were really nice, and I even got a mentor session, which was awesome. Today, I am planning on finishing my assignments for civics first and then my requirements because I have some friends coming over today. I am going to keep on focusing on my 3rd dan curriculum and my preps because I mostly have everything else down. Have a wonderful day!

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7/16

Day 4 of cycle was awesome. I had water camp again and that was fun. Then after that I went to class and help in class and took a class and I also started my pretest for my poomses that was very hard. Lastly my grandma picked me up and took me home. I can’t wait for day 5 of cycle.

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hard day

House is still being mold remediated and bathrooms torn apart and rebuilt. So, its upended our lives here on top of that the A/C goes out at 11pm. Life just keeps kicking me when i'm down. On top of that we have to get the critters and ourselves out of the house for 2-3 hours this afternoon because the mold remediation company is doing an anti fungal fogging and living things can't be in the house while thats going on. So, i probably won't make it to class tonight having not gotten much if any sleep. 

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7/15

My third day of cycle was good. I went a lake camp which was really cool, I went to a small beach they had, I went water skiing which I thought was okay, then I had lunch obviously, last I did tubing that was the most fun activity. Then I went home and stayed there for a little while, then I went to class and I got my new sparring equipment!! After that I had a session with Magnolia and I was her  mentee. Lastly I went home and did my cycle stuff that I had to make up for from 7/14 then I did my 1 mile run. That’s it I am excited for the next day.

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Black Belt Blog #2

Antoine Hicks                                                                                                                                                             7/17/2024                  Got up and ready about 12:30. Went and did errands with my grandma for about 2 hours. Came home and finished up most of my physical part of the cycle. Went and helped with the 6:20 class and took the 7:00 class. Went home and took a nap, and practiced my German before bed.

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7/16

This morning I practice my pomsae and self defense so I can be ready for my pre test on Saturday. It was raining out side so my Dad took me to my grandma and Paw Paw house to run on treadmill. I am going to do my best on Saturday for my pre test. I was sore in my legs and arms today because of exercise. 

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Needles, needles everywhere....

Nothing like starting the day with two miles and other black belt requirements, to be followed by fasting labs (whee!), an updated tetanus booster, and a cortisone shot in the hip bursae.  After which I sat down and started mending some of Samuel's shirts he has ripped while he went into his dental cleaning.  After that it was guitar lessons and meeting with a dietician who helps with rebuilding gut biomes and other issues. I discussed with her the nutrition challenge and she came up with something for me to do for the month as a part of overall fixing damage done by lots of antibiotics.  Also ran into an old friend who apparently works at TNT now so that was exciting to run into her.  

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Momentum

Momentum would be a good word to describe today. I wake up to walk my dog and then I headed the park to work on a few things. Then I went to king tiger and got my class Assistance done. Work on poomsaes to prepare for the pretest. Sometimes I do worry that my technique is slacking since I haven’t practiced consistently. But that’s what the cycle was for. Then I went to work. I’m working as a task nurse tonight so instead of having patient care I just help my teams. I guess for the nutrition challenge I’ll give up process sweets and energy drink. It’s basic, but I feel like my discipline on sweets has been slacking. Taste energy drinks, but I don’t really need them for work.

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Day 4

I'm still having difficulty balancing work against the Cycle.  I'll tell myself that I've got plenty of time to work on requirements in the morning and then the next thing I know it's 11am and I haven't started anything.  I don't want to have to set reminder alarms on my phone but that might be what it takes as busy as things are right now.  I'm just grateful that I have a job where I can work from home and step away for a few minutes to work on things. I did get two miles in this morning before work.  I walked around a couple of parts of the neighborhood but not too many people were out and about except the ones driving off to work.  It's just so hot right now, even at 7am.  The pickup with all the weird anime stickers is still around - I remember seeing that...

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7/16

Today I woke up at 7:00 to get an early start on my day. I first started with my 2 mile run before the day got hot, and finished with some poomsaes and self-defense to cool off. Trying to sleep earlier so I don't feel so tired in the mornings anymore.

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Day #4 - 7/16/2024

Another day bites the dust! Today I changed my training start time so I can get some extended rest. Also decided not to push very hard and ease into the sets, and I was able to enter into some type of zen mood which helped keep me motivated throughout the day. I’ve also been thinking about the coming mock tests and other cycle requirements like essays and mentorship. Just trying to take this one day at a time.

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Journal #4: Busy day

The first part of my day involved shopping for new running shoes. Walked to many different stores in the mall. Come to find out in went up a size and 1/2 in shoe. I went the the same show just bigger size. Then I came home to start my requirements. My arms are beginning to hurt during my push ups. I spent the evening at TWD getting my leadership, class assist, mentor, and mentee. Tonights I ran in the rain. I wore my old shoes for this cause I did not want to mess them up. Tomorrow I will tackle the 2 part of my technology challenge. My nutrition challenge is going pretty well. However, I may forget sometimes asking for something t be reminded of my nutrition challenge. My sister will be at camp tomorrow so I may work on another essay since I will not have technology and brainstorm...

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7/16/2024

Good Evening King Tiger. It was a good day. Did not get everything done that i wanted to, but did get a good run in. I have more time tomorrow night and will make it up. Looking forward to the upcoming classes. I am interested to see how the coming weeks are. The first couple weeks are the hardest, but then it becomes a groove.  Have a great night. Take care. 

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Day 4

Woke up early today to run, wasn't feeling too well though, so I had to cut the run short. After some rest at home, I got into the rest of the requirements. I've recently been focusing on practicing correct technique in my workouts so I can get the most out of it.

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Ben Karki Day 4 Journal

Today I  went on a field trip in my YMCA summer camp to a bowling alley. I did not have a Tae Kwon Doe class. I will try to sign up for more classes in the future. I have completed all of my requirements and have run one mile on my treadmill, for it was raining outside. I will try to run for more miles this week and complete the seven mile total that is required. I still do not own a pull up bar or a jump rope, and I am hoping to buy them soon to complete those requirements. See you on Thursday!

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Journal 3

Today was basically a bunch of repetition, because in the week days, I do requirements relax and go to King Tiger. I do enjoy doing everything though and today was a fun day. So can't complain.

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Ben Karki Day 1-3 Journal

Good evening, My name is Ben Karki. I am a Bo Cho Dan and  I am trying to become a 1st Dan Black Belt. This is my first black belt cycle.  On my first day, I went to my Saturday sparring class in the morning. This was my first required class for the black belt cycle. Afterwards, I completed my requirements at home. I did not yet own a jump rope or a pull up bar, and thus I could not complete those requirements. On my  second day, I did not have any Tae Kwon Doe classes. I completed all of my requirements at home (except for the jump rope and pull ups, as I still did not own them). On my third day, I went to my YMCA summer camp from 8am to 4pm. In the evening, I went to my first weekday black belt class. After my class, I...

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Still not eating ice cream

Day four of not eating ice cream in the middle of the night. I had a great mentor/mentee session tonight, and was able to help out a little in class. Keeping up with requirements, with a litle extra emphasis on poomsae's so I can ace the pretest this weekend.

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Journal 2 - I Got a Puppy!!!

Today was an awesome day! I got a puppy!!! We named him Fred and went and got all the supplies he will need. Fred is a male Cavapoo and enjoys being held. I can't wait to get to know Fred more ang give him an amazing life. This afternoon my friend came over and met Fred. We played some games and made a peppermint chocolate bark to eat. Tonight I went to the 5:15 to help and took the 6:00 class. I am so excited to be on cycle. I hope everyone also had an awesome day and I hope tomorrow will be even better. Good night! P.S. Today is World Snake Day and National Corn Fritter Day!

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Cooking day 7/16

Today, i guess I did a lot of cooking for my healthy eating. I made tomato sauce earlier and made eggplant parmesan. Aside from that I just did my excersizes and practices. Also, I helped out in the 5:15 class and did a mentor session.

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Day 4

Today me and my mom went for a bike ride for over 3 mi and then we took a walk for about a mile with our dog and my brother's and then we went to class tonight and I helped out with punches and kicks.

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Peter's blog

today I went to the police station for a camp and I did a lot of things and learned alot about the work force for the police.

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Journal #1

Today I woke up and I went downstairs to eat breakfast. I ate some cereal then I watched some TV and then my dad made us do requirements. he set up the pull up bar and I did one pull up it was so fun. Then I had to go to class and I helped out with one class and took the other class. I watched Ethan mentor his mentee it was so fun helping out my class today.  I came home I went upstairs and got dressed and then I ate dinner my mom’s yummy yummy yummy rice and beans

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Journal #1

Hi my name is Ethan this is my first journal. Today I woke up not knowing I was going to do a journal. I woke up ate two waffles and then my dad put up the pull up bar so we could do pull ups I struggle to do one but then I got the hang of it. Then I did my requirements and then I made something in the oven  they’re supposed to be muffins but I made it more like brownies. I ate two and then my dad said we had to get ready for TKD I helped out with class went home and ate dinner.

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LMP July 16th

Today I got up and went to camp. I finally have a mentee and we had pur first session today.  'A' enjoyed her session, we worked on tbe first 10 moves in IL Chang and self defense # 1 and 2.  I did not want to overwhelm her, so we stopped there.  Thid afternoon, I have my physical requirements and sticks class.   I'm still struggling with my self defense, which makes me very worried about my pre- test Saturday....the high belt self defense is much different than what I learned at my previous school.   I also can not get onto the King tiger app for do e reason,so I will need to reach put to someone for help. I had it on my phone, my phone updated, and I lost the app. Now the play store will not let me download it

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Day 4

I was expecting to receive an email when the website login was ready but never did so... sorry for being behind in posting. Doing good so far, I think. Henry and I did 3.2 mile bike ride this AM and then a 1.5 mile power walk (bad back here so I have to modify). My body is sore but it is a "hurts so good feeling"! If anyone is interested, I have created an IG account for Henry and I to post about our cycle journey: instagram.com/rupeblackbelts

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Day 4

Well even though my brain is used to all of this, my body isn't. even though my body hurts a lot, i'm starting to get used to it a lot. Keep doing everything you need to do and you will be fine!

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Day 4

Hello everyone it's me again. So I am eating dinner right now. It is very good. I finished my requirements except for kicks which I am about to do. Just finished my run at the gym because it was raining outside. Getting ready for the pre-test on saturday. Hope it goes well for me and everyone else on the cycle. Goodnight.

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Journal - Day 4

Good morning, everyone! Yesterday was a great day. I got my requirements done before heading to Tae Kwon Do. I helped out with summer camp for a bit, then classes started. I always love helping out in classes because it's always cool to see the uniqueness of each individual. After helping out, I got both my mentor and mentee sessions in. Master Natasya told me to focus more on my preps since I have the forms down. After that, I took a second and higher class, which I really enjoyed. We did a few old hapkido moves, and then we moved on our belt self-defense. Today, I have a few more assignments to do for my civics class, and later I will head to TKD. Have a wonderful day!

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Preparations

I have not done as much as I would like by now with requirements. Right now, I am on my last night of 5-day stretch (2 12 hour shifts and 3 8-hour shifts). However, I am off the next 5 days so I will be back on track soon. The way my job is and working nights, I realize I have to do this in intervals but make sure everything is done before the next work cycle. I went too heavy last time on workdays, missed needed sleep and was sick a couple of times. I am not worried because everything works out at the end. Well, there is one thing I am worried about, and it is the run this Saturday with this unbearable humidity. When you add my hot flashes in the mix, I feel like the life is being sucked out of me. I am trying to be...

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