0540, Thu, 081425. Rocklin, CA.
Lots of running around for doctor appointments. We did have to go by the ice cream shop since there was a fundraiser for Michelle's school. A percentage of the proceeds go to the school for the day. We can't each much ice cream so I think our portion is about a quarter. Guess every bit helps….more later..
0540, Wed, 81325. Rocklin, CA.
I had a big weekend. We headed down to southern Cal with my karateka for the 25th anniversary of the main dojo and Mr Ohshima's 95th birthday celebration. We spent the first night this side of the grapevine in order to break up the long drive and give us the ability to get into town early. First off was Nisei Week. It is a week-long celebration in Little Tokyo LA. It culminates with the karate demonstration and competition. We took in the various kata and watched the kumite competition against the various countries. There were also demonstrations of Torite, Nagewaza, and Iei (Grab releases, throwing techniques, and attacks at about one foot away). The day was filled with lots of great viewing. After, there was a reception with dinner and drinks that lasted late into the night.
Sunday was a big practice with the entire group, with the dojo packed with participants. It was a general practice so everyone was there; eight kyus Godans, from all over the world, israel, ethiopia, swiss, french…… This was followed with the big dinner under the tent on the lawn in front of Mr Ohshima's house. There were plenty of toasts and plenty of sake as the group of several hundred people yelled Bonsei. Again it lasted well into the night.
Monday started off with a black belt practice after which we hit the long trip home skipping the Yodan test and reception after.
I was with Jay, Brent, and Hiroko. Between practice we had great conversations. Hiroko is Godan (highest rank in SKA) so we took full advantage of being with her with plenty of questions. There were some great conversations making the travels and time away from home all worth it.
Nice to be home once again….more later..
0546, Thu, 080725. Rocklin, CA.
Sue has posted the monthly blog with pictures for July. Check it out at:
https://lloydjourney-neos.blogspot.com
We were busy with house duties yesterday. Got a lot done around the place. We finished up with a dinner to R&B's and a great visit. ….more later..
0536, Wed, 080625. Rocklin, CA.
We are getting back in the swing of things around here. I was able to get the wisteria trimmed. Now people can make it through the opening. I have thought of letting it grow solid, but haven't done that yet. That may keep the salesmen away. Ha!....more later..
0545, Tue, 080525. Rocklin, CA.
We are getting back into the routine. We got back to the gym first thing then Sue even did her afternoon stretches. I skipped the afternoon exercises, just afraid of getting too stiff, but I did make it to karate. Ahhhh, more later..
0536, Mon, 080425. Roseville, CA.
It was a big week. Sue and I drove to Utah for her family reunion. It was a big crowd, great catching up with their families. Good weather and a great place. We all took in a play in town that was simply one of the best plays I have ever been to. The next day we went for a ride around the lake on a pontoon boat. It was a long drive back, just crossing Nevada, uhg, but we made it in one day, got a good rest overnight with a good night's sleep in our own bed, then yesterday was a gathering at the Blooms' for a good bye party for Max. He is heading out for a little road trip in the new car as he heads back to school…..more later..
0533, Fri, 072525. Roseville, CA.
The Blooms gave Sue a container with a bunch of little lady bugs for the garden. Sue has been releasing them in the yard every other day in small groups. Last night was the last group to be released. They disappear but we have a little house with a bright red roof to remind us they are out there. So cute….more later..
