Maintenance

 This past week I focused on maintaining. This time of year is busy for most everyone. It’s also the time of year that people are running out of time quickly to get things done by the end of the calendar year that need to be done. This causes some chaos in my life lol. Not only am I trying to get everything done for Christmas, but also fitting time in my calendar at work to make sure everyone’s requests/needs are completed. 

This quickly leads to exhaustion, being run down, and usually ending up not feeling well. It also becomes very easy to let my other priorities slide. I’ve focused on maintaining my goals and requirements, and haven’t put a lot of extra energy into surpassing this week. My attention and energy has been needed elsewhere, which is normal for this time of year. I am proud of myself for keeping my other priorities in front of me, as I haven’t always been successful with that. 

I do have some time off between Christmas and new years for the first time this year. I plan to take advantage of some R&R as well as focus on the things that had been pushed aside for a bit. 

Wishing everyone a safe and happy holiday season 🎄

Push ups- 33,150

Sit ups - 33,125

Form reps - Hand 600 Weapon 585

AOK’s - 1552

Sparring (modified) - 880

KM’s - 1582

Blogs - 49

Finding the Sweet Spot

 Now that we potentially have our music for our New Year demo, it’s time to find the sweet spot of my weapon form. Initially I was starting at the beginning with the bow, but I always find that takes up precious seconds, and I wasn’t happy with it at all. I worked on breaking down the form to find a good starting point that also showcases some moves in the form. 

I’m happy with what I’ve chosen, and now need to work on my section of the music to find the right rhythm to match the pace and beat of the music. 

I love this time of year, but also need to be mindful to keep practicing my whole form, not just a section I’m trying to showcase 

Push ups- 32,550

Sit ups - 32,525

Form reps - Hand 595 Weapon 570

AOK’s - 1520

Sparring (modified) - 880

KM’s - 1544

Blogs - 48

Pushing Limits

 Tuesdays class was another reminder of pushing limits. I’ve not kicked bags with force as of yet, part fear for further injury, part feeling of where I am at. It doesn’t necessarily stop me from pushing limits, but rather attempt with more caution. All was going fairly well until I twisted the wrong way. Instant pain, instant swelling. A bit of bruising followed. I quickly grabbed an ice pack, and sat for 10 minutes, also took an Aleve for the first time in a long time. But, the next morning the swelling and pain had mostly subsided. I’ll take that as progress, and a win. 

I have to be mindful of when I am actively pushing my limits, and when I am letting fear hold me back. While I don’t want to injure again and cause another surgery, I also want to continue to progress. I’ve even starting kneeling on a pillow and can hold that for a couple of minutes. It’s hard to believe it’s almost been a year, and there are still some things that are baby steps. Keep it in front of me, and look where I’ve come, that is what I try to focus on.

Push ups- 31,800

Sit ups - 31,750

Form reps - Hand 585 Weapon 535

AOK’s - 1505

Sparring (modified) - 870

KM’s - 1511

Blogs - 47

Giving Season

 While I do giving projects throughout the year, this is my favorite time of year to bring joy to others. I’m excited to be the final group of the Kinsmen toy drive today, and looking forward to hearing the success it produced. I also do the toy drive for the Kinette’s at work, and we have already collected quite a bit. 

This time of year can be more difficult for some, and that is one of the reasons I enjoy bringing others together to give back, and be generous to others, especially at this time of year. It is not about what we can afford, but about the kindness shown to others. Kindness is a part of my everyday life, but due to the difficult time of year for some, it’s important to me to do more. 

I challenge the team to be extra kind this month. If you can afford an extra toy or gift for someone, great. If it means bringing joy to someone’s life with a simple gesture, it will mean a lot to them. I challenge you all to be extra mindful, and remember to be grateful for all we have as a team. 

Push ups- 30,985

Sit ups - 30,970

Form reps - Hand 575 Weapon 520

AOK’s - 1480

Sparring (modified) - 860

KM’s - 1479

Blogs - 46