Tournament time

The tournament is only a week away and I'm really excited. I always love seeing what everyone has been working on over the year in the I Ho Chuan. There is always some new cool weapon form to see or an awesome fight choreography. The Becketts are back from China too, and I can't wait to see what they will be doing. I've seen a few people at open training and the stuff looks great. I think creative musical is going to be the division to watch this year.
The best entry I ever saw for creative musical was from a tai chi guy at an open tournament years ago. He started off slow with his tai chi sword to this slow music, but the music got faster and faster and he got faster and faster with it. By the end he was leaping around at top speed and blew everyone away. Coolest thing I've ever seen.
That's why creative musical is so difficult...not only do you have to have a great form with solid technique, but you have to marry it to music. But, when done well, it is by far the coolest thing ever.

Can't wait!

Hey! Just like I Ho Chuan....

           So lately I haven't been practicing as much as I'd like. The focus has been on my candidacy exam, an oral examination by a panel of professors to determine if I can continue on in my PhD program. Everyone doing a PhD has to do one. But preparing is difficult. I'm totally worried about failing. I can never seem to find enough time to study....work all day, come home and hang out with Julia then study before bed.
          This has reminded me about my I Ho Chuan year last year. It was a struggle to find time for everything. You had to make the time. I'm trying to apply the same principles. I may not have 2 hours to sit and study every day, but I have 5 minutes here and 10 minutes there to read my flashcards. Same as finding practice time. It will be nice when the test is over!

Been a while....

I haven't blogged in a bit. Weird considering I used to blog every day.
My job is going well. Starting to get into a routine. The nice part is that I have an office with a door so I can work out as long as I'm quiet. I've also started running.
Tonight I ran 3 times around the block with my dog. I was pretty proud of myself for not dying. I actually enjoyed it. Strange.
I'm actually looking forward to running tomorrow. Hopefully it won't bother my back too much.

Today I: did 62 pushups, 51 situps, ran 3 times around the block
Acts of kindness: held the door for someone x2, helped carry some bottles, made someone laugh
Today I consumed: 2 oranges, 3 peices of peanut butter toast, some nuts, a granola bar, some macaroni with chicken and a sandwich. I drank 3 cups of coffee and 9 glasses of water.

Thanks guys

Thanks for the comments guys!
Ya, it's been hard getting used to everything. I'll get into the groove.

Basic numbers: 153 pushups, 26 kicks, 3 reps tai chi part 3

Acts of kindness: gave the cat treats, brought Romeo to Kung-Fu, gave Julia a hug

Today I consumed: a granola bar, 2 hard boiled eggs, a banana, 2 chicken burgers and some ice-cream. I drank 2 cups of coffee, a cup of tea and 8 glasses of water.

Slumping

Haven't blogged very regularly lately. It's funny because last year I blogged every day without missing a beat...now that I don't have to it's hard to keep it up. My training has been reflecting my blogging. Now that I don't have to do all the practicing, it's hard to stay on top of things. It's funny because I didn't think I would have much of a problem keeping things up, but as I shift my focus to other things in my life (like my job), it's easy to be lazy. I guess that's what it comes down to really. A constant battle against normality.....ahhhh Stuart Embery...you were so right. Mastery, as he says, is a constant struggle to produce results beyond the ordinary. The problem is that ordinariness is easy...extraordinariness is hard. Case and point...my coffee struggle. I've pretty much given it up...but that's because it's hard. It's so easy to fall back into old habits and established crutches. Am I really serving myself by just giving up...obviously not and I know that. But it takes effort.
I just need to find some good old self-motivation.

Got to buckle down. Let's see if I can go a week no coffee. Starting tomorrow, the saga continues.

Basic numbers: 51 pushups, 51 situps, 52 kicks, 3 reps tai chi part 2, 3 miles

Acts of kindness: gave the cat and dog treats, took Julia and the dog for a walk, complimented someone.

Today I consumed: a bowl of cheerios, 2 bananas, half an apple, a boiled egg, a cucumber and cheese sandwich, a cookie, a granola bar, 2 hotdogs, 4 cups of coffee (stupid daylight savings time!) and 8 glasses of water.

first day down!

Survived my first day at work. Everyone was really nice and I think it will be a great gig once I get settled.
Training took a back seat today though, got some pushups and situps in, but no form reps or kicks. Gotta get back in the game.

Basic numbers: 102 sit-ups/crunches, 102 pushups, 3 miles

Acts of kindness: gave the cat pets, played with Julia, complimented someone

Today I consumed: a bowl of oatmeal, a banana, an apple, a sandwich, a piece of pizza, half a hotdog, a cup of coffee, 2 cups of tea and 7 glasses of water.

Last day:(

Today was my last day at the university. Monday I start my new job. I'm still doing my PhD, but now I'll be doing it through work at the geological survey. The lab group I work with threw a little pizza party for me which was really nice. It's nice to know I'll be missed.
I'm looking forward to next week, but I'm nervous too. I wonder how the schedule will be for my training.
No longer just a grad student....now I've got a big person job:)

Basic numbers: 51 pushups (yesterday), 102 pushups today, 102 crunches, 3 reps tai chi part 2 1 rep broadsword right, 3 miles

Acts of kindness: complimented someone, held the door for someone, played with Julia

Today I consumed: 3 pieces of buttered toast, a cucumber and ham sandwich, 2 pieces of pizza, 3 cupcakes, some leftover casserole with broccoli and some blueberries. I drank 3 coffees and 8 glasses of water.

Fiddle time!

Got some practicing in today which was good. I didn't get any practice in yesterday and ended up not blogging too. I find that now, since I'm not in the I Ho Chuan, if I don't get any practicing in then I don't blog bad habit.
On a plus side though, tonight I made a breakthrough with my fiddle playing. I was able to play the whole song and it sounded like a song! Making some progress.

Basic numbers: 51 sit-ups, 102 pushups, 52 kicks, 3 reps tai chi part 2, 1 rep broadsword right, 2 left, 1 dog walk, 5 miles

Acts of kindness: gave the dog treats, gave the cat a treat, gave the dog a new toy, made MIke lunch and coffee

Today I consumed: 3 coffees, 8 glasses of water, a piece of peanut butter and jam toast with fruit, a ham and cheese sandwich, a banana, 2 peanut butter cookies, some pasta with chicken and 2 pieces of toast.

Progress

Long day. Got some practicing in though so that was good. Haven't had time to get some tea, but today I had tea at work instead of coffee which was good. Making progress slowly I guess.

Basic numbers: 102 pushups, 153 sit-ups, 3 reps tai chi part 1, 1 rep broadsword right, 2 left, 3 miles, 1 dog walk

Acts of kindness: let a car ahead of me, gave the dog and cat treats x 2, played with Julia, did some chores

Today I consumed: a piece of peanut butter and jam toast, some blueberries, 2 bananas, a ham and cheese sandwich, half a brownie, some sausages and perogies with veggies. I drank 1 cup of coffee, 2 teas and 7 glasses of water.

Thanks Miss Gibbons!

Thanks for the heads up Miss Gibbons! I will check that out. I think your right that I just need to find a replacement for coffee.
I got back from out of town and had a nice weekend with the family. Time to get back into the swing of things practice wise tomorrow though. It's crazy, but I start my new job a week from now. I'm pretty nervous. I even had to go buy some new clothes....
That will certainly throw a wrench in my routine, but in the long run I think it will be better because I will have a consistent schedule. It is sure going to be a big change though.

Basic numbers: rest day

Acts of kindness: gave the dog and cat treats, took the dog for a car ride, made pancakes

Today I consumed: 2 pieces of toast and and egg with a banana, some popcorn, some sausages with perogies and veggies, 2 cups of coffee, 9 glasses of water

Out of town hard on the practicing

I didn't get any practice done tonight. I was just so wiped after the day. Worked all day, grabbed a quick bite and then more work. How do the regular out of towners do it? It must be so hard.

Basic numbers: 3 miles

Acts of kindness: drove, made the lunches, brought the warehouse guys doughnuts

Today I consumed: a bowl of oatmeal, 2 oranges, a ham and cheese sandwich, a yogurt, some carrots and peas, some cottage cheese with blueberries, 2 hotdogs and some more peas. I drank 3 coffees and 8 glasses of water.

Thanks for the advice everyone!

First night in Ft. St John, B.C. now begins a long week of work. Yay.
I hope I get everything done that I'd like to. It would take some pressure off.
I think I'll take Sifu Prince's advice and go to David's tea when I get back.

Basic numbers: 51 pushups, 51 situps, 3 reps tai chi part 1

Acts of kindness: did some driving, paid for food, helped someone

Today I consumed: a bowl of oatmeal, a chicken wrap with soup, some carrots with peas, cottage cheese and pepperoni. I drank 3 coffees and 9 glasses of water.

heading out

Had a nice weekend with the family. Tomorrow I have to head out of town for a bit so that sucks. I'll be doing my practising in a hotel room.
It was nice just to kick back for a bit. Now I have to hit it hard though. I have A LOT of work to get done this week.
Time to go.

Basic numbers: rest day

Acts of kindness: gave the dog a treat and pets, played with Julia, did some chores

Today I consumed: a bowl of oatmeal with raisons, some macaroni with cheese, a chocolate, some pizza with carrots and chicken wings. I drank 2 cups of coffee and 8 glasses of water.

work in progress

Trying to work on my roundhouses....I'm trying to get them high so I can kick people in the head...or at least higher than their thigh:) Being small, I need to kick higher.
Work in progress.

Basic numbers: 102 situps, 104 pushups, 102 roundhouses, 1 rep broadsword right, 2 left, 3 reps tai chi part 4, 1 dog walk, some stretching and a lot of school work

Acts of kindness: gave the dog and cat a treat, made Mike lunch and coffee, helped a coworker, took the dog for a walk

Today I consumed: a bagel with cream cheese, half a doughnut, some instant noodles, some leftover spaghetti with meat sauce, 2 pieces of bread and 2 chocolates. I drank 2 coffees:( a tea and 8 glasses of water.

bedtime

Time for bed.
Coffee thing still a struggle. I need to go buy some tea I actually like. That will probably make things easier.
Stretched, studied and practiced though which was good.

Basic numbers: 153 pushups, 101 crunches, 3 reps tai chi part 3, 2 reps broadsword right, 2 left, 3 miles, 5 minutes stretching, 2.5 hours studying.

Acts of kindness: gave the cat and dog treats, made Mike lunch and coffee, made dinner

Today I consumed: a boiled egg with some grapefruit and cheese, a ham and cheese sandwich with a bunch of fruit, some spaghetti with meat sauce and toast and an icecream sundae. I drank 3 cups of coffee and 8 glasses of water.

bah!

Bah! Coffee is the devil!
Tomorrow no coffee! Absolutely none! You'd think I could make it through one day. I'll make it through tomorrow then we'll go from there.
Who would have thought something like this would be so difficult.
Bah!
Didn't get any training done today either. Bah all around!

Basic numbers: 2.5 miles

Acts of kindness: took Julia swimming, did the chores, gave the dogs pets, gave the cat some loving

Today I consumed: a bowl of cheerios, some toast with butter, some mushroom soup with grilled cheese, a hotdog with potato salad and some mashed potatoes with carrots and a tiny piece of meat. I drank 2 coffees:(, a beer and 8 glasses of water.

Thanks Miss Gibbons for the comment...stupid coffee!

Today was fun in regards to training. I did my usual routine, but added in some stretching and violin playing too. I really want to learn that polka! Still sounds terrible, but I figure if I try every day, I'll eventually get it. The stretching thing is good too. This year I really want to improve my roundhouses and a big part of that is my flexibility. I want to be able to do the splits which will take some work but will sure help my kicks.
On the studying front, not as much success. I need to try and manage my time better. Same old issue:)

I've really been enjoying reading the other blogs. I think reading those will be a big motivation for me to reach my goals this year too.

SIfu Rybak, I feel your pain in regards to the no-coffee-thing. Terrible it is.

Basic numbers: 152 situps, 153 pushups, 30 kicks, 3 reps tai chi part 2, 1 rep broadsword right, 2 reps broadsword left, 10 minutes stretching, 15 minutes with the fiddle, didn't keep track of study time:(

Acts of kindness: gave the dogs pets, complimented someone, helped 2 people

Today I consumed: a bowl of cheerios, half a muffin, 2 cookies, a piece of pepperoni, 2 chili cheese dogs, some broccoli and potato salad, half a hamburger with some fries. I drank 2 cups of coffee (sigh!) and 8 glasses of water.

thanks Miss Gibbons!

That would be cool to compare numbers!
Today was a good reset day. Got to get focused for the next week.
Some goals I want to accomplish: stretch everyday (10 minutes), 150 pushups/situps/kicks a day, 1 dog walk a day, 2 hours studying a day, 10 minutes practicing the fiddle a day, go to church on sundays, learn broadsword lefthanded (2 reps left, 1 right), slow down my tai chi (do one part daily 3 times), blog every day.
I've been torn about the coffee thing since I started. I originally wanted to go no coffee, but I think instead I'll just limit it to 2 cups a day.

Basic numbers: rest day

Acts of kindness: did some chores, played with Julia, congratulated someone

Today I consumed: 2 breakfast sandwiches with hash browns, a chili dog with potato salad, broccoli and potato patties. I drank 2 coffees and 8 glasses of water.

Arg. Didn't get any training done today. I'm just feeling really tired today. I am scared thought that I'll fall out of the practicing habit now that I don't feel the pressure.
Had 2 cups of coffee today too. Arg.

Basic numbers: 2 miles

Acts of kindness: gave the dog and cat pets, made MIke lunch and coffee, bought dinner for someone

Today I consumed: a bowl of cheerios, some grapes, some toast with butter and nutella, some mushroom soup with grilled cheese, a shrimp taco, 2 cups of coffee and 8 glasses of water.

Left hand is tricksy

Had another coffee today, this morning. But, I didn't have coffee when I went to time today with a friend. I ordered tea instead. Making progress:)
Left handed broadsword is tricksy. Trying to get the basic moves down.
I've been reading the blogs for the i ho chuan guys and its neat to hear their stories. Everyone has different things they want to change and achieve. I look forward to watching their progress.

Basic numbers: 3 reps tai chi part 3, 3 reps lefty broadsword, 153 pushups, 156 kicks, 153 crunches, 51 sit-ups, 5 miles and I'm going to sit down now and do some studying.

Acts of kindness: visited a friend, made Mike lunch and coffee, made dinner

Today I consumed: a bowl of oatmeal with raisons, 2 pieces of garlic toast, some fish and chips with veggies, some tuna casserole, a coffee, a tea and 8 glasses of water.

This coffee thing isn't easy

Didn't blog yesterday...computer died and the charger was at work:(
Anyway, this whole not drinking coffee thing is hard! Yesterday and today I broke down and had a cup. Everyone keeps asking me why I'm giving it up and it's getting harder and harder to argue. I need to remind myself why I want to stop drinking it, or at least vastly reduce my consumption. The caffein is not good for me, nor is the acidity. Need to stay focused.
On another note, I've started working on the tai chi broadsword with my left hand. If I get it mastered with my left hand that will open a whole new door. I will be able to pursue a fan/broadsword form or even double broadsword. Gotta get my left side up to speed first. It wasn't as difficult as I thought it would be. It was still hard, but I made it through. Still a lot of practice ahead of me though.
I'm still doing tai chi too, but only one part a day (x3) as opposed to all 4 parts (x3). I'm concentrating on slowing things down now.
The biggest push this coming year for me will be studying for my candidacy exam. My goal is to do 2 hours of studying a night...so far the last couple of days I've only managed 30 - 40 minutes, but I'm starting to build the habit. Gotta study hard. I'm terrified.

Basic numbers: yesterday: 51 situps, 152 crunches, 156 kicks, 153 pushups, 3 reps tai chi part 1 and 3 reps broadsword, 30 minutes studying. today: 153 pushups, 202 crunches, 156 kicks, 3 reps tai chi part 2, 1 mangily rep of tai chi broadsword lefty style, 40 minutes studying

Acts of kindness: let a car ahead of me in traffic x2, made MIke lunch and coffee, complimented someone

Today I consumed: a piece of peanut butter and honey toast with blueberries and banana, a cheese sandwich, an apple, 2 mini doughnuts, half a blueberry muffin, some ham with noodles, corn and salad, 1 cup of coffee, 8 glasses of water

Day 1 no coffee

Today was a nice relaxing day.
But it was day 1 no coffee:(
It was really hard not to partake when we had a big breakfast and everyone was drinking coffee. I'm regretting my decision not to drink coffee even though I know it will be good for me. I miss it already and it's only the first day:(
Tomorrow I'm going to go through and post my final numbers from this last year. I also have to post my goals for this year as well.
This year will be challenging in that I'm not doing the program so meeting my goals is completely up to me. On the good side, no pressure but on the bad side....no pressure. I'll have to motivate myself. We'll see how it goes.

Basic numbers: 2 miles, rest day

Acts of kindness: gave Julia cuddles, pet the dog, complimented someone

Today I consumed: 2 tea biscuits, half a banana, some blueberries, a bowl of cheerios, a croissant with egg, cheese, bacon and a potato patty, half a cookie, 2 cups of tea and 7 glasses of water.

Congrats everyone!

So tonight was the big show. It went really well and everyone did great. Congrats to Sifu Beckett, Sifu Bryant and Sifu Wetter on your promotions.
So many people helped out...thanks especially to the little Prince girls. They went around cleaning tables and dishes the whole night. They were awesome.
Tonight is my last post on the I Ho Chuan blog as well. Good luck everyone!

Basic numbers: 51 pushups, 3 reps broadsword, 3 miles

Acts of kindness: gave the dog treats, helped pack stuff up and take it back to the kwoon, complimented someone

Today I consumed: a tea biscuit, a bowl of cheerios, some pineapple, a banana, some veggies, 2 pieces of leftover pizza, some chinese food and a little piece of cheesecake. I drank a beer, 3 coffees and 7 glasses of water.

one more sleep

Tomorrow's the big day. We had our dress rehersal tonight and it didn't go great, but in my experience, if the dress rehearsal goes bad then the performance goes great. I know everyone will do great tomorrow. I hope I don't mess up.

Basic numbers: 510 pushups, 808 crunches, 868 kicks, 2 reps tai chi, 2 reps broadsword, 2 miles

Acts of kindness: gave the dog treats, made Mike lunch and coffee, played with Julia

Today I consumed: a piece of peanut butter and honey toast, some leftover chinese food, a bowl of mushroom soup with toast, a cheese sandwich, some veggies, some apple, some banana, 2 pieces of pizza, 2 beers, 3 coffees and 7 glasses of water.

Almost there

I'm excited for Saturday, but I'm feeling the strain from all of the practices. It will be nice to get back to the normal schedule again. Mike is getting ready to start his year. It will be a different experience being the support spouse this year after spending this past year focusing on my training. It will be neat to see his progress over the year.

Basic numbers: 153 pushups, 52 kicks, 1 rep tai chi, 5 miles

Acts of kindness: gave the cat treats, did chores, let a car ahead of me in traffic, made Mike lunch and coffee

Today I consumed: a tims breakfast sandwich and hash brown, some curry with noodles, a cookie and some chinese food. I drank 3 cups of coffee and 7 glasses of water.
Only one more day of drinking coffee:(

home stretch

Got my practicing in today which was good. I can't believe it's the last week. I'm sure the next team are gearing up and getting ready. I bet they are excited and nervous at the same time. I hope they do well...I'm sure they will

Basic numbers: 202 crunches, 153 pushups, 156 kicks, 3 reps tai chi, 3 reps broadsword, 5 miles

Acts of kindness: let a car in front of me, made Mike coffee and lunch, gave the cat pets

Today I consumed: 2 pieces of peanut butter and honey toast, a boiled egg, 2 bananas, a piece of pepperoni, a ham and cheese sandwich, a granola bar, a grilled cheese sandwich with chili, 2 coffees and 7 glasses of water.

off my game

Exhausted. Work then practice then chores. Didn't get my reps in today...just seemed like from the get-go I was off schedule. Didn't even have my uniform for demo practice. Off my game today.

Basic numbers: 2 reps broadsword, 5 miles

Acts of kindness: gave Julia a back rub, made Mike lunch and coffee, complimented someone

Today I consumed: a bowl of cheerios, a banana, some strawberries, 2 boiled eggs, a ham and cheese sandwich, a granola bar, a brownie, 2 tacos and some toquitos. I drank 2 cups of coffee, 7 glasses of water and a beer.

board breaking

Tonight we were breaking boards in the beginner class. It's really inspiring to see the white and yellow belts breaking boards. It's great to see the feeling of accomplishment on their faces. I think of these guys when I watch the higher rank board breaks. It makes such a difference when you don't have anything in the back of your mind telling you you can't break it. When you don't break your board, or worse you injure yourself, that can get planted in you as a seed of doubt. That seed can grow into something that affects your board breaking in the future. If you doubt yourself, it can be really hard to break the boards. You have to remember that there really is no board at all....your just hitting the guy behind it.
The beginner students are lucky in that they don't carry with them any memories of failed breaks or fears of injury that come from mistakes. It gives them an edge I think.

Basic numbers: 3 reps tai chi, 3 reps broadsword, 153 pushups, 154 kicks, 110 sit-ups, 5 miles

Acts of kindness: gave the dogs treats x2, gave Julia some snuggles, made MIke lunch and coffee, made dinner

Today I consumed: a piece of peanut butter and honey toast, some apple, half a ham and cheese sandwich, a blueberry muffin, half a cookie, some chicken with potatoes and beets, an icecream sandwich, 3 cups of coffee, a cup of tea and 7 glasses of water.

One week left

This is the last week. I can't believe it. One more week and then the ceremony. Hard to believe that we're almost finished.
I'm getting geared up for this coming year too, finalizing my new goals. Some of them will be pretty tough, but I think they will do me a lot of good.
I'm looking forward to reading everyone's journals too. Sifu Kitchko said she was going to journal every day so it should be really cool. I'll be able to witness her journey daily which will be cool.

Basic numbers: rest day, 1.5 miles

Acts of kindness: gave the dogs treats, brought Mike breakfast and coffee, played lego with Julia, did all the laundry

Today I consumed: 2 banana, half a granola bar, a breakfast sandwich and a half with one and a half hash browns, some macaroni with tuna and olives, some chips and toquitos, 3 cups of coffee, 8 glasses of water and half a beer.

ipod!

I got an ipod for christmas and I've really been enjoying it. I've never had one before so this is kind of a new thing for me. It's really nice having music to listen to when I'm walking to work or working out. I've even made a playlist. Music makes working out easier I think because you try to keep to the beat and so have to go fast. It also keeps your mind on something other than the discomfort.
So fun!

Basic numbers: 102 pushups, 104 kicks, 102 crunches, 3 reps tai chi, 6 reps broadsword, 3 miles

Acts of kindness: gave the dogs treats, played with Julia, made lunch

Today I consumed: a piece of peanut butter and honey toast with an orange, a grilled cheese sandwich with soup and some broccoli, a couple of toquitos with ranch, 3 cups of coffee and 8 glasses of water.

last class:(

The demo is starting to look pretty good. I'll have to work really hard this week and polish up my stuff. I'm excited for next weekend. I can't believe it's almost time. Tonight was our last formal class for the year. Kind of sad.

Basic numbers: 153 pushups, 202 crunches, 156 kicks, 3 reps tai chi, 3 reps broadsword, 3 miles

Acts of kindness: gave the cat and dogs treats x 2, made Mike lunch and coffee, chased Julia

Today I consumed: a bowl of cheerios with blueberries, an apple, a banana, some macaroni with tuna, olives and tomatoes, a cookie, a grilled cheese sandwich with avocado and broccoli and mushroom soup and 2 pieces of pizza. I drank 3 cups of coffee and 8 glasses of water.

changes

Falling behind at work....it's been tough trying to do the part time thing, but it's been really nice having the extra time with Julia. I'm going to miss that come March when I go full time. I'm excited to start the next phase of my life though....it will be weird going to a regular 9 to 5 job everyday but it will be good too. I think it will be good for my training too. I'll have a constant schedule so I should be able to make my training more scheduled as well. Changes are a comin'!

Basic numbers: 202 crunches, 153 pushups, 156 kicks, 3 reps tai chi, 3 reps broadsword, 3 miles

ACts of kindness: let the cat out, made Mike lunch and coffee, danced with Julia, gave the dog pets

Today I consumed: a boiled egg with blueberries, pineapple and a piece of peanut butter honey toast, I had a slice of chicken pot pie with broccoli and cauliflower, some toquitos, half a cookie, 3 cups of coffee, 7 glasses of water and 2 cups of neocitron.

knock on wood

Feeling a bit better. I hope I'll be in top form for the banquet.
I hope no one else gets sick or seriously injured....I hope Mr Fuhr's foot gets better too, and Sihing Csillag's thumb.
It's always the worst when someone works so hard for months and then can't perform at the end because of a chance injury or illness.....I'm crossing my fingers for everyone!

Basic numbers: 102 pushups, 104 kicks, 3 reps tai chi, 2.5 miles

Acts of kindness: made Mike lunch and coffee, gave the dogs treats, danced with Julia

Today I consumed: a piece of peanut butter and honey toast with pineapple and blueberries, a boiled egg, some macaroni with broccoli and cauliflower, a cookie, an ice cream sandwich, a piece of chicken pot pie and a couple of toquitos. I drank 2 cups of coffee, a cup of tea and 7 glasses of water.

bleh

Have a bad cold. Things keep going around the office and I always get them. Ate a bunch of broccoli today so that should help. It was hard to stay focused during the practice. The dance is starting to look pretty good though. I'm really proud of everyone.

Basic numbers: 102 pushups, 104 kicks, 202 crunches, 3 reps tai chi, 3 reps broadsword, 5 miles

Acts of kindness: held the door for someone, made Mike lunch and coffee, gave the dogs treats

Today I consumed: a piece of peanut butter and honey toast with blueberries and pineapple, an apple, a meat and cheese sandwich, a muffin, some broccoli, some graham crackers, some sandwich with broccoli and macaroni salad, 4 cups of coffee, 7 glasses of water and a cup of neocitron.

the next year

I've been thinking a lot about this coming year and what I'm going to do. I'm not in the I Ho Chuan, but I plan on keeping my training regime going. I think I'll keep blogging everyday as well. I find it motivating to write down my progress each day and posting it publicly makes me more accountable. That will be key for me this coming year I think. I won't have the group to motivate me and I'm not going for a promotion so I will have to find other sources of motivation. I think blogging is one of them. I have built up some habits this year that I think I can keep going.

Basic numbers: 202 crunches, 153 pushups, 156 kicks, 3 reps tai chi, 3 reps broadsword, 5 miles

Acts of kindness: gave the cat treats, made MIke lunch and coffee, let a car ahead of me

Today I consumed: a piece of toast with peanut butter and honey, a ham and cheese sandwich, a doughnut, a muffin, a piece of meat and cheese sandwich with some salad and macaroni, a small serving of pasta with chicken and toast. I drank 4 cups of coffee and 7 glasses of water.

almost there

Missed yesterdays post.
Had Julia's second birthday party last night. I can't believe she's two already. She had a great time. Today was spent cleaning up and having some down time. It was really nice.
I'm looking forward to chinese new year. It will be nice to be done with all the practices. I've been feeling so drained. It's really exciting, but so much work. I know everyone must be feeling the grind. We're almost there!

Basic numbers: (yesterday: 52 pushups, 101 situps, 4 reps broadsword, 3 miles) 2 miles

Acts of kindness: gave the dogs treats, played with Julia, let MIke sleep in

Today I consumed: an apple, 2 pieces of peanut butter raison toast, half a waffle with a piece of french toast a sausage, piece of bacon with an egg and a piece of toast, some chicken fingers with macaroni and green beans and a piece of birthday cake. I drank 2 cups of coffee and 8 glasses of water.

new schedule

Tonight was the first night with the new Friday schedule. It will definitely take some getting used to. Now the black belt class is at 5:30, then Sihings, then I Ho Chuan and then San Sou. It was a lot, even though I couldn't stay for San Sou. I wonder how everyone else likes the schedule.

Basic numbers: 153 pushups, 202 crunches, 156 kicks, 1 rep tai chi, 4 reps broadsword, 4.3 miles

Acts of kindness: gave the cat and dog treats, made Mike lunch and coffee, let a car ahead of me

Today I consumed: a bowl of cheerios, a breakfast sandwich and hash brown, a ham and cheese sandwich, an apple, an orange, some potato chips, a couple of slices of thin crust pizza and some noodles with toast. I drank 2 cups of coffee, a cup of tea, half a pop, half a beer and 6 glasses of water.

tired

Really tired today. Didn't sleep well last night...Julia up, the dog up, me up. Hopefully I'll get some sleep tonight. I had no energy for practicing today so my numbers are low. Time for sleep.

Basic numbers: 101 crunches, 1 rep tai chi, 1 rep broadsword, 51 pushups, 52 kicks, 5 miles

Acts of kindness: gave the cat and dog treats, made Mike coffee and lunch, let a car ahead of me x3

Today I consumed: a bowl of cheerios, an apple, an orange, a ham and cheese sandwich, 2 cookies, some macaroni with chicken strips and broccoli, 2 pieces of toast, 3 coffees and 8 glasses of water.

fiddle update

Learning to play a jig on my fiddle. I can't play it fast yet, but it's coming. I can't wait til I can play it properly....practice practice practice!

Basic numbers: 202 crunches, 153 pushups, 156 kicks, 3 reps tai chi, 3 reps broadsword, 5 miles

Acts of kindness: gave the dog and cat treats, gave the dog pets, made Mike lunch and coffee

Today I consumed: a couple pieces of peanut butter raison toast, a banana, some potato soup with a broccoli cheese scone, a chocolate muffin, some pork with carrots, cabbage and potatoes and an icecream sandwich. I drank 2 cups of coffee, a cup of tea and 8 glasses of water.

no more coffee!

I'm thinking about my goals for this coming year. I think instead of drinking only water, I'm just going to give up coffee...that will get me drinking more water anyway. I need to stop drinking coffee altogether I think. My body just can't handle it. My heart races, I get headaches, stomachaches and overall feel lousy if I drink more than a cup. I really like it...the buzz can be really nice in the morning, but it's not worth it. Also, this year I want to stop buying coffee. I spend a lot of money at work buying coffee everyday and it's completely unnecessary. So, no buying coffee for a year. Should save some money for sure. All those dollars add up.
So I'll see how it goes. I'm still compiling my list of goals....still have a couple of weeks to iron it all out while I work on finishing out the year with a bang.

Basic numbers: 202 crunches, 153 pushups, 156 kicks, 3 reps tai chi, 3 reps broadsword, 3.4 miles

Acts of kindness: gave the dogs and cat treats, got Mike some piano books, made Mike lunch and coffee

Today I consumed: a piece of peanut butter raison toast with blueberries, 2 bananas, an apple, some macaroni, some leftover pasta with meat sauce and a bite of poutine. I drank 2 cups of coffee, a tea and 7 glasses of water.

progress

It's funny looking at my blogs at the end of the year here compared to those at the beginning. My life used to involve television and copious amounts of fast food. Now I'm doing things like knitting and learning the violin and I'm eating much better. It's crazy to think of how much time I spent mindlessly sitting around really doing nothing. I'm having a lot of fun doing new things.
I got to thinking about this at work today when some coworkers were talking about a tv show they liked and they asked me if I'd seen it. I told them I don't have tv and they were shocked. A year ago I would have been shocked too....what a change.
I'm glad we've done so. It's good for Julia to see us constantly trying to learn new things and becoming better people.

On another note, I'm drafting up my goals for this coming year and I'm considering drinking only water for the entire year....would be good for me I'm sure, but so hard!

Basic numbers: 3 reps tai chi, 3 reps broadsword, 202 crunches, 208 kicks, 204 pushups, 4.5 miles

Acts of kindness: let a car ahead of me in traffic x3, held the door for someone x2, made Mike lunch and coffee.

Today I consumed: an egg on toast, a cookie, some chicken, feta, rice and veggies, some leftover pasta with meat sauce, 3 cups of coffee and 9 glasses of water.

piano time!

Had a nice rest day.
We got an old piano today. It's in really good shape and looks really cool. I wanted to get a piano so Julia could learn at some point. I think I might dabble a bit myself. I'm glad we found an old one though. Pianos can be really expensive. Every time I think about music now though I end up thinking about the lion and dragon dance and the drumming. It's funny how most things in my day make me think of Kung-Fu.

Basic numbers: rest day

Acts of kindness: gave the dogs treats, made dinner for everyone, took Julia to church

Today I consumed: a bite of granola bar, a breakfast sandwich and hashbrown from tims, 2 shortbread cookies and some pasta with meat sauce. I drank 2 cups of coffee, a beer and 9 glasses of water.

knitting

One thing I've started doing this year to help relax is knitting. I've been finding it a really nice way to meditate without having to sit still. I guess meditate isn't the right word......it gives me something mindless to do so I can just be. But at the end, you have something nice. I've really been enjoying it. I've dabbled in yarn crafts since I was young, but never actually did it for any length of time. Now, I'm finding it's one of my favourite things to do at the end of the day. Maybe that's a sign I'm getting older:)

I think the same can be said for pushups, situps...they are something mindless you can do. While you are doing them you don't have to think about anything else. You are in the moment and you can relax.

basic numbers: 51 pushups, 52 kicks, 2 reps tai chi, 1 rep broadsword, 2 miles.

Acts of kindness: gave the dogs treats, gave Julia a back rub, encouraged someone,

Today I consumed: some leftover pasta with an egg on toast and some berries, 2 sticks of pepperoni, a cookie, half a chicken sandwich with some fries, 2 cups of coffee, 8 glasses of water.

Ugh part 2

Hardly got any sleep last night. Flu travelled to the rest of the family so I was up all night. I think everyone is mostly better now thank goodness. Exhausted though. Need sleep for tomorrow. Going to be a long day. I'm really nervous. I hope it goes well.

Basic numbers: 10 reps tai chi, 2.5 miles

Acts of kindness: got up with Julia, helped Mike, gave the dogs pets, gave the dog a treat

Today I consumed: a piece of peanut butter and honey toast, half a cheese and turkey sandwich, some macaroni, some leftover pasta with a couple of pieces of pizza. I drank half a cup of coffee and 8 glasses of water.

trying to practice...

Trying to get extra practice in before Saturday, but it's been hard. I need to get a lot done tomorrow.
Just seems like life keeps getting in the way.

Basic numbers: 4 reps tai chi, 51 pushups, 68 crunches, 4 miles.

Acts of kindness: gave the cat and dog treats, made Mike lunch, gave the dogs extra lovin's

Today I consumed: a bowl of cheerios, a bowl of macaroni with toast, a piece of chicken pot pie and some pasta with garlic toast. I drank a cup of coffee, a beer and 8 glasses of water.

on the mend

Feeling better today which is good. Still not 100% but getting there.
Really tired though. I hope no one catches our illness...especially the candidates!

Basic numbers: 202 crunches, 153 pushups, 208 kicks, 10 reps tai chi, 10 reps broadsword

Acts of kindness: gave the cat and dogs treats, danced with Julia, made MIke lunch and coffee

Today I consumed: half and egg sandwich with ham and cheese, some hash browns, some popcorn and some chicken pot pie. I drank 7 glasses of water, 2 cups of coffee and a cup of neocitron

Ugh

Not feeling well. Mike is really sick too...at least I'm semi-functioning. I think it's a stomach flu or something. Yuck.
Sorry to the snow shovelling guys....I assumed you didn't want the flu from me.
I did manage to get some practice done this morning. I felt ok until lunch. I hope whatever this is is done by Saturday. I have an important evaluation that day.
Ugh....I should go buy some broccoli.

Basic numbers: 10 reps tai chi, 10 reps broadsword, 104 pushups, 104 kicks

Acts of kindness: gave the dogs treats x3, got them a dog bed, brought Mike some ginger tea

Today I consumed: half a bowl of oatmeal, a tomato cheese sandwich and a couple of slices of thin crust pizza with very little cheese. I drank a cup of coffee, 9 glasses of water and a cup of neocitron.

lots of practice

Got lots of practicing in today which was good. My bodies really tired. I think I'll sleep well. I've been working on memorizing that mastery poem. It's tricky to remember it. I like it, it's just hard to repeat it word for word. I'm still working on it.

Basic numbers: 10 reps tai chi, 10 reps broadsword, 222 crunches, 204 pushups, 208 kicks, 5 miles

Acts of kindness: gave the dogs treats 3x, gave the cat treats, made Mike lunch, danced with Julia

Today I consumed: 3 cheese and tomato sandwiches, an orange, a banana, a bowl of oatmeal, some toast with a few bites of noodles, roast with noodles and corn. I drank 3 cups of coffee, a beer and 7 glasses of water.

Last day of holiday

Tomorrow is back to the grind. Holiday over.
It was great to hang out with MIke and Julia so much. I wish I had gotten more practicing done, however it was nice to recharge the batteries.
Tomorrow I have to hit the training hard though...only a few more weeks left. We can do it!

Basic numbers: 2 reps tai chi, 2 miles

Act of kindness: gave the cat and dog treats, let Mike sleep in, finished Julia's scarf, helped my brother, cooked dinner

Today I consumed: a piece of toast with peanut butter, an egg with toast, bacon and hash browns, some sausage with perogies and turnips and a cookie. I drank 2 cups of coffee, a beer and 8 glasses of water.

Long day

Long day today...
Car frozen shut, long practice session, training at home, Julia getting sick and barfing all over me.

Nice things too....
snuggle time with my dog, sitting knitting with Julia and Mike watching a movie, Julia cuddling with me.

Time for bed.

Basic numbers: 5 reps tai chi, 5 reps broadsword, 204 pushups, 101 crunches, 208 kicks, 3 miles

Acts of kindness: gave the dog a treat and took him for a car ride, gave the dog a massage, made dinner, cuddled Julia

Today I consumed: a piece of toast with peanut butter, a bowl of macaroni with beans and tuna, 2 english muffins with cheese, half a sausage with some turnips and perigees. I drank 2 cups of coffee, a beer and 7 glasses of water.

A good mess up

Tonight during practice I lost my rhythm while drumming. I kept going and it ended up sounding pretty cool. It's funny how sometimes neat things can be found when things don't go as planned. I just hope I can pull it off in the dance. It's kind of tricky.

Basic numbers: 5 reps tai chi, 5 reps broadsword, 51 pushups, 52 kicks, 3 miles

Acts of kindness: gave the dog extra pets, helped someone, complimented someone

today I consumed: 2 pieces of peanut butter toast, an apple, half an orange, 2 pieces of buttered toast with some chinese food, and a saigon sub with veggies and fries. I drank a cup of coffee and 9 glasses of water.

So sore!

I'm really sore from yesterday. Had to back off on my pushups.
I heard this is called a "workout hangover" or something to that effect. Guess I did get a new year's hangover then...a really painful one!

Basic numbers: 203 crunches, 206 kicks, 102 pushups, 10 reps tai chi, 10 reps broadsword, 3.2 miles, 1 dog walk

Acts of kindness: gave the cat and dog treats, edited something for someone, gave someone a gift, shared my food with Julia

Today I consumed: 3 helpings of chinese food and a bowl of broccoli soup with toast. I drank 3 cups of coffee, half a can of pop and 8 glasses of water. Not the best day healthy-eating-wise.

Happy New Year!

Today is the start of 2014. In true Silent River style I began the year off with 1000 pushups and sit-ups. I agree with Sifu Brinker that it is a great way to start the new year and sets the tone for the coming months. It is a lot of work though.
Last night while visiting with family this topic came up. They couldn't believe I'd do 1000 pushups and situps in one day. It was unfathomable to them. Not only did they think it couldn't be done, but they had no idea why I would want to do so. The conversation reminded me about how far I've come and how much I've changed. At one point in time I would have had my doubts about doing 1000, but now I know it's all a matter of hard work and discipline. And every time I do it it gets a little easier. Ok not really, but that's what I like to tell myself.

Happy new year everyone and I wish you all the best!

Basic numbers: 51 pushups (yesterday), 52 kicks (yesterday)
today:
1020 pushups

1010 crunches

1040 kicks

7 reps tai chi

7 reps broadsword

Acts of kindness: gave the cat and dog treats, made tea, complimented someone, played with Julia

Today I consumed: a breakfast sandwich and hash brown, some noodles with toast, an apple and some chinese food and some skittles. I drank a cup of coffee, 2 cups of tea and 10 glasses of water.