Candidate Journals

Wow. What an amazing 11 week journey. Actually my journey started September 1, 2009 but the most recent leg of that journey came in the form of this Black Belt cycle. Sure you can put a cost on the opportunity to participate in the King Tiger Black Belt cycle. There were some fees involved however that in no way is a reflection of the true cost or value of what we just went through or experienced. It is not possible to put a price on the confidence that I gained, the camaraderie that the nine people of different ages, races, genders and life experiences developed nor the physical improvements that we made. We lost weight, some gained weight/muscle, we got healthier physically, mentally, emotionally and even spiritually in some cases. We realized there is NOTHING we are not capable of doing if we just commit to it and have the love...

I know yesterday was a harsh day but we all know we have to work hard i know did great but sometimes i am shy and don't like to be called out from the group but i know it was for the best i know i am going to have some fun today i hope that all of are still working hard GOod luck !! :)

Tonight was a very tiring test. I really liked the creative forms that some of you did. I am ready for the rest of the test this afternoon. I wish you all the best. I WILL NEVER GIVE UP!

Its testing day i got plenty of sleep so i should be good for tonight, goodluck to everyone tonight i know yall will do good:)

i feel tired and happy i am determined to pass and i will always do my best i will show my instructors that i am 2 times stronger then what i used to be i will never give up and good luck to everybody i hope all of you do well 

Dear Jounal, can't sleep. Too much on the brain. Will be getting a chiropractic adjustment at 7:25 in the morning. Plus laser treaentvon elbows, shoulders , which is Desperately needed. I'm not going to worry but try to stay focus. Been saying my affirmaton "I am a Black Belt. I am a Black Belt!"

Dear Journal, had a really good day today. consisted of lots and lots and lots of practice (five hours worth of practice I put in today). I hope it pays off tomorrow night. A couple of things need to be refined but I hope it all comes to me during testing. I'm as ready as I'm ever going to be. Sending up a prayer now

today i had a great mente session and a greta mentor session to well i am still practicing on what i haft to do for tomorrow well i think i am pumped up for it and never give up fellow members

Ahhh tomorrow is testing day, the time flys when youre having fun. hahaha anyways had a good day my bio grade is going up which is good and i am trying to get my civics grade up to a c again so hopfully the project that we are doing tomorrow will bring it up.

Dear Journal, all is well on the homefront. I'm trying to get things in order for the next two days. I'm going to be in MIA with my family. It's going to be a true test to see whether they can truly function without me. Have one more Sparring class and several Leadership classes to complete as well. I need some sleep.

I had a good day today, had oatmeal for breakfast and then i got ready for school. when i got to school i normally go hangout with my friends but i went to my first block to get ready for 1st block, trying to get my grades up. in 1st block we made cookies that represent DNA. the cookies were actually not that bad, they were no bake cookies and they were made of peanut butter oats and coco. then i went through my day wearing my JROTC uniform, me and 6 others in my class wore them, but the other 5 people forgot to wear them so first sergeant yelled at them. then my day went so as usual. in 4th block with is civics we are working on this project where we have groups and we are making campaigns, i was elected as my groups class president and we...

Dear Journal, thank God for family and friends. Relying Heavily on them for support while I continue to embark on this journey. early this morning did the usual went to sparring class and then Double back for black belt class. We got new uniforms tonight which made it become more real for me. I'm gonna be testing for my black belt. But I have to get through Friday first.

Today was a very long and harsh day it was stressful but alright at the same time. my mom and i went to test for our PMAA but we didnt do so well at least thats what i think. but anyways i am very tired i have been up till about 10 everynight doing things and i need sleep so goodnight people you will hear from me tomorrow.

Well this is the last journal entry, all requirements have been met, and testing is fast approaching. Today went to Philipino Stick testing, there are things that I still need to work on to make it a more smooth, but overall not bad. Testing is the 4th and 5th, I can't wait until the 6th, and te 7th is my 25th wedding anniversary. See you on the other side of the Moon!

I am working in Wilmington this week. We are shooting outside and the Weather has been beautiful.yesterday I enjoyed my Walk / Run near the Cape fear River. I really enjoy History and love the area's old structures.I also was able to workout in Leland yesterday. It was a blackbelt class but was their weapons Week. Master Osborne went thru our forms and Self defenses for me before we dove into weapons. I hope to go back tomorrow night.Today I was told about a 2.4 mile trail near Wrightsville beach so I went there for my miles. it was later than yesterday So on the trail back I Was able to see a beautiful Sunset. Just a little bit to go to finish up my miles.. I will probably head back to the river again tomorrow afternoon When I finish shooting.

Hey, guys. Aren't you excited about getting our new uniforms?I know that I am. They are so oooooo oooooo cool and I rock the look and style. I know I am speaking for everyone when I say WE WILL NEVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER GIVE UP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Dear Journal, I finally feel like I'm making progress. Met with both my Mentee and mentor today, which finalized our tenth and last session for both. Scanned both forms and dropped in the dropbox. Yeah... Also, Did one more Leadership credit tonight. About to throw a load of laundry in the washing machine. Baby clothes. How does two little babies go through so much clothes?

Dear Journal, I finally feel like I'm making progress. Met with both my Mentee and mentor today, which finalized our tenth and last session for both. Scanned both forms and dropped in the dropbox. Yeah... Also, Did one more Leadership credit tonight. About to throw a load of laundry in the washing machine. Baby clothes. How does two little babies go through so much clothes?

Dear Journal, I finally feel like I'm making progress. Met with both my Mentee and mentor today, which finalized our tenth and last session for both. Scanned both forms and dropped in the dropbox. Yeah... Also, Did one more Leadership credit tonight. About to throw a load of laundry in the washing machine. Baby clothes. How does two little babies go through so much clothes?

8 exams in one day...i am brain dead...aaahhh I need tkd testing to come soon!!!

Today was eh alright, was pretty boring but i got hrough the day. i went to blackbelt class and we practiced black belt self defense, hopkido, and i finished my creative form and now all i need to do is practice it.

Woke up this morning with my troath feeling a little weird, Got a little annoyed as it stay through out the day. i think i may have a cold or something.

Yesterday was a pretty full day. Assisted with two classes at the Lake Norman dojang. After that went to Hickory to watch my daughter Brittney participate in Trampoline Tumbling gymnastic competition, she did pretty good out of three events she got 1st on one and 2nd on another. Got all requirements done. The only thing I have left is one more journal entry that I'll take care of tomorrow.

Dear Journal, Having a so so day. Got up this morning and my Spirit was out of sorts. Meditation didn't work. Didnt even make it to church. Very deep in thought and prayer. Took an ice-cream break and focused on TKD. Collectively dedicated 3+ hours. Did about 65 poomsaes including the new forms I need to know. I just need to stay focused and be a little more discipline with my time. I don't think my family understands.??

Dear Journal, Having a so so day. Got up this morning and my Spirit was out of sorts. Meditation didn't work. Didnt even make it to church. Very deep in thought and prayer. Took an ice-cream break and focused on TKD. Collectively dedicated 3+ hours. Did about 65 poomsaes including the new forms I need to know. I just need to stay focused and be a little more discipline with my time. I don't think my family understands.??

Okay sorry that I didn't write a journal yesterday I woke up at 4:30 to go to six flags with JROTC and I didn't come back till 12 at night. But yesterday I had a very fun day I rode only three rides because of the weather. But those three rides were awesome. I enjoyed hanging around with my friends all day. An today me and the family went out and did some shopping I got some new running shoes and some new cloths as well. So far today is a good day sun is out not to cold not to hot.

Saturday was tough. I have what I believe to be a cold. It has really slowed me down. It was a nasty rainy day and since I am sick I did not go run. I was only able to do a few things outside of our Black Belt class. I felt so exhausted. It is difficult to rest knowing that I have things I need to do. Today is really cold and windy so I don't think running is in my best interest but that puts me further behind. I am going to try to do some poomsaes and self defense and maybe try to finish out my push-ups and sit-ups. I am struggling to find the balance of not doing anything but resting and doing my requirements. I know I need to focus on getting better for our test this coming Friday night. Maybe if I do a little and...

Twice this week during BB class someone on cycle with me has been giving me wrong advice during my classes. Instructor Weeks has been teaching me right, but this person still tries to tell me to change what I've been taught,. I'm glad Master Cavasos saw it on Thursday and came over and helped. I know Instructor Weeks has taught very well so I am not worried. mI'm a little bit nervous about testing next Friday, but I WILL NEVER GIVE UP!!!!!!!!!

HOSA was great!! Made top ten but not top three like last year ...but I always got next year! Only 7 days till testing!! I cant wait!! Aahhh!

Dear Journal I'm exhausted. It's about 8:55PM I'm just getting home from work Really long day. I gotta push through and trying to fit some more poomsaes in. Have a few things set up with the famaily but have to postpone because I need To set some additional time aside to work on my staff forms. Still praying some answers regarding the twins.

My schedule has been so crazy this week. I am SO grateful the entire 10 weeks have not been this stressful and demanding. I don't know that I would have made it this far. I am still very back logged in my order processing. I am leaving town for work and under the gun to get everything complete and to the lab before I head out. I am hopeful that I am able to catch some classes while out of town and that just being away from the normal household stresses will be enough to help me NOT stress anymore than I already am and continue to prepare for the test(s) upcoming. This is journal entry number 50... last required. I've been keeping copies of all of my entries, and have more than 50 I just didn't get them all posted. I am sure in times to come it will be...

Dear Journal, today was very hectic. My daughter decided she didn't want to be mommy anymore just before I was leaving for work this morning. I had to figure out what I'm going to do with the twins think I might have to quit my job in order to take care of them. I will do whatever it takes to make sure that they're safe and secure

A few more journal entries and the finish line is in sight. I'm exhausted. I need to take a day off from everything and recharge my batteries.

Well, one week from today we test. I have just a few things left to do today. I am trying my best to not "be sick". I had a sore throat all day yesterday with yellow stuff in my nose/sinus. It could be allergies and sore throat from drainage. This morning it is more sore. I am going to drink a lot of immunity tea at work today. Yesterday and Wednesday were crazy busy at work so I have to make an effort to get my fluids in. This is my last required journal entry, what an amazing 10 weeks.

My brain is fried!! I know that everything will fall in place, but at this time I'm just plain tired.

Woke up today and i was actually awake which made my day so much better. i went through the school day like it was no big deal, when i got outside it was so beautiful and warm, hopefully it will be like that tomorrow but probaly not. anyways went to work on PMAA stuff tonight at the dojang.Then when i got home i was getting ready for bed so yup im going to sleep goodnight ya'll:)

I have only 0.96 miles away from my goal. Gonna finish it tomorrow. I know that I have said it before, but I WILL NEVER EVER EVER GIVE UP!

Dear Journal, Having a great day this far. However, during adult day class went to do a roundhouse and my leg slipped out from under me. I got the wind knocked out of me and I think I have whiplash. Acutally quite funny now I look back at it. Met with Mentor and Mentee today. Learned something new. Heading to sparring class in Mint Hill and full cirle to do Black Belt and PMAA classes. I'm not sure what should be going through my head but its all jumbly. Am I the only one that feels this way??

Because I am working out of town next week there are a lot of students and parents I will not get to see again before the Black Belt test. Today before and after class there were a lot of comments and best wishes for the overnight test. We have such a wonderful group of people at Belmont. They really are all very special and have been a wonderful group full of support to me along this cycle journey. They all pitched in and made a big difference when it came time to ask for toys and toiletries for our community service project.I have received 'booty bumps' ( a few strong ones from some of the smaller kids, I had to ask them to take it easy on this old lady and not to knock my back out). I've been asked regularly how I'm doing, I've been told "you can do it!",...

Finally done packing for my hosa trip for tomorrow! Next two days will be fun yet difficult. I gope I place in the top three! Next week is black belt testing so I hope everyone is prepared!!

Today was a pretty good but long because of our midterms. but i cant wait till friday and saturday, because friday i get to hang out with one of my good friends named morgan then on saturday i go to six flags with my JROTC group. soo i am soooo excited

Hapkido, Hapkido, Hapkido.....Trying to get this rendered to memory. Work was a pain in the rear today. Not much more to say

Yeah! All zeros! It's interesting how different my frame of mind is when doing push ups or pull ups now. Since I don't HAVE to do them anymore for cycle, I enjoy doing them more. I've have visitors in from out of town for work since Monday morning, so I've had to be in the office and in meetings constantly the past 3 days, so I've had less time to do requirements. I've actually missed it.

Well, a good cold morning to you, Journal. I just returned from my 1.6 mile run in 28 degrees dark morning. It was a brisk clear morning with a moon that looks like the Cheshire Cat flashing a crooked toothy grin at you. I realized this morning that I was the only human out this morning at this hour and that I have become one of those people that I used to wonder about. You know the ones that are running in double layers of clothes in 28 degrees. Funny, isn't it. Finished up my kicks last night and one by one things are being crossed off the list. I remember from my 1st Dan cycle and test, waking up in the middle of the night from dreams where I forgot how to do certain things during testing. I am trying to avoid having those dreams by thinking positive thoughts and...

Hey, I reached a whooooole lot of requirements, and they will not be the only things that I have done all cycle. I really appreciate my mom. She has been the best person all cycle and all of my life. WE'LL NEVER EVER EVER EVER GIVE UP!

Not much to report today. Just trying to get all requirements done and over with.

Not much to report today. Just trying to get all requirements done and over with.

We had midterms today, i think i did pretty good over all.when i got home i had to study for civics then we had to go to PMAA class we ended up going an hour early so we finished up our sparring rounds, so we are done with those. we took our PMAA class and reviewed section c

Dear Journal,I went to the YMCA this morning and attempted running on the treadmill instead of the indoor track (my knees are acting up). It was a pleasant change. I have sparring in Mint Hill tonight and am going to try to double back for black belt class because it's going to be challenging. The babies had a doctor's appointment today. Chol weighs in at 7 lbs 1 oz and Cade at 9lbs 1 oz-Off to the races!

Last night I met with my mentor, Amy Tucker, one last time. She has been an amazing mentor. I also met with my mentee, Russ. I expect to meet with him tonight as well. He has been out of class a lot so we are behind on our sessions. I thought I was going to have to start over with different mentee, however, he thinks he can meet this week and next to try to get this finished. He has been out of town with work a lot and sick some. I hope he is there tonight, he said he would be. He is a nice guy. Instructor Hsin had us do squat jump burpees last night. Those were tough. Ran again this morning. Thankfully I was able to get my run in before the rain started. Now to tackle the rest of the day and more requirements.

I said it out loud today... "Not this weekend, but next"'. I had many Parents and students asking today, ''what Week? ". It felt good to Say- 'Week 10' but its NOT over yet,. I still have Some requirements to finish... and I am practicing. ... Worried sick that I will forget everything when the time Comes..... Trying to stay focused even with the ever growing work load.

Hosa competition is soo close! Cant wait to go! I know ill place in top 10. Hopefully top3!! Then testing next week!!!

Hapkido, wang ho, wang ho, hapkido.... trying to reel it all in, the goal line is in sight and I'm gunning straight to it.

OMG! Apparently I have met my journal goal. Now, that doesn't mean I won't write these anymore. I'm a happy kid. Hey Louis! I love that song *Happy* by Pharrell Williams. I'LL NEVER GIVE UP!

Today i had to get ready for school and then go next doors to take care of our neighbors dogs. then i got on the bus to go to school. i when i got to school i had to go to all my blocks and we pretty much reviewed for our midterms. then i had to stay after for bio to take a test that i missed. i look online to see what i got on that test, i got a 91 i was so happy. the best grade i got in the class all semester. then i got home and studied for my bio and spanish final. after that i went to family class to help out and then mentor foster for the last time. then we finally took our blackbelt class were we did hapkido. and now i am at home bout to update my requirments.

Dear Journal,I'm having a great day but I'm in desperate need of a massage! :0) I have fulfilled my physical requirements and have met with my mentor this morning as well as had a peaceful meditation. To top off my day, meeting with my mentor drove me to feeling hopeful in assisting in the upcoming classes. I still need class leadership credits in sparring and to practice, practice, practice!

Dear Journal,I'm having a great day but I'm in desperate need of a massage! :0) I have fulfilled my physical requirements and have met with my mentor this morning as well as had a peaceful meditation. To top off my day, meeting with my mentor drove me to feeling hopeful in assisting in the upcoming classes. I still need class leadership credits in sparring and to practice, practice, practice!

Dear Journal,I'm having a great day but I'm in desperate need of a massage! :0) I have fulfilled my physical requirements and have met with my mentor this morning as well as had a peaceful meditation. To top off my day, meeting with my mentor drove me to feeling hopeful in assisting in the upcoming classes. I still need class leadership credits in sparring and to practice, practice, practice!

Good morning. Just returned from run. I ran the 1.6 miles in 25:10, due in part to the bunny that I saw and I stopped to talk to. I had a pretty good weekend. I am always thankful for the weekends but especially when I am on the cycle. It is when, if you are willing, you can do extra. I was thinking while I ran about what I "gave up" this weekend. I don't know that I can call them sacrifices or maybe I should. My best girlfriend asked me to go to the movie "God's Not Dead" with her and another friend but I told her that I was really hyper focused on doing some requirements and that I couldn't go. Sacrifice? I don't know. I went to church yesterday morning but did not go back last night to work with the Jr. Youth. Instead I stayed home and...

Only a few more requirement/journals. My mom's phone is about to die, so I will end it quick. I WILL NEVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER GIVE UUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUPPPPP!!!!!!!

Paintballing yesterday has left my body in a few bruises...im sore everywhere!! Aahh. Hopefully it wears off by next week...FOR THE TESTING!! AAHHH!! Cant wait! Soo close

Back from camping was really tired even tho i slept in the car, its late and i'm tired so bye

Today was a very rainy day and I had work to do. Was not able to put the miles down that I wanted to.

Had a long day, didnt do much out of the house but going shopping and having lunch with my dad and sister. we watched movies pretty much all day so we just staying inside being lazy. i have school tomorrow so yayy:(.

I decided I would only do the requirements I needed to finish today before doing anything else. So when I finished my 170 push ups, 80 sit ups, and 1 burpee, I decided I earned a small reward--time to relax with my family and get ahead on my work for tomorrow. Yeah! This week will be crazy at work because I have visitors in town from Saudi Arabia and Massachusetts. So this week work will have to be a top priority.

I am so glad that I got up and went for my run before church. I knew it might be raining so I made the effort to get up early to get it out of the way. I am really glad I did. I woke up late this morning. I wanted to get up at 6:00 but got up at 6:30. Therefore I did not have time to do burpees or something to warm up before my run. Had to hit it. Starting cold proves for a slower run. Still enjoyed it. This is the cotton candy sunrise that was my reward in addition to the other good reasons for running. Now I can work on the other requirements. Everything will need to be done inside since the cold rain has set in. :-(

I am so glad that I got up and went for my run before church. I knew it might be raining so I made the effort to get up early to get it out of the way. I am really glad I did. I woke up late this morning. I wanted to get up at 6:00 but got up at 6:30. Therefore I did not have time to do burpees or something to warm up before my run. Had to hit it. Starting cold proves for a slower run. Still enjoyed it. This is the cotton candy sunrise that was my reward in addition to the other good reasons for running. Now I can work on the other requirements. Everything will need to be done inside since the cold rain has set in. :-(

Good Morning Charlotte!! Wow...got an early start on my run. Did some sit-ups, push-up. I'm praying that my shoulder holds up over the next two weeks. They need some TLC. Every time I think the computer is fixed it crashes..:0) Only was able to journal last night. Couldn't do the drop-box. So here I am at KINKO's agian (giving them my money) so I can getter done. Looking forward to Church this morning. I need me some Jesus... All sorts of evil/sinful thoughts running through my head. I am a sinful wretch!! I'm going to try and Create a Beautiful Day. Practice, practice.

Went paintballing with my friends today! Was sooo much fun! Got hit in the thigh tho alot... on the bright side I got 5 people in the back of the head (not protected) and one guy between his legs (if you know what I mean) done with all my physical requirements! !!

I'm using this weekend to catch up with my mileage, this pass week with the weather being so nasty I was falling behind. Today was a beautiful day after Saturday Black Belt class Mary Beth and I stopped at Yoshi's and picked up some sushi rolls for the family's lunch, we ate out in the patio as it was just a gorgeous day, enjoy it while you can! Walked 4.2 miles in the late afternoon, nice that it's still light outside at that time.

Went to north charlotte do jang today for pictures and a black belt class. then my dad wanted my mom and i to get some lunch/dinner at yoshis. got home ate our food and my sister mom and i all went to get a pedicure because we really needed one. got home and let our toes dry. after that me and my mom went on a 4 mile walk. got home and i took a shower and then watched a movie called monster. but now i am super tired so im going to go to bed so goodnight all yall

I think I overextended my right knee. It happened during hyper pro. We were practicing for the Goodwill Games. I went for a kick and I must have overextended it. It will still hurt, but I WILL NEVER GIVE UP!

Dear Journal. had fun at Bible Talk last night. Topic was about what Sin/Old Habits are you trying to breaking and why haven't you done so yet. One of mine is taking on too many things on my plate. In other words I create this busyness when I should be slowing down so I can hear God's voice. Powerful. But talk about busy. I can't believe 8 weeks have come and gone. Before you know it testing day will be here. I'm excited and nervous and the same. So many say its a great accomplishment. I just want my Teacher(s) and my family to be proud of me and to know that I tried to the best of my abilities. After all, that's what I would tell my children. Fulfilled all my physical requirements today and then some. Chair Massages at the 5k this morning was a success. Met with my...

Only two weeks to go until our public performance test. Last night when I got home I took Hans for a 2 mile walk then I went back out for a 1.6 mile run. I really enjoyed both. Then I came home and did more poomsaes, self defense etc. I am really looking forward to today because it is supposed to be nice and I can do my requirements outside without worrying that my lunch hour is running out like I did yesterday.

My days seem to be running together, But I think I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. The numbers I have remaining for requirements are now in the hundreds or less, not the thousands. Wow ! Looking at what I have completed, I am SO tickled. I can tell that I am stronger, I did better with the medicine balls during endurance class...but I also feel so tired and weak, and wounded. This has certainly been an interesting and challenging journey. Just a little more to go. I need to stay focused and finish strong!

First soccer game of the season tomorrow! Aaahhh cant wait! Its been over a year since ive played. And today at practice ive noticed that tkd has improved my speed and stamina :) I killed it on the field!!

Sorry ya'll i havent logged a journal entry in a while, ive been pretty busy and tired too. anyways how i was talking about feild day and stuff earlier our school got 2nd place overall out of all cms schools. i had a good day today, when i got home i did some requirements then passed out on my parents bed; there bed is so comfy. as a family we went to go see divergent, it was an awsome movie i have to say. but now i am really tired so i am off to bed and i will see most or all of ya'll tomorrow.

Today was an OK day. Got out of work early, got my taxes done, got requirements done, and went and enjoyed a night out with my family to the movies. Not much else to share.

Hey, guys. I'm getting a new game today. I was just hanging around in my bed, when my mom said she was going to activate my Game Stop cards online. I cheered and cheered. Although I've said it before, I WILL NEVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER EVER GIVE UP!

Dear Journal, was restless last night. Watched the twins and my other grandson, Kash. Last nights classes were great. Felt like I'm making progress with retaining some stuff. Went to the Y this morning for my morning workout (pull-up, sit-ups, ran on indoor track). I always wondered what the other runners think of me. I would warm-up with some burpees, sit-up and push-ups, then run a mile; do some more push-ups/sit-ups; run another .5 miles and complete withi some poomsaes. ;0). At Kinko's now but have to run off to work shortly. Need to figure out how I;m going to type up my final paper. Im making progress. Whoohoo!!

I had a long morning shoot... went to sparring class tonight (yeah, only one more to meet my requirements), and tonight I am editing. My routine has been, edit, push-ups, edit, sit-ups, edit, poomsaes, etc. I still have a lot of editing but I've reached my limit for now and my daily goal numbers for tonight. My eyes are getting heavy. Time to call it a night.

It's halftime in the Michigan vs Wofford basketball game. They are playing pretty well...too many turnovers, but playing well otherwise. I'm doing push ups, sit ups, and burpees during commercials and free throws. I'm so happy that the weather has turned. I had work to do on some PowerPoint pages this afternoon, so I sat out on my deck and did them. The sun felt so good. Jess had a softball game today (they lost 4-3) and Ben is at baseball practice now. I will have to leave shortly to go pick him up.

First official day of Spring. Whohoo. Sunny out. Having a really good day today. Went to work at the Chiropractor's. Had an adjustment and electro-stem treatment on my shoulder and right elbow. Hopefully it will get me through the rest of the week. Need to schedule another one before Testing. Heading to Sparring, Black Belt and PMAA class again tonight. I need a couple of more hours in the day, Wouldn't be awesome if we could add hours when needed??

Good morning. We are a short 2 weeks and one day from our overnight test. I would like to think I have a healthy dose of anticipation mixed with a little anxiety. One of my concerns is that I will blank because I get so tired. For example, this morning I woke up at 2:00 and stayed awake until about 3:10 before going back to sleep. When the alarm went off at 4:30 it was difficult to get up but I did get up at 4:45. I did some burpees and inclined pull-ups to warm up for my run, then I went for my run. During my run I was having a difficult time remembering something that I know I know. When I got home it came back to me. I can't say I enjoyed my run because I am so sleepy however I can say I am glad I did...

In short, today was a good day. We had a good endurance class in Belmont tonight. I feel certain my legs and arms will remember in the morning, probably everyone that joined in tonight will agree.I am taking a sparring class tomorrow night, one of the two I have left as required. I sure do wish my knees didn't pain me so much. I am wearing my brace on my left knee all day now, not just when I work out. I just listen to see which screams the loudest, my back or knees and I'm hanging on!

not a bad day today! played soccer with my tkd boys and had a good time in class. then studied or a big exam tomorrow :/ not gonna lie....its gonna be a hard test tomorrow. but nothing is gonna stop me for the Black belt test coming up soon! im ready!

My Uncle Rob ' s funeral was today. I was crying a little bit. I had never been to a funeral and cried. I felt like my life was ruined forever. I'm not sure if I can get through this cycle without him here. I am glad that God has his back and I pray for him. I knew that he wouldn't live for long, but I didn't know that he would die this quick. I just wish you all will pray for me, and I WILL NEVER GIVE UP!

I'm so glad that today things settled down at work, I have been puttig over time like it's going out of style and at this point in the black belt cycle I don't need to add more to my plate.

Ok, this cold weather is for the birds. I'm so done with it. If it turned 100 degrees with 95 percent humidity tomorrow, I promise I would not complain. Master Chelley and I went for a run today and then worked on PMAA curriculum. I still have to work on section C. I'm seeing the light at the end of the tunnel with a lot of my physical requirements now. But to stay sharp and make sure I'm ready for Apr 4th, I need to keep it up.

Dear Journal, Just lost all my entry. trying to borrow computers from where ever as I go, Last night tried to resurrect mine but no luck. Yesterday when to sparring in Mint Hill and doubled back for BBelt and PMAA class, Trying to meet up with Mentee but having a schedule issue. Praying for a compromise on her part, Lets see what today brings, And to God be the Glory.

Dear Journal, Just lost all my entry. trying to borrow computers from where ever as I go, Last night tried to resurrect mine but no luck. Yesterday when to sparring in Mint Hill and doubled back for BBelt and PMAA class, Trying to meet up with Mentee but having a schedule issue. Praying for a compromise on her part, Lets see what today brings, And to God be the Glory.

What does perseverance look like? This morning it looks a lot like me. I must confess that I did not want to get up at 4:30 and go run in the rain and do requirements. I, however, did. The same thing that usually happens on most runs happened this morning. I was glad that I had made the effort to get up and run. It is so peaceful at that hour and I was blessed that the rain/drizzle had stopped by the time I got out there. It dawned on me that I could be perhaps counting my running time as meditation time. I use it for a time of reflection and goal setting. This morning I was looking back over this BB cycle. I could not run the entire 1.5 miles in the beginning. Now I run the entire time. I have run in 22 degrees weather. I have run...

Everything Started out of Sorts this morning when the school Called with a 2 hr delay Then within minutes my Job location Sent a text stating they had a 3 hr delay.On the upside it gave me an earlier Start on my requirements.I went to Black Belt class tonight and stayed for PMAA . Both were good classes .I also Was able to Meet with my Mentor before Class.. Its been a long day I still' am terribly far behind with my work. Maybe I will get Caught up before the end of the weekend.for now, I need to call it a night.

I am going camping this weekend with my boy scout troop. Only 3 guys from my age group are going but we are cool because we are friends at school. we are gonna go on a hike so i guess that might be some requirements haha. We have to cook our own food and our menu for the weekend is: Fun Dip, Soda, Chips, Toast, Nutella Sandwiches, and Zebra cakes. As long as my bud doesnt throw up on my in the tent this weekend will rock. :)

Well these past few day the weather has been a challenge for my walking, I'm going to double for the next few days so I can catch up where I need to be. Yesterday was a great experience going to the Levine Children's Hospital taking all the toys and toiletries. Knowing that it goes for a good cause that it will help the children and their families make it a little easier on such a hard time in their lives, that they don't have to worry about what we take for granted every day. It made me feel very good to be able to help.

Hey, guys. I am happy that we donated to Levine Children's Hospital yesterday. I can't believe how much had changed since I was in there. Oh yeah, I forgot to tell you about that. Well, I was at my Dad's house, and I was sneezing so much. My dad told me to take my pill. It was a big, pink Ibuprofen. But when I was just about to take it, I must not have drank enough water with it and it got stuck near my esophagus. I was having a hard time swallowing stuff for a few hours. When I finally did swallow something, the pill desolved. But before it did, it must have torn a hole in my esophagus. Like my mom said, we were in the hospital for about 31 days. I am glad that I was able to walk out of that hospital alive. So, giving them all...

Last night we went to the Levine children's Hospital to drop off our donations. I was overcome with emotion and as a result was quiet. I can't imagine having to spend anytime there with a child in the hospital. It is a wonderful place and does amazing things. They really know how to make those heartbreaking stays so much better.It is funny what I think about or use to motivate me during my runs. This morning it was 30 degrees and very damp but thankfully not raining. I did my 1.6 miles in 25:10. I was a lot slower today, I guess because I am just so tired. I did not rest much last night. However, when I got to the 1/2 way point in my run, I imagined that I had just touched the red cone in front of the golf course sign and I was headed back to the...

Started my day forgetting that today is St Patrick's Day, needless to say I had no green in my wardrobe. That is not a good thing when the first half of your day is being spent with preschool kids who all felt it necessary to remind me...  It must have been the cold rain too cause today from the get I just felt off and a bit edgy.  Tonight doing my poomsaes i kept making mistakes, starting one and finding myself doing another.  Must be tired and distracted too...  On a good note. We Candidates took our 'toys and toiletries' collections to the hospital this evening. It felt good knowing we were doing something that would be helpful to others.  I unfortunately have spent too many nights at the hospital with TJ when he was a baby. He was a sick little guy.  I understand how big the little things can be....

Hello!! Today went well! Except for the fact it rained the whole day and I had work straight after school :( aahhh the rain needs to stop!

Dear Journal. Just left the YMCA. was there at the break of 5:30am. Still need a computer!! At Kinko's as we speak. I feel pretty good. About to meet me Mentor to see if I've retained anything since Thursday. The brain's not the same any more. They say you hit 50 and its down hill from there. Worked on some of my old poomsaes and self-defenses, ran and worked a little cardio. Also went over some exercises I learned in Sparring Class. Looking forward to the Joint Community Service Project today. Go Team!!!