Another Tournament

Jacob and Nathan competed in another martial arts tournament. Jacob did sport karate and Nathan did a weapon and non-weapon form. They both did really well and I was so proud of them!

Jacob didn't win anything, but we can see lots of improvement in his skill. His biggest battle is with boredom. He is so excited and pumped up when we first get there, but after all the waiting, he is so bored and tired. I'm guessing this will change as he gets older and matures, but I know he would do so much better if he could compete as soon as he got in there.

Nathan doing his weapons form

2nd and 3rd place medals

They had extra medals, so the tournament director gave Jacob one. We told him it was for having a good attitude. He always has a smile on his face and doesn't get discouraged if he loses.

Filipino Martial Arts Gathering

Nathan participated in a Martial Arts Gathering at the gym where he trains. There were a good number of people there, as evidenced by the above picture. They practiced fighting with different types of weapons, including the sarong, single and double-stick, practice knives, shields, and staff. They also experimented with differing levels of safety gear, from fully-padded to nothing but safety glasses. After they were done competing, they enjoyed several yummy Filipino dishes.

Nathan and two of his students, Jacob and Thomas
Nathan made the shields that they are holding

Nathan is in the black gear

Emmaline starts training early
Ellie taking a much needed drink
While the adults competed downstairs, the kids played on the mats upstairs. Our friend, Theresa, brought her 4 kids, so there was lots of running, wrestling, and playing.

Friday Class

The kids' martial arts class that Nathan started on Friday mornings is going well. It is still small, but the kids are having a blast (and Nathan is too!). I'm also enjoying it because I get to hang out with my friend, Becky, for at least an hour every week! Here are some pics. from class today:

Jacob yelling as he punches the bag (aka, the stranger)

Doing the bear walk

Ellie climbs through the obstacle course