Here I am! After a long year of countless hours training, and studying, and doing my best to manage work, massage, karate, and time with friends, I have achieved my goal of earning and receiving my 1st Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo. We began testing at 0900 and finished right around 1200. We were expected to complete a physical fitness test (2 mins push-ups, 2 mins sit-ups, and 1 mile run), as well as perform all the curriculum learned for the current cycle. I must say, the karate part was the easy part. I struggled on the run a little bit, but I finished. I had a rough time training last week as I had a migraine for 3 days straight, but I did my best to prepare regardless. There are a great group of people at my school, and they are all very supportive!
My Uncle Wes, Aunt Louise, and Aunt Miriam made it to my test! I was so pleased! Brooks came and picked Annette and I up for the test, and Melanie met us there. After the test was over, Tiffany, Derrick, and Anna had also showed up! It was so awesome! I have an amazing group of friends! They are my family away from home, so, I feel very blessed that I have so many people that care about me in my life. Heavenly Father has really put people in my life that have taught me about charity, and humility. Scott counseled me to choose a new ward by thinking about how I can help serve the people in it, rather than how they can serve me. It had a profound affect on me and I realized that going back to the Almaden III ward was where I was supposed to go, even though, I would rather go to a family ward. To quote President John F. Kennedy, "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country." Words to live by, whether it be for your neighbor, your workplace, church, or community.
Tiffany and Brooks both were able to attend the Gala on Saturday night, where I received my belt at a candle ceremony. I was so excited to have accomplished my goal. I set a goal to be black belt by the end of the year, and I achieved it! It was an incredible feeling. Now, on to the next goal! Great timing, as it is the end of the year, and time to reflect and start new goals for the new year! Oh, and for future reference, when you are tired and going to see a movie and have ice cream, watch the movie first, then have the ice cream. We fell asleep during the movie, so now we have to wait until it comes out on DVD to see it again. LOL! The funniest part of the whole affair, is that this is the second time I've gone to see it, and fell asleep the first time as well!
Church was great! I went to the Almaden II ward Relief Society with Nancy! She was like a proud mama when they asked about any good news to report or share! She told everyone that I received my black belt! I was a little embarrassed, but it was awesome! She is so cute!
erika j
