The Boise group is smaller, but they practice really hard and earnestly! I led three practices (each of them ended up lasting for 2.5 hours - time went so fast!), one self-defense clinic for beginners and one informal black belt practice.
On Friday night, March 27, we started with kihon practice 6:30pm-9pm, and then kata practice 10pm-12:30am. Next morning, we had kumite practice 8:30am-11am, self-defense clinic Noon-2pm and the black belt practice 2:30pm-3:30pm. During all practices, I tried to emphasize the importance of very good basics and the solid foundation. The beauty of simplicity!
They always practiced very seriously. I was quite impressed! They asked me many questions. I tried to answer their questions as best as I could. I also tried to share with them what I heard from Sensei when I asked him questions during or after SOD [Shotokan Ohshima Dojo in Santa Barbara] practices. They appreciated the information I shared, and I appreciated their eagerness to learn. (When I go to SOD, I try to prepare my list of questions for Sensei. I follow him after his practice, and try to obtain his answers. He is always surrounded by many people, and it is not easy to get your turn to talk with him. I must be annoying to him, but I just can't let the chance go.)
The weekend was like a mini special training for them, and for me as well. I was tired after Saturday's last practice, but I thoroughly enjoyed each practice with them. I had a great time with wonderful new friends in Boise. My first visit to Idaho! Thank you for the opportunity to meet you and practice with you all!
