Nabeshima Cup

Every 2 years DFWKIK.org hosts the Nabeshima Cup right here in Dallas, TX. This year the Cup will be held in April. Really reconsidering Aikido as it is definitely much more physically applicable from a self-defense perspective.

Dancing with swords

It must be by sheer coincidence that 2007 is my year of the dance. Just like common Japanese buisiness confrontations, the art of Kendo can teach those qualities that will help, if kept, in every day life. Qualities such as eye-contact, taking the initiative versus appropriately responding, prominent vocals, and respect are all commonalities shared between these two arts. And just like dancing, Kendo Kata has the leader and the follower, and it does require practicing of fundamentals such as footwork and proper form. Kendo Kata is in fact to dance with a sword(s) in hand. This striking resemblance slapped me on my cheek one day. It just hit me.

In Kendo you gaze into the eyes of your opposing swordsman, the other kendoist, whom likely wants to cut you in half from head to torso, just as much as you want to slice him, if not more.
Oddly (and cheesily) to say, the fluttering eyes of a pretty dance partner is likely more to kill you instead.

Aikido, being single, and the Grand Canyon.

I am considering taking up another martial art called Aikido. Will investigate if it will work out for me.

Being out-of-town all the time leaves me no time to cultivate relationships, let alone friends. What little friends I had are now a distant memory.

I'm on a 10-year waiting list for white water rafting in the Grand Canyon. My time for waiting will end at 2008 which is just over the horizon.

My photographs for DFWKIK.org

Sheathing a Katana during Iaido practice.

Sunday morning Iaido practice, held at a private school gymnasium.






Demonstrating the proper way to hit with the shinai.







About to hit the men (head) with a shinai.







In proper kamai.







Shinai's are swinging everywhere.







Kendo warmup exercises.

Uniform

Went to Iaido practice today at 9 AM. I don't practice Iaido because i'm clumsy enough to accidentally slice my own arm off. So I stick with the sticks. I went that early to get some good shots on film for the next public viewing of the DFWKIK club organization. There are lots of events coming up, one of which is the Nabeshima Cup which is held every two years.

I did receive my uniform, the Keikogi (upper body coat) and the skirt pants (that's what i call them) and got to practice in them for the first time today. Of course I sweat more in, which is a good thing.

My feet continue to get soars and blisters even though i've been sliding my feet for almost 3 months now. Oh when will that end?! My Japanese is slightly improving. And probably most importantly I'm learning to respect the Japanese culture and people. ;)

Until next time my Kendoka's, Sore dewa!