March 2021

In December, Chloe and Cameron passed their test to become brown belts in shinkyokushin karate. It was quite the ordeal! Lots of fundamental moves, 50 jumping squats, 50 pushups, special endurance forms, stretch test, and belt-level kata (forms). After all that, they each had to spar three sparring partners! Full contact (with hand/shin padded protectors and optional helmets)!

Now that they’ve reached this level, they are expected to attend the four belt tests offered each year to assist with the different activities that take place. Chloe was more nervous about this new role than taking the actual test herself! But they did fine.

Little by little, the kids are getting to know their group members. They are also growing in their ability to communicate with them in Japanese. I’m so happy to see them trying to speak! Having karate in common makes it a little easier.

As a side note, our kids are learning very specific Japanese terminology that “normal”, everyday Japanese don’t even know! Most are body parts, like the name for the solar plexus, as well as, the space between your nose and upper lip (it has a name!), and the outside edge of your foot!

Our newest church “member”

Meet Marty and Chika’s newest little one! Coronavirus concerns kept her from attending for a while, but we finally got to meet and hold this little beauty!