Cian started practicing in Hawaii before we moved, and I had always said that would be my best way into Japanese language and culture. When we moved here we found Chieko sensei through the YMCA, and I began practicing with Cian a couple of times a week. I really enjoy it and Chad has been able to join us two times a week after work for an adult class. Next month we will travel to Canada to take part in a training camp with grand masters from Japan in the Go-Ju-Ryu style. It is fun and exciting to be doing it together as a family. Grandma Dianna and Grandpa Jack will come along, and it is Mason’s birthday weekend, so we are hoping to do something special along the way, even though we will be very taxed and tired from the expectations of the training seminars. I know it will be fun and exciting and I am enjoying the opportunity to learn more about Japanese language and culture as well as Karate. I am going to try to convince the Dojo members that a trip to Japan is a good idea!