A Touch of Yellow

For Xaine’s homework assignment this week he was asked to draw a DETAILED picture that depicts a story and then tell me about what he had drawn. He was able to pick from any one of his fondest memories and depict it in his own artist flare. The story as narrated by Xaine “I drew about when you and me and brudder went to play at the pool and there were other people there and the other peoples son peed in the pool” (hence the yellowish tint in some areas of the pool water) Not sure about Al, but I don’t recall any kids peeing in the pool… but tell you what... when my boy told me this story I sure about peed myself…

Digging For Water

One of the many pastimes I’ve enjoyed at Huntington Beach, in my youth and adulthood, is “digging for water”. How do you do this? Well, you find a nice location just up from where the water is surging on the shore and dig, dig, dig until you reach the water table. I know, truly amazing how the simplest of things entertain me. Now on the East coast and continuing to share beach experiences with Xaine, it’s only natural and expected for my offspring to add his own touch to whatever he does. So here we are dig, dig, digging (ok, so I’m doing all the work and Xaine is giving direction)… Eureka, we’ve stuck water. Hole dug, water struck, I’m entertained, Xaine however is not done. Now into the hole he two pad pounces, stomp splashing around and requesting that I fill it in and pack the sand around him. Who am I to deny a child’s request? So I pack him in the hole. “Where’s my legs Dadoo...?” “They are in the hole you goof ball” “No they’re not...they’re right here.” (my creative child has depicted his appendages with a drawing in the sand… ) A smirk and sense of self accomplishment emanating from him a request to be freed is commanded of me. So here I go dig, dig, digging again… and once set loose it is deemed my turn to experience his version of entertainment… “Dadoo…You get in the hole.” Being the good direction follower that I am, I comply. A moment later I find myself locked in a standing position buried up just past my knees. “Great work Xaine… now let’s dig Dadoo out.” Xaine.. Xaine?... Xaine!!!!?…. (my boy has abandoned me for the siren call of the ocean) So here I am, rocking back and forth in an attempt to free myself, enjoying the stray looks/giggles of passersby and the knowledge that this is one of those memories that will have me chuckling through the ages. (Making this event even more meaningful is seeing Xaine’s artwork from school)

Title: ‘Dadoo and Baboo digging for water in the beach sand’

The Karate Kid

Move over Ralph Macchio, there is a new Karate Kid in town. This past week, Xaine began his studies of the art of Tang Soo Do at Pak’s Karate Academy. No “Wax On, Wax Off” or “Paint the Fence” for this future black belt. He met with Master Nathan Alexander (6th Dan) for an introductory private lesson where he was presented his uniform (such a STUD) and schooled in: The martial art history, Terminology, Traditions, Respect (“Yes Sir” as a response to a question vs. “Yep” is something we’ll need to work on), Fore fist (front) punch while YELLING Kiai and the equilibrium testing Side Kick. Master Nathan exclaimed that Xaine presented great form; easily switched up his hand placement and used his heal on all kicks (this tends to be very difficult for first timers). Xaine totally enjoyed himself so much so that even he tried convincing me that I was mistaken and his lessons are Everyday vs. only Tuesdays and Thursdays. So imagine his excitement once Tuesday and his second session finally came about. This session was a true test of Xaine’s retention level as he was asked to stand before his peers and Master Nathan to present all he had been taught. He bowed, assumed ready position, fore fist punched (KIAI!!!!!!!), switched feet and side kicked. What I can say… my boy is a natural. Having successfully demonstrated these abilities he earned and was awarded his White Belt. My little boy is an official Moo Kup Jar.
Terminology

Tang Soo Do - A Korean martial art which teaches empty hand and foot fighting, fighting forms, self-defense, and weapons. Tang Soo Do also teaches people to live a healthy and harmonious life. This ancient martial art traces its lineage back 2,000 years.
Dobok – Martial Arts Uniform
Dee – Belt
Moo Kup Jar – White Belt Student
Kyong Yet – Bow
Chun Bee – Ready Position
Jung Kwon Kong Kyuck – Fore fist (front) Punch
Yup Cha Gi - Side Kick