absolute beginners
Most friends, and people who’ve read this blog for a while, know that for years I’ve been a student of the Martial Arts. I started while attending RIT and have continued to this day, some twelve years later. So it shouldn’t come as a surprise that I would continue this study in Chicago.
I’ve found a few places to practice. In both cases, I’m starting in arts that I’ve never studied before. That’s something that I have not done in a while. That isn’t to suggest that I’ve tried everything under the sun. Rather its just that I’ve been focusing my study on a single art, with a bunch of familiar people, for quite a while. It’s been a while since I’ve been a raw beginner.
Truth is I’m loving it. This week I began lessons in Judo (to supplement my throwing game) and Lui Ho Bi Fa (Water boxing). Between both classes I learned a total of four techniques in four hours. Years ago I would have hated that. I’d want to advance as quickly as possible. Now I’m old enough to understand what it takes to learn something well and slow and steady is fine with me. In the case of the water boxing, I literally spent more than a hour learning how to take a single step.
And I’m still not sure if I have that step down.
Chicago so far has been a humbling experience in this respect. From school to Martial Arts, I’m a beginner. And that’s one adjustment that seems to be going pretty smoothly.
Cool!
-ab
Hi again! Sounds like you are settling in to life in Chicago. Reportedly there might be snow flurries this weekend. Of course this probably doesn’t phase you. It has been a while though since I have lived in the snow.
I am by no means a Hyde Park expert but as I understand they have done a good job keeping big corporations out (thus why the co-op rules the grocery domain). It was a big deal when they got a Starbucks last year, for example. Not sure you will have much luck finding a Jamba Juice, athough they are all over downtown (ljc would go insane from the brain freeze).
Rumor has it though there is a Cereality (http://www.cereality.com) coming to town. My best guess is that Hype Park may be on their radar as they have a location near Wharton (and may have the GSB in mind). Guess b-school students like to have cereal dished up from pajama clad servers. Who knew?
Take care!
Hi Matt! Carol P here. I was so glad to hear that you are doing so well in Chicago.
I’ve been Emailing Dre and trying to talk her into going to Letchworth next week. A bunch of us wacky falcon watchers are planning on getting together for a photo scavenger hunt.
Oh, by the way, Lisa now has Falcat. Long story.
Take care Matt. We really miss you here in beautiful Rochchacha. ;-)
Carol P.