Linda Eskin — Writing About Aikido Since 2009

Saturday was very busy! Class, packing, brunch, a hundred hugs, and more packing. My hall-mate, Deb, and I finally got out at 3:00… only two hours late. I’m taking the two-day option, driving home – in Paso Robles now. Will be posting a lot more about the retreat after I get home (where I don’t have to post from my phone). Already looking forward to the 2012 Retreat!

[Added later: The return trip, down highway 101, with a few stops along the way, was 562.9 miles.]

Thursday, during Nadeau sensei’s class.

Another great day of training, plus rehearsing for the Aiki Follies, dinner off campus with friends, and hanging out way past bedtime taking about Aikido people, history, and teaching/learning. Tonight’s guest instructors were Denise Barry Sensei and Michele Simone Sensei. I really enjoyed their class.

Wednesday at the Retreat – the Aiki Store

The Aiki store is an informal open-air market that springs up for a few days in front of the dining hall at lunch time. One can buy videos, t-shirts, books, and a few other Aikido-related goodies.

Way too tired to write much! Enjoyed a great day of training, a hot shower, more good food, plotting some Follies fun for Friday,, and Nadeau Sensei’s energy class in the evening. Ran into some familiar faces after class and spent a couple of very pleasant hours chatting about training, what Aikido means to us.

Off to bed while I can still get 6 hours of sleep!

Tuesday

Long, fun, amazing day. Here’s the quick version: Eat, train, train, eat, train, train, laundry, eat, train. Then stay up ‘til the wee hours talking with dorm-neighbor and evil twin, Deb, and plotting Aiki Follies skits with her and David.

Tonight’s guest instructors were Calvin Koshiyama Sensei and Jack Wada Sensei.

I’d write more, but it’s after 1:00, and 7:00 comes early! G’ night!