Bad Week

For the past week and a half I've been waking up with a sore neck and headache and going to bed between 8 and 9.  It's been a bad week for accomplishing much of anything.  Josh said I've been sleeping all twisted up and weird and either running or fighting in my sleep.  So I guess I'm being more productive than I thought because I'm either getting in my kms or sparring rounds while sleeping so yay for me for multitasking.  I definitely feel empathy for those who get chronic headaches.
Anyway, I'm currently looking for a homeless shelter needing volunteers on Tuesday mornings so I can help out somewhere and meet more people before starting my book.  Preferably one that I can park relatively close to and hopefully for free (downtown parking rates are ridiculous).  Any suggestions from anyone who has done this?

The Edmonton Project

I had an idea for a book I wanted to write a few years ago after interacting with a homeless man named Dwayne.  This man's story really stuck with me in the brief time I had talking with him.  There's still a misconception by many that homeless people are all drug addicts or lazy.   I can tell you for sure, this is not the case, and even if someone is on the streets due to drugs, why did it come to that?  All it takes one change in circumstance and any of us could be there.  My book would entail the lives of Edmonton homeless and their stories.  I would ask them about themselves, where we are failing to help and what they feel they would need to get back on their feet.  I would also interview some staff at homeless shelters and get their views on what they are seeing.  I have to look into how to protect myself legally, standardize a set of questions and make sure I am approaching people in a way that does not make anyone uncomfortable or compromise my safety.  Josh has agreed to help.  I am going to start planning the details.  My purpose is to raise awareness of the problem and hopefully gain some insight on where I can help to create a change.

Sword Form

I chose to do Sifu Beckett's sword form last minute before the I Ho Chaun year started.  I'm pretty uncoordinated to begin with and not all that familiar with using a sword.  I know not to touch the pointy end though so two thumbs up for me.  Needless to say it took me awhile to get the first couple moves.  After learning a few moves and from trying to remember my hand forms and doing a few kicks in the beginners class, my legs were really sore for 3 days.  I couldn't believe how sore I actually was after doing what I thought was so little.  Josh reminded me that I've spent the past couple years sitting at a desk job and then sitting in a classroom or doing homework so I've got some pretty weak legs right now.  It may take me awhile to learn and it may be painful at first but I think this will be good for me.  I'm sure I'll get myself back into some sort of shape soon.  I look forward to learning more.