Due to my lengthy dojang absences for university, it's been such a long time since I had to learn anything new that tonight came as somewhat of a shock. O_O Hehe. Sensei included me for two new forms, both of which were very awkward because there were only about two or three familiar techniques within them. Wake up, Miss Blackbelt! Yes, you have to start learning again, which means yes, you must wear your glasses to class again. -facepalm-

Life will be so much easier when I can afford to go to the optician for a new exam and inquire about contacts. I've never had them before, but now that I'm stepping into my adult life, I'm learning the value of sight without glasses. I digress...

I've been in the front-most line in class before, but tonight was different. After my sensei removed my red belt and tied on the new black one (I'm temporarily "Brendan" until my personalized belt gets ordered and shipped), everything changed. I literally felt different. Class was different. I could just sense the fresh start. It's very strange, but very cool at the same time. I'm part of the "inner club," with secrets only Blackbelts know. :)

To add to the joy of fresh learning, after endless months drilling the same bo staff form, my sensei has finally decided it's time to take a break and work on the next one. I've gone over it a few times before, but never in any strong detail, and never long enough for retention. Sounds like he plans to drill it like he did the last one, though, so it'll come along fast enough. We also started a new stick-fighting sequence which is definitely much easier than the 2nd sequence. Although to be fair, I once-upon-a-time knew the 2nd well until I went away to university. Then I came back, had to relearn it, but also got stuck trying to teach the newer weapons students and therefore confused myself into a corner. Ah well.

One final note for the night: one of my classmates keeps telling me about the physical therapy exercises she goes through for her knees, to strengthen them and help them heal faster. I really need to start working them myself because even though my knee feels fine most days, every now and then it aches again. I want it to heal completely so I can go to the dojang and practice the advanced stuff without fear of further damage. In fact, it should get written into my schedule now so I don't forget during my daily routine tomorrow.