Today I completed my 80th hour of jiu–jitsu instruction, meaning that I earned my 4th stripe on my white belt. In jiu–jitsu, once you reach 4 stripes on any belt, your next step is the next belt. The only exception to this rule is with a black belt, but that’s still many years away for me. As a white belt, we receive a stripe after every 20 hours of instruction, however once you get your blue belt (and beyond) stripes usually take a year or so. My instructor Matt was very proud of me today and gave me a big hug. I’ve only been doing jiu–jitsu about 5 months now, which is really quick to get 4 stripes, and it looks like I’ll be ready to test for my blue belt in the next 6 weeks. In general it takes about a year to get to blue belt but I’m on track to get there in half that time, so that’s exciting. I’m so happy I found jiu–jitsu at this stage in my life. It’s turned into my favorite thing to do and is my only hobby other than watching sports and spending time with my loved ones.
My Mom set sail for the Caribbean today from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. She’s been having a tough time with work lately so I really hope this is a successful trip and that she doesn’t get overworked. My Uncle Bob is having surgery on his back today as well so I’m thinking about him and hoping for the best. I spoke to him this morning and he sounded great. Our little Ava is getting her first two teeth right now and she’s dealing with it really well. She’s been waking up at night more than usual but she’s really been such a little champ. She’s so mobile now it’s crazy! We have to barricade her in the living room just to keep track of her. She’s growing up fast and Jessica and I couldn’t be more proud of her.
I’ve been keeping very busy with work and school lately so I’m ready for a relaxing Sunday tomorrow filled with football and couch time. I’m also working on designs for a new website I’m doing for a friend of my Uncle Jim’s, and those are coming along nicely. Hopefully I’ll be able to show him something this week. That’s all for now. I know I haven’t posted any pics for a bit but I plan to very soon.