*insert flash of light, smoke, cool sound effects, etc.. here*

Yes, my adoring fans, I'm back! Y'all probaly thought I had abandoned you, but never fear! I am most faithfully addicted to the internet!

Samuel nuked his brown belt test! Luke R. and Josiah Z. were also testing for their 2nd degree browns (next step after you first get brown) and they positively nuked it also. It was a great night all around! Mr. Miller from and Matthew from Burnett's got to be there. Mr. Bolen and Jason were out of town; I don't know where Mr. Burnett was. Anyway, I was really hyped and yet strangely reminescent and reflective beneath the gal who was cheering loudly and fighting madly (fought Bonnie, Lindsey, Brittany, Matt, and a green belt dude who's name escapes me) after Samuel was done. Michael, Brandon, Daniel, and David A. were there which everybody was totally thrilled about since they haven't come in a year plus. It was neat that Michael was there because he started us on karate and coached Samuel a lot (taught him neidan, Samuel's favorite kata.) I have a distinct memory of when we were white belts and staying a little late after class to watch Greg (the 7 foot man) do his breaks for purple. Three boards and purple were unimaginable achievements then. I was very inspired. Greg was there tonight and Samuel went through his three boards like butter. There was a young guy named Anthony who was there for the first time ever that I had helped during the first class and I wondered if he felt any similar stirrings of inspiration watching the guys testing. Mr. Murry gave a very touching little speech when he gave Samuel his belt. We got on tape so I'll transcribe for y'all sometime. It shocks me everytime I think of it that someone as amazing as Mr. Murry knows us, likes us, even looks up to some of us! Flabbergasting and makes you very grateful.

Alicia and Jason have already left for college. I found out yesterday that the speaker I had schedule for RCRY tonight couldn't make it. Monday was Brittany's last night and then she's off to CA for college. I totally forgot Melissa's and David's birthdays which makes me feel real bad. Rachel C. called me Saturday-her pastor had committed suicide the week before. 10 days until Samuel leaves. I've had a ghastly earache since last night. Certain people in this house are driving me nuts. I miss all my RI friends because I haven't had time to be online. I can't find my flute, music bag, hairbrush and sundry other things that have all mysteriously disappeared.

And that friends is my rant. Love y'all!