The Last Busy Saturday of 2012

The girls had a full-on day last Saturday.

In the morning, they endured their most intensive class ever at Martial Journey, when 20+ white belts came together to be graded for yellow belt.

First there was the MCQ test to take. Hubby had to read out and explain the questions to J, who being five, has never taken a written test in her life.

Then 1.5 hours of horse-riding stance, cat's paw stance, fighting stance, break falls, forward rolls, while the instructors went round assessing everyone's techniques. Over and over.

I was tired just spectating.

When they finally received their certificates and yellow belts, I commented to my training buddy Glenn that I am really nervous about next March, when it will be my turn to do the same. I'm not the best specimen of physical fitness, and I have to grade with a bunch of energetic, superfit kids, as there are hardly any adults at my level.

"Yeah, kids have so much energy. They make adults feel bad - and look bad," he grinned.

No pressure then.

In the afternoon was the Chinese school break-up party, concert and handing out of student awards.

The best thing (for both parents and teachers) must be the two-month break from lessons till next Feb - our Saturdays are finally free!

We were thrilled when both girls' names were called out at awards time.
J received an award for excellence in homework.
B received an award for being passionate about learning Chinese and doing her homework conscientiously.

Hubby and I had a good laugh over B's award because every year, B will ask when she can quit Chinese, and we would repeat that learning Chinese is non-negotiable. Period. So her award gave us an excellent opportunity to reiterate how well she has done and how far she has come.

I thanked both teachers for their dedication and encouragement to our girls. Would have loved confirmation that B's teacher - who has been instrumental in the class staying engaged and focussed -  is continuing next year for Grade 5, but they haven't worked that out yet. In any case, we've put down a $50 deposit to reserve the girls' places for next year.

I noticed a couple of new parents approaching the principal to ask about the registration process and curriculum for next year. It's great to see the school expanding and growing more popular. The principal and teachers work really hard for not much pay and what they do has so much impact on our children's ability to stay connected with their heritage and conversant in Chinese.