Holidays and preparing for the new year

The blog has been a little bit sparse over the past several weeks, because of the holidays, and preparing for upcoming events at the dojo. We have several traditional events coming up, so here they are:

Dec. 31: Toshikoshi misogi
 Join us for New Years Eve misogi! Meet at the dojo to help with bokken and supplies. Come in your regular street clothes, but bring a bathing suit, towel, and something to burn from the previous year. (yes, there is a bonfire, and yes, we are jumping into the water — jumping into the water is not required, but encouraged). We are meeting at the dojo at 5:45, and leaving from there. Carpooling is available. If you want to go directly, we're meeting at the beach at Golden Gardens. Link for directions.

Jan. 1: Hatsu Keiko 
Join us for the first practice of the new year! It's a very special practice, and is also the start of kangeiko!

Jan. 1-10: Kangeiko 
Join us for intensive winter practice, in which we will try to get 10 hours of training or more. Everyone has the option to do 10 classes, or try for all the classes available.

Jan. 3: Cleaning waza and pancake-o 
Saturday, January 3, we'll be doing our usual first Saturday dojo cleaning after first class, followed by pancakes! If you'd like, you can bring some fruit, pancake toppings or a beverage to add to the fun and deliciousness.