March 2011

Neil and Miriam travelled to Taiwan to upgrade their martial arts  skills with their teacher Master Wang Fu Lai.

We were both processed for our Hsing-I Chuan exams.

We had to perform 28 different Hsing-I patterns before 5 judges. Each of us did our demonstrations solo.

Miriam was succesful in achieving the qualification of Xing Yi Quan assistant instructor. This is certified by Chairman Master Wang Fu Lai under International Zhong-Nan Chinesee Martial Arts Training Centre (Headquaters) in Taiwan.

Neil was succesful in achieving the qualification of Hsing-I Ch'uan instructor. This is certified by Chairman Liang Tung-Jung.

These exams were held in Taiwan on 22.3.2011.

Miriam and Neil received certificates for their achievements.

January 2011

Last year was another rewarding and successful year of teaching the Internal Martial Arts system of Cheng Ming. Wednesday morning class at Wattle Glen has now changed to Wednesday lunchtime class.  Teaching others keeps us motivated as it is difficult when our teachers reside in Taiwan. We need to travel overseas to upgrade our skills.

As one ages and looks around, I see many people suffering ill health. I realise more and more the importance of regular practice. Our own especially.  Teaching others is not enough.

Daily practice of your own ability is essential.

Last year, Neil and I opened our second family bakery of organic products and speciality breads including gluten free.

Breadwise 2 opened in Diamond Creek in February and we have found it challenging but rewarding.

We continue  to teach at Livingstone Community Centre located in Ivanhoe and administered by the Baptist Church.

Mobile classes are still an offered service.

It is a requirement to have a minium of six students for a new class to be established.

Of course, Neil and I are available at anytime for private classes. These can be negiotated at an agreed time.

September 2010

We were able to met briefly with Master Wang Fu Lai and Master Huang Su Chin in Melbourne this year.

A few hours was spent training with them at a venue in Melton.

Any time spent with them is always cherished and rewarding.

November 2009

At the invitation of my Kung Fu brother Master Ozawa Shoji and his Director Mochizuki Katsumi, I went to Japan. The Fuchu branch was holding their first Annual Demonstration in Cheng Ming Kung Fu. They now have officially opened their own second school. All their students would take part and I was invited to demonstrate the form of Hsing-I Saber. It was a wonderful day. All went well and all the students performed really well. I was happy with my performance and it seemed the audience were also. After the demonstration, Master Ozawa invited the group to a party at one of the local Chinese resturants. We had lots of lovely food and then came the Karoke. They managed to find one in English for me. I chose, "I got you Babe", from Sonny and Cher. We has so much fun. Mochuzuki was kind enough to accommadate me in his home in Fuchu and also to offer some training. I was grateful for the much needed corrections to my training. Everyone was very kind and the students gave me many gifts to return home with.

I am indeed fortunate to have such a wonderful extended family in the Cheng Ming system. Many special thanks to Mochi.

February 2009

A month we would all rather forget. My sincere sympathies go to all those effected by the recent bushfires. I personally have many friends and collegues that perished.  I have found that at times, I when i could barely cope, would practice my Tai Chi and Qi Gong to clear my head and keep myself focused.

I have offered classes Free to those effected by the fires. Our home in Wattle Glen was under threat at one stage. We have 4 acres of bushland and many native animals. I urge those of you who teach Tai Chi to encourage people to start practising in order to help them with the hugh task ahead. Rebuilding their lives and mourning lost loved ones.

January 2009

The year started with the birth of my first grandchild. Ryan was born on the 2nd. of Jan. weighing in at 7lbs. 1.oz.  Congrats to my daughter Rose and Christian.  Looking at his hands, I can see he will have strong kung fu fingers. I am very excited .