This year I took part in Sandy Island camp as usual beside the two year gap of travelling restrictions. The first week of September was still beautiful summer and we had some extra days before and after the camp to relax with friends in New Hampshire.
This year’s new toy for me was the balance board. I used to do some skate boarding in early teens, and this practice of balance on board came back some where down there. I managed to do some spinnings and turnings and never hurt myself while falling down. Some people even warned me not to broke myself before the camp, and that much I managed, but I did hurt myself after the camp. Not with the balance board, but let’s get to that later.
On practice we focused on multi person applications, from embracing peacock’s tail up to brush a knee and push. Also we practiced four corners a lot, and I heard from many people they learned something new on turnings. I’ve seen many versions of steppings and turnings there, and it’s nice to see other ones finding something new as well. I do that myself often too. But one thing to take from there is to turn on the left toe while going back. I remember learning the same in November 2017 in New Hampshire. Memory is selective and associative. That’s why the more you remember the easier it is to remember. Like those peculiar dates.
One thing that also makes Sandy special is master’s family. Having kids playing around is lively and inspiring. All four boys are so unique but full of spirit. Now a days I’m part of the fire department with the kids and the trusted ones. This year we tried Scandinavian top down campfire and I’d say it was a success. The night out on the fire with the whole class off class is every year a pleasure. I remember playing around the fire with multiple surprising push hands partners. Every time you can learn something new from anyone else.
Maybe because of my monkey nature, I sometimes like to make a fool of myself. After the camp I got a little too joyful, and I tried to climb down from the loft without the ladders. It happened at night time and it was dark but still I wanted to feel alive and play a little. In the end I fell down and hurt myself harder than I remember doing for a long time. Lucky I didn’t break anything else but myself. First my right foot was bruised and felt like that took the worst hit, but afterwards I can see that the fall made a greater mark on my left tigh. It’s already three months from the accident, and I’ve got through many workshops and travels, but I can feel my leg still needs some time to heal. Maybe holidays come on right time for me to get some rest. Relaxing times everyone!