As the title of my blog says - its's been awhile since I've written and updated the blog. Last time I wrote it was just a week or so after getting back from Jeremy Ariel's gym in Fort Mill South Carolina.
I did not have my own computer - I was using a loaner computer which I did not have access to once I got back. I just got a new computer - A Macbook Pro. Yay!
So now I can start trying to update. Obviously I'm back in Canada, working, and, unfortunately, not training as much as I'd like.
I'd like to use this blog to just show some techniques that I've found on line - namely from two of my mentors - Dennis Asche and Jeremy Arel as they both use the medium of Youtube to show new techniques. I'd also like to just showcase anything I'm working on or inspirational videos I've found.
I'll also try to close up this past summer's adventures - in a future blog. I just have to get my pics and notes together.
On the subject of inspiration - I came across this video last week and have become very inspired by it. It involves Rodolfo Viera - currently the man to beat in BJJ (that is with the Gi). I'm not sure how a match between Roger and Rodolfo would go. I'd say experience, mastery of the basics, and ability to come back from adversity would side with Roger. While explosiveness (athleticism), youth, conditioning, and hunger would belong to Rodolfo. Not trying to disparage anyone as both men are amazing technicians - just Roger is a bit more a laid back basic game while Rodolfo is more of a pressure/top/athletic game.
This video also hints at the other BJJ lineage of Luis Franca and Oswaldo Fadda. Here is a link to the BJJ Heroes website that delves a further into this relatively unknown BJJ lineage. As the Gracies are usually only mentioned when one speaks of BJJ:
BJJ Heros Oswaldo Fadda
Here is the clip that has so much inspired me-with the prominent figures being rodolfo Viera and his master Julio Ceasar Pereira from Grappling Fight Team (GFT).
In particular I like the notion that Julio Ceasar wants to use Jiu Jitsu to form a citizen aka a good person who is able to function and contribute to society in a positive way. This is why I continue to train (when I can) and take my summer pilgrimages to go and train anywhere I can.
Here are the BJJ Heroes bio of Julio and Rodolfo:
Julio Cesar Pereira
Rodolfo Vieira
Here is another new clip from Dennis and Connection Rio that showcases some of the Older guys who've gone to Rio. Being an older guy (late 30's) it was nice to see this clip to highlight a few guys that may be a bit older but still love and hold that passion for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
For anyone reading this and planning on heading to Rio here is a clip with Dennis and his Portuguese for BJJ:
Good Training!!!
Well that is all for now - I hope I can continually update the blog (work eats up so much time).
Till next time!!!
A Blog/Diary of my Jiu Jitsu adventures; feel free to read, comment, or say hi.
Showing posts with label Brazil. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Brazil. Show all posts
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Gordo Jiu Jitsu - 4 yr B-day & Real Rio Show clips
My flight is booked to leave this Sunday evening. I just thought I'd put out a quick little shout out to the Gordo Academy on their 4yr anniversary. The Real Rio show caught the celebration - this clip featuring Gordo, Gordinho (Gordo's Brother), Rafael dos Anjos, and Renzo Gracie (speaking about how Gordo came to BJJ and the Gracies).
There is also a little belt promotion ceremony at the end of this clip. This is of significance as I got my blue belt from Gordo in October of 2009 (my last night in Rio during my first trip down). There is a gentleman in this clip who also got a blue from Gordo and he expresses how I felt that night (albeit a bit sad (long story)).
I remember the first time I trained at Gordo's academy - it was a Monday morning. I had arrived in Rio on the Friday, gotten sick, and spent the weekend trying to feel better as well as trying to overcome the shock of having quit my job, selling everything I could, packing the rest of my stuff away, and going all the way to Rio to follow my heart and leave the crap behind.
Anyhow, I walked in and introduced myself to Gordo. It was a nervous experience to say the least. I did not know a spit of Portuguese and I was a foreigner in a strange new place. I did the morning class and afterwards talked to Gordo about prices, times, etc. It was at this time that Gordo asked me how come I just showed up to and that Dennis had told him this guy from Canada was going to show up a week ago. I cannot remember what exactly I told him but in the end I ended up training pretty much everyday at Gordo's (this was before the renovations to his academy) and enjoyed it so much I came back a year later.
Here is pic of Gordo awarding me my blue belt in BJJ:
I plan on going back to Gordo's and Rio soon (in all likelihood next summer).
Here is another clip from the Real with a Gracie Barra Black Belt named "Drive-in" working with some kids in his academy.
Some very impressive Jiu Jitsu from some very young competitors.
Here is a clip with some of the guys from the Connection Rio house rolling at Drive-In's academy:
Well in a few days I will be off to Ryan Hall's academy to train for about a week and a half. After that I'm down to Charlotte to train at Great Grappling Academy with new Gordo Black Belt Jeremy Ariel.
Peace out.
Andre
There is also a little belt promotion ceremony at the end of this clip. This is of significance as I got my blue belt from Gordo in October of 2009 (my last night in Rio during my first trip down). There is a gentleman in this clip who also got a blue from Gordo and he expresses how I felt that night (albeit a bit sad (long story)).
I remember the first time I trained at Gordo's academy - it was a Monday morning. I had arrived in Rio on the Friday, gotten sick, and spent the weekend trying to feel better as well as trying to overcome the shock of having quit my job, selling everything I could, packing the rest of my stuff away, and going all the way to Rio to follow my heart and leave the crap behind.
Anyhow, I walked in and introduced myself to Gordo. It was a nervous experience to say the least. I did not know a spit of Portuguese and I was a foreigner in a strange new place. I did the morning class and afterwards talked to Gordo about prices, times, etc. It was at this time that Gordo asked me how come I just showed up to and that Dennis had told him this guy from Canada was going to show up a week ago. I cannot remember what exactly I told him but in the end I ended up training pretty much everyday at Gordo's (this was before the renovations to his academy) and enjoyed it so much I came back a year later.
Here is pic of Gordo awarding me my blue belt in BJJ:
I plan on going back to Gordo's and Rio soon (in all likelihood next summer).
Here is another clip from the Real with a Gracie Barra Black Belt named "Drive-in" working with some kids in his academy.
Some very impressive Jiu Jitsu from some very young competitors.
Here is a clip with some of the guys from the Connection Rio house rolling at Drive-In's academy:
Well in a few days I will be off to Ryan Hall's academy to train for about a week and a half. After that I'm down to Charlotte to train at Great Grappling Academy with new Gordo Black Belt Jeremy Ariel.
Peace out.
Andre
Friday, July 8, 2011
Connection Rio
I'm not making it to Rio this year and obviously not going to be hanging out with whom ever is staying at the Connection Rio house (from what Dennis has told me they are two houses now - both within walking distance to Gordo's Academy.
I came into contact with Dennis Asche and his company ConnectionRio about a month and a half before I left for Rio 2yrs ago. This was at a time when I had decided, for various reasons, to quit my job and try to pursue the BJJ dream of going to Rio and doing nothing but training and living the lifestyle.
It was a chore to try and get everything in order and a big leap of faith for me - considering I'd never flown in a plane, never been farther than Vancouver in Canada and Wyoming in the USA. But I guess when you've become heartbroken (with life in general) one to many times you either make changes or just resign that your life is going to suck and you're going to die unfulfilled and a chump.
Anyhow, long short - I tried in vain to secure a place to stay in Rio. Most places were way out of my price range. I was pretty certain that a long term stay was out of the question (I had planned to stay at least 5-6 months). Anyhow a friend from Gracie Barra Calgary sent me a website that had tips and pointers for people wanting to go train in Rio. I ended up contacting them (they were from the UK - if i recall correctly) and in turn he gave me Dennis Asche's contact info. I ended up contacting Dennis right away and he said that he had a space for me. And well the rest is history. I stayed at the ConnectionRio HQ for about 3 months; a family emergency sent me back to Canada cutting short my trip but for good reason (perhaps another blog will get in to this).
I ended up going back to Rio and ConnectionRio last year and had planned on going back but things don't work out as you plan. But I do plan on making my way back to Rio, ConnectionRio, and Gordo's academy again. The previous blog got into my plans for this summer.
If you are into Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and want to experience the birthplace of BJJ (Brazil, Rio, Barra da Tijuca, etc...) in a safe and secure environment. Then i highly recommend contacting Dennis Asche through the connection rio website and start working on living your dreams.
http://www.connectionrio.com/
Here is a clip of BlackBelt Dennis Asche (under Roberto "Gordo" Correa de Lima) and founder of Connection Rio showing off a couple of butterfly guard passes:
Here is a clip of the ConnectionRio show; an interview with Rafael dos Anjos who just fought and defeated George Sotiropoulos this past weekend at UFC 132.
Finally, here is a clip of a young gentleman I've seen but never really talked to at Gordo's academy talking about being positive and training. He is Robson Gracie:
I came into contact with Dennis Asche and his company ConnectionRio about a month and a half before I left for Rio 2yrs ago. This was at a time when I had decided, for various reasons, to quit my job and try to pursue the BJJ dream of going to Rio and doing nothing but training and living the lifestyle.
It was a chore to try and get everything in order and a big leap of faith for me - considering I'd never flown in a plane, never been farther than Vancouver in Canada and Wyoming in the USA. But I guess when you've become heartbroken (with life in general) one to many times you either make changes or just resign that your life is going to suck and you're going to die unfulfilled and a chump.
Anyhow, long short - I tried in vain to secure a place to stay in Rio. Most places were way out of my price range. I was pretty certain that a long term stay was out of the question (I had planned to stay at least 5-6 months). Anyhow a friend from Gracie Barra Calgary sent me a website that had tips and pointers for people wanting to go train in Rio. I ended up contacting them (they were from the UK - if i recall correctly) and in turn he gave me Dennis Asche's contact info. I ended up contacting Dennis right away and he said that he had a space for me. And well the rest is history. I stayed at the ConnectionRio HQ for about 3 months; a family emergency sent me back to Canada cutting short my trip but for good reason (perhaps another blog will get in to this).
I ended up going back to Rio and ConnectionRio last year and had planned on going back but things don't work out as you plan. But I do plan on making my way back to Rio, ConnectionRio, and Gordo's academy again. The previous blog got into my plans for this summer.
If you are into Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and want to experience the birthplace of BJJ (Brazil, Rio, Barra da Tijuca, etc...) in a safe and secure environment. Then i highly recommend contacting Dennis Asche through the connection rio website and start working on living your dreams.
http://www.connectionrio.com/
Here is a clip of BlackBelt Dennis Asche (under Roberto "Gordo" Correa de Lima) and founder of Connection Rio showing off a couple of butterfly guard passes:
Here is a clip of the ConnectionRio show; an interview with Rafael dos Anjos who just fought and defeated George Sotiropoulos this past weekend at UFC 132.
Finally, here is a clip of a young gentleman I've seen but never really talked to at Gordo's academy talking about being positive and training. He is Robson Gracie:
I'd suggest subscribing to the ConnectionRio youtube page or contacting Dennis if you have desire to go to Rio, train, and live the Jiu Jitsu lifestyle.
Anyhow, that is it for now. I'm still waiting on the Marcelo Garcia academy to get back to me so i can start booking flights and finalizing my plans. Hopefully everything come to fruition.
Till next time . . . Peace!
Friday, July 16, 2010
Rainy days and packed houses alwasy get me down
Part two:
Well the plane ride was what a 10hr plane ride in coach - long, uncomfortable. Although I must say that I was thankful that the plane was not too packed - this was probably due to the fact that I flew on a Tuesday as opposed to a flight closer to the weekend; which I’ve been told are the times to avoid as everyone leaves on weekends.
The flight went well - I ended up watching the movie Date Night as well as an episode of The Office as well as some other comedy shows. I also watched some House and a bit of CSI. To kill time I also started to read one of the books I picked up before I left; in this case I started to read The Road as I had watched a movie and liked it and figured I needed to read the book. I plan on finishing it quickly as I might use it for teaching English this coming fall.
We made it to Rio on time. I was a bit worried that I might get hassled by the customs people as I do believe I only have about 15 days till I have to renew my visa for another 90 days. Of course it will go back bump back to 180 on Aug 07, 2010 - as August 07 was the day I arrived last year.
In talking with Dennis he said that a gentleman named Danillo “Moto-Serra” would pick me up at the airport. I was told he was a black gentle man, with tattoos, who is also a Vale-Tudo (anything goes) fighter - basically an MMA fighter. I waited for my bags to come around, which they finally did after about 25 minutes. I then walked through the final check in and walked out hoping my ride was there - and of course he was not. If you’ve never been to Rio you won’t get why I was so nervous - I did not want to get swarmed by the Gringo Hawks aka the cab drivers that hound you to take their cab. But for some reason they did not bother me - one guy even tried to help me with calling Denis. I wandered around for about 40 minutes. I then noticed someone walking in and towards the arrival area - he fit the description that Denis gave me so I walked up to him and asked if he was Danilo and he said yes. So I had my ride - it was a long ride as Danilo decided to take the scenic route and even made a stop at his place to pick up a cell phone charger. I was a bit worried I was being taken for a ride but I eventually made it to the Connection Rio house.
When I arrived at the airport it was overcast but no rain as Danilo and I made our way through the city it started to rain and continued all the way to Barra da Tijuca. And has been raining ever since I got here - that’s 4 days now. I must say it is getting kind of depressing. I wanna hit the beach and see some skimpy bikinis…ha ha!
Anyhow, when I arrived the first thing I noticed was that the place was packed and no one really knew where I was going to be sleeping - I was dead tired by this time and just wanted to sleep; after I got something to eat of course. Dennis was not around and was not expected to be in for a few hours. So I grabbed a chair and sat there doing absolutely nothing and tried to get some sleep which is not very easy to do in a house packed with people, clothes, while you’re sitting in an uncomfortable chair.
After about 2hrs I struck up a conversation with one of the gals in the house and told her I was tired and hungry. She ended up lending me her key so I could walk down to Camacha’s restaurant to get some chicken, rice, and beans - pretty much a staple for me. I started to walk down and had barely gotten half a block when I noticed someone running up to me - low and behold it was Denis. He shook hands, hugged and had a brief conversation. He was heading to the house to pick up some of the house members for a training session and I was hungry so we went our separate ways.
I ate breakfast/lunch - went to the bakery to grab a coffee, listened to my I-pod and then walked back home. By this time I learned that I was going to be sleeping in the make-shift room - which is the living room. Either I was happy to be getting bed so I could get some rest. Unfortunately, by the time I got my bed situation sorted out the coffee had kicked in and I was took jacked up to do anything. So I pulled out my computer and surfed the net for a bit.
I was definitely too tired to train that night so I decided to just walk over to Gordo’s academy and take some pictures. I walked in and got to see the new renovations that Gordo’s academy has undergone. When I left last October the gym was just starting their renovations and was pretty rough to say the least. Well it’s safe to say Gordo now has the first class gym that is deserving of his legacy, reputation, and manner. Gordo’s renovated academy is beautiful. I’ve added some pictures to show how it looks now. I’ve yet to wander up stairs but I will post some pictures from up there once I get back.
After I had walked in and settled in a chair - Gordo noticed me and stared at me for a few minutes, smiled then walked over to me. I got the fairly standard handshake and half hug that seems to be the norm amongst Jiu Jitsu practitioners here in Rio. He was very happy to see me and asked how long I was going to be and if I was going to do the Rio Open. I told him a month and that I might do the open - of course I ended up missing the deadline for the Rio Open (it was the day of my arrival and my mind was just not working properly - so I ended up forgetting to registrar.)
You will notice that there is a large mirror in the background of some of the photos - each section of mirror is a little storage place. I thought that was wonderful. Overall, I’d say that being back here is like coming back to my ‘other home’ I just wish that I did not have to travel so far to feel like I’m where I need to be. Life is strange like that. One thing that I’m happy about is the mindset I’m in this time. I don’t have all the baggage I had last year and I just feel so much more positive about this round here in Rio. I do plan on coming back again and again - till my goal is reached.
I really hope that it stops raining soon - so I can get out and go on my walks around Barra - picture taking of course. It just sucks being stuck in the house most of the time. Till next time!
Stay tuned for more updates.
Peace :) Andre!
Well the plane ride was what a 10hr plane ride in coach - long, uncomfortable. Although I must say that I was thankful that the plane was not too packed - this was probably due to the fact that I flew on a Tuesday as opposed to a flight closer to the weekend; which I’ve been told are the times to avoid as everyone leaves on weekends.
The flight went well - I ended up watching the movie Date Night as well as an episode of The Office as well as some other comedy shows. I also watched some House and a bit of CSI. To kill time I also started to read one of the books I picked up before I left; in this case I started to read The Road as I had watched a movie and liked it and figured I needed to read the book. I plan on finishing it quickly as I might use it for teaching English this coming fall.
We made it to Rio on time. I was a bit worried that I might get hassled by the customs people as I do believe I only have about 15 days till I have to renew my visa for another 90 days. Of course it will go back bump back to 180 on Aug 07, 2010 - as August 07 was the day I arrived last year.
In talking with Dennis he said that a gentleman named Danillo “Moto-Serra” would pick me up at the airport. I was told he was a black gentle man, with tattoos, who is also a Vale-Tudo (anything goes) fighter - basically an MMA fighter. I waited for my bags to come around, which they finally did after about 25 minutes. I then walked through the final check in and walked out hoping my ride was there - and of course he was not. If you’ve never been to Rio you won’t get why I was so nervous - I did not want to get swarmed by the Gringo Hawks aka the cab drivers that hound you to take their cab. But for some reason they did not bother me - one guy even tried to help me with calling Denis. I wandered around for about 40 minutes. I then noticed someone walking in and towards the arrival area - he fit the description that Denis gave me so I walked up to him and asked if he was Danilo and he said yes. So I had my ride - it was a long ride as Danilo decided to take the scenic route and even made a stop at his place to pick up a cell phone charger. I was a bit worried I was being taken for a ride but I eventually made it to the Connection Rio house.
When I arrived at the airport it was overcast but no rain as Danilo and I made our way through the city it started to rain and continued all the way to Barra da Tijuca. And has been raining ever since I got here - that’s 4 days now. I must say it is getting kind of depressing. I wanna hit the beach and see some skimpy bikinis…ha ha!
Anyhow, when I arrived the first thing I noticed was that the place was packed and no one really knew where I was going to be sleeping - I was dead tired by this time and just wanted to sleep; after I got something to eat of course. Dennis was not around and was not expected to be in for a few hours. So I grabbed a chair and sat there doing absolutely nothing and tried to get some sleep which is not very easy to do in a house packed with people, clothes, while you’re sitting in an uncomfortable chair.
After about 2hrs I struck up a conversation with one of the gals in the house and told her I was tired and hungry. She ended up lending me her key so I could walk down to Camacha’s restaurant to get some chicken, rice, and beans - pretty much a staple for me. I started to walk down and had barely gotten half a block when I noticed someone running up to me - low and behold it was Denis. He shook hands, hugged and had a brief conversation. He was heading to the house to pick up some of the house members for a training session and I was hungry so we went our separate ways.
I ate breakfast/lunch - went to the bakery to grab a coffee, listened to my I-pod and then walked back home. By this time I learned that I was going to be sleeping in the make-shift room - which is the living room. Either I was happy to be getting bed so I could get some rest. Unfortunately, by the time I got my bed situation sorted out the coffee had kicked in and I was took jacked up to do anything. So I pulled out my computer and surfed the net for a bit.
I was definitely too tired to train that night so I decided to just walk over to Gordo’s academy and take some pictures. I walked in and got to see the new renovations that Gordo’s academy has undergone. When I left last October the gym was just starting their renovations and was pretty rough to say the least. Well it’s safe to say Gordo now has the first class gym that is deserving of his legacy, reputation, and manner. Gordo’s renovated academy is beautiful. I’ve added some pictures to show how it looks now. I’ve yet to wander up stairs but I will post some pictures from up there once I get back.
After I had walked in and settled in a chair - Gordo noticed me and stared at me for a few minutes, smiled then walked over to me. I got the fairly standard handshake and half hug that seems to be the norm amongst Jiu Jitsu practitioners here in Rio. He was very happy to see me and asked how long I was going to be and if I was going to do the Rio Open. I told him a month and that I might do the open - of course I ended up missing the deadline for the Rio Open (it was the day of my arrival and my mind was just not working properly - so I ended up forgetting to registrar.)
You will notice that there is a large mirror in the background of some of the photos - each section of mirror is a little storage place. I thought that was wonderful. Overall, I’d say that being back here is like coming back to my ‘other home’ I just wish that I did not have to travel so far to feel like I’m where I need to be. Life is strange like that. One thing that I’m happy about is the mindset I’m in this time. I don’t have all the baggage I had last year and I just feel so much more positive about this round here in Rio. I do plan on coming back again and again - till my goal is reached.
I really hope that it stops raining soon - so I can get out and go on my walks around Barra - picture taking of course. It just sucks being stuck in the house most of the time. Till next time!
Stay tuned for more updates.
Peace :) Andre!
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Missed flights - not such a plight...
Well I have just gotten through my first full day in Rio and it has been a bit of an adventure and hassle to get to the point where I’m sitting here typing this blog.
First and foremost I was to have arrived in Rio Tuesday morning but things did not go as planned. Being unmarried and single and unwilling to pay (afford) the fees for long term parking I asked my parents if they could drive me up to Calgary and drop me off at the Calgary International Airport. This meant that I was subject to their agenda; which is not normally a big deal. But in this case my mother decided to bring one of her vehicles in to the shop. The plan had been for her to bring it in before 7am and be back at her house to pick me up before 8am. Well it did not go as planned and we did not end up leaving my parents house till about 9:40am - with my flight leaving at 1:10 pm. My mother insisted that we would get there in time. Well long story short - I ended up missing my flight as I arrived at the Airport at 12:15 - which is 5 minutes after they close down the gates for flights heading into the USA. So I was pretty much out of luck. I was a bit bummed out and not really sure what I could do as there were no representatives from the airline that I was flying with who were available to consult with.
I ended up running into my parents as they had dropped me off and went to look for parking as they wanted to see me off. I informed them of what happened and we all just sat around doing nothing for a few moments. After about 30 minutes someone from the airline happened to come back to the ticket booth. There was another gentleman who was in the same boat as I and he was up talking to the lady. So I stood in line to try and find out how “shit out of luck” I was. When it was my turn to talk the lady I told her that I had missed my flight and that I wanted to know what my options were. She looked up the flights and told me that there was one going out later that day but nothing connecting to Rio till the next day. In the end she was able to find a flight out with the same times and connections - just a day later. I told her how much extra would it cost me and she told me that it would cost a little over $200.00 extra and that I would need a credit card. I informed her that I did not have a credit card and that I would have to ask my mother if I could use her credit card - I told her I would be right back. As I was walking back to my parents the lady called me back and said that it was okay and that she would not charge me for the new flight. I was supremely happy that I would not have to pay extra and it is a sign that there is some kindness left in the world.
After re-booking my flight and getting my new itinerary I went back and told my parents that I would be still going to Rio just a day later. Now the issue was whether or not we stayed up in Calgary in a hotel or drive back and get up early and make our way back. In the end we decided to just drive back down to Standoff and leave early Tuesday morning. We ended up doing that and this meant that I got to spend another day with my family before I left - it is always fun to spend time with my niece and nephew.
Nothing really eventful - we drove back home. I had planned on driving into Lethbridge to do a quick workout at the University but decided against as I knew that I had a large trip in front of me the next day and that rest was the best option. I ended up spending the evening with my parents and my nephew and we had some good laughs.
I woke up at 6am Tuesday morning and got ready and as a whole we left for Calgary by 7:20am - a much better start than the previous day. I ended up getting to the Airport at 9:55am. I checked in and got my baggage tagged and was ready to go through customs by 10:15am. But I decided that I wanted to spend a bit of time with my parents so I ended up hanging out for about another 20 minutes. After a few farewells and see-ya soons I was off to make my way through USA customs. Surprisingly it did not take as long as I thought it would. I was all zipped through customs and ready to board by 11:25am. My flight did not leave till 1:10 so I had a bit of time to kill. I ended up eating a hamburger and getting a coffee at star bucks.
Finally it was time to board and that went off without a hitch. My flight was to Houston and from Houston I would connect to Rio. From Calgary to Houston was approximately 3 ½ hrs of flight time. By the time we landed in Houston and I made my way off to find my connection it was just a bit after 6pm Houston time (just after 5pm as they are an hour ahead of us.) First thing I noticed was the heat as I walked off of the plane in Houston. It did not get any better in the terminal as it seemed the whole airport was a bit humid and hot.
Because I had eaten in Calgary and ate on the plane I decided to not eat in Houston - I just ended up having something to drink. I killed time by trying to log on the internet in the terminal and after a few minutes I was able to so but I have noticed that airport ‘free’ internet is pretty spotty at best-unless of course you’re willing to pay up some cash to become one of those elite members. I say no to that.
Anyhow, we were to have left Houston at 8pm but did not end up leaving till almost 9pm as there were some issues with the cleaning of the airplane. I finally boarded the plane and made my way to my seat - I now regret not having a credit card or asking my mother to use her card as I was asked back in Calgary if I wanted to upgrade to a seat with more leg room and did not. As this was a 10hr plus air plane ride. The only consolation was that it was a Tuesday night - midweek - and the plane was not totally packed. Still my legs and feet paid for it as they were aching and sore within a few hours of take off.
Stay tuned for part 2 of this blog - with pictures.
First and foremost I was to have arrived in Rio Tuesday morning but things did not go as planned. Being unmarried and single and unwilling to pay (afford) the fees for long term parking I asked my parents if they could drive me up to Calgary and drop me off at the Calgary International Airport. This meant that I was subject to their agenda; which is not normally a big deal. But in this case my mother decided to bring one of her vehicles in to the shop. The plan had been for her to bring it in before 7am and be back at her house to pick me up before 8am. Well it did not go as planned and we did not end up leaving my parents house till about 9:40am - with my flight leaving at 1:10 pm. My mother insisted that we would get there in time. Well long story short - I ended up missing my flight as I arrived at the Airport at 12:15 - which is 5 minutes after they close down the gates for flights heading into the USA. So I was pretty much out of luck. I was a bit bummed out and not really sure what I could do as there were no representatives from the airline that I was flying with who were available to consult with.
I ended up running into my parents as they had dropped me off and went to look for parking as they wanted to see me off. I informed them of what happened and we all just sat around doing nothing for a few moments. After about 30 minutes someone from the airline happened to come back to the ticket booth. There was another gentleman who was in the same boat as I and he was up talking to the lady. So I stood in line to try and find out how “shit out of luck” I was. When it was my turn to talk the lady I told her that I had missed my flight and that I wanted to know what my options were. She looked up the flights and told me that there was one going out later that day but nothing connecting to Rio till the next day. In the end she was able to find a flight out with the same times and connections - just a day later. I told her how much extra would it cost me and she told me that it would cost a little over $200.00 extra and that I would need a credit card. I informed her that I did not have a credit card and that I would have to ask my mother if I could use her credit card - I told her I would be right back. As I was walking back to my parents the lady called me back and said that it was okay and that she would not charge me for the new flight. I was supremely happy that I would not have to pay extra and it is a sign that there is some kindness left in the world.
After re-booking my flight and getting my new itinerary I went back and told my parents that I would be still going to Rio just a day later. Now the issue was whether or not we stayed up in Calgary in a hotel or drive back and get up early and make our way back. In the end we decided to just drive back down to Standoff and leave early Tuesday morning. We ended up doing that and this meant that I got to spend another day with my family before I left - it is always fun to spend time with my niece and nephew.
Nothing really eventful - we drove back home. I had planned on driving into Lethbridge to do a quick workout at the University but decided against as I knew that I had a large trip in front of me the next day and that rest was the best option. I ended up spending the evening with my parents and my nephew and we had some good laughs.
I woke up at 6am Tuesday morning and got ready and as a whole we left for Calgary by 7:20am - a much better start than the previous day. I ended up getting to the Airport at 9:55am. I checked in and got my baggage tagged and was ready to go through customs by 10:15am. But I decided that I wanted to spend a bit of time with my parents so I ended up hanging out for about another 20 minutes. After a few farewells and see-ya soons I was off to make my way through USA customs. Surprisingly it did not take as long as I thought it would. I was all zipped through customs and ready to board by 11:25am. My flight did not leave till 1:10 so I had a bit of time to kill. I ended up eating a hamburger and getting a coffee at star bucks.
Finally it was time to board and that went off without a hitch. My flight was to Houston and from Houston I would connect to Rio. From Calgary to Houston was approximately 3 ½ hrs of flight time. By the time we landed in Houston and I made my way off to find my connection it was just a bit after 6pm Houston time (just after 5pm as they are an hour ahead of us.) First thing I noticed was the heat as I walked off of the plane in Houston. It did not get any better in the terminal as it seemed the whole airport was a bit humid and hot.
Because I had eaten in Calgary and ate on the plane I decided to not eat in Houston - I just ended up having something to drink. I killed time by trying to log on the internet in the terminal and after a few minutes I was able to so but I have noticed that airport ‘free’ internet is pretty spotty at best-unless of course you’re willing to pay up some cash to become one of those elite members. I say no to that.
Anyhow, we were to have left Houston at 8pm but did not end up leaving till almost 9pm as there were some issues with the cleaning of the airplane. I finally boarded the plane and made my way to my seat - I now regret not having a credit card or asking my mother to use her card as I was asked back in Calgary if I wanted to upgrade to a seat with more leg room and did not. As this was a 10hr plus air plane ride. The only consolation was that it was a Tuesday night - midweek - and the plane was not totally packed. Still my legs and feet paid for it as they were aching and sore within a few hours of take off.
Stay tuned for part 2 of this blog - with pictures.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
2nd last day in Brazil.
By now anyone who reads this will know that I came back to Canada early because of a family emergency that needed to be tended to.
Well those last few days were pretty sad for me. I was just starting to find my place in Brazil and my Jiu Jitsu finally felt like it was reaching it's potential. After years of only being able to train off and on - and some times off for extended periods of time. And all that built up knowledge felt like it was starting to come out on the mats - little by little. Coupled with the knowledge and experience I was picking up down in Rio it felt like the potential was there to take it to new heights. Then of course the craziness started and well it got cut short.
All was not lost as on my second last day in Rio I had gone out to take some pictures and decided to drop by the academy to get some photos from the evening training session that night (Tuesday October 20th) it was a sad time for me as I did not really want to leave; especially under the circumstances that I was leaving under. Emotionally I was a mess those last few days in Rio - and of course it's extended on to my time here in Canada - but I was constantly breaking down: sad because I was leaving, sad because I feared the worst for my father and family, sad because I was not finished what I had started, sad because I was coming home to nothing. I'm not ashamed to say that some tears were shed explaining to Rommel what was going on and why I was not staying as long as I had planned.
I took some pictures of the guys training and after class Gordo and Rommel suggested that I and the guys who were training that night take a group photo. So we all got together for the photo by the training cage with the Gordo logo. Just as we had lined up Gordo pulled out some belts and called me up and awarded me my Blue Belt for winning my category at the Copa Cyclone Jiu Jitsu Tournament 2009. It was very unexpected and a great going away gift - an early present so to speak. It made my leaving a lot more easy because I had achieved one of my Goals for my Rio training trip.
I was able to hold back my emotions and receive my blue belt with a smile on my face. It took a bit longer than i thought it would - i was gunning to receive my blue belt within a month but actually training was a reality check. But I managed to get it done about a month or so later than I had hoped to; but it got done.
There was one more crazy story that occurred on my last day in Brazil but I will save that for my next blog. In the mean time the photos are from my second last day (last evening) in Rio at Gordo's gym.
*That's Gordo in the white Gi giving me my Blue belt and Rommel in the Black Gi after the Group picture.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Progress can and is a good thing - To a life well lived.
I'm finding it hard to keep up with writing the blog. I wanted to do a couple per week - at the very least. But you know stuff just does not always go as you want it. Most days Im just so tired after training all i can do is eat then try to get to bed or just lie around trying to recoup.
Well not much has been going on; well at least nothing of substantial substance. The days are spent sleeping, training, eating, training and trying to find ways to kill time in between sleeping and training.
Im not sure what's up lately but ive felt really weird - not sure if its the heat or not getting enough liquids - just kind of twitchy. hopefully things get sorted out.
i got a private lesson last a week or so back and it's really helped out with my game. I focused on some of the basics for guard passing. I've noticed a real improvement in my posture and ability to make my opponent uncomfortable and uncertain. Just to clarify I worked on my standing guard passes. I would like to do another private with the focus on standing guard passing again to just help with the kinks. I think once I've learned to do standing guard passes better I will see a rise in my submissions because my top game is pretty decent - well at least for my level. i feel that if i can get my standing guard passing and combine it with the Tozi guard passes that I can become a pretty decent and perhaps one day fearsome guard passer.
so I think that the time is right to go out and meet someone - I said that before but i was not ready. I needed to let go of some more thoughts and emotions and memories. But I do believe part of the experience down here is to meet a gal and affirm that I'm someone worth knowing and someone worth a gals time. Also, to stress to myself that they're are other people out there and that "One" heartless gal is not all there is out there...
Im going to see some fights on Sunday - One of the guys from the gym is fighting (Zoro) and we got some tickets at a reduced price. So that is my weekend plans. other than that I hope that Jason is not to hung over so that we can work on some stuff tomorrow (Saturday).
my Father is back home - he was back in the hospital last week. But from all accounts he is doing alot better now and is on the road to recovery. I cannot wait to see them (family) and see my dad again - strong and healthy.
I've been here a little over a month and I'm finally seeing improvements and progress in my jiu jitsu. As mentioned before I'm starting to hold my own with the guys around my skill and belt level. I'm really determined to get my blue belt by mid to late October and start on my long journey to Purple and even longer journey to the black belt; which will be another journey ... but I'll try not to get ahead of myself.
Well not sure what else to write about if something comes up I'll write about it.
I Found this Youtube clip of my favorite song "Here's looking at you Kid" by The Gaslight Anthem. It's a wonderful live version. Take care will the next time.
p.s. the picture is of a gal from the beach a few weeks back - and is really a statement about what is great about not just Brazil and Rio but life and forgetting the pain and moving on with life....and I do mean that nice looking blonde...ha ha!
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Bats in the belfry - Literally!
Another weekend came and went. Time seems to fly down here - of course there are moments when it seems like it is standing still. This usually happens in between training sessions and weekends. It's hard to believe I'll have been here for 5 weeks this Friday. I remember when I got here and was a bit awe struck and thinking that time will never go forward and that I just wanted to go home.
Lot's of things have gone in the past week or so.
1. I attended an MMA show in a large stadium in another part of Rio on Saturday night. There were some big names like Jeff Monson, Pedro Rizzo, Ricardo Arona, Paulo Fihlo. It cost R$50,00 ($50.00 Brazlian dollars) for the tickets and another R$25,00 for the bus ride there and back. Dennis was able to arrange a bus ride for us. The bus driver arrived about 2hrs late and as a result we had to just go straight there - no time to pick up a quick supper or anything. Got there, found the entrance in, found out seats and waited for the fights to begin. Overall, they were not bad but not super great either. The bus ride home was interesting. The fights did not end till about 2am - the bus driver - we had paid for the whole night - had gotten there at about 12am. so he had a little bit of a wait. Anyhow, i think he was pissed off or something and he proceeded to take a long route home then decided to speed through this winding mountain road. Did not say bye to anyone - dropped us off at Camacha's restaurant - a 24hr bar and grill that has some cheap food and usually bad service...but i guess that's part of the charm- then sped off. Overall, a pretty good experience and only my second time out of Barra da Tijuca. The other being the time i got lost on the busses.
2. I'm finally starting to see some little improvements in my Jiu Jitsu. I say this because I am finally starting to hold my own against the blue belts in the academy and depending on who it is - I can survive some of the Purple belts. I'm not getting many subs but not getting subbed as easy as before and getting more and more dominant positions. This is really a good feeling as I was starting to get frustrated and a bit discouraged. I've been told that it usually takes about a month to catch up to the guys that are in you're belt and skill range. The skill level down here is amazing - not that there are not just as skilled guys back home - but the blue belts down here and pretty much every other belt get to roll with browns and blacks on a daily basis. So it's just a lot more skilled guys for the lower belts to learn from. I hope that I can go back home with a profound rise in skill.
3. People are coming and going here at the house. Tomorrow the 2 Irish guys(Paul and Mark) will be leaving. A new guy from Quebec Canada arrived yesterday. Jordan will be leaving in about 2 weeks. Phillip in about 2 and a half, not sure about Alpar - he stays with his girlfriend and is in and out of the house. I'm not sure if any other guys are coming in to the house in the next few weeks. Jason from Australia will be here till November. I just found out the guy from Quebec will be leaving the same day as I am. December 15. It seems so far away but the way that time flies down here. It will be here.
4. I would like to start working on coming back here next June or July. I think that spending time here is good for the soul. Depending on my Parents health I would like to stay for another 4-5 months.
5. I did my first Private lesson today with Rommel Cardozza - a black belt from the guy. We worked on my guard passing. Just some very basic stuff that I was lacking and needed(was not aware of). It was by far the hardest training session I had during my stay here. It occured at about 1pm this afternoon. We ended up in the upper part of the gym and i think all the heat was rising up there. Privates are one hour in length - and it was worth it as Rommel helped me with a lot of little details.
I was completely spent afterwards - came home, showered, walked down with the rest of the guys to grab some lunch, grabbed a coconut and had them chop off the top and I drank the milk inside as Dennis told me it's a good natural way to replenish my electrolytes - kinda like gatorade but with out all the sugar. Which is good because the gatorade down here tastes odd as heck.
I hope to do a few more privates - not as many as I had hoped and initially thought I'd be able to take but a few is better than none.
6. My money situation is still up in the air. I'm waiting on some funding sources as well as the sale of my jeep. Neither of which have come through for me as of yet. I hope that I can get this resolved soon.
7. I'm glad that we are free to roam and leave the house without much trouble. There is a certain individual that is just an annoying, complaining baby. thank god he does not stay here much.
8. I've met a couple of gals but nothing went anywhere. not sure why - just not giving out the right vibe i guess. But hey things will happen when they happen.
9. my dad got put back in the Emergency earlier this week so once again I'm having a hard time dealing with the stress and thoughts that arise from this situation. I'm praying and trying to stay focused and hope that when I return he is back to full health.
i wanted to write more but most days I'm just so tired after evening training - its shower, eat, watch a movie till i fall asleep.
just added a few pics for viewing pleasure..ha ha...
so anyhow, if you read this thanx for taking the time and all the best to you. Will try to keep up as much as possible.
A.
p.s. the reason i named this blog is because a couple of bats made their way into the arena during the fights and during some of the more boring fights - they were the biggest excitement.
Lot's of things have gone in the past week or so.
1. I attended an MMA show in a large stadium in another part of Rio on Saturday night. There were some big names like Jeff Monson, Pedro Rizzo, Ricardo Arona, Paulo Fihlo. It cost R$50,00 ($50.00 Brazlian dollars) for the tickets and another R$25,00 for the bus ride there and back. Dennis was able to arrange a bus ride for us. The bus driver arrived about 2hrs late and as a result we had to just go straight there - no time to pick up a quick supper or anything. Got there, found the entrance in, found out seats and waited for the fights to begin. Overall, they were not bad but not super great either. The bus ride home was interesting. The fights did not end till about 2am - the bus driver - we had paid for the whole night - had gotten there at about 12am. so he had a little bit of a wait. Anyhow, i think he was pissed off or something and he proceeded to take a long route home then decided to speed through this winding mountain road. Did not say bye to anyone - dropped us off at Camacha's restaurant - a 24hr bar and grill that has some cheap food and usually bad service...but i guess that's part of the charm- then sped off. Overall, a pretty good experience and only my second time out of Barra da Tijuca. The other being the time i got lost on the busses.
2. I'm finally starting to see some little improvements in my Jiu Jitsu. I say this because I am finally starting to hold my own against the blue belts in the academy and depending on who it is - I can survive some of the Purple belts. I'm not getting many subs but not getting subbed as easy as before and getting more and more dominant positions. This is really a good feeling as I was starting to get frustrated and a bit discouraged. I've been told that it usually takes about a month to catch up to the guys that are in you're belt and skill range. The skill level down here is amazing - not that there are not just as skilled guys back home - but the blue belts down here and pretty much every other belt get to roll with browns and blacks on a daily basis. So it's just a lot more skilled guys for the lower belts to learn from. I hope that I can go back home with a profound rise in skill.
3. People are coming and going here at the house. Tomorrow the 2 Irish guys(Paul and Mark) will be leaving. A new guy from Quebec Canada arrived yesterday. Jordan will be leaving in about 2 weeks. Phillip in about 2 and a half, not sure about Alpar - he stays with his girlfriend and is in and out of the house. I'm not sure if any other guys are coming in to the house in the next few weeks. Jason from Australia will be here till November. I just found out the guy from Quebec will be leaving the same day as I am. December 15. It seems so far away but the way that time flies down here. It will be here.
4. I would like to start working on coming back here next June or July. I think that spending time here is good for the soul. Depending on my Parents health I would like to stay for another 4-5 months.
5. I did my first Private lesson today with Rommel Cardozza - a black belt from the guy. We worked on my guard passing. Just some very basic stuff that I was lacking and needed(was not aware of). It was by far the hardest training session I had during my stay here. It occured at about 1pm this afternoon. We ended up in the upper part of the gym and i think all the heat was rising up there. Privates are one hour in length - and it was worth it as Rommel helped me with a lot of little details.
I was completely spent afterwards - came home, showered, walked down with the rest of the guys to grab some lunch, grabbed a coconut and had them chop off the top and I drank the milk inside as Dennis told me it's a good natural way to replenish my electrolytes - kinda like gatorade but with out all the sugar. Which is good because the gatorade down here tastes odd as heck.
I hope to do a few more privates - not as many as I had hoped and initially thought I'd be able to take but a few is better than none.
6. My money situation is still up in the air. I'm waiting on some funding sources as well as the sale of my jeep. Neither of which have come through for me as of yet. I hope that I can get this resolved soon.
7. I'm glad that we are free to roam and leave the house without much trouble. There is a certain individual that is just an annoying, complaining baby. thank god he does not stay here much.
8. I've met a couple of gals but nothing went anywhere. not sure why - just not giving out the right vibe i guess. But hey things will happen when they happen.
9. my dad got put back in the Emergency earlier this week so once again I'm having a hard time dealing with the stress and thoughts that arise from this situation. I'm praying and trying to stay focused and hope that when I return he is back to full health.
i wanted to write more but most days I'm just so tired after evening training - its shower, eat, watch a movie till i fall asleep.
just added a few pics for viewing pleasure..ha ha...
so anyhow, if you read this thanx for taking the time and all the best to you. Will try to keep up as much as possible.
A.
p.s. the reason i named this blog is because a couple of bats made their way into the arena during the fights and during some of the more boring fights - they were the biggest excitement.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
If you never let me go I will never let you down.
Another week has come and gone. Time is flying here but at the same time the down time in between training sessions can seem like forever. Lately I've just been so groggy and tired that going out and taking pictures and trying to find new places in Barra da Tijuca has been out of the question.
I think that this is partially due to the fact that I cannot sleep the whole nigh through. Most nights i fall asleep about 1am local time and awake any time in between 3am and 5am - stay away for a few hours then either fall back asleep or stay awake and do the morning training session. Although I must confess that I've been going back to sleep the past week or so. I'm not sure why I'm not getting a full night's sleep. I guess there is still alot on my mind.
This past week has been a bit of a bummer in terms of training. I thought I was making progress but I'm once again finding that I'm getting my butt kicked by pretty much everyone in the gym again. Not sure if it's due to my lack of sleep and general lack of energy or just a down slide or the other guys are improving that much more and I'm stagnating at my current level. I'll try to take in stride and just hope that it's a minor downslide.
the new guys in the house are great to have around and the house seem to be alot more mellow - for the most part at least. So this is totally agreeing with me and my personality.
I was thinking about something one of my house mates said to me last week - he told me something about my jiu jitsu. I had suprised him with a move that i caught him with. He was helping me with my guard passing and then fed me an arm bar but started to roll out of the arm bar and with out thinking in immediately transitioned to the Kimura. This suprised him as he told me he had not seen anyone do this transition. He said something along that "my technique and knowledge is there but that I need to be more confident and believe in myself more." I believe this to be true. That i do lack the killer instinct and that certain "self-centered" quality that alot of jiu jitsu guys (or fighters) have. I'm working on this and it's a day to day thing. I'm pretty mellow by nature so it is a big step for me. Although I do believe quitting my job and coming here to Brazil to pursue one of my passions required alot of confidence and bravery on my part. I do believe that my confidence was shattered last year and throughout most of this year but I'm feeling it coming back - little by little.
I talked to my mom the other day and my dad is back home. He cannot do much and pretty much has to take things easy and rest. But this is a huge relief on my part. One week ago I was ready to go back home to be with my family and my dad. But he is getting better and it's only a matter of time before he's back up and going strong.
One thing i do miss is the fact that I can jump in my vehicle and just drive and go where i want to and not be limited like I am here. I think this is the most I've ever walked as an "Adult". I'm either walking or busing it around. I hope that I can afford to buy a bike so I can do some more exploring around Barra - there is still so much more to see.
I was thinking about when I will be coming home - I'll be here till December 15 and arrive back in Canada December 16 (sometime in the afternoon.) It's going to be blazing hot here in Brazil when I leave but if the past years are any indication - it will be cold and crappy back home in Canada. I'll also be having to live with my parents for awhile. I'm not sure what my plans are when I get back home. I've been thinking that substitute teaching may have to be my job for a while - to make some quick money.
There is a cute gal that sometimes shows up for Jiu Jitsu classes and I got to train with her tonight which was super cool. I also think she lives around my neighborhood. I think I will start showing more interest in her and hopefully things can blossom from there. If not - no biggie - but I would love to get to know this gal. I was too busy trying to focus on the moves that we were shown I did not think to ask her name like I usually do for new training partners. Next time - I will go up and say hi and talk to her. I don't foresee her changing my life but it would be nice to finally move on and take that plunge. You never know till you take that leap!
my sisters where to have come down during the long weekend in October for a quick trip. But with my dad's current health concerns and my mother's health concerns they decided it would be best to stay close to home - just in case. I'm fine with that - Ill survive. It will be comforting to know that they are there for my parents.
I'm going to a big MMA fight card this weekend. so that will be fun and an great experience. I'll definitely post pictures and give a re-cap of the fight night!
I miss going to starbucks and having my usual medium coffee and watching all the pretty girls. then again - Rio is filled to the brim with pretty girls.
I still find myself thinking about things that could have been and what "we" missed out on. But everyday is another day of moving on and healing the wounds that seemed to never heal. One day, One day I'll be something and someone that she will regret letting slip through her hands.
well that's it for now - try to write more - will definitely put up some pics from the fights this weekend.
Peace, love and thong bikinis ;)
I think that this is partially due to the fact that I cannot sleep the whole nigh through. Most nights i fall asleep about 1am local time and awake any time in between 3am and 5am - stay away for a few hours then either fall back asleep or stay awake and do the morning training session. Although I must confess that I've been going back to sleep the past week or so. I'm not sure why I'm not getting a full night's sleep. I guess there is still alot on my mind.
This past week has been a bit of a bummer in terms of training. I thought I was making progress but I'm once again finding that I'm getting my butt kicked by pretty much everyone in the gym again. Not sure if it's due to my lack of sleep and general lack of energy or just a down slide or the other guys are improving that much more and I'm stagnating at my current level. I'll try to take in stride and just hope that it's a minor downslide.
the new guys in the house are great to have around and the house seem to be alot more mellow - for the most part at least. So this is totally agreeing with me and my personality.
I was thinking about something one of my house mates said to me last week - he told me something about my jiu jitsu. I had suprised him with a move that i caught him with. He was helping me with my guard passing and then fed me an arm bar but started to roll out of the arm bar and with out thinking in immediately transitioned to the Kimura. This suprised him as he told me he had not seen anyone do this transition. He said something along that "my technique and knowledge is there but that I need to be more confident and believe in myself more." I believe this to be true. That i do lack the killer instinct and that certain "self-centered" quality that alot of jiu jitsu guys (or fighters) have. I'm working on this and it's a day to day thing. I'm pretty mellow by nature so it is a big step for me. Although I do believe quitting my job and coming here to Brazil to pursue one of my passions required alot of confidence and bravery on my part. I do believe that my confidence was shattered last year and throughout most of this year but I'm feeling it coming back - little by little.
I talked to my mom the other day and my dad is back home. He cannot do much and pretty much has to take things easy and rest. But this is a huge relief on my part. One week ago I was ready to go back home to be with my family and my dad. But he is getting better and it's only a matter of time before he's back up and going strong.
One thing i do miss is the fact that I can jump in my vehicle and just drive and go where i want to and not be limited like I am here. I think this is the most I've ever walked as an "Adult". I'm either walking or busing it around. I hope that I can afford to buy a bike so I can do some more exploring around Barra - there is still so much more to see.
I was thinking about when I will be coming home - I'll be here till December 15 and arrive back in Canada December 16 (sometime in the afternoon.) It's going to be blazing hot here in Brazil when I leave but if the past years are any indication - it will be cold and crappy back home in Canada. I'll also be having to live with my parents for awhile. I'm not sure what my plans are when I get back home. I've been thinking that substitute teaching may have to be my job for a while - to make some quick money.
There is a cute gal that sometimes shows up for Jiu Jitsu classes and I got to train with her tonight which was super cool. I also think she lives around my neighborhood. I think I will start showing more interest in her and hopefully things can blossom from there. If not - no biggie - but I would love to get to know this gal. I was too busy trying to focus on the moves that we were shown I did not think to ask her name like I usually do for new training partners. Next time - I will go up and say hi and talk to her. I don't foresee her changing my life but it would be nice to finally move on and take that plunge. You never know till you take that leap!
my sisters where to have come down during the long weekend in October for a quick trip. But with my dad's current health concerns and my mother's health concerns they decided it would be best to stay close to home - just in case. I'm fine with that - Ill survive. It will be comforting to know that they are there for my parents.
I'm going to a big MMA fight card this weekend. so that will be fun and an great experience. I'll definitely post pictures and give a re-cap of the fight night!
I miss going to starbucks and having my usual medium coffee and watching all the pretty girls. then again - Rio is filled to the brim with pretty girls.
I still find myself thinking about things that could have been and what "we" missed out on. But everyday is another day of moving on and healing the wounds that seemed to never heal. One day, One day I'll be something and someone that she will regret letting slip through her hands.
well that's it for now - try to write more - will definitely put up some pics from the fights this weekend.
Peace, love and thong bikinis ;)
Monday, August 10, 2009
First Day of Training, First venture out alone..
I trained for the first time today. The gym is just around the corner. The first training session starts at 8 am. This is the time I will use to break myself in. This week I will go once a day and get my body used to the rigors of training. Next week I'll try to amp it up to twice a day - not sure how long I can keep that up - it's very hard on the body.
Well training went fairly well - got to roll with 2 black belt and they had their way with me. It was humbling and exciting all at once. I really hope that I can stay injury free and take advantage of the training opportunity that is presented to me.
got home from training - showered up and walked down to the grocery market - picked up some bread and fruit. walked back home ate some bread, a banana and drank some chocolate milk. I was going to go to bed but got invited for lunch with Jeremy. So we walked down to Camacho's a little bar and grill that sells super cheap Chicken, rice, beans, and veggie - all that for R$9 (about 5 bucks in Canadian Funds.) I was not very hungry so I decided to just order a bowl of Acai and a coke zero.
After lunch Jeremy went to the market and I headed to the beach. It's a very long walk when you're tired. Made it to the beach. Did some swimming sunning. In the 4 days that I've been here in Brazil I've tanned so much. I wonder how dark I'll get by the time I leave for home.
After the beach some of the guys went for tacos and 3 of us just went back home. I got home and went straight to bed. This cold is really pushing my boundaries and strength. All I can hope for is that it clears up soon and I can actually breath.
woke up and showered by this time everyone else had gone to train for the evening. I decided to walk down to Camacho's. I somehow managed to order the chicken and rice and 2 litre coke zero. Ate and somehow managed to convey to the waiter that I wanted it packed up. Good stuff!
Well, I'm going to be going to bed soon. Get up early and go train. Live the dream. You know. It's definitely not as lonely now that I've figured out some of this neighborhood. I'll keep going forward.
My first day of training and my first venture out to eat - by myself... I think I'm doing good.
Well training went fairly well - got to roll with 2 black belt and they had their way with me. It was humbling and exciting all at once. I really hope that I can stay injury free and take advantage of the training opportunity that is presented to me.
got home from training - showered up and walked down to the grocery market - picked up some bread and fruit. walked back home ate some bread, a banana and drank some chocolate milk. I was going to go to bed but got invited for lunch with Jeremy. So we walked down to Camacho's a little bar and grill that sells super cheap Chicken, rice, beans, and veggie - all that for R$9 (about 5 bucks in Canadian Funds.) I was not very hungry so I decided to just order a bowl of Acai and a coke zero.
After lunch Jeremy went to the market and I headed to the beach. It's a very long walk when you're tired. Made it to the beach. Did some swimming sunning. In the 4 days that I've been here in Brazil I've tanned so much. I wonder how dark I'll get by the time I leave for home.
After the beach some of the guys went for tacos and 3 of us just went back home. I got home and went straight to bed. This cold is really pushing my boundaries and strength. All I can hope for is that it clears up soon and I can actually breath.
woke up and showered by this time everyone else had gone to train for the evening. I decided to walk down to Camacho's. I somehow managed to order the chicken and rice and 2 litre coke zero. Ate and somehow managed to convey to the waiter that I wanted it packed up. Good stuff!
Well, I'm going to be going to bed soon. Get up early and go train. Live the dream. You know. It's definitely not as lonely now that I've figured out some of this neighborhood. I'll keep going forward.
My first day of training and my first venture out to eat - by myself... I think I'm doing good.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
All day at the Beach
I woke up a bit late - I seem to have contracted the cold that everyone in the house has and it's playing hell with my system. But I managed to drag myself outta bed by 11 am Rio time which would 8 am back home.
It was quickly decided that we would go to the beach today as it was scorching hot this morning. So everyone got ready, guys headed out early and I ran to catch up. I dressed for the beach this time and wore my surf shorts for swimming. We Stopped at this Burger joint along the way and had Breakfast/Lunch. I had a burger with orange juice and a small Acai smoothie.
Again, i must stress the Acai drinks back home are crap, pure crap compared to the Acai here - so darn good. Like if you ever get the chance to come to rio get a bowl of Acai - with granola if you like - you'll be addicted. Plus they have amazing qualities - most antioxidants of any known fruit or veggie, natural elctrolytes on par with Gatorade (minus the processed sugar), omega 3 on par with salmon...just a great all round fruit. If you're stuck in Lethbridge go to booster juice and get one of the Acai Juice bottles - not as great but you get the idea.
So after our meal we headed down to Barra Beach. By this time there was a bit of a mist in the air and it cooled down considerably. Once we got to the beach we picked up some lawn chair that we were supposed to cost R$2 (2 dollars in Brazilian Currancy) but ended up costing me like R$6 - go figure? I guess we got "Gringo'd."
the Beach was awsome - we pitched up near the outter edge as a result it was less crowded; which was great. Because this is my first time near the ocean I'm in there quite a bit (well the 2 days I've been there). It's great - it's like swimming in epson salt...ha ha!
We spent the day at the beach although the ocean was warmer the sun was not as hot as yesterday. Apparently the young lad who invited us to play paint ball is Renzo Gracie's nephew - the kid was built like a tank. Everyone here is so friendly they always wanna shake hands, smile, and the gals love to kiss and get close when they are leaving (Ciao!)
I really like the beach and the long 30 minute or so walk to the beach. I would like to spend as much time there. I was going to train at Gracie Barra which is right near the beach but it's way too far and if I'm going to be training 2 times a day I'd like to not have to walk so far in the dark (it's winter here so it gets dark early). But Gracie Fusion is just around the corner and much more convienent.
I think the key to being my loneliness is just to get out and do something with others or once I get to learn the neighborhood better by myself. Hope you enjoy the pics - I'm going to bed soon as it's already 10pm and I need to be up early to get to morning training.
Still miss my family tonnes but it's getting alot better - I still need to find a way to phone them more - skype is the best option but I don't have a credit card. Things will work themselves out.
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Barra Beach and first times...
so i just got back from Barra Beach - the longest beach in Rio. it's about 30 minute walk from our place. I must say that it was well worth the walk. the city is unbelievable.
im glad i went out and hung out with the guys - really. I would have hated to have been here alone all day. it would have sucked ass. The opportunity is now to move on - forget all the shitty things in Southern Alberta. Have fun, train, live life, maybe get laid once in awhile...the girls here are unbelievablely goodlooking - and alot more friendly.
i did not take my camera as i did not know what to expect nor want to look like a total tourist. but next time...pictures will accompany my beach excurstion.
the beach..what can i say. First time outta north america, first time on a plane, first time in the ocean...unbelievable day.
we are looking for a place to watch ufc hopefully we can find a place - i really wanna watch the fights.
on as sad note - i used my one free call on skype to call home had a nice talk with the parents. but found out that one of the dogs died - the little dalmation suzie got bumped. she was with our family for just over 10 years. So I just like to say I hope that suzie is running wild in doggie heaven and raising hell like she used to.
goodtimes.
A.
im glad i went out and hung out with the guys - really. I would have hated to have been here alone all day. it would have sucked ass. The opportunity is now to move on - forget all the shitty things in Southern Alberta. Have fun, train, live life, maybe get laid once in awhile...the girls here are unbelievablely goodlooking - and alot more friendly.
i did not take my camera as i did not know what to expect nor want to look like a total tourist. but next time...pictures will accompany my beach excurstion.
the beach..what can i say. First time outta north america, first time on a plane, first time in the ocean...unbelievable day.
we are looking for a place to watch ufc hopefully we can find a place - i really wanna watch the fights.
on as sad note - i used my one free call on skype to call home had a nice talk with the parents. but found out that one of the dogs died - the little dalmation suzie got bumped. she was with our family for just over 10 years. So I just like to say I hope that suzie is running wild in doggie heaven and raising hell like she used to.
goodtimes.
A.
Saturday - the beach, ufc
i sleep in for my training session this morning so i wont be able to go train till monday. im okay with that. i need some time to rest and absorb it all.
i cannot lie - i really wish molly would have contacted me before i left - i left it up to her. would have been nice to have her wish me well here or something. But what can you do? i just wonder why she would bother even contacting me in the first place.
some of the guys from the house are going to eat and then the beach - im going to go along then later we are going to find a place to watch UFC fights tonight.
i figure i can sit around being sad, being heartbroken, etc....
or i can get out there and make the most of this once in a life time opportunity.
i pick opportunity....
i cannot lie - i really wish molly would have contacted me before i left - i left it up to her. would have been nice to have her wish me well here or something. But what can you do? i just wonder why she would bother even contacting me in the first place.
some of the guys from the house are going to eat and then the beach - im going to go along then later we are going to find a place to watch UFC fights tonight.
i figure i can sit around being sad, being heartbroken, etc....
or i can get out there and make the most of this once in a life time opportunity.
i pick opportunity....
Friday, August 7, 2009
night out, spending money, acai
so i went out with some of the guys from the house - went out for some juice. at a local restaurant - we had some authentic Acai smoothies and let me tell ya - the acai drinks in Canada crap compared to the Acai drink i just had. Mmm, i would have taken a picture but it's night and it's best to not look like a total tourist and a mugging magnet.
Everything is super expensive here I hope that my jeep sells soon as I just dont know how long i can survive down here with the prices of everything.
did not train tonight - was not feeling to good. I wanted to sleep but my body is not cooperating with me. I'm tired but i cannot sleep - go figure.
I'm feeling a lot better now - i signed up for skype and got a free call to anywhere for 10 minutes. Called home and heard the parents voice and that was definitely a soothing experience. I dont have credit card so I'm going to have to find a way to get someone to put some money on skype so i can get the unlimited calling to anywhere in the world. It works out to $14.00 per month i hope that my Mom or my sister can do this for me.
well I will be training tomorrow - decided to Train at Gracie Fusion as it is just around the corner and not a far walk from the house.
writing is keeping me sane right now - just so overwhelmed with everything. probably try to go to bed soon - wake up and go do an afternoon training session.
till then...(unless I can't sleep then i may be up).
Everything is super expensive here I hope that my jeep sells soon as I just dont know how long i can survive down here with the prices of everything.
did not train tonight - was not feeling to good. I wanted to sleep but my body is not cooperating with me. I'm tired but i cannot sleep - go figure.
I'm feeling a lot better now - i signed up for skype and got a free call to anywhere for 10 minutes. Called home and heard the parents voice and that was definitely a soothing experience. I dont have credit card so I'm going to have to find a way to get someone to put some money on skype so i can get the unlimited calling to anywhere in the world. It works out to $14.00 per month i hope that my Mom or my sister can do this for me.
well I will be training tomorrow - decided to Train at Gracie Fusion as it is just around the corner and not a far walk from the house.
writing is keeping me sane right now - just so overwhelmed with everything. probably try to go to bed soon - wake up and go do an afternoon training session.
till then...(unless I can't sleep then i may be up).
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
last night in lethbridge
well tonight is my last night in Lethbridge for about 5 months. I'm actually goint to miss lethbridge - well at least my family, friends and just knowing where i am and what im doing.
I was supposed to drive up to Calgary to train once more at Gracie Barra Calgary - but my family decided they wanted to have a diner party for me so we ended up going to streetside in.
sitting around using wireless and trying to absorb it all.
I hope that I can sleep; I hope this trip goes smoothly, I hope that I have the money to make it all 4 and a half months.
I hope to forget all the dissappointment and heartache that seems to haunt me here in Southern Alberta.
Next time I post I'll be in Rio - Barra da Tijuca to be exact. I hope to start training by Monday at the latest - preferably at Gracie Barra but might have to go to Gracie Fusion as it is a bit cheap and closer to the house I'll be staying at.
I left it up to Molly to get ahold of me and if she want's to try again it's going to be up to her to win me over - it wont be hard but She has to make the effort. I cannot chase her and get nothing but disappointment and letdown. Not anymore. perhaps I'll meet a hot brazilian gal who'll make me forget all about the heartbreaker from Raymond Alberta.
Well to I hit rio here's to you and life, love and my Jiu Jitsu Adventure....
A.
I was supposed to drive up to Calgary to train once more at Gracie Barra Calgary - but my family decided they wanted to have a diner party for me so we ended up going to streetside in.
sitting around using wireless and trying to absorb it all.
I hope that I can sleep; I hope this trip goes smoothly, I hope that I have the money to make it all 4 and a half months.
I hope to forget all the dissappointment and heartache that seems to haunt me here in Southern Alberta.
Next time I post I'll be in Rio - Barra da Tijuca to be exact. I hope to start training by Monday at the latest - preferably at Gracie Barra but might have to go to Gracie Fusion as it is a bit cheap and closer to the house I'll be staying at.
I left it up to Molly to get ahold of me and if she want's to try again it's going to be up to her to win me over - it wont be hard but She has to make the effort. I cannot chase her and get nothing but disappointment and letdown. Not anymore. perhaps I'll meet a hot brazilian gal who'll make me forget all about the heartbreaker from Raymond Alberta.
Well to I hit rio here's to you and life, love and my Jiu Jitsu Adventure....
A.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Moving Forward
Well, things are looking better. I think my Visa problems have been sorted out and my Brazilian Visa should arrive Tuesday or Wednesday. Hopefully not later as my plane leaves Thursday Aug 06 @ 3pm from Calgary and arrive @ 9am Aug 7 in Rio.
I just picked up the R$550 - $550.00 in Brazilian Currancy today. Paid for the first 3 months of my stay (worked out to $1316.44 in Can funds for 3 months stay.)
Everything seems to be going teh way I'd like them to. Now if only other issues could come to a 'closer' I'd be so much happier leaving.
But I guess it's forward to whatever awaits me.
"I would have been her fool."
I just picked up the R$550 - $550.00 in Brazilian Currancy today. Paid for the first 3 months of my stay (worked out to $1316.44 in Can funds for 3 months stay.)
Everything seems to be going teh way I'd like them to. Now if only other issues could come to a 'closer' I'd be so much happier leaving.
But I guess it's forward to whatever awaits me.
"I would have been her fool."
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Connections Rio -Largo da Barra house
This is where I'm going to be staying while in Brazil - it's located in Barra da Tijuca and approximately 20 mins walk to the Gracie Barra Academy. The Gentleman's name is Dennis. He has been very helpful with answering my questions and helping me out. I hope that things work out. If you plan on journeying to Rio to train or just visit for awhile. Contact him. His website is:
http://www.connectionrio.com/Home_Page.html
Dennis has been very helpful with answering my questions and concerns.
This is a video sent to me by Dennis - a brief Youtube clip to give me an idea of where I'll be staying for my time in Rio.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Brazil
Some of you may or may not know what this blog is about or why I'm writing. Well right now it's mainly to practice my writing and get used to writing on a continual basis. What you may also need to know is that I'm going to be going to Brazil - Aug, 06 till Dec. 15, 2009 to train Brazilian Jiu Jitsu at Gracie Barra in the Barra da Tijuca section of Rio. There is a big story on why I decided to go down and train; which I will write about in the future. Anyhow here is a great Youtube clip that gives you a visual of the place I will be staying for about 5 months.
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