I haven’t been inspired to write creatively in a while. Life, worries, the daily grind; all these have conspired to sap my creative juices. Even with Aikido. Despite Aikido.

You know how it is. Or maybe you don’t, in which case I envy you. Whatever you’re doing, keep doing it. Or write a book: You’ll make a fortune.

But these past few days Dee and I have been training at New York Aikikai, taking as many classes as we could.

I have the beginnings of a cold, my bones ache, and the weather was unseasonably cold.

I feel wonderful.

For a few amazing days, I felt like my old self again. My Aikido felt joyful. How could it not? The joy at the dojo is palpable. It affects everything it touches, to my eyes at least.

Dee and I want to thank Sensei, Noriko, and all the instructors and members who have made our visits so memorable over the years. Thank you, every one of you.

I’ve said it before, but it bears repeating – I ♥ NYA.