A quick word about yesterday's martial arts tournament. Paul came in third, which is OK. He's the littlest one with the least exprience of the group. In a month, he'll test for the orange belt, but based on his skill level, we think he won't have any problems with it. It's been enjoyable to see him get better and better and his confidence go up. It took him going to the first testing and doing well. It is enjoyable to see him size up his opponent at the start of the match. It reminds me of the way he was when he was little - he'd always hang back a little and then move into the activity, scoping things out first. I'm impressed with the two fellows who run the school - one, in particular, really seems to understand how to deal with children. The respect that the kids show the teachers is, for some of the kids, perhaps the only time they obey an adult. Not for Paul, of course, because he's quite respectful of his dad; as a result, he's an obedient and cooperative young man in general. I keep telling him, not really jokingly, although I say it in a joking fashion, that we are civilizing him. His wife will appreciate it :) although she'll be shocked that he expects a home cooked meal every night.