Testing for TaeKwonDo Yellow Belt

While Gramma and Grampa were here visiting, Munchkin had the opportunity to test for her TaeKwonDo yellow belt. She was nervous and excited all rolled up into one as testing day approached. We all (including Gramma and Grampa) headed over the dojang on Saturday morning. One by one the students who were testing went over their steps and forms, answered questions, and performed the tasks requested by the testing panel. When Munchkin’s turn came, I was allowed to enter the room to take pictures. (I had asked her prior to the testing if she was okay with me being in the testing room rather than the windowed waiting room.) I tried to be as quiet as possible and not distract her in any way. It turns out that, according to Munchkin, having me in the room actually helped. **grin** The testing panel did their best to help the students remain calm during the process which I really appreciated. Munchkin went through and did her forms and one steps. I enjoyed having a front row seat to the testing. I was able to hear what most of the onlookers in the waiting room (including Daddy, Gramma, and Grampa) couldn’t during the testing. The testing panel was not just focused on how Munchkin (and the other students) was doing in class. They were also interested in making sure they were keeping up with their responsibilities with both home and school. (I really like that!) One of Munchkin’s concerns with the testing was when she had to do some of her testing with a partner. She did well and breathed a sigh of relief when it was over. 🙂 Gramma and Grampa really enjoyed being able to be there for this exciting time in Munchkin’s life. When you live far apart, it’s always nice when these events line up with a visit from extended family.

Now, the kicker with all of this was that Munchkin wouldn’t find out right away whether or not she earned her yellow belt. The panel would go over their notes to determine if they met the requirements and then a week later the students would find out if they earned their belts. At that time, they would present the belts to the students in front of the class. Unfortunately, Munchkin came down sick shortly after testing which meant that she missed a few classes and didn’t know until last night how she had done during testing, but I’m pleased to announce that she earned her yellow belt!