Author Topic: Prayer and Daily Expression of Gratitude  (Read 1060006 times)

Guide Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #150 on: August 08, 2008, 10:01:38 AM »
8/8/08

Today, I am grateful for an important decision regarding the next academic year that was made this morning. A weight has been lifted and all anxiety is gone.
Dr. Bryan Stoops, Ed.D.
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califkali

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #151 on: August 08, 2008, 07:18:54 PM »
Today, I am grateful that my eldest son will be with me at the gathering and that last night I met his girlfriend of 1 year. I am grateful of my wife's spirit and my youngest sons dedication to excelling and serving in the Navy.   Craig

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #152 on: August 09, 2008, 02:01:47 PM »
Today, I am grateful for the good friends in my life.
Dr. Bryan Stoops, Ed.D.
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http://stoops-martial-arts-academy.com/
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Guide Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #153 on: August 10, 2008, 09:28:35 PM »
Today, I am grateful for a fine day of stickfighting amongst good, friendly, authentic people.
Dr. Bryan Stoops, Ed.D.
Semi-Private/Private Instruction
Offered in Chino Hills, California
JKD/FMA/Silat/muay Thai/DBMA,
Savate/Wing Chun/grappling
http://stoops-martial-arts-academy.com/
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Crafty_Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #154 on: August 11, 2008, 01:26:21 PM »
I am grateful today to listen to the silence that comes after a Gathering  8-)

califkali

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #155 on: August 11, 2008, 08:40:47 PM »
I am grateful today that I came home dented but in one piece, and that my son was proud his dad went out and gave it a go. (my wife wasn't to happy when I got home and took my shirt off). Thanks to all.....Craig

Guide Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #156 on: August 11, 2008, 09:53:11 PM »
Today, I am grateful to have signed my resignation with my old school district and to have signed a contract in a new district that will bring me back to the high school level after two years in junior high. I have five years of work with the old district of which I am proud, but it's time for a change. I am grateful for the opportunity to make the 08-09 academic year the best ever! I hope I can be a more positive, happier Guide Dog!
« Last Edit: August 12, 2008, 02:35:16 PM by Guide Dog »
Dr. Bryan Stoops, Ed.D.
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Savate/Wing Chun/grappling
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Kaju Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #157 on: August 13, 2008, 11:52:53 AM »
I am extremely greatfull for the wonderful treasure given to me by C-Howling Dog (thats does have a nice ring to it Sir)

The magazine is a rare find and in such great condition!  I am humbled by your generosity.

I am greatfull for being honored by Guro Crafty naming me "Candidate-Kaju Dog".

I am greatfull for the surgery performed on my L-Knee,  more greatfull for the PAIN Meds...

Dr. said, "My knee is the worst he had ever seen".  Full blown ACL,PCL, Bilateral meniscus destroyed, Tibia worn down and needed drilling to promote healing and growth. 

Greatfull for the USN providing me the time needed and freedom to rehabilitate my knee, The Right Way.

Greatfull for Lonley Dog's Kali Fitness DVD - I will be studying and utilizing the Kali Fitness DVD to its fullest during and after my recovery...  Great DVD, If you don't have it, GET IT.   A must for any serious stick fighter.

Greatfull for Pretty Kitty's kindness and good heart.  My Wife is sporting the ladies DB's tank top with much pride and glow about her.  I plan to have her accompany me to the next Gathering in California.  Her SUV also sports the DB's TM stickers. 

Greatfull for Pappy Dogs support of the Gathering with GREAT deals on fighter apperal/weapons/etc.

Greatfull for Linda's help and friendship. 

Greatfull for all the Dog Brothers and Future Dog Brothers, Tribe members.  Junkyard Dog / Jeremy, Im greatfull for your accepting to fight a cripple.  LOL

 8-)
V/r,

Kaju Dog
dw.kajupit@gmail.com

Howling Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #158 on: August 13, 2008, 12:37:52 PM »
Woof C-Kaju Dog, Iam glad you like the mag. I was hoping that you would.
It was also my honor to meet you, and to also watch your true warrior spirit in action as you took the mat on that bad wheel of yours.
Good health and a speedy recovery to you! It is my honor to be a part of the dog brothers tribe and to have warrior brothers like yourself. For you and all the dog brothers tribe I'am truly greatful!

I also want to howl at Dog Pound Davis, It was also great to see you, you looked in great shape and fought well(some very tough scraps) Keep fighting brother I'am greatful to you as you inspire me.....again Happy Birthday!

I'am also greatful to my fighters who displayed the fruit of their labors at the Gathering and to Don for giving those kind words on the gathering thread, I appreciate it....it has been good training with you and Dan.....
The adventure continues!
Thanks again Guro Crafty (guiding force) and pretty kitty for doing all that you do!
                                                                                   C-HD
Howling Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #159 on: August 13, 2008, 03:57:13 PM »
Today, I am grateful to have just a little more summer vacation to spend with my son and my wife, and I am grateful for the promise of getting back on a good family/work/training/grad. school routine when the academic year begins.
Dr. Bryan Stoops, Ed.D.
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Offered in Chino Hills, California
JKD/FMA/Silat/muay Thai/DBMA,
Savate/Wing Chun/grappling
http://stoops-martial-arts-academy.com/
bryan@stoopsma.com

Guide Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #160 on: August 14, 2008, 09:56:01 PM »
Today, I am grateful for a little more time to get organized before life gets back into full swing.
Dr. Bryan Stoops, Ed.D.
Semi-Private/Private Instruction
Offered in Chino Hills, California
JKD/FMA/Silat/muay Thai/DBMA,
Savate/Wing Chun/grappling
http://stoops-martial-arts-academy.com/
bryan@stoopsma.com

Guide Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #161 on: August 15, 2008, 10:32:19 AM »
Today, I am grateful to have watched the two young, American women win the gold and the silver last night in gymnastics. I will admit being a bit moved and motivated to get to work NOW to prepare for the next Gathering.
Dr. Bryan Stoops, Ed.D.
Semi-Private/Private Instruction
Offered in Chino Hills, California
JKD/FMA/Silat/muay Thai/DBMA,
Savate/Wing Chun/grappling
http://stoops-martial-arts-academy.com/
bryan@stoopsma.com

Kaju Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #162 on: August 15, 2008, 12:55:49 PM »
Im thankfull for having such a wonderful Wife and great kids.  They are really stepping up to help their Dad in his time of limited mobility.

PS
*Side bar:

I was wondering if Sled Dog has a brother named Denis?

In the gift from C-Howling Dog, there is a nice article about Denis Gelinas from Montreal.  I am wondering if they are related.  Yip!

What a treasure I am finding in the kindness of my fellow Dog Brother.   :-)
V/r,

Kaju Dog
dw.kajupit@gmail.com

Guide Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #163 on: August 16, 2008, 03:58:19 PM »
Today, I am grateful for a nice day outdoors, followed by a nice lunch with family.
Dr. Bryan Stoops, Ed.D.
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JKD/FMA/Silat/muay Thai/DBMA,
Savate/Wing Chun/grappling
http://stoops-martial-arts-academy.com/
bryan@stoopsma.com

JAK

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #164 on: August 17, 2008, 01:42:06 PM »
I am thankful today and everyday for my team mates. Who serve proudly as warriors and for those how have made the ultimate sacrifice that we may have the opportunity to persue the things that we love and hold dear.

And as always for my wife and two children who put up the the craziness of my (one minute I'm here the next I'm gone) life with little or no complaints.

I am also thankful for those such as Marc, Gabe, Michael Janich and Kelly McCann among others for doing what they do when they take time out away from their families to train us to be warriors and not worriers.

JAK
Train like a madman, fight like a demon

Guide Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #165 on: August 17, 2008, 08:56:57 PM »
Today, I am grateful for my step-father, who spent the entire day at my home, helping with home repairs.
Dr. Bryan Stoops, Ed.D.
Semi-Private/Private Instruction
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JKD/FMA/Silat/muay Thai/DBMA,
Savate/Wing Chun/grappling
http://stoops-martial-arts-academy.com/
bryan@stoopsma.com

Crafty_Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #166 on: August 17, 2008, 09:32:00 PM »
Today I am grateful to have accompanied my son to a birthday party and to have watched as I saw him swim in the ocean for the first time with his friends.

I first watched for a while to get a sense of how good his judgment was (pleasantly relieved to see it to be pretty good, , , today at least) and then I joined him.

Guide Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #167 on: August 19, 2008, 12:43:02 AM »
8/18/08

Today, I am grateful for a morning of setting up a new classroom, running many errands, attending a kali/Jun Fan class, and then a nice meeting with my training group.  It was a day well spent.
Dr. Bryan Stoops, Ed.D.
Semi-Private/Private Instruction
Offered in Chino Hills, California
JKD/FMA/Silat/muay Thai/DBMA,
Savate/Wing Chun/grappling
http://stoops-martial-arts-academy.com/
bryan@stoopsma.com

Crafty_Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #168 on: August 19, 2008, 05:15:40 AM »
Grateful for the moment with my 6 year old daughter and her best friend, sitting in my truck and watching a monster racoon crossing the street in front of our house.  The expressions on their faces were priceless.

Tony Torre

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #169 on: August 19, 2008, 04:39:34 PM »
Today I'd like to express my gratitude to my friend Carmen and her family for inviting me and my family to stay at their home to wait out Hurricane Fay.  I'm also very grateful it turned out to only be a tropical storm.

Tony Torre
Miami Arnis Group
www.miamiarnisgroup.com

Crafty_Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #170 on: August 19, 2008, 08:35:02 PM »
True friends. 8-)

Guide Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #171 on: August 19, 2008, 10:00:48 PM »
Today, I am grateful to have had a nice summer vacation with my family.
Dr. Bryan Stoops, Ed.D.
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Offered in Chino Hills, California
JKD/FMA/Silat/muay Thai/DBMA,
Savate/Wing Chun/grappling
http://stoops-martial-arts-academy.com/
bryan@stoopsma.com

JAK

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #172 on: August 23, 2008, 12:26:09 PM »
I am thankful for the "cool" weather here in Eastern OK makes knife training just a little easier on my small group. :evil:

JAK
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Crafty_Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #173 on: August 24, 2008, 04:48:42 AM »
Grateful to be on family vacation visiting my mom, who has mostly been living in Peru, but at the moment is back in the US-- wonderful to see her and her grandchildren getting to know each other.

Guide Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #174 on: August 24, 2008, 11:21:05 PM »
8/24/2008

I recently reconnected with an old high school friend.  We found each other in February and I was able to get together with her for the first time in April.  Her husband, who I met about seven year ago, is dying of cancer.  He has passed the date that the doctors believed that he would die on about three years ago.  He recently made the decision that chemotherapy is not for him and that he wants to try to enjoy the time he has left.  His wife has begun to make plans for his passing.  Today, my wife and son had the chance to met my friend for the first time, and her husband.  I am grateful for a fun day, in a very positive household, that was inspiring to both my wife and myself.  My friend is really an amazing woman, and my wife commented that she was one of the most positive people she had ever met.  I am also grateful to have reconnected with such a good friend, and authentic person.  This was not meant to be a post to bum anyone out.  I am truly grateful for what was a VERY positive day.
Dr. Bryan Stoops, Ed.D.
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bryan@stoopsma.com

Guide Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #175 on: August 27, 2008, 09:23:51 PM »
I recently moved back to teaching high school from the two years at the junior high level. I am grateful for my new position in what seems very nice school.

Today, one of my freshman students came up to my desk after I had given a very easy assignment in which the students needed to interview one another and present their findings to the class in order to get to know one another better.  This student looked a little rattled.  When I asked what was the matter, he began to tell me about his speech impediment.  He very diligently worked through the words as he stuttered.  He asked if he might be excused from the assignment and have an alternative.  I told him that I didn't have any problem if he turned in the information in written form that he would have read aloud.  He looked incredibly relieved and he thanked me.  After he returned to his desk (pardon me for sounding wimpy), I had to force myself from getting a little misty eyed.  I admired the boy's authenticity, and his assertiveness in the face of what is a pretty severe stutter.  I was also moved by how easy it was to help wipe the rattled look of of his face by being a little nice.  Maybe it's just a teacher thing, but I am grateful for the interaction.  It made me feel good to try and help him.
Dr. Bryan Stoops, Ed.D.
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Maxx

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #176 on: August 27, 2008, 10:05:07 PM »
Today I am Grateful to realise that I serve in the Greatest Military for the greatest country on this Planet earth.

Guide Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #177 on: August 28, 2008, 11:54:46 PM »
Grateful for a positive 1st week at a new job location!   :-D  Too soon to say it's ALL amazing.  It's still the honeymoon phase!
Dr. Bryan Stoops, Ed.D.
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bryan@stoopsma.com

Crafty_Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #178 on: August 29, 2008, 05:44:09 AM »
For a long time my son has wanted to see NYC and yesterday was the first of two days.  We did Statue of Liberty and a walk through some of my old stomping grounds in Central Park, and a night time walk in the neighborhood.  He and his sister are just beaming as am I to share with him places where I was a boy at the age that he is now.


Guide Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #179 on: August 30, 2008, 01:32:15 PM »
Saw John Williams last night at the Hollywood Bowl.  As someone who was raised right at the perfect time to have Raiders of the Lost Ark and the original Star Wars trilogy change my perceptions forever about what a movie could be, I am grateful to have heard both "The Raiders March" and "The Imperial March" live last night.   :)
« Last Edit: August 30, 2008, 09:09:16 PM by Guide Dog »
Dr. Bryan Stoops, Ed.D.
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Kaju Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #180 on: August 30, 2008, 04:07:10 PM »
Im greatful for my daughter making it onto her schools volley ball team.  As long as she keeps her grades up, it should be a good year.


In addition the knee is healing well and I am anxious to get past the non-weight bearing time.  Only 4 weeks to go  :oops:

I start teaching again next week.  It's gonna be interesting teaching from a chair for a while...  :?  Gotta do what ya gotta do.

Anxious students await  8-)
V/r,

Kaju Dog
dw.kajupit@gmail.com

Guide Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #181 on: August 31, 2008, 09:13:01 PM »
Grateful for the opportunity to help a friend today and to make another friend feel good.
Dr. Bryan Stoops, Ed.D.
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Savate/Wing Chun/grappling
http://stoops-martial-arts-academy.com/
bryan@stoopsma.com

Kaju Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #182 on: August 31, 2008, 09:49:15 PM »
Greatful for a bit of cooler weather and a fine day at the park with the family.   8-)
V/r,

Kaju Dog
dw.kajupit@gmail.com

Crafty_Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #183 on: September 01, 2008, 07:31:47 AM »
Grateful for a wonderful family vacation visiting my mom in upstate NY and taking my children to see the place of my youth-- NYC, and grateful to be back home.

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #184 on: September 01, 2008, 05:07:53 PM »
Grateful for a nice Labor Day with my family.
Dr. Bryan Stoops, Ed.D.
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Guide Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #185 on: September 02, 2008, 03:27:34 PM »
Grateful for a fast-paced, productive day at work, that went by in such a way that I have the momentum and energy I need to accomplish several errands this evening.
Dr. Bryan Stoops, Ed.D.
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Savate/Wing Chun/grappling
http://stoops-martial-arts-academy.com/
bryan@stoopsma.com

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #186 on: September 02, 2008, 05:54:20 PM »
I went to a parent teacher conferences tonight and got two good reports.

Healthy and happy and learning.

I am on my knees thankful for my childreen and my life.

Terry

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #187 on: September 04, 2008, 08:17:28 PM »
Grateful for a time today to get some key errands done, while my wife watched the little one.
Dr. Bryan Stoops, Ed.D.
Semi-Private/Private Instruction
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Savate/Wing Chun/grappling
http://stoops-martial-arts-academy.com/
bryan@stoopsma.com

Guide Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #188 on: September 06, 2008, 10:26:36 AM »
Today, I am grateful for a slow, relaxed day with few expectations. I need to get some work done for grad. school, and review some classic novels that I will be teaching in the next few weeks.
Dr. Bryan Stoops, Ed.D.
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JKD/FMA/Silat/muay Thai/DBMA,
Savate/Wing Chun/grappling
http://stoops-martial-arts-academy.com/
bryan@stoopsma.com

Crafty_Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #189 on: September 06, 2008, 09:19:26 PM »
A fine day working Kali Tudo with Dogzilla and the Hawaii clan  8-)

Tom Stillman

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #190 on: September 07, 2008, 08:40:13 AM »
I was glad to see Dogzilla added to the list of elders. It just feels right.  :-)
Live a good, honorable life. Then when you get older and think back, you'll be able to enjoy it a second time.  dalai lama

Crafty_Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #191 on: September 07, 2008, 10:22:34 AM »
After the seminar today we did a bit together and he showed me his current understandings and movement.  Deeply satisfying to see how he has grasped and evolved with the things we have worked together over the years, his understading of DBMA.  His teaching here in Hawaii is deep and strong.

Guide Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #192 on: September 07, 2008, 01:52:28 PM »
I am pleased to have had the chance to meet and fight with Dogzilla at the 3 day Gathering.

Today, I am grateful to not have a bad feeling in the pit of my stomach because I have to go back to work tomorrow.
Dr. Bryan Stoops, Ed.D.
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Offered in Chino Hills, California
JKD/FMA/Silat/muay Thai/DBMA,
Savate/Wing Chun/grappling
http://stoops-martial-arts-academy.com/
bryan@stoopsma.com

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #193 on: September 07, 2008, 02:32:44 PM »
I'm grateful that I'll be getting my Mustang GT back from the police next week.  Here is the back story:

So here’s the deal. About two months ago I took my 1990 Mustang GT to the shop to get it’s annual inspection. I’ve had the car since I was sixteen. In fact, it was my first car. I am now twenty-six and still baby the car daily. I’ve only managed to put 59K on it in the past ten years only driving it when I think the weather is worthy of hitting the pavement with her. Needless to say, I love the car with a passion.

I was expecting the job to take a day or so and for my mechanic to call me back letting me know it was done. Sure enough he called back, but it wasn’t a call to inform me it had passed inspection. Rather it was to give me some horrible news.

The first words out of my mechanic’s mouth were “when did you come and get your car?”

I laughed and asked, "What do you mean? Are you screwing with me?”

He replied with, “Ah no, it’s not here Ryan.”

It was with this news that I found out that my 1990 Mustang GT 25th Anniversary was stolen. Someone had come into my mechanic’s lot, loaded it onto a flat bed and taken her away. I contacted the insurance company, filled out the paperwork, scanned in my years of receipts showing that this car was in impeccable condition and was on my way to getting an insurance check. Something bothered me however, I felt as if it was out there, and would possibly be found. I put off the final steps of finalizing the insurance claim until a few days ago. The last step was to sign over the title to the insurance company, send it to them and they would send me my check. I had the title in the envelope, signed and stamped, ready to go out with the mail the next day. It seemed like one of the longest walks I had ever taken walking to my mail box, putting the title in and raising the outgoing mail flag on the box. It had taken two months but I had finally gotten over the fact that I was never going to see my Mustang again. Instead, I was handing over the title for under half of what I actually put into the far, you gotta love the “blue book” value. In any event, I went to work that night, did my business and came back late, around 1AM. I was winding down getting ready to go to bed when I saw my cell phone light up. Who could possibly be calling me at this time? Without hesitation I realized it must be important so I picked it up. Seeing an out of state number that was not coming up on caller ID alarmed me but I answered it anyways.

“Hello?” I answered

“Mr. Gruhn?” the man said.

“Yes Sir.”

This is Trooper Dillian with the State Police.

O god I thought to myself, what did I get myself into now?!

“Mr. Gruhn, . . . . we found your car.”

My heart pretty much jumped out of my chest! I sprung to my feet and started drilling him for answers. It turns out that this was a multi-state deal with numerous mustangs that were getting chopped up and sold. I half didn’t want to know but I asked, “is my car okay?” He said that it was intact and actually had a good bit of work done to it; headers, paint, etc. However, it wasn’t in the best shape. He informed me that it will be almost a month until I can even see it again because it has to be booked into evidence, finger printed, etc. On top of that, if I really wanted it I would have to drive down to West Virginia to get it. It took no time at all for me to realize that I will actually be reunited with my first real love. A 1990 Mustang GT that I once laid eyes on and said that I would never let it go. It might sound corny but I had planned on getting this car since it came out in 1990 and I was eight years of age. It was a plan to never let go of her.


I can't wait to get it back!
Ryan “Guard Dog” Gruhn
Guro / DBMAA Business Director
Dog Brothers Martial Arts Association
"Smuggling Concepts Across the Frontiers of Style”
ryan@dogbrothers.com | www.dogbrothers.com

Kaju Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #194 on: September 07, 2008, 05:47:13 PM »
Are you sure you're not getting set up for a "pimp my ride" episode?  Good luck brother.   :evil:
V/r,

Kaju Dog
dw.kajupit@gmail.com

tankerdriver

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #195 on: September 08, 2008, 08:06:36 PM »
I am grateful I work for a company that gives paid lunches and to the In and Out Burger around the block from said work.

Guard Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #196 on: September 08, 2008, 09:49:26 PM »
Are you sure you're not getting set up for a "pimp my ride" episode?  Good luck brother.   :evil:

I wish.
Ryan “Guard Dog” Gruhn
Guro / DBMAA Business Director
Dog Brothers Martial Arts Association
"Smuggling Concepts Across the Frontiers of Style”
ryan@dogbrothers.com | www.dogbrothers.com

Kaju Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #197 on: September 08, 2008, 10:37:40 PM »
Greatfull for having a new student start tonite and class went great.  Leg is feeling pretty good (knocks on wood). 

 8-)
V/r,

Kaju Dog
dw.kajupit@gmail.com

C-Kumu Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #198 on: September 08, 2008, 10:52:16 PM »
Grateful for the opportunity to train with Guro Crafty today.   
It was very cool! :mrgreen:
« Last Edit: September 08, 2008, 11:31:48 PM by Robertlk808 »
"You see, it's not the blood you spill that gets you what you want, it's the blood you share. Your family, your friendships, your community, these are the most valuable things a man can have." Before Dishonor - Hatebreed

Crafty_Dog

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Re: Daily Expression of Gratitude
« Reply #199 on: September 09, 2008, 01:00:31 AM »
I am grateful for the chance to further get to know the Hawaii Clan and for our time together.