Finally...finally I got my orange belt two weeks ago! I actually passed the test three weeks or so ago. But my instructor wanted me too "pass it strong" before getting my orange belt. And on my test two weeks ago I just nailed it! I am now having fun learning the purple belt techniques. There are 7 techniques for the purple belt (there were 6 for the orange belt, in addition to learning the basic stances, blocks, movements, kicks, and punches). I have been shown 4 of them: Stopping the Storm, Raking Hammer, Hidden Wing, and Circling Serpent. So far my favorite two are Stopping the Storm and Raking Hammer. Circling Serpent is the most complex technique I've learned thus far. It involves not only a block (a parry), but a well placed back fist, a reverse punch to the rib area, a knife edge kick to the back of the knee, and a take down as well. It is fun practicing and learning this one. But it is complex. It's a great challenge! I am enjoying it.
