Thursday we went to Berlin: we arrived at 17.30 and we were picked up by Nicolai. After bringing us to his apartment he took us to the town center. We visited the Imax theater and had a late dinner at a Bulgarian Restaurant. Nice food and nice Grappa!

The next day Patricia and me went out on a tourist trip, we visited Potsdammer Platz, Alexanderplatz and much more. Berlin is nice during this time: many Christmass markets, gluhwein and lots of food!

Around 7 we were picked up by Rene ( our 'personal' driver: Thanks Rene!!!) and we had dinner with Mariette, Jan, Greta and some other guys at the Bulgarian Restaurant ( again good food and grappa....)

On Saturday we attended Mariette's seminar: we trained from 11 until 16 with only short breaks. During the morning session Mariette showed just one technique with many, many variations which emphasised balance breaking, distance and control. The last part of the day we did Yari: Mariette showed us Kamae and we did basic forms. Before we knew the training ended! I must say that this training was, again, very great from everyone's faces I could see the energy and fun we had!

At night we had a 'christmass' party at a Turkish restaurant: this was the best Turkish food I have ever had !!! During this dinner Nicolai made an announcement: on behalf of his Dojo he thanked Mariette for her support and also announced some graduations: the graduates were very surprised and happy and from my point of view: well deserved! :clap:

The next day Patricia and me did the seminar. We started with some Ukemi, Gyoko Ryu Taihenjutsu and did some Taijutsu based on San Chi no Kata and Kihon Happo. After the first break we did some Sword: drawing, cutting and mutodori. The third part was reserved for the Rokushakubo, were we did Kamae and basic forms.

Normally people get tired after a long training, but in this case it seems everyone was getting more energy by the hour! So we trained until 16.30.

Needless to say this was agreat week-end! Especially due to the great hospitality and friendship from Nicolai's dojo.

Thanks to Rene for being our driver, to Burkhard and Daisy for Sunday evening ( ten masked men! :tu: ) and Nicolai for his place to stay, and of course everyone else for a great time!

Michel