Something old, Something new, Something Bold

Thanks to all the parents and family members who supported my programs in 2008! This next year promises to be hold new challenges for us all. So...yesterday John-Eddie calls me and says he needs to talk, OK... Mr. Martin I joined the Marines! I have mixed emotions - I am sad to see him go as he has helped me a lot with teaching, filming DVDs and you tube clips. He has grown to be a fine young martial artist and second degree black belt. I am happy for him in the respect he is going out into the world and will truly experience his own new challenges. I have done what I can to prepare him, now we will see another chapter in the life of someone I have mentored. Matt Watson left some five years ago under similar circumstances, became a Marine, completed two tours in Iraq, got married, got divorced, came back and has the desire to have his own Karate Training Center. His story is still unfolding and I believe he will be successful. Zack Alford left for a year and now he's back working on his second degree black belt and is growing into a fine instructor. He too has the desire to have his own center and his dad just got his first black belt. I am truly proud of him also. The year 2009 will truly hold new and unknown challenges in many ways. I am excited about teaching more self defense and kickboxing skills in every class, I am excited about my red belt program, I am ready to boldly face the internet with new tools just like this blog. Watch for pictures of the team members I trained from as far back as the 1980's with my new Thunderbirds web site. Watch for my "Self Defense Training Series" on Amazon.com. 2009 promises to be bold!

Is there time off from my job?

Well for me the simple answer is no, I am a workaholic. Finding time to relax is very important to recharge the batteries! Yesterday I did play golf and had a great time spending quality time with my son. In the early evening I worked on my "Self Defense Training Series" which will be published in early 2009 on Amazon.com. Today my wife and I also spent quality time going to see the movie Marley and Me. I don't think there was a dry eye in the house. I didn't read the book however even though you know the outcome of the movie it still gets your heart -especially if you are a dog lover or had a close pet you've lost. Don't forget this upcoming week is our new year's camp for karate kids.

Time off

Today I am going to play golf with my oldest son, we don't get to play that often and since its the holidays I am going to get in some relaxation time. Cheers.

Sign-up now

Once again Happy Holidays, I have added a e-mail sign up for my blog and placed the blog on feedburner. If you would like please subscribe and get all my latest updates and advanced info on my new products - where you can purchase and any specials!

Happy Holidays

Merry Christmas to all!!! Look for lots more on 2009, I have a lot of projects in the works. Couldn't get over how many of you text me this am - THANKS and back at ya!
Guess I'll have to learn more about this text message world - anyway Happy Holidays!

Fox 28 Panama City's Got Talent

Am excited as this afternoon Dan Rogo from Panama City's Got Talent TV show which airs on Fox 28 on Sundays at 9:30pm will be filming with us - am excited to see what we come up with.