Dinner with the fam

Sunglass sensations

He's our World Champ!

Saturday we headed to Schaumburg Illinois (which feels like home away from home) to watch Ricardo compete in the Shotokan World Championships. There were about 20 countries there from all over the world competing, including kids. Ricardo competed Saturday morning in the elite Kata (forms) division and was only 1 of 4 black belts in the country competing for the US in this division. We were so proud of him for being chosen and couldn't wait to watch him kick butt! He won all of the matches on Saturday and was in the top 8 which at that point meant he was in the top 8 in the world in his sport. Sunday he did a great job in the semi-finals and ended up in 5th place. Although, he was a little disappointed that he didn't get to the finals. I think that given he is placed in the WORLD at this point is nothing to be disappointed about. My two best friends and my family drove up to see him compete and we had a great time hanging out and spending time together at this important event. On Sunday our good friends drove up to support him which is something we're so appreciative of from everyone. We know it's a sacrifice to give up a Saturday and Sunday and a very long drive to boot. Thanks to everyone that gave us their time to support Ricardo!

After all is said and done, there's nothing like a hug!

At the Woodfield mall...no Alexander is not drunk!

Hanging out in the gym after the competition

Ricardo, Jose, and Cha Chi

Kata - He won this match in a unanimous vote from the refs

That's a fine looking group I must say

Really Steve...you look like the creepy guy

Had to take this photo because it was too stinkin cute...

Round two and three...won these too!

Me and my besties (sister included) and Alexander during one of the matches.

Abuelo has arrived

Ricardo's dad arrived in Indy today. Alexander wasn't too sure about but I think he'll come around.

A grandparent's view

I got all 167 photos today that mom and Steve took. I loved the different view points of the pics.

Homework

Alexander's homework assignment is called "I am special". Ricardo insisted that it include something karate. Um, the whole thing is a body in a karate uniform. Alexander gets to pick his belt color and put stickers on it. This is what I live with!

He claims he's looking for options. What options?

Kids say the darndest things...

We asked Alexander what his favorite ride was. His reply, "Sandy, at Meijer". You know the horse at Meijer that cost A PENNY!!!!!

Back home again in Indiana

Alexander had his hand at taking some pics last night at Qdoba after we got home. He did a pretty decent job too!

Airport expert

Doesn't Alexander look like he's done this for years by the look on his face? He's flown 3 times already and of course we stay in a hotel at least once a month for karate. He's no stranger to traveling that's for sure.