(no subject)
Had a good practice last night. Lord, I enjoy getting onto the lists and playing. It makes the whole week better, and Clefltands is incredibly welcoming to the new guys.
I had just finished strapping my elbow cops; half of this practice was getting all the bits adjusted and fitting. I've come to the regrettable conclusion that I can't find enough duct tape anywhere to make the loaner knee armor work; time to count the pennies, cross my fingers, and get some knees from Bokalo ASAP. I really like the winged aluminum elbow cops he sent me before, and I'd like to send him more business if possible.
I still need to work on footwork and shield placement. I'm quite certain that my left foot keeps shifting from noon to 11 o'clock; my toe drags. It turns a fair number of my blows from potentially solid hits to moist kisses. I might try a different stance; the standard closed-form heater uses a basic fencer's stance, but that predicates the notion that I'm going to be advancing straight on at my opponent, when I'm much more interested in moving in on right side - I end up spinning around the other guy counterclockwise most of the fight. I'd rather master straight closed-form instead of getting creative, but it's something to ponder in the near future.
Shield placement's the other thing I need to watch. I need to keep that upper right point near my nose, to keep my head protected. It was suggested to me that I should lower my handle but about an inch and a half. Part of me whimpers at the suggestion - I'm such a fancy-pants about my kit, and I hate the idea of drilling lots of extra holes in my shield. But it's my first shield; I really ought to suck it up and get used to the fact that it's not going to be pretty at first. And I wanted more space to squeeze in a shield basket. So, more holes it is - I'll keep some screws in there to keep it looking neat, and that'll give me the chance to adjust things in any event.
Overall, though, I'm really happy - I had a good time, got some licks in, got hit by the big boys, and even took a knight by surprise. Good times. It's great just to get out there and play. Lord willing and all things well, I'll be certified by January. Here's hoping.