Adventures in Space - or - Space the Final Frontier

As rational beings (which we are on occasion), my Husband and I know that we should be able to practice Kung Fu and engage in our other physical interests essentially anywhere. Many people have attained high levels of skill practicing in public parks, basements, or even rooms not much larger than the average prison cell (or in an actual prison cell), so space should be no excuse. We know these things. Nevertheless, we have long shared a dream of having a perfect practice space.

What does that mean? First off, it means an enclosed space, protected from rain, cold, heat, and the mosquitoes which plague the swamplands upon which the greater DC area was built. Second, the enclosed area must have a large open floor space. Even the most basic martial arts forms which we practice require floor space well in excess of the room-size in conventional dwellings, since conventional dwellings are not constructed for people with our peculiar interests. It is frustrating during practice to stop in the middle of what you are doing to back-up in order to avoid running into a wall – this is what we seek to eliminate. Third, the ideal space must have tall ceilings to accommodate practice with long weapons, such as staff and spear. An added benefit for me is that a tall space can accommodate aerial practice, which really needs 14-foot ceilings at minimum. Fourth, an ideal space is easily accessible, any time of day or night, so that practice can take place without scheduling constraints. Lastly, the space should be beautiful, even in a utilitarian kind of way, light-filled and inspiring.

So that has been the dream. Now comes making it a reality. And so we have begun “The Addition.” So far, we have gotten through the architectural drawing phase, the initial permitting process (argh!), digging out the space, re-upping the permit (double-argh!), underpinning the existing house structure, and more. Already, we are well behind schedule and on a pace to be over-budget, all of which is de riguer for any construction project. But, having lopped-off the back portion of our house, there is really no turning back now, which is a good feeling in a weird sort of way. How long will it take? How much will we ultimately spend? In the end, will it be perfect or will we have regrets? Will we use the space as intended or suddenly lose interest in training? Who can know these things.

Anyway, I have decided that it is probably best not to think about such things too much. Let’s just get “The Addition” done, and let the chips fall where they may. At which point there will be some answers, but likely many more questions too, all to be dealt with in due course. Sigh, breathe deep, have faith, proceed.

Yes, this is the current state of our dream.