It's back to school time! Heavy books, new teachers, old friends and the smell of freshly sharpened pencils and sweaty, old gym socks. Ahhh, those were the days!

I've always looked at September as the sign of a fresh start. My accomplishments the year before didn't really matter since I was being judged by my ability to handle new situations and new material. Oh, the challenges! My teachers encouraged and pushed me to move beyond the basics I had learned and explore new avenues that I hadnŐt previously travelled. Sometimes it was easy — the "A's" in math and science often were — and sometimes I had to work hard to learn things — volleyball, for instance. It would have been easy for me to settle for a "D" in the subjects that were difficult for me. But I had higher aspirations for myself, so I worked hard and challenged myself. I didnŐt always get the "A" I wanted, but I felt better for knowing that I tried and I learned more than I would have previously.

This September, challenge yourself in your taijutsu. Are you resting on your laurels? Is there an area that you have been slacking off on? Don't settle for a "D" when you can have an "A". Push yourself. Travel down some new avenues, and take a look at the old ones you think you know well. Look to improve in all your skills, and you may see some breakthroughs in areas that you were previously stuck in.

As always, I'd like to thank all of the authors for their wonderful contributions to the newsletter. Because of them, we have great breadth and scope of experience and knowledge. Please e-mail them and let them know how much you appreciate their efforts.

Articles Still Needed
In order to produce this newsletter every month, articles will be needed. Please don't count on someone else to write the articles. If you feel you have something valid to share, please do so. Articles can be written on a variety of topics:

• Your favorite technique
  
• A movie or video review
  
• Training tips
  
• Personal experiences (i.e. training in Japan, using the art in real life, etc.)
  
• Interviews/Discussions with Shihan/Your teachers
  
• Pretty much anything you want as long as its related to ninjutsu!
  

Here's the Standard Disclaimer
We (the publisher and authors) are not responsible in any manner whatsoever for any injury which may occur through reading or following any instructions in this newsletter. Remember, these are martial arts techniques which may result in injury or death. Find a proper instructor wherever possible. Please consult a physician before engaging in the exercises described herein.

Keep in mind that all articles herein are of their author's opinion/research and the publisher of this newsletter will not be held liable for any errors or misleading information. If you need further information on any articles, or if you have questions for the authors, please contact them directly. If there is no E-mail address listed, please E-mail the the editor and your request will be forwarded.

Liz maryland is the editor of this newsletter. She is a graphic designer by trade and part-time information gatherer. She trains under Jean-Pierre Seibel at New York Budo (it's test time for her again, so wish her luck!) She is a vegetarian, a struggling Buddhist, a renegade knitter, has two cute demon cats (Shinobi and Kunoichi, of course), has a wicked sense of humor and may be contacted via E-mail: Ashidome@aol.com.