![\"\"](\"https:\/\/esmithy.net\/sparks\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/gerrit-fans.jpg\" "\\"Gerrit's")
<\/p>\nIs it weird that for Mother\u2019s Day I considered asking for a butt cushion? We have a chiropractor in our ward and I\u2019ve seen his family bring a silicone pad to church that makes the cold, hard, metal chairs more ergonomically correct. I for one, never thought I\u2019d covet one of those. I\u2019d never be an old person dragging my own fold up seat cushions to church or stadium sporting events, but then Gerrit discovered karate.<\/p>\n
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Gerrit is a brown belt in his karate school, which means he\u2019s attended 4 million classes and either Eric or I, as his parents\/guardians\/chauffeurs, have parked on the aluminum bleachers through most of them.<\/p>\n
In November Gerrit tried out for and was chosen to be on “SWAT”, which is a karate performing team. In addition to the 4 million regular classes he now has a spiffy red uniform and 4 billion practices to attend. That\u2019s 4 billion, 4 million weekly classes and practices but here\u2019s the thing: If you asked Gerrit if he\u2019d be willing to go to another karate class, he\u2019d be there with a smile on his face. I never have to say, “Hurry up and get ready for karate.” In fact, he is often out sitting in the car five minutes before it is time to go.<\/p>\n
On Mother\u2019s Day weekend, Eric and I spent hours and hours and hours both Friday and Saturday with our butts on folding chairs while Gerrit competed in his latest tournament — and it was so awesome! I was so proud of my son. Watching Gerrit compete with his team, and also in individual events was exciting and nerve wracking and wonderful. His poise is amazing to me.<\/p>\n
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In addition to that tournament, Gerrit has also competed and performed in other tournaments and events, including a Utah Jazz half-time show. Here are some of the highlights:<\/p>\n