Good to see you back Tony.
When I read the training methodology you use it reminds me of my own approach. I may be PM-ing you to trade ideas.
In a recent seminar on "Aiki" in Toronto Shishida Shihan said that "Aikido is a
MARTIAL art. That is the basics of basics." As a result I often find it hard to use the word Aikido to explain what we do in Shodokan when I compare it to the general understanding of the word. When I teach seminars I often start by saying that Tomiki learnt Daito Ryu at the time when he studied under Ueshiba M. This helps adds context to what comes next imho.
Regarding your question: Is your Aikido as a Martial Art up to Reality? - In some ways yes, in some ways no. Since reality is constantly in flux so should the skills I focus on training imho. Adaptability is key to survival
.
Hope you stick around for a while but it depends on the "Powers that be" to not be offended I guess.
Best
LC