Editing My Life Away

So it's been about 70 hours of work since I began working on the video for the cross country banquet and I am still 20 minutes worth of video away from being done!

I guess it's not all that bad since I've actually been editing about 30 hours and am working at one minute of video being produced per hour, however, my back now hurts, and my eyes are drooping at this hour in the night. The 5:15am wake up alarm will not be pleasant.

However, I feel as if this will be the earliest I have ever finished the banquet video - knock on wood ... not to mention that the pictures are printed, the posters are done, the programs and ready to go, most of the certificates are done, the medals are on their way and the t-shirts will also be done early! WOW! 

Is this the makings of a miracle? Well, now that I remembered my credit card statement because of the banquet, I must take that back and say, almost!

Well hope everyone is doing well in the real world ... I'm headed back to my digital world!

:)

In just about a week, I'll be more of a regular on my blog :) ... I'm currently waiting for the files to transfer from DVD to my computer so I can start editing the cross country video. I have been working on this video for such a long time and it feels like I have made no progress.

This is the first year that I do not have to go to Chicago before the banquet so I'll have a bit more time, however, I am going to Reno this weekend, so I still am lacking that last weekend that would be helpful.

I'm about 15 minutes from being fully prepped with over 100gb of video uploaded to my computer, 50 potential songs, and of course hundreds of graphics and photographs. What am I going to do?? I hope that I can finish before I leave for Reno, but I know that will be a long shot!  If I can finish Mammoth by tomorrow though, I'll be in good shape! Let's see how it goes!

Well, for now, I must say farewell, but soon, I will be back!

Upcoming Trips:

December 11-13 - Reno

December 26-30 - San Diego (Tentative Dates)

January 14-18 - New York (Looking for a Travel Companion!)

February 7-14 - Washington DC

March 5-7 - San Francisco

March 13-20 - New York

May 7-9 - Las Vegas (Tentative Dates)

June 24-July 2 - Europe (Tentative Dates) (Looking for a Travel Companion)

August 8-14 - Mammoth

September 17-20 - Hawaii (Tentative Dates)

Bowling the Stress Away

It's always nice to bowl the stress away ... :)

146 - 222 - 184 - 184 - 205 and an incomplete came headed towards 180-200 :P

The blister I have now is well worth it!

Homecoming 2009

Homecoming 2009 was exhausting but great!

After a full day at Mt. SAC, we went to the homecoming game and found out that Melody Lim was the new homecoming queen as her name lit up to the left of the stage and the fireworks blazed behind the stage! You couldn't find someone more deserving of this award! The homecoming dance solidified why she was the homecoming queen, as her welcoming and selfless ways shone through.

Congratulations Melody!

Never Distanced

"as far as our physical selves may be, our hearts will always remain as one."

While you may have left from this wond'round place, your heart and soul will ever remain, as you've beem the rock on which I stand and the umbrella to protect me from the rain.

You'll make me float when I walk each day, yet keep me grounded still, you'll help push me through every day, providing me with that much needed thrill.

The hand that guides me will be yours and it'll be your trail of candles that lights my trail, knowing that you'll lead me to success, yet also be there when I fail.

I found the needle in the hay stack, when you walked into my domain, as you've added color to this place I live, that once was so bland and plain.

So if this distance never closes as all obstacles attempt to keep us apart, know, that you'll never be away from me, as you have your place right in my heart.

So Much Good Stuff

The commercial for AMPM states, "so much good stuff" and I've been lucky enough to have that over the past month and a half. While there have been ups and downs, overall, I would have to say that things are sailing pretty well after a turbulent July. 

I'm currently in Oregon about to go visit Nike Campus in Beaverton, OR with my team. We're traveling 39 strong including our chaperones and are here to compete at the Three Course Challenge in Warrenton, OR hosted by Seaside High School. Our team looks good for the meet even though we're missing three from our varsity squads (two from girls, one from boys), we'll still be able to do well up here.

So far this season our teams has been doing well. Our freshman girls took 4th and our varsity girls took 6th at the Woodbridge Invitational where our team won 30 medals, which could be the most we have ever won. We normally do not fare very well at Woodbridge (http://wutanabe5.smugmug.com/Sports/XC/Woodbridge-Invitational-2009/9700082_X6yBK#656291124_QaA45), however, this year, I was very pleased. We also won four of the five divisions at the ABC District Championships (http://wutanabe5.smugmug.com/Sports/XC/ABC-District-Championships/9672818_6AiW2#653493467_TJ5PN)  and also 24 medals out of the 42 they gave out! Prior to that we took home five plaques including the small school awards for junior varsity and varsity and the overall girls sweepstakes for Division III-V schools at the Great Cow Run (http://wutanabe5.smugmug.com/Sports/XC/GCR2009/9596022_tRTrt#649084448_Mvr3W) . We also had a pretty good summer despite losing a few key athletes down the stretch. All in all, I can't complain and hope that we can pull things together when it counts though. After a great Mammoth Camp (http://wutanabe5.smugmug.com/Sports/Mammoth-Camp-2009/9219610_zDMdf), I'm sure we'll be fine.

This summer, one of my friends who coaches with me at Cerritos, Damon Gohata, got married (http://wutanabe5.smugmug.com/Weddings/DamonTraciGohata/9454721_iNYo9 - password needed)! It was a great wedding and I was honored to be apart of the wedding party. I took a lot of great pictures and was so overjoyed to be able to dance :) ... I haven't danced in a few weeks and realized I need to start going down to LA regularly, haha ... :D ... any takers??

I also finished organizing my 10 year reunion in mid-August. We had about 70-80 people attend and overall, I think that we had a good turnout and a very good time! I still have a lot of stuff to do for the reunion ~ contact book and memory book, however, I'l be done with it all very soon.

I guess other than that, I've been able to catch up with a lot of people, meet some more and just find time to enjoy everything such as eating good food, Disneyland and the Disneyland Half Marathon where I PRed this year in a cow jersey. 

Hopefully things will be looking up in the future! I'll be writing again soon after we return from our race in Oregon and am back in the hotel!

Mammoth

It's mid-week in Mammoth and thing have been going well.

We're about to go to the park for Camp Competitions.

Current Point Totals

B lack - 215

Gray - 215

Red - 215

White - 205

Yellow - 180

More updates coming soon!

The Hills Are Alive

The hills of San Francisco are not so friendly, especially on a guy who hasn't trained a lick for the races. I have had the opportunity to run a few 4-6 miles runs at about 7:30-7:45 pace, however, was not even prepared to run the 13.1 miles.

Going to San Francisco, I was fearful of the pain and misery I would be in during the race, even thinking of just becoming a spectator, however, my competitive spirit shone through and I was able to step to the line, in the back of Wave 1. Wave 1 was comprise of individuals who have run under 1:45 for a half marathon and since I had done that, I signed up for that group. In reality, I would have been happy with a sub-2 or MAYBE a sub-1:50. At race time, it was probably in the mid-to-high 50s, not too cold on Embarcadero with a great view of the Bay Bridge. Despite my trash talking, I knew that Wesley would be way out in front and I had no chance of catching him. In my plan, I figured, if I went out conservative 7:40-8:00, I would be able to carry myself under 9 in the hills.

It took a lot of energy to hold myself back as my previous 1st and 2nd miles have been between 7 and 7:25. This year, I kept it between 7:35 and 7:50, which was great! My achilles gave me early signs of pain, yet it wore off during mile 2, just before I headed to the fort and the first hill.

I took a smart approach to the hill, building into it at the bottom and picking up speed at the top so I could use the downhill for my momentum ~ it worked! The question was, for how long? I started to feel my lack of training level at about mile five as my body started to cramp. I popped a potassium pill and despite a bit of fatigue, was able to make it up the 300 foot climb before the Golden Gate Bridge. At the crest of the bridge, I had my turning point. I dropped my pace down into the low 7s and carried that momentum through the hill at the end of it that killed me two years ago!

I felt good going into the rolling hills, which tormented me in 2007 ~ they did again! I made the first hill, yet the second hill became quite the challenge and the third hill was just grueling. I started to cramp in my calf and so I took an easy stroll into the finish realizing at that point, I could not break 1:45, yet would easily break 1:50. Official time: 1:48:34 - 8:17 pace ~ not too shabby, eh?

At the finish, I was able to jog through all the way and felt very little pain yet I knew that my abductor, calves, IT band/knees, quads and hamstrings would be sore. Twenty Salonpas pads later, I'm feeling pretty good with a few quirks here and there mainly on my joints.

Wesley PRed by about four minutes, breaking 1:30 in the process, while I was able to inch out Chuck by a minute. I also saw a student who was running with his parent's club and two of our teachers at CHS also ran! Michelle was a beast and ran the full! Congrats to you all!

Before the run, I had a great time at Ciopinno's with Wesley and Monica in our ventures along Jefferson and up to Ghiradelli Square. I still cannot believe Monica looked so comfortable in her bib ~ you definitely rock! It was definitely a great now and my wine theory ~ I think it worked!
Anyway, I made it home and yes, I will be at practice tomorrow in the AM ... running, I'm not so sure about that :P Hopefully, I don't oversleep :)

Talk About a Heat Wave

This week has been quite the heatwave and going into even hotter locations did not help any! However, despite the hot temperatures, we always find a way to enjoy ourselves.


isoCAMP Desert Oasis (although it's not quite the desert in Hemet) was quite the experience. I love being at Paradise Valley Ranch because it's such a tranquil place. Despite the fact that it's 100+ degrees outside, I thoroughly enjoy the absence of too much technology and more face to face social contact. Our lip sync contests, performances, karaoke and mafia game were quite the successes. I am glad that we had a group of the "quieter" ones up too since we could try and get them out of their shell. We're not done yet, but soon, we'll try to make them blossom into more social butterflies :) I guess Ninja helped the cause.


Our beach day at Manhattan Beach was definitely a way to cool off from the heat of Hemet. Although obviously exhausted, the team (about 30 strong) braved the giant sand hill and then enjoy a few games of beach volleyball after taking a dip in the cool water on one of the cleanest beaches around :)

Look at the picture "B'LOW ME" :) ... a quote from the wonderful play Spamalot modeled after Monty Python and the Holy Grail. After my open Facebook/AIM invitation, I had three takers for the play which was super funny all the way through! Before we headed to the play, we caught a bite at the yellowfied, the Standard Restaurant in Downtown. The food was okay, but eating in a yellow restaurant was a dream come true :) Oh, but the sorbet was delicious! I would have gone crazy if I didn't figure out what it tasted like, but Watermelon Now and Later ... yum! Thanks OC :)

After the play, I challenged the water of the fountain near the Ahmanson Theater. I eventually maneuvered my way through the fountain with minimal soakage :) It would have been quite the shame to get my clothes all wet and drive home like that, but I guess I don't have to worry since I made it through alright!

After my attempts to guide the cockroach towards the shriekers, we headed back to the car to head back to Koreatown ... I mean, Cerritos :)

Sunday Funday While Catching Some Air

I really need to keep up with this especially in the summer when I have more time to myself ... NOT!

It's been exhausting, however, I think I've enjoyed this summer so far aside from falling short of my goals already! In August, I'll try to turn over a new leaf! Yeah right :P ...

The Group at the Beach

In any case, on Sunday, I went skydiving for the second time! Yahoo! It was with a group of old friends from high school who I still keep in touch with and their friends! I got to meet a bunch of very cool people who I enjoyed spending the whole day with so it was quite the beneficial day I have to say! We ventured throughout San Diego and hit up the beach too! Yahooooooo!

Mi Amiga Monica :)

On a side note, if you ever skydive, San Diego has been the best so far!

The Perfect Landing

Celebrating Andrew's Birthday!

Well, I would write more, but tomorrow is gonna be a long day!

No internet for me until Friday so take care and enjoy!

1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9 :D

Someone made me realize that today I can post during the most consecutive numerical time and date ever :)

12:34 and 56 seconds on 7/8/09 :P
LOL!

Wonderful!
Off to the bowling alley!

Jason :)

:T

Yesterday was not a good choice :T
I'm glad I made up for my error.

Rules of Engagement

I went to the restroom tonight and I thought of the rules of engagement when using the restroom in the gentlemen's half. I know, it sounds weird, especially to the ladies, however, these rules are very true :) Some of them are to make things less awkward and the others are pet peeves.

Equally space yourself out with one urinal between each person until you can no longer do this when there are no dividers between urinals.

After you get into position, look straight against the wall. At no time should you look to the side and ESPECIALLY not to the side and down.

Hit your targets please. If using the stall, put the seat up for a #1 and back down when you're done. Clean up your mess :P

When completed, be sure to shake it out, however, do not do it excessively.

When waiting, try not to stand to close to someone who is using the urinal. [I had someone do that to me today and they were just texting and not waiting for the restroom, ewww]

If someone accidentally let's one go, please try not to laugh, as funny as it may be :)

Try not to let one go.

WASH YOUR HANDS! Ugh, it's so sick when you don't wash.

The Future is Where I'm Headed

"I look to the future because that's where I'm going to spend the rest of my life."
-George Burns

I guess dear old George Burns is right.

I've gone back and forth trying to figure out how to fix my past or correct how things went in the past that I have allowed it to affect my future. I've already discussed how I want to move away from my fear of proximity because of what I've experienced in the past, yet, the hardest thing is taking that first step towards doing it.

I guess I have to allow things to fall into place and trust that things will align and I will eventually end up where I am suppose to end up, whether it is what I envisioned or whether it is a path that I was meant to travel on.

Since I'm going to spend the rest of my life in the future, I might as well get started on letting myself look towards it to guide the way.

the purest beauty

the purest beauty

i've asked myself, what is beautiful?
can i define it by a name
would another rose called by another
simply appear the same?

does beauty on the inside
far outweigh what we see
or will our society maintain being shallow
is that how we're meant to be?

yet often we miss the golden flowers
since its pedals shade the glow
as underneath the covers
is a beauty, you'll never know

as it's one that is simply unrivaled
yet unveiled, it has yet to be
however, i can see its true beauty
a magnificience the world has yet to see

within that hidden core below
the most magestic creature of them all lies
greater than any of them entertainers
naked, as no need for makeup to be applied

the pedals will one day be revealed
and others will be in awe
yet while others attention was drawn every which way
it was something i already had saw

i await for the unveiling and the truth to be seen
so the world can be taken by storm
as when the pedals allow for all to see
the bees will be coming by swarm

so dear flower open up and show this place
how incredible and amazing you are
and the so-called icons of beauty in the spotlight
will fade in the presence of the greatest star

look up and open! your time has arrived
no longer must you hide a beauty so true
as it's greater than anything i have every known
both on the inside and outside of you

jason
6/30/09, 12:09am

to those who worship the stars and entertainers, look around you, as the most spectacular people in this world are around you!

Bon Voyage

It's hard to imagine that right now I should be in Europe exploring Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam or enjoying the wonders of Tokyo. However, due to various setbacks, I am at home, lacking the vacation that I once had schedule. Next year, everyone start saving their money, because I want company when I go on my trip to Europe! At least one person, if not more ...

As people head off on their merry way abroad, I wrote this poem that I thought would go nice with your bon voyage party ...

to the hills you may venture

to the valleys on your way

to where you may be headed

on this glorious day

i wish you bon voyage

safe travels to you

be sure to enjoy every moment

of everything that you do

don't miss a step

don't let your heart skip a meet

and treasure all the places you go

and all the people that you'll meet

you'll be in a foreign place

but enjoy it like your own

assimilate with the culture

and make it feel like it's home

don't waste any time

don't try to delay

as it's almost time

for you to be on your way

so take your baggage

wait not a second more

as it's time for your adventure

in the many lands you'll explore!

jason

6/29/09, 1:30am

Peace & Transquility

This type of day provides me with the peace and traquility I hope for in a day.

I think it provides me with a good time for reflection and an opportunity to see how my day/week/month actually went without any triggers that may cause me to analyze my time out of emotion rather than pure analysis.

Michael Ogah wrote, "Love is not a figment of our imagination, rather it's a figment of our reality that we choose to suppress. Don't hide it; show it!"

I think that at times, this can be the truth. Often times, I find myself storing away my true feelings, not just love, within myself. Feelings that I want to share often are not either because I want to avoid making a situation awkward, because I want avoid mistakes of the past or just because I'm afraid to.

Alfred Lord Tennyson wrote, "It's better to love and lost than to never have loved at all." I can understand where he is coming from in the idea that how much on a high you feel when you truly give yourself to someone is incredible, however, the feeling when you have lost it, especially when years together crumble in a matter of days, is the most awful feeling in the world and it keeps revisiting when you least need it to.

I think Tennyson's quote is more applicable to those who have had a full life together with decades of time together sharing memories, sharing families and sharing lives. In my case, it felt like I was cheated out of the years ahead at no fault of either of us, just the winds of fate.

I'm always hopeful that maybe things have not come full circle, yet, eventually the train at the crossing will end and I will have to move on, otherwise, there will be a crowd of people upset behind me waiting for me to move out of their way. While I drag my feet, I can say, as I promised before, I will make that effort to move out of the shadows and push forward to show my feelings more than not when the times are appropriate.

the train is ending
it's almost time to go
a few parting words
that i want you to know

you've shown me the truth
you've shown me the light
you've shown me grandiose
and the wrong from the right

you've helped me understand
who I truly am inside
you took me on a journey
oh, what a great ride!

yet, the barriers are opening
the train so far away
and I think time's moving forward
so I must move out of the way

the memories of past
although aged yet not fading
had kept me around
just standing around, waiting

yet i realized that the train departing
in the distance, never to return
although the love i had for you
continues to burn

so after years of maintaining
the flame burning within
i shall put out the light
letting a new chapter begin

a magnetism towards the tracks
yet i must venture on
to find new adventures
that can generate a new song

a beat that will be heard
that can create a new spark
to reignite the flame within me
that is currently so dark

so as i leave i say goodbye
it is adieu not a day more
as i've got a great land
ahead to explore

yet you'll always be a piece of me
always within my heart
i tuck it away and prepare
for my new journey to start

jason
6/28/09, 5:43am

Hidden Treasures

i doubt you even realize
how incredible you are
as you've reached the farthest distance
and outshined the brightest star

you have such an ability
to sweep me off my feet
you're the hidden treasure all seek out
so incredible, yet so sweet

you're someone who i've adore
from a distance, from afar
as i just can't get over
how incredible you are

you've won me over, once again
you know not what you do
but you've reach a place within me
generating a feeling that is so true

so take a second look in the mirror
so you can see what truly is there
the most amazing and astonishing
and the fairest of the fair

jason
6/25/09, 8:25pm

"you definitely leave me breathless"

Transforming the Night

I was able to see Transformers yesterday and it was quite the movie going experience. I saw it at the Arclight Cinemas in Hollywood where they had four of the vehicles on display. Quite amazing to see the vehicles you were going to see in the movie a few minutes after snapping some photographs in front of them. In any case, the movie had it share of humor that combined with the non-stop action and few moments of sappy action love storyesque type drama. At one point I remember that the sound was so good in the Cinerama Dome that I was vibrating from the base coming from the sound system, just awesome! What was even more amazing is that the large tub of popcorn nearly was exinct by the end of the movie *uh em.* It's quite alright because I wouldn't have eaten any more anyways. [Got a poke anyone? - I should photoshop a smiling picture of me instead :) ... but I guess Transformers are tough guys.]

Afterwards, we venutred to the wonderful Geisha House where the rolls are always an excellent choice. Displayed you have the (right to left) Surf and Turf, Call "911" Spicy Tuna, Red Samurai and the Ocean Dragon. I also had the Kobe Beef Fillet, which was great with the wasabi, a nice tender piece of meet I could say.


Because we arrived late, we missed the observatory, however, it was a pretty swell treat. I would encourage most people to see this movie in theaters because you probably won't get the full effect at home as you would at the theaters. :)

Thanks for being the best guests ever!

Cleaning - What to Throw and What to Keep

I never have the time to clean, but when I took, it usually takes me to another place and I begin to remember various moments in my life. The good, the bad, and the ugly. Oops, I almost forgot, the fantastic!

I remember starting off high school on a rough note, not knowing very many people since I had come from a private school and going through some rough times in my personal life. Yeah, you think a freshman would have it easy, but there were some issues that came up earlier for me than most others. I almost asked not to go to Cerritos High, because I thought things might be better elsewhere. However, it ends up, I never regretting going to Cerritos.

I found a bunch of old letters that had been written ~ I kept every single one. I also found my old yearbook entries, including my senior year, which really just made me question, why I made the decisions that I did.

I think going into high school, with all that had happened up to that point, there was a lot of fear of proximity, not how physically close I was to someone, but how close I put my heart to someone elses. In fact, I think that my greatest connections happened in high school, yet I did not allow myself to get to a point to leave myself vulnerable. As many fantastic memories that I had at the school, I made sure, that the level of vulnerable I displayed was low.

They say you learn the most at a very young age, so maybe that was the case for me, I learned that I cannot leave myself vulnerable. Some of you may be saying, oh, you were only in junior high, but I think the problem is that I carried it with me for many years beyond that time, that it affected me all the way up to this point. If you knew the story, maybe you'd look at the situation a bit differently and realize where my fear resonates from.

It's funny, how fearless I can be going on all kinds of thrill rides, white water rafting, rock jumping, bungee jumping and even skydiving, all of which could kill you or physically destroy you. However, when it comes to issues of the heart, when you really know how painful it is to give everything and lose everything, it becomes harder to go out and risk it all again.

I've been like the individual who slowly walkes to the end of the cliff to take that leap of faith in to the water, hoping everything will be alright, yet, I have held myself back from jumping off that cliff because I cannot guarantee myself that when I jump, that I will end up safe.

I know, life is about taking chances and about taking risks, however, I am trying to deal with a handicap that has haunted me for over a decade and it's cost me some very special people in my life, which is quite sad. These individuals have provided me with the most fantastic moments of my life, yet I feel like I shut the door on them when I should have been embracing them. Although it seems like I always find another excuse, it always comes down to the same core issue - this fear.

As I cleaned this week though, I challenged myself to finally take the leap off the cliff, hoping that the water will embrace me as I enter it from high above, hoping that I will swim safely from the water down below. I think I am tired of letting moments and memories so precious slip through my fingres and opportunities pass me by.

Maybe it took me over a decade to realize it, but I guess I leave myself in a place where I will try to embrace the risks and challenges that I face so that I may allow my fear of proximity to dissipate.

To those who have stood by me through the thick and the thin, I love you all, and I hope that I can help create something out of all that you have given me.

Don't let me back away, make me jump!

to lose a love
a shattered heart
one never thought
that the two shall part

a protective cover
under which i lay
i've cheated myself
from so many sunny days

i've lost the treasures
i've feared the replay
yet i must realize
tomorrow's a brand new day

i cannot repress
i cannot hold back
for the ability to have faith
is something i truly lack

learning vulnerability
is synonymous with life
and with the success
comes struggle and strife

i must not let myself
lock my heart down
in fear that i may stumble
falling to the ground

the distant shatters
a memory of the past?
no longer will those memories
shadows on me cast

i hesitate yet move forward
knowing there's no other way
why start tomorrow
when i can start today

so i throw out the bad
learning the lessons i learned
yet giving me gold stars
all of which i've earned

i'm keep the sweet memories
to find that joy once again
i'll be healed, healed very soon
i just can't tell you when

jason
6/23/09, 6:47pm

Fathers' Day

Happy Fathers' Day to all of the wonderful fathers out there who have put in the time and dedication on behalf of your sons/daughters. I know that they all appreciate your love and compassion.

Today, I made my dad his favorite ~ Seafood Pasta with shrimp, squid, scallops, clams in shell and green mussels along with italian sausages, ground turkey, zuccini, mushrooms, four colors of bell peppers, onions, carrots, tomatoes, basil, italian parsley and various seasonings :)

This year, I realized how excited I am to become a father. Obviously, I am not ready to have a child right now, but I can just imagine the incredible feeling of being responsible for the upbringing of another life. Yes, it will be stressful and realistically, it will be extremely difficult, however, I don't think there could be anything more precious, with the exception of the wedding that preceded that child. :) From the vacations, to the birthday parties, the first days of school, etc., it will be just a lifetime of memories that our family will create.

For now, I can only babysit and wait for the day that I will have a child of my own :)


Happy Fathers' Day

The Journey Forward

It's not the nicest poem I have ever written, but sometimes, these poems are necessary and I'm sure other people have felt this way too.

I refuse to look back
I refuse to turn back around
Because each time I do
I end up flat on the ground

Picking up the shattered pieces
Of all I dedicated to you
As I missed out on opportunities
Where I could've found something true

So I head forward on this journey
Seeking out the new that is ahead
As the pain and suffering will fade
And more joy will be found instead

The sun will begin to move about
From its place behind the clouds
And the shining faces will soon appear
From amongs the crowds

All the effort, all the care
That I once had given to you
Will be given to someone, anyone
Who treats me better than you do

It would be different if we had found
That commonplace could not be found
Yet you hit my like a dump truck
Left for dead flat on the ground

Yet, I can make it through this
Yes, I can put the pieces back in place
And soon this bitter taste in my mouth
Will sweetness soon replace

There were no limits to my heart and soul
That I gave you on a dish
Yet I guess that was not enough
And thus, I shall continue, since that's your wish

I head now to the sunny places ahead
With flowers, beautiful mountains and trees
As the past will be put behind me
And the beautiful future is all I will see

Jason
6/20/09, 6:20pm

Thirteen Days

No, I'm not talking about the movie :P ... it's been the last thirteen days of BBQ, editing, test&review writing, grading, a track meet, CHS Idol, music video shooting/making, graduation&practice, events, practices, meetings, a car wash, and a golf tournament.

I never thought I would be so full of commitments, deadlines, up and downs, broken hearts&promises and revived friendships, and now, just a sigh of relief to make it to this point. Right now I feel like a fondu, mixed with so many different things that I don't know what to call myself right now ...

I think our car wash today was the perfect example of what my life has been over the past thirteen days, a steady flow throughout the day with pockets of stressful times where you want to pull you hair out with problems both big and small, old and new that need to be dealt with and send on their way, the one's you care about will be dealt with car and precision, while the others, you may pay less attention to ...

I guess a reanalysis of life, some soul searching, and a new beginning may be in order ... I think it may be time to readjust the course that I am moving on to eventually find that path best suited for me. I have a better idea of what I want and now I just hope that I can go out and get what I really want in life.

All this time you wonder what the meaning of everything that comes you way is and I think maybe I need to take a closer look and make sure I am not missing the signs before they come my way, because the last sign I missed just hit me like a bus.

In any case, I have been so proud to see my '09ers graduate and find their ways to the finish line and hopefully, they will find the path best suited for them. To all of you, similar to my own struggles, you will eventually find the right path to follow if you keep pushing and keep persevering.

Through God, all things are possible. (Rephrasing Luke 1:37)

I don't quote scripture in my blog too much because I know everyone does not follow the same, however, I feel that you must at least begin to believe that ALL things are possible, if you just put your mind to it and use the skills given to you.

On a last note, during my last haircut, my hair was shorter than normal which means more gel, so my hair was styled differently and now, I turned out with a new temporary hair style until I decide if I like it or not. Maybe it was in response to getting hit by that bus, but I kind of enjoyed having a different hairstyle. We'll just have to wait and see ...

The BBQ

The BBQ turned out pretty well today.

After spending all day preparing, we had tons of food on the table including an assortment of sashimi (including my favorite, tako-octopus), teriyaki steak and chicken, steak, chile, lime and sesame ginger bacon-wrapped shrimp, salt and pepper shrip, chinese chicken salad, a wide-array of veggies and fruits (grapes, mangos, pineapples, cantalope, strawberries, peppers, carrots, snap peas, tomatoes, etc.), various rolls of sushi, chow mein, fried chicken wings, lumpias, empenadas, the special jello and of course mochi :) ... I may have missed something but it was a load of food.

Outside we had placed a lot of our table and entertainment praying for no rain, which never occurred. It was cold and dark outside, however, we still found a way to enjoy ourselves. We had karaoke on one TV, Zoolander and Mall Cop on the projector, and Wii on a monitor in our backyard.

Although it was a bit awkward at first because all of my friends are from different groups, it ended up being okay and so I was glad that I had this party.


In any case, I forgot to put no gifts on the invitation (I realized some of the invitations didn't reach people, sorry). It ended up though that I received a very cool gifts made by the talents of one my wonderful friends. Simply amazing, isn't it?

Escudo do Oro

The Escudo do Oro award is the most pretigious award given at our school.
The award recognizes the seniors that best exemplify an ideal CHS student including ...

1. Citizenship/Character
2. Academic Achievement
3. School & Community Involvement
4. Leadership
There may be other areas that I may have overlooked, however, it's an individual who has displayed success and excelled in a number of areas and have really shown themselves to be the most dedicated and influential individuals on campus. These individuals are normally the best of the best in their areas, however, do not just limit themselves to one specific area of work.

This year, they recognized five, Melody Chern, Kristine Kim, Lorie Kim, Ray Roazal and Kristabelle Tamula. I was glad to have worked with each one of them in some capacity and it was such an excellent group of individuals to represent our school!

Since That Day ...

somewhere along this curving path
you captured my heart from me
and since that very moment
the same, I never would be

since that day the only color
is in the twinkle of your eye
as all of nature is second best
from the oceans and up to the sky

the scents of the flowers is no more
the only sweet scent when you're around
as once i was exiled to oblivion
now, it is paradise i have found

the oceans soothing waves
are no match for the calmness you bring
and that naturally beauty you possess
gives no chance to the beauty of spring

so alas you continue on your road
with my heart right in your hand
to keep our hearts near one another
i willing to do all that i can

and though the time and place is in the air
our time will arrive one day
i'll be waiting for that moment and opportunity
to react without any delay

so alas the naturally beauty surrounds
although yours has put the rest to shame
as since the day i met the incredible you
my life, surely, would never be the same

jason
6/3/09, 12:31am

Cleaning the Past

Cleaning brings back so many memories as you come across memorabilia, pictures, and more that really bring you back in time. It was great to reminisce about the past and really makes you think about how very little has changed and how much has changed over the course of the last ten, fifteen and twenty years.

It can be sad to think about how much time has passed, however, I guess I also get to think about how much I have done within the time that I have had. I guess you don't really think about enjoying life as much as you can until it's too late.

Well I guess if I want to live my life with no regrets, I have to step out on a limb and make sure that I try my best to let nothing pass me by. Sometimes I can be a pushover, slacker or just timid, allowing things and opportunities pass me by and as my mid-year resolution, I'll do my best to make sure that is not the case.

As good as things are, I know great, grand and gradiose await me. Have you let things better than just mediocre pass you by? Then join me on my quest to really explore what more lies out there, somewhere out there ...

So as I clean out the old and bring in the new, I guess it's a good time to throw out the old me, or at least the parts of me I don't like as much, and bring in a new, repolished me, in hopes that it will help me find what is grandiose!

somewhere, out there
beneath the clear moonlight
lies an opportunity
that is for me, just right

somewhere, out there
i know i'll find what's true
someone's looking for me
and that someone could be you

somewhere, out there
i'll let no chance pass me by
because I want to live with no regrets
until the day I die ...

jason
5/31/09, 11:44pm

A Week to Remember ...

It's been quite the eventful week after a quite eventful weekend.

I was able to roll into Tuesday after Monday's holiday and successfully maneuver through the day, practice, and the Mayoral Proclamation and BJs after dinner to finally close out the National's process.
I am so blessed to have been able to work with this group of junior MUNers. I might as well mention every junior MUN group I have had. They have done such a great job and this night reminded me of just how awesome of a group these MUNers are. They put so much time and effort into this program and I am glad to see that they continue to find success, even amongst the greatest amount of obstacles.

On Wednesday, the day was FULL of great greetings, meetings and events. I had such a great and full birthday and I do not remember a time where I was wished a happy birthday SO many times! I was able to escape to Disneyland for a few hours, mainly to get my $69 dollars, however, while at Disneyland, I stopped at California Adventure and rode on Tower of Terror, California Screaming and made a stop at the La Brea Bakery and Jamba Juice :) ... I returned to Cerritos to attend the Premios de Oro ceremony, which I just love since I get to honor students who really go above and beyond in the classroom. It was the hardest decision I made for the medallion, as I had all very qualified students from those with over 100% to those who have made their way from low grades to the top in the class.
Afterwards, we headed to TGI Fridays to just relax and enjoy the night and then I got to talk to the most incredible person I know for awhile, just about random things, yet it made me realize how great the return will be.
In any case, Thursday, allowed me to catch my breathe a bit, as it was the easiest day of the week and now I prepare to head to our prom site for next year to see the site "in action." Today's showcase assembly was so amazing and goes to show how amazing the students at our school are! The picture is of my freshman MUN student Paul Lee.

It has been a glorious week and I am glad that it has been as great as it has been.

Thanks to all of those who provided your birthday wishes, as it made this birthday one for the record books!!

A Wonderful Weekend

This weekend has been full of a lot of spring cleaning, keeping an eye on the Los Angeles Marathon, BBQing and of course, Makoa's 2nd Birthday Party!

I got Makoa a Disney digital camera! When I saw it, I had to get it for him since he always wants to take pictures with my digital SLR.

Anyways, at the birthday, there was quite the large gathering! I was able to snap some 800 pictures on the day and posted them in my gallery: http://wutanabe5.smugmug.com/gallery/8319251_VJYCs#544997227_CuiWB ...

There were so many children running around, which made it quite fun! It was themed after Nemo so they had a lot of games about fish including a scavenger hunt and also had a Nemo jumper!

I was able to snap this precious picture of Makoa getting a kiss blown to him! What a grown man already :) It looks like he is waiting to get his kiss on his cheek :)

Very, very precious :)

This weekend I also had some time to catch up with some of my wonderful friends Shannon and Jenn and also BBQ with my wonderful family, which makes for a wonderful weekend :)

JD & Family at our outdoor Bar :)

Dinner with the Kungs :)

Pressure Relief ~ A Blessing

When I came back last night, I knew things would be bad the next day, as my head was pounding and I could barely sit up. The last time I felt this bad, I ended up in the hospital for seven days with pnemonia.

As I deliberated whether or not to go to school, I finally figured it would be easier for me to go to school rather than try and get things together for a sub.

After sitting in my room miserable this morning, I figured I would not be working tomorrow, however, after two very well-behaved classes and a hoard of medicine, my headache went away and I realized, my prayers must have been answered, because despite my normal cold, my intense headache had disappated and I felt refreshed.

In any case, now I sit hoping that tomorrow when I wake up, I feel much better.

We'll have to just see about that.

I guess it also helped that the Nuggets won tonight :) Just FYI, it was not the referees that lost the game for the Lakers this evening :)

Lucky

Lucky (Edits by Jason Watanabe)
Original by Jason Mraz featuring Colbie Caillat
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9iraoHE6JlY

Walk right with me
I will guide you
Across the country
Across the deep blue ocean
Under the open sky, oh my, baby I'm trying
Sometimes I hear you in my dreams
I feel your whisper straight to me
I keep you with me in my heart
You make it easier when life gets hard

I'm lucky that I have you as my friend
Lucky to have connected with you again
Lucky that you're coming home again
Ooohh ooooh oooh oooh ooh ooh ooh ooh

They don't know how I missed you
And how it hurt me so
Every time we say goodbye
I wish we had just one more day
I'll be here for you I promise you, I will

I'm lucky that I have you as my friend
Lucky to have connected with you again
Lucky that you're coming home again
Lucky we're alike in many ways
Lucky to have walked straight in your way
Lucky to talk to you each day

And so I'm walking through the street
To the corner where we'll meet
You'll hear the music fill the air
I'll pick a flower for your hair
A simple pleasure, we can share
Move so pretty, you set me free
As the world keeps spinning round
You make me feel so whole right now

I'm lucky that I have you as my friend
Lucky to have connected with you again
Lucky that you're coming home again
Lucky we're alike in many ways
Lucky to have walked straight in your way
Lucky to talk to you each day

Ooohh ooooh oooh oooh ooh ooh ooh ooh
Ooooh ooooh oooh oooh ooh ooh ooh ooh

Jason
5/19/09, 7:01am

Seniors ...

Today was MUN Senior picture day! Of course, someone as usual had to try to be fun so I had to photoshop at least one face, but I couldn't find a good one for the second person, so they get their eyes closed. Why do people feel the need to ruin a picture that will be one of their memories for a lifetime? In any case, layered, photoshopped and more.

On my way back to my room, I ran into Ricardo, our wonderful custodian! He said he doesn't smile in pictures, but I got him to smile! :D Looks very natural too!

Relay for a Life Changed

"It's not the faces of the people that matter, but that these people faced their challenge of standing up to fight against cancer."


Relay for Life is always a great opportunity as we honor those who have lost their struggle against cancer and those who continue to fight. Each year, the relay provides me with motivation to try and push my limits as my ability to deal with the fatigue and pain of running my laps equals at least a portion of the fatigue and pain that cancer patients must endure on a daily basis.

This year, I ran 40 laps ~ 10 miles.

This event allows me to honor the memory of my late MUN advisor Richard Neville as well. Without Mr. Neville, I do not know if I would have done MUN in college and thus, if I would have been a teacher at this point. Each time I go to a conference, teach the MUN class, or do anything related to MUN, I think of him and try to ask myself, what would Richard Neville do. Of course, as a freshman, I was fearful of him, however, when I got to know him, I began to realize, just how much he cared even if he didn't show it. Later on in his career as he neared the end of his life, he began to show how much he cared much more and it was such an inspiration to see him fighting and with us until his last days. I do regret that I did not see him before his passing, however, I do hold the picture I have with him close to my heart as it reminds me of what I hope to accomplish as a teacher. I also think that is why I continue to strive to push students to do their best in MUN, because I want to make sure that the program continues to model the type of program Mr. Neville would have liked.

I still remember when he came into our class and said, "I went to the City of Hope and they told me that I had no hope." It was one of the saddest moments I could remember in my high school career, yet, I think at that moment, my path to where I currently am at was created.

Kenshin Rocks!

Enough Said! :)

One Crazy Adventure

I just returned from Chicago and it only has been about 24 hours since I left Los Angeles.

After our CIF Dinner at Olive Garden, I headed over to LAX to catch my flight to O'hare. It felt quite strange to only be bringing such a small amount of luggage and also to be dressed in my suit already, however, you gotta do what you gotta do.

Once on the plan I knocked out, ignoring my temporary partner in crime that had joined me in the seat next to me. Upon arrival, I grabbed what little luggage I had and headed off to the Blue Line to Belmont. When I arrived, I googlemapped Johnny's address and it said the walk would be about an hour. It was still only a little after six, so I decided to start walking. After walking through a few areas that may not have been the best, I took the Belmont bus down for a mile until I got near my final destination, finally arriving at Johnny's. The street was a pretty nice street lined with a different type of housing look set next to the brown line that connects to Chicago's famous "Loop."

Jenn let me into the place and I decided to sleep on a chair since I did not want to freak out Johnny when he woke up by sleeping on the second couch across from where he was. Unfortunately, when Johnny's roommate woke up, I think I scared him, as he walked over to Johnny to ask him who I was :) ... I was awake at the time, but just pretended to sleep to make things less awkward.

We took a taxi over to the graduation ceremony and it was quite a nice graduation. The Northwestern Law students wore their purple gowns and showed such enthusiasm throughout the ceremony! Afterwards, it tooks us awhile, but we finally found Shannon and it was so exciting to see her! I've know her since her freshman year in high school and in a blink of an eye, she is graduating from Law School!

After giving her the lei, her hugs, and taking a load of photographs, we headed in the line for the taxi, which was extremely long! We waiting for a bit and Shannon actually drove back before we got to the front of the line. Thus, instead of going to the reception, Johnny and I had to get dropped off at the blue line. It would have been nice to spend a bit more time with Shannon before I left, but I guess, she'll be back to Cerritos soon!

On the way back, Johnny and I got to talk as we killed time on the ride home. When finally arriving at the airport, we realized we had to jet to our gates, barely making the flight, as it boarded right when I arrived at the gate! Pweh!

On my way home, I made a quick stop to wish a happy birthday to a friend and then headed home to enjoy a nice meal from Del Taco, unhealthy, but great because it was my second meal in 30 hours :)

Exhausting? Yes. Worth it? Definitely!

Shannon, congratulations! I wrote almost everything I wanted to say in the letter, however, I know there will be more that I realize that I forgot to write. I am so proud of you!

Gallery: http://wutanabe5.smugmug.com/gallery/8224199_m7H7J
(I had my settings set to the wrong settings so the pictures did not come out as well as I hoped. Sorry!)

Shared Path Ahead

I walked by this sign the other day and was thinking, can people really share a common space while respecting others?

I would hope that people could do such a thing, however, I am reminded each day of how people do not respect the feelings of others and keep them in consideration when they take action.

At the movies the other day, a couple was talking for at least an hour of a movie I was watching. Quite annoying! Then, as usual, a car pulls out of their stall despite the fact that you are half way out of your own stall already. There are so many examples of when people are so inconsiderate and fail to think of others. However, what about all those who have shared this path?

I get so frustrated at those who fail to share the path, that I miss my opportunities to thank those who have take the opportunity to share the road on which we travel. They've taken me and everyone else into consideration and allowed this experience to be shared. It's incredible and I want to thank each person who has sacrificed in order to allow others to have a similar experience as they have had.

Let's all make the extra effort and share our own paths, so that we may influence those around you to do the same.

:)

Social Darwinism

I guess this weekend was a social darwinism type week, or shall I say, survival of the fittest.

I don't understand how I scheduled so many things together, but I am relieved to be sitting here right now done with that week. Although my week ahead is pretty loaded as well, it will not compare to how busy this week was.

Since the scavenger hunt, we had our league finals where our teams collected a good load of medals and placed no lower than third in an unofficial running score. Two athletes advanced to CIF from the distances, Jessica Sunio and Thien-Nam To. Most others did what they could to try and qualify and I commend them on their efforts. We also had a good number of medalists this year, which also means I'll be broke after our distance champions dinner.

Kathia Avila - GFS 1600 (2nd)
Rachel Flores - GFS 3200 (1st)
Douglas Kim - BFS 800, 4x400 (2nd, 1st)
Audrey Lee - GFS 800, 1600, 3200, 4x400 (3rd)
Athalia Magana - GFS 1600, 3200 (1st, 2nd)
Jessica Sunio - GV 800, 1600 (2nd, 3rd)
Thien-Nam To - BV 800, 3200 (2nd, 3rd)

This weekend we had our UCI MUN Conference. It was sad to see how many problems there were during the conference and the lack of professionalism at some points which I stressed while running the conference. However, a lot of committees did run pretty well, mainly those who I was familiar with because I know they know what is expected of them. [It was nice to see some of the older faces.] Our school did fairly well in awards, however, the team was able to win the delegation award due to their excellent research, a point not emphasized as much in MUN in delegation points, which is a flaw of the system. In any case, we won the large school delegation and also won three gavels - Alwin Firmansyah, Wendy Tang and Rachelle Wong!

Great job delegates!

Today was mother's day. In order to celebrate after coming home, we went to my cousins house for a dinner and then after, went to the movies (I'll talk about that experience tomorrow). It was quite fun. In any case, I want to take this time to thank all the wonderful mothers out in the world, as you truly are the reason that human kind keeps surviving. Mother's are the caring creatures that nuture the future generations and assure that we do not lead ourselves into complete and utter destruction. They are the heart and soul their children and are the individual who give up so much to ensure that their children grow up with all that they need. To my mother and yours, we salute you!

By the way, my shirts says, "Touch My Monkey."

The Search for Our Storybook Ending

Team 300: Wilson Luong (Captain), Connie Chien, Traci Watanabe, and Jason Watanabe

Tonight was the Disneyland Scavenger Hunt and despite the fact that I have to wake up in 3.5 hours to a LONG day tomorrow, it was definitely worth the time we spent.

I am super sore from the experience though!

First, we checked in and got our wristbands and packets. Over dinner, my breadbowl chilli, fries and strawberry/wildberry smoothie, we tried to figure out the first clue, with no avail.

After doing so-so on the trivia questions we began the exhaustive search through the park, power walking for two hours through the park. We actually did well on the clues and I think we nailed at least the first six that we did and probably one more after that. On three we either guessed or ran out of time. During the entire scavenger hunt, you are tied together, thus, it makes it even hard because I was getting pulled through the park the entire night.


In any case, we did pretty well and ended up having a great time although I did fall asleep on the ride back. A perfect end to our storybook scavenger hunt :) Although we did not have a Cinderalla ending and come from behind as the underdogs, we still did better than we hoped, which is all I ask.

Now it's time to continued to search for my storybook ending ... tomorrow, league finals at La Mirada :)

On the Bridge

I'm currently on the bridge of a long week, nearly at the middle point of what has been such a hectic week ...

The Suburban League Prelims was a pretty good success, as many of our athletes performed to the level we had hoped. I have to look back to see the times of qualifiers for past league finals, as with a faster league, it was great to see the number of qualifiers that we had. [The following might be foreign language to some of you.]

1600 GFS - 6:03, 6:08, 6:09, 6:11 (1st - 4th Seeds at Finals)

1600 BFS - [PRs - (-7), (-8), (-9)]

1600 GV - 5:37, 5:43, 5:44 [PRs - (Tie), (-3), (-8)]

1600 BV - 4:52, 4:54 [PRs - (-1), (Tie)]

400 GFS - Auto Advance

400 BFS - [PRs - (-1)]

800 GFS - 2:42, 2:50, 2:52

800 BFS - 2:13 [PRs - (-2)]

800 GV - 2:32, 2:36, 2:38 [PRs - (Tie)]

800 BV - 2:06

Two of our events went to finals. We were able to take three medals and six of eight PRs in the 3200m.

3200 GFS - 12:48, 12: 53, 13:29, 14:07 [PRs - (-7), (-9), (-7), (-45)]

3200 BFS - [PRs - (-36), (-27)]

We have our league finals on Thursday at La Mirada at 4pm.

Tonight, I am going to Disneyland to participate in the scavenger hunt in the park from 7p - 1a. It will be quite the adventure despite the fact that we will not win :) Probably because when we were studying (Pocahantas), I fell asleep :P

This weekend, along with Mother's Day on Sunday, I got a full weekend of MUN at my alma mater, UC Irvine. I hope the conference turns out well.

I guess this week will be my full work week and then next week will be my full me week ;)

Until next time ... 

I'll see you on the other side of the bridge.

the other side of the bridge

is closer than it seems

as you seem to be distracted

by how the river below gleams

keep your focus forward

knowing you'll reach the end so soon

to where the grass is much greener

and where a field of flowers bloom

so don't give up while crossing

i'll be right here for you

to be you greatest supporter

no matter what it is you do

jason

5/6/09, 8:18am

FAMEous Strawberries

I said I would be posting a picture from Fame, the Cerritos High School play, so here it is!

It was a great production and a round of applause to the cast, crew and directors!

Gallery: http://wutanabe5.smugmug.com/gallery/8090779_NY8Fc

Today, I went on a strawberry farm tour. At first, I was hesitant and wasn't sure if I wanted to go on it, but I am glad that I ended up going on this tour. We got to sample FRESH produce right out of the field, washed in buckets including snap peas, green beans, lettuce, green onions, carrots and cilantro! We also got to pick our own basket of strawberries! It was such a berry good experience :)

Gallery: http://wutanabe5.smugmug.com/gallery/8095447_CSD24

On a sad note, my main computer got the black screen of death. I've tried three quick fixes so far unsuccessfully. I am hoping that one of these ends up working. I don't want to reformat, but my options are shrinking. *crosses fingers* At least most of my files are on externals.

Help anyone??

Beast of a Tool

This beast of a camera, the Canon 5D Mark II is my new baby :) ... haha ... it takes incredible quality picture and normally does not need a flash. Even more impressive, it can shoot HD quality video and take stills at the same time, despite the fact that it pauses the video when it shoots. 

Sure, you do not have very many controls over the HD video component and it sucks a lot of memory, however, I have used this camera the last few days and have already noticed the difference between the XSi and this one :) It will be a great addition to my arsenal of SLR cameras and also an addition to my camcorder arsenal as well.

The camera's L-series lens helps a lot :) ... another downside is that is has no built in flash but with the quality of camera that it is, the flash is not always necessary if you adjust the settings correctly. However, I do have a canon flash to accompany it. 

If you ever need pictures done, let me know, that's what I'm doing this summer to keep myself afloat financially over the summer. Big or small shoots, I'm there if you need to hire someone.

My first lengthy shoot with the camera was with our school musical Fame. Because I have had problems with my main computer, I do not have access to the pictures right now, however, when I get my other computer back on track, I will be sure to link those to my blog!

Today was a pretty busy day as I had to go to multiple stores to run errands, come back, and prepare for our BBQ/Ice Bath and then head straight to Fame for the play. I made my infamous kimchee burgers, most of which, I have yet to cook. Guess I will be having a few good meals soon. Also, I made some pasta, which ended up tasting a bit weird, but it was still good eats'.

In any case, exhausted as I am, I am prepared to wake up tomorrow and head out to the many endeavors I have to complete before the weekend is complete!

Wish me luck :)

Our Final League Dual Meet

Yesterday was our final league dual meet against John Glenn.

It was great to finish out the regular season and head into Suburban League Finals. We will race our league championship races next week and today we will be doing our seedings for the race.

In any case, the John Glenn meet was a great way to end the seasons, as all four levels did a great job in winning the league meet and we even found our way to some PRs on their track with our biggest PR coming in the girls frosh-soph race with a girl who, at the beginning of the season, seemed to be struggling a lot at practices. Thus, it was nice to see her find a big PR at the end of the season! 

Also, it was finally confirmed that our boys varsity team is the three time defending champions.

We now look towards next week where we begin our championships meets. 

Until next time ... 

To Risk or Not to Risk ...

Would you rather have died doing something you may have wanted to do and enjoying life or live a long safe life, where you took very few risks?

I guess in a long life, you woul still find your moments of joy within the box that you live in, however, would you really LIVE? The safe route provides comfort to your family, however, even the safe route doesn't necessarily guarantee you long life - genetic disease, accidents, and more.

Adventures such as traveling, skydiving, hunting, bungee jumping, surfing, etc. are activities that many look to take on and some will venture to some while avoiding some at all costs because of the risk of falling, getting eaten by a shark or being shot. For instance, should you really be afraid of doing something like skydiving?? I think it was really scary to sign the contract and watch the pre-video when going skydiving because they talk a lot about death and that in itself scares a lot of people away. However, I almost feel that taking that plunge may have been an experience that I wouldn't have wanted to miss for the world. It makes me question, are there opportunities that I missed out on because I was too afraid to act upon them? Because I was not ready or willing to take that risk?

I guess that those missed opportunities are out the door and can no longer be caught, but that doesn't mean I shouldn't live my life, thinking of the future, yet not limiting the time that I am living. I figure, that my time is going to come when it is going to come so I should take the opportunities given to me and live them out.

So next time, when you ask yourself whether or not you should risk or not risk ... think about you in sixty years sitting in a chair having passed on all these opportunities, hoping for one chance to get an opportunity to take that chance on something or somethings. Obviously within reason, however, also without restrictions.

Whether it's buying a camera and taking that new business venture forward or leaping off a bridge connected to a large rubber band, maybe that moment was provided to you for a reason and you should take that opportunity and run.

Carpe Diem ...

Backyard Development

I think my new backyard will be quite the interesting setup. In it's final state, it should be quite the hangout spot for anyone who may want to come over, but even in it's current state, it really has a mix of our family history. The signs of both my mom's side and dad's side are show in our bench with a touch of japanese and hawaiian to signify the background that lies in my blood.


I can't wait to host a barbeque this summer so people can come see the fruits of my father's labor :) ...

My dog loves my backyard too ...

Technology

Although there are a lot of issues that arise due to technology, I think technology is so amazing. The last few days, I have been trying to resolve some issues with a package I was suppose to receive last week. Well, there were a lot of problems with the order and long story short, the package was finally send 2-day express. I think it is so cool how I can stalk my package to make sure it gets here okay and to have an estimate of when it will actually arrive at my door. Obviously, we still have to do the repairman type deal where it may arrive better 12p and 6p, however, the excitement builds when you know that your package will be arriving that day because it's already on the delivery truck ready to be sent. 

One day, each of our packages will have GPS so we know exactly when they are en route to our house, however, for now, I am happy stalking my package from the warehouse in Brooklyn, New York to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to West Columbia, South Carolina and soon to be Cerritos, California :)

the package goes from place to place

who will win the speed test race

ups, fedex or the usps

the winner will be considered the best

the anticipation, uncontrolled

since the day on ebay sold

soon the package will be with me

which will make me so happy

jason

4/29/09, 8:39am

Permanent

It's always difficult when you feel alone especially when times are tough.
Know I won't ever leave, as I will be here when everyone else has gone.
Remember, you can always call on me whenever you need anything.

I'm permanent.

David Cook - Permanent
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LNFaoC9c74

Is this the moment
where I look you in the eye?
Forgive my broken promise
that you’ll never see me cry
And everything, it will surely change
even if I tell you I won’t go away today
Will you think that you’re all alone
When no one’s there to hold your hand?
And all you know seems so far away
and everything is temporary rest your head

I’m permanent

I know he’s living in hell every single day
And so I ask oh god is there some way
for me to take his place
And when they say just touch and go
I wish I could make it go away
But still you say
Will you think that you’re all alone
when no one’s there to hold your hand?
When all you know seems so far away
and everything is temporary, rest your head

I’m permanent
I’m permanent

Is the moment where I look you in the eye?
Forgive my promise that you’ll never see me cry

Mulligans

Sunday's message at church talked about God providing mulligans to us. For those who do not know what a mulligan is, it's another opportunity to hit the golf ball when you hit a bad shot or a redo. The message really got me to think about how life would be if we all had mulligans in our life.

I know that in my own life there are so many missed opportunities and mistakes that I have made that I wish I had the opportunity to have a mulligan. The one word you shouldn't have said, the one predicament you shouldn't have placed yourself, the one call you wish you had not missed and the one person you should never have let go.

I guess there are so many people affected by the mistakes that we all made along with ourselves, that it would be nice if we had a second chance to fix those problems by erasing them as if they never occurred. However, at the same time, I feel that we grow and learn a lot by making mistakes and having to deal with the consequences of our actions.

I guess for all of us, we think all the time about what we would do if we had a chance to do it all over again, when in reality, we should step back and really think about what will be the outcome of what we are going to do. I know it's hard to have that kind of perspective, but in reality, in our own lives, we do not get second chances too often and we cannot depend on the idea that at the end of our mistake, we will get a mulligan to replay the same senario. I guess, if we focus on getting it right the first time, we won't ever need the mulligan in the first place. Here's to not depending on the mulligan!

a shot fall in the lake
mulligan is what we shout
the non-golfers around us
look to see what it's all about

a second chance to hit the ball
another opportunity to succeed
what a life to have a mulligan
what a wonderful life indeed

in life, however, we don't get that chance
to erase a mistake that we made
as each moment is once in a lifetime
each game, only once it can be played

to avoid the need to replay a moment
step back and analyze the road ahead
think not about the what ifs of a mulligan
work on correcting the mistakes instead

in life we learn from our own imperfections
we learn that we won't always end on top
and if you learn to bounce back from failure
you'll be a machine that will be difficult to stop

although we can seek a second opportunity
for those who's faith lies in the Lord
but in our lives look to avoid the errors
away from the mulligan, moving forward

so as the second chance on the course approaches
know in life, you won't have the same chance
so before you take any actions
be sure to give situations a second glance

jason
4/27/09, 7:53pm