~:[CH6 - Day 243]:~ Hidden in the Disaster

~:[CH6 - Day 243]:~ Hidden in the Disaster

We hear the horror stories in the south with Hurricane Harvey and think how the weather can be such a disaster. The blazing heat has put at risk lives and has stopped us from doing our normal routine. Our practices have been cut short and while it's not as hot as it could be in other places, it's still concerning. However, even within the chaos of this heatwave, the beauty of nature shows itself in the middle of this disaster. The glorious light rays shine from the sky and demonstrate that the hope and possibilities that await us and simply doing that, waiting for us. If we spend too much time worrying before and after the disaster, we waste the opportunities that are hidden within them. Speaking literally, it's the opportunity to meet new people, to help others, to show and give love and to be inspired. It's to find the ability to overcome obstacles and even grow closer to loved ones after realizing just how precious love is. In a more metaphorical sense, in the worst times of our lives, we can find opportunities to grow, to learn and find something that we couldn't see before. Regardless, while this heatwave continues on, we'll find a way to get past it and if it doesn't cool down soon, hopefully at least we'll see the hidden treasures that lie with the disasters we face. 

~:[CH6 - Day 242]:~ Those Kind of Friends

~:[CH6 - Day 242]:~ Those Kind of Friends

Awkward. That's the word to describe him and our friendship. It's been fun to have a friend just across the way who you can always just chat with and have a joke with. I don't even remember when it started, but regardless, even before I bugged him as my best friend, he was always a good friend. As I look around me, I have a few of those solid friendships that while we may not spend every second of every day together, I am connected with them in some way. They are a foundation for me and I try to be there for them. Daily I make the moment awkward, but daily I am grateful I have this moment to make awkward. No matter the situation, these moments are precious. We're so in love with the story lines of love and superheroes, but why can't we make the story line of friends the centerpiece of all our stories as while love and superheroes are amazing, we would not be anywhere without our friends. Yes, even Jepsen.

~:[CH6 - Day 241]:~ Building Bridges

~:[CH6 - Day 241]:~ Building Bridges

The annual bridge building continued this year and like other years, it was a success. Sure, only three bridges met the maximum weight, but as I talked about in class, this activity was about the process rather than actually the bridge itself. Can you use all your resources? Can you work together? Can you find another way to overcome the obstacles ahead of you? While not always successful, in life, that's truly the case. We're imperfect beings and that's perfectly fine. When we risk take we grow, we learn and we discover. We may fall, but when we truly understand that we will be better when we get up, we will not be afraid of falling. As I closed out our night at John's Incredible Pizza with the cross country team, I reflected on how we must be ready to take life head on and be ready for all the opportunities to grow ahead; the opportunity to begin building bridges.

~:[CH6 - Day 240]:~ Sick ... Shot Bro

~:[CH6 - Day 240]:~ Sick ... Shot Bro

I didn't feel well the day before, so I decided not to leave Yosemite into later that morning. As we took our final hike through the valley, we strolled to Mirror Lake and then headed home. As I drove back through mostly smooth roads until we hit LA, I thought about how wonderful of a trip it had been. I had some gorgeous views that I did not remember and even had a few taken of me. While this picture was taken Sunday, I thought it was only fitting to summarize the trip. I took a number of great photos and my poses were even better than the photos themselves or so they say. While this trip was a last minute decision, I guess it was all worth it. As I ventured back, I stopped by practice and met up with an alum who was leaving for school before heading home. As I looked through the photos that I had taken though, I realized that as sick as some of the photos turned out, it wasn't about the photo, but about all the memories that lie behind those beautiful photos that make them beautiful. Tomorrow I will wake up and go to work, but this weekend will be forever a memory in my heart.

~:[CH6 - Day 239]:~ The Struggle

~:[CH6 - Day 239]:~ The Struggle

It was suppose to be an early wake up, but we slept in. It was pretty exhausting getting out to Yosemite and knowing that we had a trip back soon, I felt like sleeping in would be good. It felt really good. We ventured out to Upper Yosemite Falls and began the trek up the two sets of switchbacks that felt like they would never end. We were prepared with many liters of water with us, but met so many who were not. The struggle up the hill was real, but knowing that we struggled despite being prepared made me wonder how others made it up. Regardless, after a run in with a snake, a few slips and exhaustion like no other, we made it to the top. Even half way up, I realized that the struggle was worth it all. I guess in life we face the same issues. We go through the struggle wondering if we have prepared enough, if we should continue on and if we have what it takes to make it up. We'll see others struggling and turn back and we must ask ourselves, will we continue on? What is in it for us if we do? As I stood at one of the lookouts with my phone in hand, I shot the panoramic that reminded me why it would be worth it. This valley was well worth the struggle and I couldn't imagine what I would have done had I not arrived at the top of Upper Yosemite Falls. My stomach was bothering me and I felt a little nauseated the whole way, but when I reach the top, I forgot about it all. I felt better after a cold drink, a shower, and a good dinner, but I knew I would not be able to leave right away, so I decided to wait until the morning to leave. I hate missing a day, but sometimes you just have to let your body recover, especially after earning it after battling through so many obstacles. It was a struggle, but if a picture says a thousand words, I need not say anymore about how it was worth it. 

~:[CH6 - Day 238]:~ Don't Hesitate

~:[CH6 - Day 238]:~ Don't Hesitate

We were suppose to have practice this morning, but with SATs and a few injuries, it ended up that practice was canceled. It allowed me to get a little work done and to think about the trek I head ahead of me. At the last moment, I am taking a short turnaround trip to Yosemite. Yes, I said turnaround. I guess the lesson here is that sometimes you just cannot hesitate. While planning is good, you also have to take on an opportunity and go with the flow. growing and learning as you go. As I wrapped up the design of this year's team shirt, I thought, it's only fitting that this be the case. We can't always plan ever bit of the road map ahead of us, however, the parts that are left for later on, will be filled as we gain strength along the road. After a nice late lunch in Little Tokyo, we ventured off, not knowing everything we had planned, but at least we had the basics and sometimes that good enough. We will survive, the question is, how well will we survive? Only time will tell. How much we learn and grow and our will to succeed will show us exactly what is possible. There is a long road ahead, but I am confident that we'll be ready when it's time to reach our final destination.

~:[CH6 - Day 237]:~ Jump Start the Year

~:[CH6 - Day 237]:~ Jump Start the Year
It was the strangest of things, I opened the memory card slot of my camera and there wasn't a card inside. However, I know I shot with one. I later found out that the card was taken as a joke in placed in a different pocket in my backpack. The strangest thing? I wasn't surprised. It's a reoccurring theme, as is the motivational speech of our principal, Mr. Walker. He once again inspired the students with words to jump start the year and try to get the students to see all their potential and all that awaits them ahead. I think it was a great way to begin and with a crop of new freshmen, I think it was a great crowd to preach to. I hope they listen and know that they are Dons and should be proud to say that. They should be ready, respectful and real and ready to take on all the challenges ahead. While it's easy to take care of what we need to in life, often times, it is much easier when we find someone who can push us in the right direction and I think the students just got that push. Let's make it a great year! 

~:[CH6 - Day 236]:~ Just a Piece

~:[CH6 - Day 236]:~ Just a Piece

It wasn't one of my best pictures and didn't come close to capturing the moment, but for some reason, I can't stop staring at it. On a day full of an amazing first day, meeting new students and finishing off with a surprise birthday stop for Mama Nish, I found closure to my day as I look up to the night's sky. I was at piece looking at the crescent moon in the sky, realizing how applicable it was to my own life. As while there has been so much that I have experienced, there is so much left to experience in life. I couldn't help imagine my life as that crescent, all that I experienced is just a part of what I have to look forward to. As while tonight it was not as spectacular as a super moon bright in the sky, there was still much to appreciate, much to be proud of and much to be mesmerized by. Among the darkness of the sky, the crescent show and while in a week where the sky was the center of attention, I'm sure few heads turned up to the sky to see what was going on. Regardless, it doesn't take many people to look to the sky to make me realize that it is still special. It is easy to realize that it will shine one and light the night's sky and show itself off for all to see. I cannot wait for what is ahead and to see myself grow, however, regardless. I will appreciate where I began, as this piece that has continued to shine since day one. We all are like this crescent and while no one may be looking now, we must continue to grow and shine, so that they world will one day glance up to the sky and realize just how amazing you are. It may not be today, but that day will come. Whether it's tomorrow or a tomorrow ten years from now, know that you are special, even if right now, it's just a piece of what you will be in the future. I smile knowing that this will be true and I hope that you're smiling too.

~:[CH6 - Day 235]:~ The Final Stretch

~:[CH6 - Day 235]:~ The Final Stretch

I already had most everything done for tomorrow, so I went through my papers and got ahead on a few things, I ordered a lot of items for the Great Cow Run, and finished up a few odds and ends. I am ready. With my periodic table bow tie on and my blue suit on, I took my ID picture, the staff picture, and then called it a day. After practice, I ended up shooting a little pool and despite my aim being off the whole night, I had a great time. It was definitely a nice way to say goodbye, as we welcome the arrival of the new school year. I am not sure what to expect during the year, but I will go into it with a smile and hope that by year's end, I'll have an even bigger smile. It's the final stretch and now, it's time to try and make a difference in this world. 

~:[CH6 - Day 234]:~ Welcoming

~:[CH6 - Day 234]:~ Welcoming

It was easy to wake up in the morning to go to work since I've been waking up at 5am all summer, but it was a challenge to actually work today. I had a lot to do to prepare for the Great Cow Run, but I was in meetings all day, followed by a quick room setup and a library setup afterward. We got in a nice solid practice, learning the Great Cow Run course, before calling it a day at work. It was nice to see the welcoming spirit of the staff to its many new members and it will be exciting to see how the year ends up. However, the true welcoming was the kindness of a family who welcomed me into their home and filled me with more food that I could have ever imagined. It was so delicious and I felt bad as it seems as if they spent way too much time and money preparing for the meal. Regardless, I was happy and appreciative of the welcoming spirit from the family and was glad to meet them all. My stomach left happy, but I left happier as I felt that I grew closer to the family and learned a lot in the process. It's incredible when you are met with a welcoming spirit as it can change who you become and what you do in the future. Thomas Hobbes did not necessarily believe in the natural goodness of men, however, I feel that these smaller interactions, especially earlier in one's lifetime make the person. Thus, the welcoming spirit surrounding someone can be the difference maker in how this person develops in the future. Hate it or love it, live life with a welcoming spirit to create an atmosphere that can make people appreciative of all the amazing things around them. 

~:[CH6 - Day 233]:~ Reflecting on the Summer

~:[CH6 - Day 233]:~ Reflecting on the Summer

Today was a summary of what my summer was like, a start-to-finish sprint. I rushed out in the morning and met part of my team at the river channel for our annual 40-mile Bike Club. We had about twenty five strong head from Cerritos to the pier and back again, as we enjoyed the views of the eclipse from there before playing around in the sand a bit. It was a nice way to end the summer, as I reflected on it as a I drove van support through the morning. I rushed to practice, filled the day with weight room, boba, and a lot of paperwork to finish up, almost exactly how many of my days this summer went. However, while it was hectic this summer, I wouldn't change much about it. I reconnected with old friends, made new ones, found old alumni and saw how much progress they've made, I saw my cousin and one of my best friends get married, I traveled the world and have about a hundred bug bites to show for it. I wasn't home much and I'll probably be paying for my summer for the rest of the year, but sometimes, you look back and say, despite all the headaches, it was worth it. I will be catching up all year, but I wouldn't change a thing. From Tokyo to Chiang Mai to Bhutan across to the Cayman Island, a hike down to Havasupai and all the meanwhile, trying to balance it with all the work I had to do. It seems like the summer went all two fast, but this last week made me realize that sometimes you just have to fight through it so that you can discover just how amazing those moments were. I finished with the hard ticket items this week of the Museum of Ice Cream, Magic Castle, and Hamilton sprinkled in with a few other things and while the opportunity cost was much of my rest time, it was all worth it. I was excited to spend my summer with a very dedicated group of athletes who have shown that they can excel this season, which was the cherry on top of it all. We will see how tomorrow goes as we begin work, but at least for today, I can look back and know, I didn't waste a single second of the summer. 

~:[CH6 - Day 232]:~ Show Business

~:[CH6 - Day 232]:~ Show Business

My friend asked me, "how many aspiring actors/actresses do you think we just walked by." It's something that I don't ask myself ever, but one that is quite a worthy question. As we walked out of Hamilton, I was exhausted, realizing how long of a day it had been. Early in the morning, I was at the Nike cross country clinic, then headed to KCon LA for some food and just some browsing, before heading to Hollywood for the show. The entire day, I was probably crossing paths with people tied with show business, both here and in Korea. It's quite fascinating to think about. It's nice to live in a place with so much talent all around as the performances you get to see end up being just spectacular. While this is a touring cast not based in LA, just being in this city allows me to catch some of the greatest shows around like this one, which was quite spectacular. I am just grateful of the opportunities I have around me and will appreciate them every time I have the chance. 

~:[CH6 - Day 231]:~ Powering Through

~:[CH6 - Day 231]:~ Powering Through

The athletes got lucky as there were overcast skies in the morning allowing for an easier workout at Clark Park, however, it did not mean that the workout was easy. It was still a challenge and they proved themselves ready to conquer the course they faced. Overall, much like the workout, it was a work and power through kind of day. I love to have those days where you get to work and also allow your body to relax a bit. With a meetup in the middle of the evening, most of my plans went down the tube as I just worked and saw some productivity on the day. I only hope that the days ahead are even more productive as school quickly approaches. 

~:[CH6 - Day 230]:~ The World in Our Hands

~:[CH6 - Day 230]:~ The World in Our Hands

The card was showing face up. Once again, the magician played a trip on the mind with misdirection and sleight of hand. The night was a magical one as my friend joined me at the castle after a morning hiking to the Hollywood sign. It was her first day and time in LA and it was nice to show a variety of the city to her. From the hike to the magic, it felt as if the world was in our hands and we hand control and yet, no control at the same time. I guess it makes you wonder, what really can you do in life? Can you take care of yourself? Can your properly make good decisions? Do you ever really have control? I truly am a believe that the world is on our hands and that our decisions will affect the future of this world. I also believe, however, that the world has it's way of working and that we will never really be in control. As my friend stared off into the distance and I watched from afar, I soaked in the views and just prayed that life will lead me down a path that is full of hope and prosperity. Whether, riches or good fortune come my way, it's up for chance, but that's really all I'm asking for, is a chance.

In loving memory of RNR. 

~:[CH6 - Day 229]:~ Heating Up

~:[CH6 - Day 229]:~ Heating Up

With the summer over, it's clear that the season is quickly approaching. It's always strange how fast things move. One day, you're thinking, summer is here and the next, the tears fall because it's all over. As we progressed through the summer, it's been nice to see the success growing within our program and today was another one of those days that we had success. After a productive day, I saw a number of PRs on the Gahr course and we celebrated with a dinner together, almost thirty strong. As while the temperatures may not have been as hot today, the season began to heat  up as the athletes blazed along the course. I'm excited for what the season brings and only time will tell what lies ahead.

~:[CH6 - Day 228]:~ Going Bananas

~:[CH6 - Day 228]:~ Going Bananas

There are a lot of things I wanted to do with the days I have remaining in summer, but sure enough, there aren't enough hours in the day to do them all. I've been busy running around doing things, so ultimately, time is not something I have much of, despite what some may think. I always get hassled with messages and people wondering why I cannot instantly do something and it was a few years ago that I realized, that I need to make sure that I keep time for myself separate from work and all thing things that come with it. In an age of technology, it is hard to do, but I'll do my best to do that for myself. Not knowing that our schedule would change so suddenly, I booked afternoon tickets to the Museum of Ice Cream which had been sold out for months. It was a little closer to practice than I had hoped, but I went for it anyway. I am not a huge fan of ice cream or desserts in general, but I do enjoy it from time to time and this experience was pretty cool. I'm not going to say it was the most amazing thing ever, but it definitely was worth the trip and like most, the pictures and treats that came with it. Wurstkuche and the fun moments that came along with the day made it well worth it as it was another day to spend catching up with those special people around me. In the days that are so stressful and mentally challenging leading up to the start of school, I found a way to keep myself from going bananas. I hope to those around me that you each find your escape and know that a few days will not leave you in the dust, but rather, may help you keep pace with this fast-paced world. 

~:[CH6 - Day 227]:~ Best of Seven

~:[CH6 - Day 227]:~ Best of Seven

In a series, you can never quit, both when winning or losing. Enduring the length of a series is important and can show your perseverance and focus. Much like today at freshman orientation, the good start gave us confidence that would be a good day before we were slammed with a mini storm that had us running for a little bit of shelter. Honestly, it wasn't bad, but the rain and the cold took us by surprise. Just like the downturns in a series, we endured it and soon enough, there were clear skies and we gobbled down our lunch and had a successful second session recruiting athletes. We had a successful workout and I followed it with a successful meeting. I headed out to grab ramen with a few alumni and we also stopped off to shoot some pool. It was great catching up and even more fun adding a little competition into the mix. We got out to a great start, taking a 3-0 lead, but we soon were reeled back into reality as they chipped away at our lead. Our confidence deflated a bit from 3-1 to 3-2 to 3-3. With a single ball on the table, the other team missed and we sunk the final ball. We persevered. In life, even when it seems you've lost, you can't give up. You must grind and battle. You must never quite. You must know that life is a series even greater than seven games and if we keep battling, we open up opportunities for ourselves. While we can never predict how it will turn out, we give ourselves the best chance of success by enduring the difficulties and knowing the challenges that our coming our way. Even when you feel like you are down, remember, that you have a number of rounds left to help you find success. 

~:[CH6 - Day 226]:~ Lighting the Way

~:[CH6 - Day 226]:~ Lighting the Way

In all the business of life, of getting back on track, of cleaning and getting organized, I've found that my path is lit by the amazing people around me. I've always been one who overcomes the discomfort of extroverted tendencies in order to connect with those around me. To hold a conversation, to spend time together, and to hold an open and honest, casual conversation. The topic will change from person to person, but the reality is that this small moment in time can mean a connection to last a lifetime. I sometimes wondered if I could afford to keep this up, but then I asked myself tonight, could I afford not to keep this up. I may prefer to be in silence, but the silence could be the thing that keeps me from growing. The connections and conversations are the things that I am sure will light the way of my future happiness and success. Much like tonight, a simple meet up became an uplifting moment and an opportunity to get to know those around me even better. There may be only so many minutes in the day, but each of those minutes you have and well-worth being spent on the special people that surround us, as they are the ones who help light the way. 

~:[CH6 - Day 225]:~ A FAIRly Nice Day

~:[CH6 - Day 225]:~ A FAIRly Nice Day

It was nice not to set an alarm for the day. I woke up when I wanted to. I ended up waking up a bit early, so I cooked breakfast and then transferred pictures all day. I wasn't too productive, but wanted to take a restful day at home. As usual, I hit up the fair on closing day. It's been a tradition since the fair normally closes after Mammoth. It was great taking in all the prizes as usual, as we collected prize after prize, even after a few people swiped our prizes from us. Regardless, from the food to the entertainment to the games, the day itself was quite spectacular. I think even if I just sat at home I would have enjoyed today, but being able to go out and enjoy the fair, made it that much more special. FAIRly special. It's only FAIR that I gave myself today off and I couldn't have imagined a better way to spend it. 

~:[CH6 - Day 224]:~ Out of the Blue

~:[CH6 - Day 224]:~ Out of the Blue

Out of the blue, we made a stop. It was one of the many random thing that occurred during the day including a few stepped on toes and an infected leg. However, the morning run was good, cleanup went well and we were smooth sailing to Rosamond on the road. As we close out another Mammoth, I couldn't help but thing how wonderful things came together with big thanks going to the wonderful counselor group and athletes who attended the camp. It was hectic and busy, but I was impressed on how hard everyone worked and how things simply came together. The random stop at this room may have been out of the blue, but the memories and enjoyment of the trip were not. I am hoping that every person who attended camp enjoyed it and hope for a great future down the road. Now that I am exhausted, it's time to say goodbye to camp, but while it's over, there will be so many memories remaining that can easily be stored away and ready to go. 

~:[CH6 - Day 223]:~ Connections

~:[CH6 - Day 223]:~ Connections

It's interesting how life introduces you to the people you need in your life at the right time. How you often can find the person who complements you and who can be the one who helps guide you where to go at the right time. On a day where we found challenges, we also found solutions. We found the people with whom we can trust or thoughts and emotions. While reflecting on the week through videos, it was easy to see how each person in your life contributes something different and while some of those contributions may seem insignificant, their importance will be something you may not realize you need until it's too late. Many of us struggle with life and all its components, however, if we can establish meaningful connections, we will find those who can step up and support us in our time of need. As the night closed down and the condos sang the night away, I couldn't help but smile, because I saw the connections that the athletes had and the joy in which they celebrated together.

~:[CH6 - Day 222]:~ Together

~:[CH6 - Day 222]:~ Together

Life is challenging enough. Why do it alone? Every year at camp around this time, I think about how this week can pull the team together. After goal setting last night, the though process of how to become unified arrives at the forefront. We ran past our deadline, but I was fine with it. The athletes seemed to enjoy themselves, especially in two of the most infamously funny games. It helped to be together to celebrate the last few nights of camp with a stop at the bowling alley. Sure, the lanes had their problems, but ultimately, it was simply nice being together as one ohana. With this year being the 10th since the passing of RNR, it has been a special one for me, as it has been something that's been on my mind the whole week. The one thing that we were reminded of last night is that it is together that we will survive the toughest of times and best enjoy the great moments in life. Today, tomorrow, and for the many days beyond that, we must work together, stay together, love together and be together as one ohana. 

~:[CH6 - Day 221]:~ The Smoke Cannot Engulf Us

~:[CH6 - Day 221]:~ The Smoke Cannot Engulf Us

The smoke rolled in from the local fire as it tried to ruin our day, but we would have none of it. We had a great morning workout along the ridge, enjoying the views of Mammoth, followed by a great afternoon of camp olympics that had the right balance of fun and competition including one of our classic games. With a relaxing evening while the athletes had their team meeting, I had time to be alone and think about how the day was so much like the discussions that our athletes would be having tonight. All the problems that we can sense and that surround us will always come and go, but we cannot let that smoke engulf us. We cannot allow it to fill us with something that will rot our insides, rather, we must allow ourselves to continue to move forward through the smoke, keeping focus on what is ahead of us. We cannot panic, we cannot make a big deal of small issues and even the big ones. We must continue to see the bigger pictures to understand that sometimes, the things we cling to are sometimes the things we need to let go of in order to keep the smoke from engulfing us. As the sun rises in the morning, I hope our team can see that any of the issues they face are things they can overcome and put behind them so that they can rise above the smoke. Alone, the smoke may engulf us, however, together, I know that the ohana can bond together and guide each other to find clear skies so that the air they breathe can once again be pure. My hope for their future is clear skies for many days, months, and years to come. 

~:[CH6 - Day 220]:~ The Light Around Us

~:[CH6 - Day 220]:~ The Light Around Us

We woke up early and headed down to Rainbow Falls. The water levels were so high that we couldn't head down to the bottom, so we headed down to the lower falls and enjoyed our lunch there. It was nice hiking with the team and while it got hot and I was tired, I got to spend time with my team and really enjoyed the hike. I was exhausted though and was able to grab a bit of shut eye before dealing with the rest of the day. While the smoke rolled in around us, all the troubles that we encountered felt like nothing compared to all the good that surrounded me. There are problems that will pop up in our lives and how we deal with it is up to us. Can we truly see the light around us and know that everything will be alright? Can we see the light that is waiting for us? There is goodness in everyday and opportunities to meet people, to grow, to create memories and the like. As we look up, we'll be  able to see the light that surrounds us, if we're willing to believe that it exists. As the water flowed down over lower falls, it could have been easy to see it as a disappointment since the lower area of Rainbow Falls wasn't open, but it ended up being such a wonderful day with experiences we didn't have previously. As tomorrow will bring its challenges, I will continue to look for the light that surrounds me, as I know that it is always around. 

~:[CH6 - Day 219]:~ The Variety of Life

~:[CH6 - Day 219]:~ The Variety of Life

The dinner table was filled with a variety of chicken from fried to teriyaki, adobo chicken, and strawberry chicken. Our traditional chicken night allows everyone to create a dish of their choice and it was fun doing so. The morning was not the same routine as normal. The back of the lake was flooded so we didn't take a full loop. My normal footage wasn't captured, but that's what life is - expecting the unexpected. There will be curveballs and things to deal with that put a little spice into life. From getting thrown in as the lead to the skit to experiments we made with dinner, it all adds to what life is all about. Sure things may not be perfect, they may not run the way that we had hoped, but that can't stop us from living. With each performance that went on, some were better than others, but you can't discount the fact that they all got up and did it. Embrace the variety that life has to offer as who knows what joys that spice may add to your life. 

~:[CH6 - Day 218]:~ Bumps & Bruises

~:[CH6 - Day 218]:~ Bumps & Bruises

It was a pretty tough turnaround to go from the wedding to packing up the car before heading out to Mammoth, but I did it. Even leaving the wedding early didn't help, as I was still scrambling to get everything together. Regardless, I left home with a smile and headed to Mammoth. It was smooth sailing to Mammoth, as everyone must have been scared of the weather outside or something. We were so early, we had to extend our lunch break so that we didn't arrive before we could check in. Regardless everything went well. As I sat down after the unload, that's when the few bumps and bruises came, from getting hit on the head by a metal rod, to almost losing my drone, finishing dinner up late, to having a group clean up a spilled bag of marinara sauce, we had our shares of bumps and bruises. However, despite it all, a few bumps in the road cannot ruin a wonderful day. It's hard to overcome difficulties and see the bright sides of things when they all pile up together at the same time. However, there are many times we allow one bad thing to ruin what could have been a spectacular day. See all the good and pass those bumps and bruises off as temporary annoyances. Tomorrow will be a new day, but as for today, I am happy because we are unpacked and ready to go. Here's to a great week of good times and fond memories. 

~:[CH6 - Day 217]:~ Union of Souls

~:[CH6 - Day 217]:~ Union of Souls

Two individuals became one. From coast to coast, these two met, fell in love and became married. It was amazing to see one of my best friends get married. I have been so truly blessed to have had Andrew in my life. He always is looking out for others and doing his best to make sure that others are enjoying themselves. He always is the life of the party and while people thing of him for his crazy antics, I think of him for his amazing heart. You can just tell by the crowd that he always is looking out for others, as so many people respect him so very much. I am glad that he found someone like Linda and while I have not spent as much time with her as I have with Andrew, I can already tell, she has a similar lively spirit. While I had to leave before the end of the evening, I am so glad I was able to go, to see the wonderful people I call my friends, to see the wonderful family, and to meet a hoard of new people I have never met in my life. A wedding is truly a celebration and a union of souls, not just the couple, but of family and friends, laughing and enjoying life together. For this wedding, it was great to see such a multicultural melting pot coming together. While things will never go down perfectly to the minute on the itinerary, in my eyes, it was a perfect day and evening, as we got to celebrate the union of these two amazing people. When I got home, I rushed and threw everything I could into my bags and car, but I smiled the whole evening, because I couldn't have found a better way to have a send off than an amazing evening with friends. Congratulations to the beautiful couple who I hope to spend a lifetime with, watching you grow old. 

~:[CH6 - Day 216]:~ Cleaning Up

~:[CH6 - Day 216]:~ Cleaning Up

While talking to an alumni, I could feel the challenges she was facing. Life is not easy. Sometimes it's like the watermelon relay we do. Sometimes we get lucky and we drop the watermelon and it stays intact while other times it may fall apart. Regardless of what happens, you need to pick it up and continue on, even when there are people standing in your way. It's easier said than done, but sometimes, these challenging situations end up being the ones that define you. The ones that show what you are made of and while it may be a struggle at first, the ability to fight through is what can make the difference of finding success or not. As I rolled through the day, the ups and downs of life were evident as I struggled to keep myself alert. However, I had a number of helping hands keeping me in check and making sure I had the help I needed. Never in my lifetime have I had so many people helping and it helped seeing as it was the fastest prep we've ever had. I'm exhausted and beat, however, I couldn't image how much more tired I would be had it not been for those who came to my aid. For those struggling, when you drop your watermelon, turn to those around you and I'm sure that they'll come to your aid. There may seem as if there is no end in sight, however, trust in those around you, trust in the process, and most importantly, trust in yourself to be able to clean it all up when you just happen to drop the watermelon, as while today may not have been your day, there's always tomorrow. 

~:[CH6 - Day 215]:~ I'll Take It

-->~:[CH6 - Day 215]:~ I'll Take It

It's only natural to strive for what you're hoping for, which is often an exceptional day. When it falls short of these expectations, it is easy to be disappointed, yet if you take the right perspective, it will not only become a successful day, but also a day to learn and grow. The morning provided some wonderful conditions and it made me hope for a wonderful afternoon. After a long day of Mammoth shopping, I came home trying to survive the warm summer day. It wasn't ridiculously hot, but a little hotter than I had hoped for our next time trial. Regardless, while the times were a little off the mark, the effort was not. We ended up with four medalists, a few PRs and a load of great efforts. While we know we have a lot of work to do, it's always nice to get a gauge of where we are at. It's crazy how the days are moving so quickly and with a shorter summer, it's been a little hectic. As I prepare for yet another weekend away from home, I looked back to today and said I'll take it. As we closed out the evening with a nice dinner together, it was easy to smile even if all of the expectations I had going into the day were not met. Tomorrow's another day for us to go after it, but for today, I'll take it.

~:[CH6 - Day 214]:~ IAN't Life Grand?

~:[CH6 - Day 214]:~ IAN't Life Grand?

It was a punny day. No pun intended or was it? A day full of dad jokes and puns came mid-afternoon and made my day. Catching up with alum always has its surprises, but this one was one for the books. After a morning of great performances, our team bowled the afternoon away with over forty joining us for our event. I was impressed at the sheer number of people who came out. We had a pretty good time and while I tanked a few of my games today, it didn't really matter. I enjoyed the moment. My day almost closed in sadness as the Yoshinoya I was going to meet my friend at was closed, however, we ended up at Gyu-Kaku and made it in time for the lunch special. It was amazing to get such good food at lunch prices so close to dinner and with a paleteria to top it off on a hot day, it was a perfect surprise ending to a day that ended up being so grand. I got a lot of work done and amazingly, feel pretty good about things right about now. The laundry list of things to do tomorrow is quite long, but at least I know that today was a good day. From the exciTEAng moments at TapEx to an afternoon at the bowling alley, in my oPINion, it was quite an extraordinary day. Sometimes, the best days in life are quite unexpected, but hey, that's just when you got to ask yourself, IAN't life grand?

~:[CH6 - Day 213]:~ Wanting Something Better

~:[CH6 - Day 213]:~ Wanting Something Better

I often hear people say, "I'll do better" or "I am hoping to do better next time," but does that really mean much? I'm not talking about words versus actions or effort of any sort, but rather, about what is "better" and is it really good enough? After a period of darkness or a storm, better could still mean dirty clouds. After a game where you go 0-20, better may be just making a single shot, yet is it still good? I think one of the realizations I had today when looking into the sky is that some of the best moments come after a storm or a period of darkness. It's not just that it's better than before, but that the moment becomes a spectacular one where it's glorious and memorable. It is after a storm that a rainbow often appears and may moments when people pull out their cameras in order to capture the moment. Why is that so? A plain blue sky is beautiful, but ordinary. It is when you struggle through some of the darkest moments in your life that it will require you to employ many of the skills you have gained over the course of your life. If you do not seek them out, the darkness can get darker, but when you figure out how to use those skills, it is a moment you will never forget. If we approach many moments in our life like this, we may soon discover that we have many of these picture-worthy moments in our lives waiting for us, if we just employ the skills we already have. I can't wait for tomorrow, as it will be beyond better than today, it will be simply breathtaking.