~:[CH6 - Day 273]:~ Growing Together

~:[CH6 - Day 273]:~ Growing Together

We got lucky that the temperatures dropped from the original forecast. It was cool all day, but it was much better than what was expected and for that I was thankful. However, I was even more grateful to see a group beginning to grow together. It doesn't happen overnight, but slowly, the pieces begin to fit together as they spend more and more time together as an ohana. I was pretty happy to see the team out and about and despite the tough course, seeing them battle the elements. It was pretty rough trying to coach with so many races going on one after another, but it was nice to see as many athletes during the course of the race as I did. While we decided to sit a lot of our athletes, it also allowed some of them to be more involved and begin the process of growing together. Many people give up after taking one shot at it, but the reality is, good things come to those who wait and often, this process takes awhile. Exhausted from an early wake up, I know we all wish we could sleep a bit more, but at least today felt like we were in a dream; a wonderful, amazing dream. 

~:[CH6 - Day 272]:~ In Harmony

~:[CH6 - Day 272]:~ In Harmony

Sometimes life finds a way to the perfect harmony. When a bunch of notes come together and truly become one. It may not be something that many people hear, but to me, it's music to my ears, but also to my heart. It's difficult anywhere to get things to sync together into something so perfect. Everyone is on their own wavelength and often things don't work the way they should. Today, was no where close to perfect, but it doesn't mean it didn't find its way to the harmony that could soothe the soul. From a smooth day at work, to a productive practice and to celebrate together with a good-spirited group of athletes, I went home with a smile and after reflecting a bit more, I also closed out the night with an even bigger smile. I heard the sound of the piano keys playing in my head as I walked into the house of an alumni who welcomed our team with open arms, something which we are truly grateful; I walked out of that same house with the perfect harmony playing in my heart. From the selflessness of the family who has had an impact on so many lives, to the good spirits of the athletes, the the bounce in my step as I got home, something about today just worked together. Often, these moments are inexplicable and unrepeatable, which make them even more special. There are many things that could have been fixed or improved, but all that has been overpowered by the roaring sound of the harmony, which has traveled from my heart into my soul. As I wish I could slow down the hands of time at this very moment, knowing that I cannot, I will cherish these minutes where things just seemed to all go together; when harmony was truly found. 

~:[CH6 - Day 271]:~ The Battle

~:[CH6 - Day 271]:~ The Battle

In life, we arm ourselves with what we need so that we can be ready for the battle. Today was a battle. While the morning was calm a peaceful, I was unable to use water through the day, we had issues with the paperwork with the park and the temperatures were higher than we had hoped. However, despite all the distractions and changes, we continued to battle through and we ultimately survived. We never really know what the battle that lies ahead of us will be like, so we must prepare ourselves to handle the most difficult of situations and adapt accordingly. Be strategic and know where you should focus your attention, so you can use your energy and resources wisely. Avoid the distractions that are not worth your time and energy and don't get too comfortable and get caught off guard. Every day, I am tying to work on myself to best prepare myself for the battles ahead. There are many days that I fail and must regroup, but ultimately my goal is to learn from each of these mistakes. Relating to the common phrase, I may lose the battle, but I know if I do what I need to after each, that ultimately, I will be able to win the war. 

~:[CH6 - Day 270]:~ When We Get Lost

~:[CH6 - Day 270]:~ When We Get Lost

I think that some people believe that life is good when it's smooth sailing as you coast along the road with no obstacles in sight. However, in life, that smooth sailing isn't too common and it is in getting lost where we find adventure, as well as ourselves. I think that it's been in the toughest of times that I've been able to learn the most, grow the most, and be able to truly see myself. I can see how I act when things aren't going my way, which is more of a true reflection of myself than when times are good. Through heartache to disappointment to mourning to simple cluelessness, I have seen myself mend my wounds, lift my spirits, smile again and find my way once more. In life, we all will get lost, but that is not a moment of failure, yet a moment of opportunity. It is in our moments of getting lost, do we find what we are made of, what more we can accomplish and possibly find a new direction in which to head. I've always wondered where I would be without all the dark moments in my life, thinking that I would be living a much happier life. However, today, I think, where I would have been without the dark moments in my life and I can help but think, I would not be as strong as I am today. As much as we try, we're not all going to travel down the path of perfection and we must be willing to accept that we are imperfect in order to help improve ourselves on a daily basis. Do I want things to go perfectly when I plan things out? Sure I do. Regardless, I'll understand that eventually, I will get lost; but I will not become discouraged in that moment, rather, I will seek out the opportunities that getting lost provided me and in the process, I will find out just what I am made of. Where I will be tomorrow, who knows? However, despite all the pain and struggle I have found to get to this point, I know that wherever tomorrow takes me, I'll be ready for it. As while the wounds from those difficult moments of the past may still cause pain, they also have taught me lessons that smooth sailing could never have, as it is in my moments of being lost that truly I was found. 

~:[CH6 - Day 269]:~ Working With What You Got

~:[CH6 - Day 269]:~ Working With What You Got

It's easy to complain when you do not have the best of conditions. When squished in this tiny space, it would be easy to ask, why do we have to squeeze in here? Rather, maybe it's better to figure out a way to make it work. We won't always be blessed with the best jobs or the best conditions in life, however, if we learn to endure, we'll be better able to handle what's ahead. Sure, you shouldn't be abused and simply take the worst of everything, but sometimes, you're put into those situation and complaining is not the answer. Find a way; make it work. As they often say, when life throws you lemons, make lemonade, however, why do you simply need to make lemonade, when you can make lemon-herb chicken or something greater than what others may imagine. Life is going to give you many opportunities that you do not realize are such, however, if you take each situation as a challenge, you'll find the light in an area that you only thought darkness existed. As I rolled through the final moments of the day after an exhausting day at work, I took a sip of my milk tea and smiled knowing that I did my best with what I had today.  

~:[CH6 - Day 268]:~ A Little Dirt Ain't Hurt Nobody

~:[CH6 - Day 268]:~ A Little Dirt Ain't Hurt Nobody

It was a little rough trying to get back in the swing of things. When you've been out even a few days, it feels like it's forever. However, you roll with the punches and get the work done. Sadly, I think in our society, we think that we should be given opportunities rather than earn them, we should get respect without giving it, or that we should get everything we want. However, when our hopes are fulfilled in that way, we don't really get to realize the real work required to get what we want and need and never really learn and grow in the process. The struggle of reaching where we want to go is part of what makes us into the people who we are. We all need to get our hands dirty and start the daily grind of putting in 110% and more to get where we want to be. I think one of the great things about cross country is, is the difficulties that people face in trying to improve. There are so many barriers that must be overcome and so many difficulties that will be faced that ultimately, it produces some of the best people around. Today was a challenge to survive and to come to realizations that I did, but it was nice to see a group of people understanding that if they want to reach their goals, it's going to take more than just showing up and going through the motions to get there. They understood that a little dirt on their hands wouldn't hurt them, in fact, it would be what would bring them to success. I hope my students and athletes understand this and use this to be a guide as they head forward on their journey in life. 

~:[CH6 - Day 267]:~ Simply Weird

~:[CH6 - Day 267]:~ Simply Weird

This group is quite strange. It's nice because the personalities are so different, but they also get along. I think this city and this sign fits them well. We ventured out into the city, went to Voodoo Doughnuts, headed to Powell's, back to Saturday Market and finished off the Nike Store. As we headed to the airport, I was pretty amazed at how much we were able to do this trip and despite the headaches here and there, it ended up being a pretty good trip. I bought a book called, You're Doing a Freaking Great Job, and I kept thinking how many of the moments during this trip could fit into many of the quotes from the book. I have had a lot of different groups that I've taken to the Oregon trip and I think all of them fit this sign. they're all pretty weird, just like Portland. Today we close another chapter in the history of our ohana, but the memories of this trip will forever be etched in our programs weird history.

~:[CH6 - Day 266]:~ Making a Splash

~:[CH6 - Day 266]:~ Making a Splash

It was race morning. We woke up on time and headed out to breakfast. We got lucky and were able to eat before anyone else came in. We had time to wander through the course and check it all out. The mud pit was like a lake. Scratch that ... it was a lake. Knee, hip and for some, chest deep at points, the pits seemed to be quite entertaining for the team and the course a challenge that they may never see in their lifetime. Most of the athletes came back happy, knowing how great of a course it was and while we didn't place as high as we hoped, we did fairly well with a partial varsity lineup. Regardless, we enjoyed our day, cleaned up and headed home. Even with a horrible experience at KFC, it could not ruin our day, as we spent our final evening, ice skating and enjoying the evening as if it was our last. Today, we made a splash and while it's sad that it's going to be ending already, I'm glad that it happened at all. With every step that you take, whether on solid ground or if you fall face first in the mud, take each one with a smile, simply because you were able to. It's easy to wish for something better, but we can never forget to appreciate that it happened at all and in each of these moments, if we look close enough, I'm sure that we can find that we truly did make a splash each and every day.

~:[CH6 - Day 265]:~ Life's a Beach

~:[CH6 - Day 265]:~ Life's a Beach

We woke up early before heading off the Oregon Zoo after our morning run. It was great to venture around and see one of my favorite zoos around. We ran a little late so we weren't able to get to one of our spots, but it also meant we had a more relaxed day ahead. We had some time to sit down and eat, relax and get a few things down before heading to Seaside. The ride to Seaside was nice as we had the same driver we had two years ago and she definitely enjoyed having us. We had a great conversation all the way up to Seaside. We ventured up to Seaside and visited the beach before dinner. It ended up being a pretty good time. We headed to Camp Rilea after dinner and settled into the barracks. The team made friends with another team and joined in on their scavenger hunt. Aside from the dirty sheets, the team seemed to enjoy the experience, as they headed to sleep for the race on Saturday. It definitely was a day that reminded me that life's a beach. 

~:[CH6 - Day 264]:~ To Those We'll Remember

~:[CH6 - Day 254]:~ To Those We'll Remember

There are many who accomplish great things around me. It's always exciting to hear about what people are doing, what they accomplish and how they climb up the ranks. However, as time passes, the ones I will remember the most are those who made a large impact on those around them, giving selflessly, sacrificing their time and energy for those around them. Sure the millionaire and the award winner may have a bigger role in society and receive higher accolades, however, in many cases, it's the type of people who receive little to no recognition that will have a lasting impact we will never forget. As while we had to wake up early in the morning to get to Nike World Headquarters, the athletes were filled with excitement as they toured around the campus and enjoyed the experience. One of my runners even ran into his favorite athletes Suguru Osako when walking through the training area. The experience was all thanks to Annie, who gave up time in her day to show us around despite just returning from Asia. It kickstarted our day and left the athletes with something they'd remember for the rest of their lives. It began the ten mile walking trek we'd take through Portland including Pioneer Square, the Japanese Garden and International Rose Test Garden, Mississippi Street and glow-in-the-dark miniature golf. By night's end, we were exhausted, but it was a day that they'll remember and be able to talk about for year's to come. 

~:[CH6 - Day 263]:~ We've Arrived

~:[CH6 - Day 263]:~ We've Arrived

We were delayed on the tarmac at LAX, but we still made it. It was a pretty late arrival into Portland as we walked to our hotel just before midnight, but at least we got here. While exhausted, the group walked pretty fast and overall it was a good start to the trip. The flight was awesome as the flight attendant called out our athletes who "made mistakes" on the intercom such as leaving their bag in the gate checked bag area without actually checking it in or one who did not buckle her seatbelt the first time they asked. The mood led to a comfortable flight. It was tough trying to make it through the day and packing at the last minute, I know that I forgot something (I already know I forgot one thing), however, like in most cases, I'll manage and it will all work out in the end. It's been a crazy start to the year, however, I can breathe a sigh of relieve, as we've arrived. Portland, watch out! #ohanarnr

~:[CH6 - Day 262]:~ Up in the Clouds

~:[CH6 - Day 262]:~ Up in the Clouds

It's always nice to look up into the sky and feel at ease. As if all is going to be taken care of and all is going to be right in the world. You sometimes just get this feeling that despite all the craziness that is going on, things are going to be alright. As I looked up to the sky, I realized, I would not be going to today's Angels game, but the angels were definitely going to be watching over me. It was definitely a sight that made me feel comforted and made me remember all of the loved ones that I lost in the past. In all the crazy times we face day in and day out, just taking a moment to look up in the sky could make all the difference in the world. Today, that's what happened to me. 

~:[CH6 - Day 261]:~ A Little Luck Along the Way

~:[CH6 - Day 261]:~ A Little Luck Along the Way

It was great having the athletes add in a new part to their workout routine as we ventured into the new week. It's amazing that it's nearly been a month since school started, as it's flown by so quickly. With a good run and a good workout, the day was superbly fabulous from start to finish. In the morning, I realized I had won a prize from my lottery ticket, I survived the day and then came home to see the Lions knock off the Giants, a great pick for me! The reality is, the greatest luck that I have had is not anything I have won, but in the amazing students and athletes I work with on a daily basis. I think I got luck to be where I am at today and while people say they want to hit the jackpot, I realized that I already have. While I was exhausted by night's end, shooting a second round interview video and editing it, the enthusiasm I had from all that was going right pushed me through as far as I could go. I'm tired, I'm exhausted, but I realize that I found myself a little luck along the way today.

~:[CH6 - Day 260]:~ The Right Selection

~:[CH6 - Day 260]:~ The Right Selection

I think karaoke (nolaebang 노래방) is the best comparison to our paths in life. I think all of us have those songs that perfectly fit us. We may not be good at singing at all, but there are those songs that just fit your voice, your tone or just your energy. You seem to buy into those songs and thus, it kind of ends up being your jam for the night. Then there are those songs that you should never have typed in, but regardless, you should try them anyways and just enjoy the opportunity. In our lives, we should keep singing songs until we find that song that fits us. There will be many failures along the way, but eventually, we will find our match. However, at the same time, we can't be afraid to do that song that we love, even if we know that the chances of success are low. First, you never know, but secondly, do what you love. There will be those around you who guide you to a song or say that you can't handle a song, however, by days end, be the one that decides what song you choose. Most importantly, be confident and don't worry what others things, just be sure to give it your all so at the end of the day you know what you're capable of. The night in Koreatown today was awesome and glad that I got to reunite with my friend from Japan. It was a bit tiring today, but glad that I decided to go out as it truly was the right selection.

~:[CH6 - Day 259]:~ Even in the Darkness

~:[CH6 - Day 259]:~ Even in the Darkness

It was a day to get work done and to catch up. I didn't do much on the day, but it ended up being a productive day, with a few odds and ends being taken care of. I still had time to take some signs around, to stop off at the TC and to meet up with a few people. When we met it was dark, but that darkness did not survive and each of them lit up the night for me, making it an extra special evening, even if it was just for a few moments. We couldn't really see much, but you don't need to see when you connect like we did. The darkness was definitely no match. As I spent the evening working on MUN materials for the conference, I kept appreciating the day and all the moments it had to offer. 

~:[CH6 - Day 258]:~ This is Me

~:[CH6 - Day 258]:~ This is Me

In our world, we're continued to push towards being the best that we can be, to be a proud representative of our families and communities and to succeed. Some people take on a win-at-all-cost approach, while others build a positive community around them to spread the workload so that the success can be shared by all. As I reflect back on my life, I see that I do not have everything I have ever dreamed of; I have not become the best that I can be, yet I have strangely fine with that. It's not like I have not tried to be the best, I just began to realize, that I did not really need to be the best, I just needed to be me. Sure, it sounds like I am being a sore loser and that I am giving up, but in reality, my success comes in my realization and acceptance of it. However, while you think this may mean I will not work as hard or give it my all, you are wrong, as this just means that I understand that "winning" does not equal success. Sometimes the winning-at-all-cost methods makes us lose those around us, it can make us stress out or work ourselves to death or simply, it can lead us to lose our self and that in itself is failure. I think one of the most important things in life is not losing yourself in the process; to keep the respect you deserve by giving respect, but also making sure you stand up for yourself and respect yourself. It's like walking that tightrope between the aggressive win-it-all-costers and those who are just trying to make it. I was thinking long and hard about this through the day, as I taught class, coached my team, ran errands with them, and finally, ended my day with a hot tea, trying to kick my cold. I thought how I probably would never be rich, elected as president, or never reach the spotlight, but I am okay with that as long as I can survive, I can smile and I can stay true to myself. We live in such a place where people try to tear each other down to raise themselves or those close to them up, however, maybe we need to re-evaluate and ensure ourselves that in the process of our rise, we take people with us, rather than stomp all over them. I have a lot of work to do and still am in the process of sorting things out, but the first step is understanding so that you can begin plotting the road map that lies ahead of you. Sometimes we run, forgetting exactly where we are headed, today, I found my direction and know that while the race to the top is what is popular these days, I rather just run where my heart tells me to, even if that means I'll never reach the top. Whether it's riches, love, adventures or none of the above that lies ahead for me, I am fine where I am headed, as long as I don't lose myself in the process. 

~:[CH6 - Day 257]:~ Behind the Scenes

~:[CH6 - Day 257]:~ Behind the Scenes

It was a nice week for cross country with no races on the schedule. It's this kind of week that you think you can enjoy and relax, but it's actually the type of week where you near the focus and work harder than ever before. People often see the results of races and decide that a person won because they were faster, but you also have to consider that they simply might have won because they also trained a lot harder than everyone else. It's easy to celebrate the victories in races, but really, it's all the work behind the scenes that should be celebrated. People who are fast are great for a cross country team, but are they even useful if they do not work hard, especially when they have the opportunity to do so. Life is the same. It's easy to work hard when there is a deadline coming up, but can we work equally as hard (if not harder) when we have the time to relax and enjoy ourselves. If we can, we'll find a greater success than we had before. 

~:[CH6 - Day 256]:~ The Angles

~:[CH6 - Day 256]:~ The Angles

Pool, coaching/teaching and life is all about the angles. Precious is pool is key. Coming from a slightly wrong angle and you may be denied. The wrong angle will leave you out of luck and possibly lead to defeat. This is also the case in coaching, teaching and life. As a teacher and coach, with each student, there is an angle that is the most effective for each and while there may be some room for error, missing the mark will mean, an unsuccessful conversion. Life is no different. Much like pool, it takes time, patience and focus to find the right angle and by slowing down and doing it correctly, you'll find that it becomes easier and easier to figure out. It's not always so straightforward either, as in many cases, there are obstacles in your way and difficulties you may face. There is still so much to learn and so much room to grow, however, with enough practice, eventually, you'll figure out the various angles you must take to find success. For some, finding the right angle will take some time, but in the end, everything that is poured in will be worth the wait. Today it may not have worked out, but hey, there is always tomorrow, so get back and get ready for another day.

~:[CH6 - Day 255]:~ Fighting For Those ...

~:[CH6 - Day 255]:~ Fighting For Those ...

In life, it seems like we're in a daily struggle to survive. At times it feels like we're alone, while at others, we may feel like we cannot go on. However, in life, there are also there that will stand with you and fight alongside you, who will guide you and who will do all in their power to ensure you are guided along the right path. Those are the people who fight for you and when the time comes, it's only right that you fight for them too. Lynda is one of those people I feel I should fight for. She has always had a big influence on my programs, as she has dedicated so much of herself to them, to the schools and the community. As a PTSA president, she organized some of the most successful events including the numerous fundraisers, like the golf tournament, that helped our school get things that we needed and wanted such as the marquee. When organizing events like this, she went out of her way to not just put it on, but to make it the most successful that it could be. Often, that meant that she would have to recruit her friends and those around her to help her out, but because of all that she does for others, they were willing to stand with her to make the event success. For the cross country program, she started a tradition at our league finals to ensure that our athletes were rewarded for their hard work through the season. She coordinated the parents to provide a wonderful celebratory meal after their final race together that we still continue today; noting that feed over 120 hungry athletes is no easy task. She also always offers her assistance with the program years after her son graduated from our program. As a volunteer for the MUN program, she always showed care and concern for the students, even taking the worst bus up to Davis when some problems arrived. She always kept the spirits up of those around her, as she did all she could to make the trip enjoyable. As a board member and an assistant to Supervisor Hahn, she has worked tireless to look out for those around her, not simply rubber stamping things, but asking the tough questions to ensure that the community's money is wisely spent, to take the initiative to find out what needs to be done, and to take the time to reach out to as many people as possible. She always has gone above and beyond and while not all her decisions were "popular" ones, they were all made with the students and the community in mind. She truly loves the schools and the district and cares so much about the students and staff within the district. I don't get to see her often now because of our busy schedules, but I do know how hard she is working and how much she cares, she always is the one asking how things are and what needs to get done to ensure that the students are getting what they need. From proper conditions in the classroom to benches and shade to fighting for all the programs at our schools to benefit the community, I am always impressed by how much she fights for others, so that's why I am willing to stand up and fight for her. I am glad that I got to catch up with her and today I was reminded exactly why she has my unwavering support. I already know that Lynda will not always make the "popular" choice, but I am always confident that she will make the responsible and right choice; the one that will benefit both the students and community and that is exactly what we need. In our lives there will be a time where we can give back to those who have dedicated their lives to tirelessly help those around them and this is my opportunity now to give back to one of the many people I am ready to fight for. I thank all those who have always fought for me and I hope that one day, the opportunity will come for me to step in and help you. I just ask, that each of you think of those people in your lives and be ready to fight, much like I am today. The people who do this on a daily basis are ones who are just ordinary people who are not looking for the recognition, as they just want to help those around them have the best experience possible and that is exactly why we must take the opportunity to turn the spotlight to them to remind everyone that they are the true heroes in our lives. For parents and siblings, teacher and pastors, and of course friends like Lynda, who have fought for us, we should all be ready to stand behind them, when it's our opportunity to fight for them, much like they did for us. 

~:[CH6 - Day 254]:~ From Behind the Camera

~:[CH6 - Day 254]:~ From Behind the Camera

I am always behind the camera, which is why today was especially difficult. To go from behind the camera to in front of it, takes me to a level of discomfort I do not like. Regardless, I dealt with it, as I tried to assemble my newest video project. I didn't spent a whole lot of time on it, but finished it up nonetheless and while it's not what I had hoped for, I wasn't too disappointed in the final product. I think part of the fear of moving in front of the camera is the new environment and the discomfort of the attention being all on me. I guess it could be a lack of confidence in a sense or a feeling of being judged and if that's truly the case, then I need to strive to overcome it. I don't need to try to be famous and be in front of the camera all the time, however, there comes a time where you must step out of the shadows and enjoy the spotlight every once in awhile. Tomorrow, I prefer to be back behind the camera, but for now, I'll learn to experience what it's like on the other end. Be confident in who you are and know that you are capable. Have faith in yourself, because I am standing behind you, believing in all that you are and all that you can do.

~:[CH6 - Day 253]:~ Return of the Pack

~:[CH6 - Day 253]:~ Return of the Pack

Sunday marked the return of football and the return of my beloved Packers. Most people don't know the story, but I've been a Packers fan since I was about five. No one in my family was a Packers fan at that point, just me. How did I come about picking them? They were green. It was the Don Majkowski-era and they weren't the best team around, but much like my other teams, I have stuck with them through thick and thin. It's great to be able to watch them and on my lazy Sunday, I sat back and watched them play. I did some work on the side as well, but much of the day was focused on these guys. They had a bad start to the day, but eventually got things going and took down the Seahawks. I think it's always hard to get back into the swing of things, much as the case is in life. However, if you are patient and don't allow yourself to get too frustrated, your skills will shine and you'll eventually find yourself back on track. It will be hard to avoid spending the day watching footballs on the weekends, but at least I have something to do to waste my days away and ensure that I can truly rest on my only day off of the week. 

~:[CH6 - Day 252]:~ Cherns Down with Wat

~:[CH6 - Day 252]:~ Cherns Down with Wat

Today was a day that I just wanted to stay in. It wouldn't play out like that even though I was able to lounge in for at least half a day. However, lounging is not what I did. I had times to compile, a newsletter to write and of course Kdramas to catch up on. The most impressive things I did today though was clean the inside of my car and it is the nicest it will ever be. Of course, it won't last long! I looked at the time and realized I had to run out the door in order to buy some groceries and cook for our annual social science dinner. Often, it conflicts with an event, however, this year, I was able to go and stay through the end! I made saltado de pollo and also made a vegan version of it as well! It was great to hang out and as I was leaving I got a call! It would be a way to end my night off with an even bigger smile as I got to catch up with the Cherns. To have one to catch up with is great, but I had all three of them there and reminded me that I am lucky to have so many great people to catch up with all the time. While we didn't stay together long, the moments we did were great and we tried to schedule a future meet up. By night's end, I was exhausted and didn't get as much done as I wanted, but in reality, staying home seemed like an unrealistic task and it turns out it was. Tomorrow, I'll give it another shot, but I figure that I'll end up somewhere outside these four walls.

~:[CH6 - Day 251]:~ Flexin'

~:[CH6 - Day 251]:~ Flexin'

It was the day of the Gahr/Cerritos game, but our team was headed to Rosemead for the evening. It was a bit sad that we wouldn't be able to go to the game, but I had a feeling that Rosemead would be fun like usual ... and it was. We had a fairly balanced group this year with something exciting going on in every race. These are the moments that truly remind us what the sport is all about. Sure it's great to run fast, win races, and earn medals and PRs, however, it's more than just flexin', bur rather, it's about flexin' together. Sure, the flexin' part is part of the sporting world, but together is part of the ohana spirit. The latter tends to be the part that has greater longevity. As soon, the dust will settle on the the trophy and medals and they may be put away, but the memories of these days will fade much slower. I look at these freshmen and smile, as I know down the line, this picture will make me laugh and eventually, this picture will be something that makes my heart smile as it will become one of the pieces of the memory of our mind. By night's end, we collected a number of PRs, medals and even a team plaque, however, the real victory came in the bonds that were built today. The construction will take all season, but for now, we've begun building the foundation on which we can stand so we can be flexin' ... TOGETHER. OHANA RNR.

~:[CH6 - Day 250]:~ With a Click

~:[CH6 - Day 250]:~ With a Click

I think photography will always be one of my greatest loves. With the click of the shutter, you can capture all the eye can see, up close and at a distance. As I worked on my Yosemite album though, I kept thinking how the camera doesn't capture it all. Expressions and feelings can often be captured, but can that true feeling of amazingness really capture all that I felt? There is simply no way. People are inspired by photographs which is clearly seen by sites such as Instagram, however, how that can photograph replace the experience of being there are taking that photo. I sometimes don't post my best photograph and when that happens, it's because that photo began to capture the true emotion of the scene, regardless, it never captures it all. I used to try and live through going through photos, however, I realized at some point that it was time for me to stop sitting around. It was time to go and take those photographs for myself. I love photography and with the click of that shutter, I will capture many of the sites I have been lucky enough to see and a number of places I will see in the future and while I may wonder if I got everything I hoped, the photograph in my mind and the emotions in my heart are what truly have been captured at every click of that shutter. As while others may look at these photographs and be inspired, it cannot replace what is captured when behind the lens in all these beautiful places. Don't live vicariously through others, rather, see and experience this world on your own, with a click that is of your own as well. 

~:[CH6 - Day 249]:~ The Breakthrough

~:[CH6 - Day 249]:~ The Breakthrough 

The past few years, we knocked on the door. We had our opportunities, but ultimately we fell short. This year, we finally found the breakthrough. It's tough to fall short of your goals time after time and trying to keep getting back to go after it again, however, that's just what many of these athletes did. They kept chasing after their goals and today, they finally had their breakthrough. The BFS started us out strong as they finished 1-4 in the race with four earning medals, as the took a 24-34 victory. The girls varsity also had not won the title in a few years, yet they saw their breakthrough as our first two athletes built a large lead in order to finish 1-2 with our freshman moving up to fourth. The girls had a solid victory 28-45-49. The boys varsity also have been knocking on the door, yet never have been able to get through, but today they turned a close race into a clear victory as they pulled away in the final half of the race. They finished 1-2-3-5, a finish that was impressive, as they seniors stepped up to grab the victory behind their sophomore front runner, taking the win 21-38. We didn't get the individual win in the BJV race, but still was able to stack our athletes from 5th to 10th to make up some ground in the closest race of the day. Whitney posed a strong challenge with their 3-4 finish, but we held on 25-32. Our GJV closed out in impressive fashion with a 16-46-75 win with a 1-2-3-4-6 finish. Our team has grown a lot and the GJV has been one of the teams that has benefited the most. Regardless, today showed that if you continue to work and build, your time will come, the pieces will come together, and you'll find your breakthrough. Don't give up, as soon you will find yours too. 

~:[CH6 - Day 248]:~ Surrounded

~:[CH6 - Day 248]:~ Surrounded

Surrounded. Sometimes it makes you anxious and afraid, while at other times, it makes you appreciate all that you have. From the cousins who you ran into, to the team, the colleagues and the friends. Today was an awesome day back and it was all because of those who surrounded me. Whether it was a great lunch with a conversation that picked up where it left off, to trying a new drink, playing monopoly deal at a restaurant and just getting back into the swing of class, it was a good day. I found so many things to appreciate and while it's a bit hectic with tomorrow being District already, I found myself happy because I was surrounded by amazing people and people that I love. Even my phone, which sticks close by, had wonderful messages coming through today and for that, I was appreciative. Things will not always be this good, but in good times and bad, it will be those who surround you that will be there for you in the end. While there will be those who try to corner you in life, for the most part, the ones surrounding you are trying to lift you up to see just how high they can take you. Believe in the purity of people and be someone that others can believe in. This world is not perfect and there will be those who take advantage of it, but more often than note, those who surround you are in your corner, rooting to see just how far you can go. 

~:[CH6 - Day 247]:~ Freeeeeeeedom

~:[CH6 - Day 247]:~ Freeeeeeeedom

What is this feeling so sudden and new? ... perfect as a flame ... does it have a name ... Freeeeeeeedom ... Yes that's right, freedom. It was the first weekend after Cow Run and I felt free. The deadlines that were once in place were no longer and the stress slowly is disappearing. I spent the morning at practice with my athletes and I got to give it them ... I made it an optional practice and we got a sizable group to join us. Sure, I could easily make it a mandatory practice, but the reality is, I got the athletes who wanted to be there and for that, I respect them. They looked ready to tackle this course on Wednesday and was happy to enjoy this holiday morning together. Afterward, I got some work done before heading off to visit my friends in Santa Monica. We hung out for a few hours before I stopped by to visit another friend and we ended up doing afternoon errands together. It was weird because we really had no plan or directly, but I felt the freedom that I had not felt for awhile. I didn't have to really be anywhere anytime soon, thus, I wasn't looking at a clock at all. I wasn't in a rush and I felt good. Earlier on, I felt so good, I fell asleep when with my friends and woke up when I began to snore. It was hilarious! Regardless, I guess this is what freedom feels like and while I did some work through the day, I am glad to see, it didn't feel like work for one second. Sure, there are ways that I could have "better" spent my day off, but I actually thought that how I spent it was the best. 

~:[CH6 - Day 246]:~ Labor of Love

~:[CH6 - Day 246]:~ Labor of Love

Today was a day that I was in the dumps, literally. As I sifted through the dumpster at regional, I realized how gross it was and felt gross. The day started like that. Even before that, I was pouring sweat as I cleaned from the Cow Run, trying to sort everything out. Regardless, as much as I struggled, today was not one to complain, as it was a day to celebrate. Today was my mother's birthday. As a tradition, I normally cook dinner for my parents on their birthday and today was the same. However, as I cooked, I thought about how much mothers are like food and cooking. Many of times, we take the fact that we have food on our table for granted. We show appreciation to food as it fills us up and makes us happy, yet we don't often show the gratitude for the food itself, rather for what it does for us. It's so easy to take the food and the process of making it for granted; forgetting to put in the time and effort to prepare it and to enjoy it. However, on days like these, the focus on preparing a good meal, meticulously following each step, you realize the attention you pay, results in something greater; something you can't but avoid to appreciate. You never know when that plate of food will no longer be there for you. Where you'll miss out on the opportunity to put love and care into this dish you love so much. It is for that reason that you must put your whole heart into this process for as many days of your life as possible. Mothers are beings who give selflessly and who care more about loving than getting love, however, that doesn't mean that they can be taken for granted. In fact, because of all that a mother does, we should try to give more of ourselves than she does, however, doing so may simply be impossible. On this day to celebrate my mother, I am grateful for all that she has done for our family and those around us. She truly has shown the love and care she put into raising us everyday and all the love and care she has shared with others around us. I don't know what I would do without my mother, but most likely, to put it simply, I'd probably starve. I am grateful for a mother who has sacrificed so much to allow us to enjoy the food that life has to offer and only hope that I can put in the love and care she has given to us all, so that she too many enjoy what we, ourselves, have been lucky enough to enjoy. A mother will always love us more than we love ourselves and for that reason, we should be sure to love fearlessly and care endlessly, much like our mother has showed us our entire lives. No matter where I am or what I am doing, I will always know that my mother will be thinking of me. As I put on the final garnish on the dish, I realized how amazing it all turned out and hope that down the line, we'll all find our opportunity to repay our mothers for her labor of love. 

~:[CH6 - Day 245]:~ Beating the Heat

~:[CH6 - Day 245]:~ Beating the Heat

It's easy to give up when things get uncomfortable, but how could you? Life is constantly going to throw you tough situations and you have the choice to sit inside with the A/C all day or test yourself to see what you are made of. If you have properly prepared, you give yourself the best chance at success and for those who stay inside all day, you never give yourself the chance to see what you're made of. Everyone's perspective on this will be different, but mine is always pushing the limits on how good I can be at something. I go after it to see, can I do it? Life is far from easy and I think if you can test yourself enough, you'll grow and even when the results aren't as you hoped, you'll learn. As the huge number of athletes descended at Knabe Regional Park (Cerritos Regional), I saw a large number of athletes take on that challenge. While some will need to get back up after falling short, all of them learn an invaluable lesson. It was exciting to see all my athletes in action, especially those out there for the first time. We had a lot of success and I know that if they didn't beat the heat today, tomorrow, they'll still be ready to get back up to test themselves again.

~:[CH6 - Day 244]:~ Almost at the Finish

~:[CH6 - Day 244]:~ Almost at the Finish

I was dreading today a bit. I knew it would be a long and exhausting day, but it was also fun. The temperatures rose to over 100 degrees as I moved jerseys, tables and more in dress clothes. We met for practice, then headed to the park to setup. It cooled down a bit which made setup easier and by the time we finished, we had a wonderfully marked course! I was pretty happy with this group despite it being a smaller group. I don't enjoy this day much, as I am stressed thinking about all that I have to do and all that I have to bring. I always will forget something. However, why stress so much when you can just go with the flow and hope all is well. You can only prepare so much, after that, things should just fall into place ... or not. Regardless, I ended the night at Northern Cafe and back to the computer before calling it a night early in the morning. I am almost at the finish line; I can taste it.