~:[CH7 - Day 151]:~ The Varying Tastes of Life

~:[CH7 - Day 151]:~ The Varying Tastes of Life

I think one of the greatest things about life is all that it has to experience. It's kind of like food. You're never really going to get a chance to sample every type of food in the world, however, you can get an idea of what it's like, the more you experience. If is about taking the opportunities that lie before you and to make the most of them. You never really know how something you experience can change your outlook on life, but sometimes it does. There are moments that are like you first attempt at diving off the high dive where you are hesitant, however, you can't back away from that, as you must dive right in and give it a shot. It's easier said that done, but if you really look at all the opportunities that lie in front of you, it's like the spread at a buffet. Sometimes that "new thing" everyone is raving about is just not for you, while at other times, it's definitely what you've been searching for all these years. Life is going to throw a new plate of food at you from time to time, the question is, what will you be willing to try? Keep it safe, but also, be willing to push your boundaries and try something new. You may just find that it's the one thing in your life you've been missing all along.

~:[CH7 - Day 150]:~ Never Giving In

~:[CH7 - Day 150]:~ Never Giving In

Life is difficult. It takes but a second to decide to give up, which can lead to years of regretting those decisions. Sometimes, tossing in the white flag is the smart thing to do, but I am glad it was not tossed in this time around. The stories compiled through my experiences over my lifetime are quite amazing and the decisive moments that come and go are often overlooked as insignificant moments. However, at some point, these decisions are magnified when you get to celebrate how that decision led to this moment. I was so proud to hear the announcement of one of my athlete for Scholar Athlete of the Year. While the feat in itself is not an easy one, the road to get here was even more difficult. In our lives, we will all arrive at these crossroads where we don't know what to do and we will have a decision to make and hopefully the decision we make will lead to moments like this. This world is being built on instant gratification and often times, the grit in individuals disappears; however, when you see someone battle all the things around them and even more challenging, themselves, you just nod your head acknowledging that they did it. Words cannot express how happy I was at this moment, as I thought back at the peaks and valleys. However, when you arrive at this culminating moment, what mattered was not whether you won or lost, bur rather that you never allowed yourself to give in, even when everything point towards throwing up that white flag. Life is challenging and even sometimes treacherous, but we must find it in us and in those around us to keep fighting, to keep battling, and to never give in, so we can find these types of moments we can celebrate. The are the moments that make me rich, as my heart is overflowing and I am left with a feeling of joy that is immeasurable. Tomorrow is another day where the war continues, but for now, I will sit here and celebrating knowing that this battle was won. Never give up, never give in, because you have what it takes if it's you, YOU can believe in! 

~:[CH7 - Day 149]:~ More Than Just Another Time Zone

~:[CH7 - Day 149]:~ More Than Just Another Time Zone

As you walk into the courtyard, you can sense the difference in worlds. The life of the people in this area versus others is drastically different. However, you don't need to travel to another time zone just to figure this out. The people across the country, the state, the town, or sometimes even across the street live lives so differently than your own. I think one of the greatest things about traveling is that you experience the variance in lifestyles of people all around and while it may not always be a pleasant surprise, sometimes it's a much needed awakening that you need to open your eyes. In an exhausted state, I made a stop off before heading home, but in the meanwhile, I kept thinking of the differences of lifestyles of everyone I came across. I kept thinking of how a different upbringing would change who I am, how a choice could change our lives, how some live with so much and are unhappy and others who live in almost utter poverty, can be so content. As I explore, I come across these variances so often, but today, that realization left me in state of deep thought. There so much in this world to see and so many people we need to meet. As while we may find comfort where we are, it is only when we begin meeting people different from ourselves do we begin to open our eyes, grow, learn and see that there is more of a purpose to life than we are living today. For each of us, the answer will be different, but for all of us, it will leave us as different people. We live in a society that is filled with chaos, hate, and selfishness and while I am lucky to be surrounded by so many that are not like this, I know that I can do more to try to have more of an impact, whether it be across the street or across the world. Seeing this place made me realize how lucky I am to have what I do, but it also made me realize that I need to be happy with what I have. As while having more may make our lives more comfortable, the only way we can be happy is when we stop saying I wish I have and begin appreciating what's in front of us. Even if the only thing you have is the hot air that comes from your mouth, at least you know that you've got that - a chance to live.

~:[CH7 - Day 148]:~ Breathtaking Moments

~:[CH7 - Day 148]:~ Breathtaking Moments

There are moments in life that just seem to take your breath away. Sometimes it's when you see something amazing and spectacular, when you accomplish something you never thought you would, or just because. You can't always guess when these moments will come and you may never know when they will go away. When these moments come, take advantage of them, soak them in and put down what you're doing. As I jumped from attraction to attraction at Disneyland Hong Kong, I rushed to get to the next to maximize my day, yet began to realize that I missed the opportunity to soak it all in. We often try to make the most of our days, to make them efficient and the such, but there also comes a point where this efficiency makes us rush through those moments we should be treasuring. I slowed down and realized what I had been missing. As I took my final stroll through Hong Kong, I continued to slow down as I soaked in the skyline, allowing myself to be taken away. This pause allowed me to etch into my mind something a picture could never capture and I'm fine with that, because while a picture speaks a thousand words, a breathtaking moment like this will last a lifetime. A baby's first words, reaching that all-important goal, the beautiful view, or a moment with someone special ... don't allow these breathtaking moments to slip away. Slow down, soak them in and etch them into the walls of eternity within yourself. Keep it ever-present in your mind in your mind, close to your heart and one with your soul. Don't think about the next time you'll breathe again, rather, just enjoy the fact that your breath was taken.

~:[CH7 - Day 147]:~ The Greatest Gifts

~:[CH7 - Day 147]:~ The Greatest Gifts

I love having time to reflect upon life and all that it encompasses. Most of you know that I am a thinker and often being surrounded by people, makes it difficult to recharge and to be able to recover properly, so I venture out. I will talk and my experiences through life have made it more comfortable for me to hold a conversation, however, more than anything, I love to walk and soak in all the sounds around me and to think about all that is wonderful about the day and about life. As I walked into the lobby of Jackie Chan's casino in Macau, you can see all the gold that is housed in the ground of the lobby. Even a few of those gold bars could make my life easier, but maybe not happier. I don't have a lot of money and I probably never will, but as a few people have said, I am one of the riches people around. My wealth has not come because of my travels, rather from the people I've met along the way on the road of life. On a day like this, you have the kind of wealth and fame that you need, the ones who love and support you; that is the greatest gift of life. Today on a day where life is celebrated, I also want to celebrate all the amazing people around me who have given me so much. The supporters who have made many things possible for the programs, the teams and the school I work for; the students and athletes who teach me just as much as I guide them; to the friends who deal with my busy schedule and are able to pick up where we left off from even if I feel like I neglect them too much; and of course to the family that has always been there and provided me with a safety net throughout my entire life. I don't smile today because I'm away adventuring off, rather, I smile because of all the outpouring of love and support around us. It's only in natural in life that we spend a lot of time trying to better ourselves in different areas, sometimes to help us gain the notoriety and fortune that we deserve, however, in the process, keep reminding yourself that at some point, it's not all worth it if you cannot find the greatest gifts that will leave you wealthy many years behind your time here on this earth. I've said this before and on this day, I remind myself and anyone out there that our greatest gift is life itself and all the amazing things that cannot be bought. I would be fine if for the rest of my life, I didn't receive a single present other than a hand written letter, note, or message, because those are the gifts that matter, the gifts that touch the heart and that truly add to the wealth that I posses. They say the money makes the world go round, but it doesn't make the world a happier place. On a day that I celebrate realizing that now, I truly have everything I could want in life at this point, I sent my deepest gratitude to all those who have made my life rich and helped me become the wealthiest man in the world. My only wish is that I could stop time so I could find the time to meet with each and everyone of you who I owe a debt of gratitude towards, but for now, I thank you for all that you've given me in your love, compassion and support. Life is full of things, but when all is said and done and it's time to leave this planet, only the things you cannot hold will be taken with you, and because of you all, I am thankful to have a heavy load of great things to take with me. I hope to reach out to all those I can in the coming years, but until then, thank you from the bottom of my heart, as you've already made all my wishes come true. 

~:[CH7 - Day 146]:~ Reaching the Peak

~:[CH7 - Day 146]:~ Reaching the Peak

Mt. Everest may be the best example, however, in even a situation like Dragon's Back, just because you reached the peak once, does not mean you'll reach it again. It's a lesson for life. Often times, I say and I hear it said, "I will do it next time." Sadly, we never really know if that next time will ever come. Tomorrow is never guaranteed nor is the ability to do what you've done in the past. I've began to see that I must take the opportunities presented to me and make the most out of them. I know eventually, I will not be able to do what I am now, so I have take the opportunities I have and tried not to say next time. Similarly, I have tried to push myself out of complacency assuming that things will happen and while that is a bigger fight, I still have maintained focus in many of the most important facets of my life. We have responsibilities to take care of and I've know that throughout my whole life, but at some point, you must make the most of the opportunities while you can. Whether it's something new or something you want to continue accomplishing, keep doing it while you're able so that you don't regret it when you're not able to. It could be some thing as simple as an I love you or as complex as a trip to some exotic place, however, just because you had the chance once, does not mean you'll have it again. How long will you put it off and allow yourself to procrastinate? Look at it closely and if it truly a priority in your life, start planning today so that you don't regret it tomorrow.

~:[CH7 - Day 145]:~ Precision

~:[CH7 - Day 145]:~ Precision 

The presentation of this dish was the best out of all that I ordered and this dish in itself was not sensational in its presentation, nice but not sensational. Why do I even bring this up? This was served at a Michelin-star restaurant that I had a chance to eat at. It actually is affordable (maybe expensive for what it was) but what catches your attention with each dish is the simplicity in its presentation but its complexity in its makeup. The various subtle flavors fill the palate and leave you wondering just how did they do it? I think people are like this. We often judge books by their covers but sometimes we find the most amazing and complex combinations hidden by someone who is quiet or hidden in the shadows. It's often times the ones that speak the loudest that get heard but the ones who are overshadowed that sometimes have the ideas to unlock the solution to the problem. While I encourage those with those great ideas to speak up, we all must open our eyes and not listen to the first voice we hear, rather that voice of reason who can help find us the precision we need to assemble something as amazing as this. It may not flaunt itself as a Michelin-star dish, but presentation means nothing compared to smile left on your face when that dish hits your palate. 

~:[CH7 - Day 144]:~ Even When Down in the Dumps

~:[CH7 - Day 144]:~ Even When Down in the Dumps

The night ended pretty poorly. The restaurant didn't have our reservation, my stomach went crazy into the night, and I had to rush in the process, however, there is no reason to complain or feel like I'm down in the dumps. There's too much in life to celebrate to let moments like these bring you down. We celebrated the performance at Nationals today with the reception of a city proclamation which is always a great honor. On an even better note, the seniors left us all with some inspiring messages that I will carry with me. It's easy to let a moment like this bring you down, but why let the world bring you down when you can lift it up instead. When the world is down in the dumps, reach down and do your part to bring it back. We may not be powerful enough to change the world, but we can easy change our own world and impact the world of those around us. We often choose much of the joy or misery we experience in life, so choose wisely. As one of my students said, believe in your potential and while you may not believe it right away, you'll begin to see that you are capable. We all are capable of we just allow ourselves to rise. Make today a good day and tomorrow an even better one. 

~:[CH7 - Day 143]:~ Giving Recognition

~:[CH7 - Day 143]:~ Giving Recognition

One of the things I love the most about Premios de Oro is that it's all about the students. We don't ever have enough time to praise these students, but tonight is one where we can. I was so happy to be able to recognize five of my students and while there were probably about 50 that I wanted to give one to, these were the ones that seemed to be the most deserving. Being a student these days is a tough job and while we demand a lot of our students (especially in MUN), I love to see how they blossom, grow and excel. While we often try to push the limits and the pace, it's nice to slow down and given them praise. Tonight is all about the students. I am grateful to work in a school with such great students especially within my classes. While I don't often show enough of my gratitude, I am really grateful for all the work that they do, the energy and excitement to bring to the classroom, and the different they are about to make in the world going forward. There will be days that I am frustrated or pretending to be stern, but it's nights like tonight that remind me that it's almost time to lighten up and show them the real gratitude they deserve, not just the five that were recognized, but all those who put in their full effort this year. To you I send a thousand and one congratulations that are all well deserved, as you bring more joy to my life than you could have ever imagined, students both past and present.

~:[CH7 - Day 142]:~ Taking Flight

~:[CH7 - Day 142]:~ Taking Flight

Sometimes in life, your flight gets delayed. As confident as you are in what you are doing, something out of your control can put you off course. Sometimes, when you least expect it, however, you can take off. With the Space Race being one of the topics of the day, I was fortunate to see my students taking off. They were able to build the confidence over time so that they could fly themselves. It has taken the whole year for some, but regardless, it's amazing to see how much they have grown over the course of the year. Similarly, my seniors also saw themselves grow and take flight and while we talk about their past and they growth they made over their four years, I can help but smile and enjoy these reflective moments. In my own life, I have seen that patience can be key in flight. Stormy weather and other obstacles only lead to a rocky flight, but waiting until you are ready to take off, can often mean smooth sailing, much like I'm experience in my own life. Regardless know that we all have the ability to take off, if we are persistent and patient enough. I'll see you all flying high soon enough; soon enough! 

~:[CH7 - Day 141]:~ The Gift of Life

~:[CH7 - Day 141]:~ The Gift of Life

As I wrapped this gift today, I thought about all the gifts that life gives you in a day, including life itself. While there may be struggles, frustrations and obstacles, the mere fact that you are breathing is a miracle. My day was piled high with a number of to-dos and I thought that the process would never end, however, it did and by day's end, I accomplished what I had intended to do. There still a pile of things to do these finale few weeks, but I will keep smiling knowing the gift that I have been given. I don't know what life has in store for me, but I know that whatever it is, I should appreciate what I unwrap. While we may not have all we want in life, let's not discount the fact that we are breathing and appreciate the gift that we are given every second of every day, life. 

~:[CH7 - Day 140]:~ 24 Hours ... Almost

~:[CH7 - Day 140]:~ 24 Hours ... Almost

I sit here writing on 23rd hour of this trek, almost reaching a full 24 hours from wake up to return. As I headed out at about 3:30am to the airport, I thought about how exhausted I would be tomorrow at work, but it did not deter me. Everything had fallen into place, from getting the offer for the opportunity, the low-cost flight, and even the earlier than expected start time played to my favor. I probably could have flown out later, but I may not have had the opportunities I did, had I not. I ventured to Pioneer Courthouse Square and wandered before hitting up the Japanese American Historic Plaza which led me to the Oregon Nikkei Legacy Center. It was an unexpected visit but I was so glad to have the opportunity to add on to my collection of interment materials. I wandered through the Saturday Market before heading to the Chinese Garden where I ended up catching a performance of the Japanese koto. It was gorgeous, especially in the setting that it was. From there, it was time for the purpose of my trip. I've been around ice skating since I was small, almost from the time that I could walk. While I never progressed far into the ranks, the skills I learned at least allow me to entertain on the ice now. It's no wonder why the ice dancing pair, the Shib Sibs really capture my hearts every time they dance. I love their energy and spirit on the ice, which captivated the audience, including me. I'm always so awkward meeting people in these types of settings and as usual, left a bit of an awkward impression. Regardless, all the performers were amazing and made me appreciate the fact that I took this leap to try and do this in 24 hours. Despite a later than expected departure, I made my flight by Ubering instead of taking the Max and even had enough time for a quick bite to eat. I'm known for taking these types of crazy turnarounds, but for those who ever doubt that this is possible, just realize how much you can actually do in a day. The song that talks about the 525,600 minutes in a day (Seasons of Love) really sums it up for us. There's always enough time, we just have to be willing to treasure everyone of those minutes. If you haven't done it yet, let's get started. 

~:[CH7 - Day 139]:~ Masterful Enough

~:[CH7 - Day 139]:~ Masterful Enough

I never like the hear that I did just good enough, as when I do things, I don't like to do them poorly. There are areas in my life that I need to work on that, but for the most part, the things I take pride in, I try to do them well. Similarly, one of my athletes wasn't happy to qualify for Masters, because it wasn't his best performance, however, it was masterful enough. Without any misses, he easily cleared 6-2 and 6-4, but went out at 6-6. With the swirling win, no one was jumping well, as an expected low finish with that mark, earned him second in CIF. However, there is work to do and he will have another week to get himself prepared and healthy. Other other athlete who competed competed well, but also didn't get a good time (much like the rest of the field), as she placed sixth in both races, one spot higher than her ranking. It was a good end for her, but obviously, she wanted more and she'll have two more years to do it. I ended up getting treated to a nice meal after we put away all our equipment and it make me appreciate all that I have. There are days that will leave me frustrated, but in the end, the work that is put in is eventually paid off in the slow progress that is made that seems to be just masterful enough.

~:[CH7 - Day 138]:~ A Night in Paradise

~:[CH7 - Day 138]:~ Escape to Paradise

Tonight was truly a night in paradise. As I ended the night, I was definitely tired, but it was a fun-filled day and evening, as I ventured through Long Beach and attending the You and Me Prom! The setup in the gym was quite spectacular as they had food tables setup themed, a huge flowing volcano and a fun photo booth for all to enjoy. I really loved how much effort went in the prom and ultimately to see everyone enjoying themselves was definitely a blessing to watch. Words cannot express how wonderful it was to be at this event and I am glad that despite having other plans, that I decided to at least come by for a short bit of time. As I look back on the photos I took, the genuine smiles helped me realize that we all need to take that time to escape from the real world sometimes so that we can truly find paradise. 

~:[CH7 - Day 137]:~ Reaching the End

~:[CH7 - Day 137]:~ Reaching the End

As the season progresses into playoffs, it's a challenge because you never really know when the end of the season is going to be. At times, you get frustrated at athletes because they don't show up or don't work as hard as you want them to, but there are also moments when you are so proud of what they accomplished or when you think back to all the memories you've shared with them. As painful as some of the moments were in the life of this guy, he's hung in. When you lose a parent, a grandparent, your cars, and your house while you are in high school, I don't really know how you keep pushing through, but he did. Through the challenges, I was able to grow close with their family and do whatever I could to support them and in return, I earned the love of a beautiful family who I have grown so much respect for. At moments, I get upset at him, but in the end, I just think about how much I've learned from him. I saw how unfair life can be, but I also saw how beautiful life can become. I saw how life can change in an instant, which reminded me that we must appreciate and cherish all that we have. It probably wasn't easy for him, but he showed a fairly strong resilience through all the ups and downs and I'm glad that we've been able to create so many memories over the course of his high school days. It's amazing how the same person who gave you white hairs, could be the one you've grown close to and learned so much from, but when you keep an open mind and open heart, it's easy to find those who come into your life for a reason. Whether or not he vaults on Saturday, the fact that he is there means more to me than anything else, as after all the ups and downs he faced in life, he found a way to breakthrough to get to the next level. He may have wanted to go higher, but in the end when I look back, I was just happy that he is still here vaulting with us until the very end. In vaulting, you're going to have disastrous days where nothing goes right and cannot even do something basic, just as the challenges you face in life. Through my experiences with this guy, I've learned that even after the toughest of days, you need to keep getting back up and never let the challenges of life beat you. It's going to be painful and you're going to want to quit at times, but you must be resilient and never allow yourself to give up on yourself. 

~:[CH7 - Day 136]:~ The Body Says Enough

~:[CH7 - Day 136]:~ The Body Says Enough

After a day of presentations, practice and CIF dinner, my body said enough. As I laid down before 8pm, I knocked out for the remainder of the night. It's weird because it doesn't often happen to me, but with my stomach going crazy, maybe it was something good. In the midst of projects and responsibilities, sometimes you just need to listen to your body and let yourself sleep. I may have a load of things to do tomorrow and over the weekend now, but it may be better than getting knocked out for the remainder of the year. The world is definitely one that can be overwhelming and the fear of letting things pile up is all too real, but never forget that you and your body need to come first. I learned that when I first started teaching and ended up in the hospital and while I am still not great at doing so, at least tonight, I listened before any kind of illness set in. I have a pile of work to do, but at least for now I'll say, I'll get to it tomorrow.

~:[CH7 - Day 135]:~ Something Special Among the Chaos

~:[CH7 - Day 135]:~ Something Special Among the Chaos

Sometimes life can be confusing and chaotic, but even in the chaos, something special awaits you. It's never easy to see at first glance, but often, what you are looking for, is right in front of you. Whether it's a message, the secret formula, etc., if you are persistent enough, you'll be guided through all the chaos. I often wondered if I'd be able to find my way through it all, but it definitely was worth not giving up to get to where I am now. Who know's whether this windy path will lead, but at least I already know that it was worth the ride.

When all things in life are wild and chaotic, don't close your eyes but keep searching for the one thing you were looking for all along.

~:[CH7 - Day 134]:~ Junk Food Cravings

~:[CH7 - Day 134]:~ Junk Food Cravings

Every once in awhile, you get those junk food cravings and you have to give in. Yes, you shouldn't do it on a regular basis, but you need to treat yourself and take care of yourself every once in awhile. Whether it's food, a drink, a vacation or just a treat for yourself, don't forget that life is about enjoyment and every so often, you can't be so strict and have to let loose. Sure, I think I might eat like this every day, but I've been better as of late, so going back to this craving was a bit of a shock to my body, but well worth the recharge. Take care of your responsibilities but never forget about yourself.

~:[CH7 - Day 133]:~ Celebrating the Generations

~:[CH7 - Day 133]:~ Celebrating the Generations

It was a little different this year as we all gathered under one roof to celebrate mothers' day. On a day like these, we always give thanks to those who gave so much for us all to live a healthy and happy lives, the ones who we are one with because we were with them before we saw the light of day, and the ones who will be there for us until the end. I always hear so many great messages to mothers and on a day like this, we should definitely be celebrate them. In the craziness of a day, it's always hard to remember everything, but hopefully we can remember just how important our mothers are, not just today, but every day. Whether living or past, a mother hold a special place in our heart and today, I was lucky enough to spend time with four special mothers who all helped raise the families who gathered together today. To them and to all mothers out there, biological or not, thank you for all that you have sacrificed for us and all the love and care you show. Words cannot express how much my own mother means to me, much like the messages I read through the day. All I can say is, that all that I have in life, I owe to her. Hug, kiss and thank your mothers today and every day for all the sacrifices they made and all the love that they gave. We can never come close to repaying them, but at least we can chip away at the mountain of debt we owe to them. However, when push comes to shove, our love and gratitude is all that they need. Happy Mothers' Day!

~:[CH7 - Day 132]:~ Never Giving In

~:[CH7 - Day 132]:~ Never Giving In

In many facets of my life, I've learned that you can never really give up or give in when life throws challenges in your way. As difficult as it may be, you have to keep fighting and never give in. This has been true in my coaching career more than in any other area, as I have seen athletes turn things around and find their breakthrough moment. These are the moments that leave you beaming even when everything else is not going your way. It's amazing to imagine that just a few years before, I could barely get this athlete to complete a workout or to do a push up. I distinctly remember him sitting under a tree after his race at the Billy York Invitational. He ran a great race and that prompted me to think that he could do pretty well if he had to run here at CIF. It took some molding from the athletes around him, but slowly, he figured it out and the athletes around him began to trust him more. He became a three event champion in track and league finals and went from an athlete I had to convince to run certain events to one that accepted them with confidence. It could have ended as a heartbreaking year for him, after running 2:00.10 and falling short at league finals; however, he used his opportunity at CIF to finish as the fourth fastest 800m runner in school history at 1:58.62. I never thought I'd say this about him a few years ago, but I'm definitely going to miss him and all his shenanigans. He kept me on my toes, much like the rest of these seniors who will all carry a special place in my heart. This senior group had their shares of ups and downs, but when I reflect back on what they accomplished this year, I know that they will leave our school proud of what they accomplished. They left a lesson for the underclassmen that even through their disappointments, they can go back, reanalyze things and work on trying to find that breakthrough moment. They also left an impact on me by reminding me that I can never give up and never give in on my students, on my athletes and in my own life. We all faces challenges through our lives and while some are tougher than others, if we truly believe and have a great support network around us that we use, I know we will all find that we are capable and we should never think otherwise. 

~:[CH7 - Day 131]:~ Ending

~:[CH7 - Day 131]:~ Ending

It was time to take a senior picture, as we begin to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Thinking about these students as freshmen, it became a big nostalgic today, as we took this photo. These students have grown so much of the course of their careers and to be taking a photo now (four years later), amazes me. While it was a day so filled with memories, with lessons to learn during the internment, and of course, amazing memories being created, the end of this week was an amazing one and helped me see the new beginning ahead. As exhausted as I am, I have no doubts that all the energy I am pouring into my days is well worth the effort. Today will be a day that I never forget, but I will refuse to acknowledge today as an ending, but of the beginning of something new. 

~:[CH7 - Day 130]:~ Closing In

~:[CH7 - Day 130]:~ Closing In

We were closing in on the date of the prelims and we had our moment together as a team. Ice baths can often be things to chase people away, yet it brought our team together, as we lounged out together, trying to get our bodies ready for Saturday. It was quite a memorable day and hoping that it leads to great memories on Saturday. Who knows where we are headed moving into playoffs, but we can only hope that the ice cured our pains and will lead us to success.

~:[CH7 - Day 129]:~ Appreciation

~:[CH7 - Day 129]:~ Appreciation

I'm normally strict, stern, and don't show too man emotions in class, but my appreciation for my students is immense. While my IA and I received a milk tea for teachers' appreciation week from one of my students, it made me think, it's a great opportunity to express my appreciation for my students. I don't often make life easy for my students, as I try to force them to become independent in a program that will require them to be in the future. I also have to try and suppress their talkativeness, as the year goes on, they become louder, as they grow in their confidence in their speaking ability. Regardless, by year's end and as they grow older, I grow fonder of them and am so appreciative of all the work that put in and so proud of all the growth that they make. Spending so much time with them inside of class and at conferences, I have grown to appreciate them beyond the classroom, at conferences and while touring different parts of the country. For my athletes, all the time they pour into the sport, makes me appreciate how dedicated they are. I also appreciate how my cross country team has carried on the torch of the ohana and while things will never be perfect, their closeness is definitely evident. Overall, while the look on my face may not show it, I appreciate all that I have surrounding me on campus and in my daily life at work. As while this week is teacher appreciation week, I think it's only right to appreciate those who make my job bearable and make me into a better teacher - my student and athletes. Despite my stern demeanor and the piles of current events and push ups you all receive from me, I hope you realize how much you all are appreciated. 

~:[CH7 - Day 128]:~ Change

~:[CH7 - Day 128]:~ Change

Today I wore glasses. One of my athletes accidentally wore my glasses and forget to put them back so they ended up in my classroom. Thus, with glasses in my room, I decided to wear them. Most people noticed, as when things change, they do. Do people realize changes when they happen in your life? For the most part, my life has been the same routine of selfies with my best friend, work, and practice, yet, I've also have been trying to balance my schedule a bit more with a little bit or lot bit added to the plate. I think you learn to adapt and even though I'm tired and left with less time in my day, when you know it's worth it, you're willing to make that sacrifice. My life has and will continue to change moving forward; however, the main key in it all is, can you maintain who you are while things around you change. As I drove home from Hamilton, I felt how exhausted I was, but knew that moments like this were worth it all. Tomorrow, I look towards new and exciting things and do not resist the change, rather welcome them with open arms.

~:[CH7 - Day 127]:~ Frying It Up

~:[CH7 - Day 127]:~ Frying It Up

I had purchased some pork chops a few days back, so I decided to fry it up today and see what came out of it. I ended up with some new flavors and it came together nicely. I like my food a little less salty and so it ended up being just right with the added bits of bacon. As many times as I cook, I always end up with a slight variation of what I was aiming for and today was no different. We cannot expect to replicate things in life, rather, we can follow the guidelines we set, but we cannot be afraid to stray away from that recipe of life. As while it may be what you're used to, sometimes, that recipe for life is not exactly what you need. Mixing and spicing it up often leads to new discoveries and those can be some of the most delicious that you encounter in your lifetime. As I enjoyed my meal and retired to finish up some work, I couldn't help but think that mixing it up in my own life, gave me a new perspective on things that has changed my road ahead for the better. So get ready to fry it up, but don't be afraid to mix it up. 

~:[CH7 - Day 126]:~ A Family

~:[CH7 - Day 126]:~ A Family

It was a hot one. As the sun beamed down on us as we ventured through the Safari Park. On a day that would be a memorable day trip through San Diego, I couldn't help but think about the giraffes. I loved how they grazed together at the tree, reminding me of family. In cross country, we bring it together with ohana, as we have grown to become a family unified together. Within my own family, I thought about all the wonderful memories that we have created together, as we have been such a close-knit group since we were young, celebrating together and sharing in so many amazing moments together. It makes you think how these families begin and how all the factors that fall into place allow for a family to grow and develop, to love one another, to trust one another, and  ultimately create these memories that will last a lifetime. It's exciting to think about creating this family and to see all the possibilities that the future holds. Who knows really where our future road will take us, but on this day trip that took me through San Diego, I could only think of that road ahead and the great opportunities that lie ahead. 

~:[CH7 - Day 125]:~ A Window to the Soul

~:[CH7 - Day 125]:~ A Window to the Soul

I had a lot of time to think today, as I got a lot of work done. I did some work for school, some laundry, a little bit of data for track and sent out e-mails that were much delayed. I also was graced with the presence of a visitor, Maui Max. I love it when he looks at me, even for a split second, as he begs for the snack that I have in my hand. When you look deep into his eyes, you can see exactly what he wants and people are no different. Cicero said that "the eyes are the windows to the soul," and I believe that you can tell a lot by looking someone in the eye. While not all people or living beings are the same, their eyes say a lot. The eyes are often the natural polygraph. As I look through the window, I see great things coming my way and only hope that Cicero was right. 

~:[CH7 - Day 124]:~ The End of an Era

~:[CH7 - Day 124]:~ The End of an Era

The end of an era has finally arrived. Tonight was our last night in the Suburban League, as next year, we move to the newly formed 605 league. It was definitely a night to remember as we finished the evening with 54 medalists (including all eight relay teams), 21 league champions, and 18 CIF qualifiers. It could have been one of the best league championships we have ever hard. Of course, it didn't come without it's share of drama including a starter that ruined the experience for EVERYONE including his partner, some illnesses and minor injuries, a pole vault tie breaker that lasted an hour and left the event finishing after 10pm, and the normal banter that comes with a meet. Regardless, when looking back, it's weird that I was on the first team that competed in the Suburban League my senior year, as we instantly made our mark, winning the Iron Man Award for the league (best sports school). Through my coaching years, there have been some tense moments from changing of the constitution to fit the needs of other teams, late entries and submissions, shady moves on the track, arguments, and more. However, it also provided great battles and competition, friendships, and experiences that have helped me grow as a coach and as a person. The league has definitely tested my limits to the very last minute, but regardless, similar to life, I wouldn't go back and change anything, because life is not suppose to be perfect. All the imperfections we have and we face are exactly what make life interesting. So as we close this era of the Suburban League and head into CIF, I say goodbye and thanks for the memories. 

~:[CH7 - Day 123]:~ Pho Moments Like This

~:[CH7 - Day 123]:~ Pho Moments Like This

The warmth of a bowl of pho can often times go unrivaled. It warms the body, mind and soul, especially when battling a cold or the cold. As I made a quick stop on the freeway, my pho went flying to the ground, but somehow it managed to survive and I enjoyed the bowl of pho went I arrived home. Moments like this are incredible. The moments where you expect the worst and somehow, just somehow, things work out for the best. You can think and wonder how, but why should you? Can't you just enjoy the fact that things worked out? It's (pho) moments like this that we live and it's these moments that we will remember for the rest of our lives. As while sickness tried to ruin my night, I spent the time driving to make a moment that I will remember; one of those moments we live pho.

~:[CH7 - Day 122]:~ A Sign of Things to Come

~:[CH7 - Day 122]:~ A Sign of Things to Come

There aren't too many baseball players within our family line, but while watching the Angels game last night, Jordan struck a post like a pitcher. Adding a baseball to the photo, it made me wonder, how many signs of things to come do we get in life? I'm always amazed when we get a preview of what's to come, as you realize the foreshadowing that took place in your own life. Regardless of whether or not we got a sign or not, we can make the most of what's to come in our lives. Our decisions drive who we become and how we think, will determine how much success we have in life. Obviously, life gives us limitations, but that doesn't mean we have to stay between the lines. Signs may point one direction in life, but it doesn't mean we have to follow it. Follow your heart and don't believe every sign given to you if you feel that you are ready to venture in another direction.

~:[CH7 - Day 121]:~ Above the Rest

~:[CH7 - Day 121]:~ Above the Rest

Sometimes you struggle to get off the ground. You drag your feet all day and just kind of go through your day. There are others, when you above the rest. Where you feel like as a feather and your head feels like it's in the clouds. It's easy to see that life is an emotional roller coaster and we must be ready for the ride. While some avoid it at all costs, the experience is worth the risk. Those who stay safe may not experience the struggles that come with trying to break through, but they will also miss out on the incredible feeling of rising up. What you risk often times helps determine what the reward is. While I do not know how long I can rise up, for now, I'll enjoy the view and be confident that I can remain her for many days longer.