~:[CH10 - Day 334]:~ Cheesy

 
~:[CH10 - Day 334]:~  Cheesy

I guess my love for cheesy jokes and things stems from my love for cheese in general. While I am far from a cheese connoisseur, I definitely like all different types of choose and also cooking with it. As I spent another night out, we came across this joint serving pasta tossed in a cheese wheel. It definitely was something that caught my eye and as we enjoyed the food, I thought of all the cheesy dishes I've had in my life. As I watched the pasta being tossed, I thought of all the different types of cheese I have yet to try and how many I hope to try again. With many dishes, I put a load of cheese on top and having your pasta tossed in cheese was definitely a dream. In the end, the food was all delicious and the night even more so. What kind of cheese do you enjoy most?

I 

~:[CH10 - Day 333]:~ The Spark of the Dish

 
~:[CH10 - Day 333]:~  The Spark of the Dish

Food is always a topic that people love to discuss. Whether it's their favorite or foods to avoid, they often have something to say about it based on an experience or the like. However, with me, food also sparks memories of the people I am with and those types of experiences I have had with them. Whether it's eating at a specific restaurant or trying a new dish for the first time, the memories that come up when you eat something truly spark a memory or two. While it was delicious, what made this dish special was all the great memories that came with it. I remembered all the great experiences I had with my friends that I've longed to see for so long. With all the restrictions going on, it has been the most challenging time to stay connected. Although online we can maintain a connection, through food, at least the memories of those connections can exist. Even more special, food can find a way to bring back memories with those who we have lost. Whether it's your parents or grandparents best dish, a meal that you totally ruined or a dish you share with someone special. For me, I recall the breakfast chahan my mother made as I excitedly waited for the bowl shaped dish. It was one of the most tasty, but also brings back the memory of my first experience with an earthquake, strange right? I am taken back to college when I see a lobster and my embarrassing cooking moment with my sister when we had no clue what we were doing. I am taken back to all the meals I've had with friends local and abroad that I will treasure. Every few weeks my friend in Japan mentions how we have our tradition gyukatsu meal together that we eat every time I visit. Then there are simple the moments I hold to myself, whether a bowl of yuzu ramen, the obscure tasting tour I took in Hong Kong or all the different dishes (both good and bad), I've eaten as I've explored. I miss what we had, but at least food can bring back some of those connections until the day that we can reconnect again. I was happy to have another meal with friend and make another connection that will later create a special spark, as I remember them even when we are apart. I will remember our attempts at jumping photos and just exploring, which while the food was good, will be truly what makes the dish special. There's something about food, but there definitely is much more than meet the eye. Just wait until you see the spark.

What are some of your favorite memories that a food dish sparks for you?

~:[CH10 - Day 332]:~ On Display

~:[CH10 - Day 332]:~  On Display

It was pretty cool to see all these butterflies on display although it was sad they were not flying around and alive. One of my favorite butterfly memories is going to Santa Barbara to see the butterfly grove. At last visit, there weren't any butterflies, but I hope that they will return again soon. Out of all those on display, this one was my favorite. There is something about nature and all these creatures that amazes me and to see the varieties of them all on display makes it even more spectacular. Although the exhibit in New York has such a range of species, there were so many I haven't seen before on display here. Life is like that. We are exposed to only a small piece of the greater puzzle and when we step out of where we are, only then do we discover what more lies out there. While being in our zone can be comfortable, every once awhile, let's step out of our zone so that we can learn to spread our wings and fly. Let's see what more the world has to offer us by simply moving beyond where we have been.

~:[CH10 - Day 331]:~ Just One More Percent

 

~:[CH10 - Day 331]:~ Just One More Percent

It's interesting when you are out exploring and then you realize just how low your battery is or when you are out having a great time and your energy level drops to almost zero. In both situations, we try to find a way to squeeze out that one percent. I am often busy, but like to make use of every moment and every hour. I don't like to waste time, that's why being on those final ounces of energy or battery can be quite problematic. People often tell me to make sure that I slow down, but as time goes on, the battery runs low and so does your energy. For now, I'll make the most of the time that I have and the energy level I am able to maintain, as I never know when that is going to change. Yes, there may not be much time to even breathe, but that's the way I like it, at least for now. Who knows how times will change, but for now, let's see what more there is out there to experience. Pushing through on that last percent.

~:[CH10 - Day 330]:~ A Mountain's View

 
~:[CH10 - Day 330]:~  A Mountain's View

When you stand at the base of a mountain, it's hard to see what lies beyond. Sometimes you only seem a steep and difficult climb, which can deter many. As you climb, you face hardships as what may have once started out cheerful and with excitement, has become hard and arduous. That's life. You're excited to venture on your next venture, but along the way, you hit those bumps that make you want to change paths. For some, that change is warranted, but for many, you were so close to discovering what lies beyond. As you climb to the top of that mountain it will take a lot if not all of you to get there. The energy and resources you spend may be plentiful, but when you arrive at that peak, the views will be priceless. For all of us, the road will be different and so will the view, but for all of us, the story will be the same, the peak of your journey will bring you a view you'll never forget. Let's all journey up that mountain and look forward to the beautiful view that lies ahead. As while today's view was beautiful, it's not near the peak I am striving for. Let the journey continue on until we all get that mountain view we were aiming for.

~:[CH10 - Day 329]:~ Just a Little Bit Longer

 
~:[CH10 - Day 329]:~  Just a Little Bit Longer

I drove around and ran errands around LA in the morning. It was nice because the normally packed freeways were open. The traffic I faced yesterday was non-existent and it was nice to be able to zip back and forth in such a short amount of time. It felt weird and the day itself was similar. Normally I would be coming home around that time after turkey trot then heading to the market to prep a meal. Instead, I busily worked on things, and headed over to our mini neighbors Thanksgiving lunch. We had to walk about ten feet and just enjoyed a meal outside. It wasn't ideal, but it was something and something more than we had recently. It's going to take just a little bit longer, but it will be worth the wait. We are slowing taking baby steps towards a more normal and while it's sad to not do all as we had before, at least getting a little bit of what we had lost made today even more special. I went back and wrapped up the work I was trying to finish today and when I looked down at the clock, I realized how early it was still. What normally would be a time we were still together, I was already home hours before. As while I still yearn for the days of the past, I am grateful to spend some time with at least a few of those who I am thankful for. To all my friends and family, I love you and thank you for all that you do to make this world a special place. I am truly blessed to be surrounded by such amazing people and I hope that it will only be a little bit longer before we can all reconnect together again. Happy Thanksgiving! 

~:[CH10 - Day 328]:~ Stuck in a Jam

 
~:[CH10 - Day 328]:~  Stuck in a Jam

I knew that the traffic headed towards Vegas today would be bad, but didn't expect to have as long as a drive as I did on the way home. Bumper-to-bumper to state line, then another jam through the pass. Regardless, after enjoying our last few moments in Vegas, we arrived home safely. This trip is typically a very quick turnaround, however, it still is meaningful and necessary. The quality time is nice. As we venture through the second half of this holiday week, I hope that you all avoid getting stuck in the jam and enjoy this wonderful time in your own way. We each celebrate and enjoy time differently and I hope you all are able to enjoy it in the way you want to most. You deserve it.

~:[CH10 - Day 327]:~ The Tradition Continues

~:[CH10 - Day 327]:~  The Tradition Continues

I was a little smarter this time. I brought in my selfie tripod so it was much easier to shoot video and pictures of us while we were on the course quickly and painlessly. Every year, my dad and I ventured out to Vegas and hit up Bali Hai. We actually started at a TPC, then tried this course and never switched. Instead of venturing out to Bali, we can hit Bali just minutes away from our hotel. We were almost late due to construction, however, we got out there and enjoyed the beautiful day. We ended up with a four-some this time which made it more entertaining, but the tradition didn't change including my dad beating me, sadly. Actually, this year had I been able to put better, I probably could haven gotten him. I actually putted pretty well, but just was off enough to miss so many makable putts. We got our normal ramen after, relaxed a bit while watching games, tried a new dinner spot, then headed to the bowling alley, where I brushed off the rust pretty quickly. This is always a quick trip, but a nice one, especially this year which has been so stressful and overwhelming at times. The tradition continued and it couldn't have come at a better time. When you feel overwhelmed, even when you don't think there is time for you getaway, take some time to give yourself that mental holiday as you may need it more than you think. This tradition has been the choice for me.
 

~:[CH10 - Day 326]:~ Curry & Duck

~:[CH10 - Day 326]:~  Curry & Duck

I got woken up a little earlier than I wanted, but used the time to get some work done. There still is a lot to do, but left most of it for when I get home. We ventured to our normal stop and grabbed a wonderful meal. Luckily the wait wasn't too bad. It was nice to be full as we headed back to the hotel and ended up at Top Golf. The last time we were here, we waited a few hours and never got onto the course. This time, we actually were quoted about 90 minutes and about 40 minutes later, we were in a bay. The games they have were pretty fun and while I was winning most of the game, my dad snuck back and took the lead by just a bit. We did get a lot of rest and relaxation. While many people come to Vegas for gambling and partying, there is so much more to Vegas that makes it special including the amazing food and entertainment. On top of it all, the costs on the weekdays is incredibly cheap especially before Thanksgiving. If you're in a curry and need quick little trip, just make a quick stop, grab some great food and kick back and relax. Hope you all are having a wonderful start of the holiday week!

~:[CH10 - Day 325]:~ The Dust Bowl

 
~:[CH10 - Day 325]:~  The Dust Bowl

We headed to the course and realized that they were ahead of schedule. One of our girls had to rush to warmup and then ventured to the line. As I went out onto the course, it was a dustbowl . The wind was blowing and every so often, I had to turn or cover my eyes. By the time I left, my nostrils were full of dust and I could feel it for the rest of the day. Regardless, the athletes survived and came out happy that they enjoyed this mini weekend. I think one of the things about this group that made it special was that they were energized about doing this. They had a good spirit, they got along well together and simply just made the whole experience pleasurable except for when their fatigue hysteria kicked in and their laughter and yelling filled the air. This group is the youngest group I have taken to junior olympics with only freshmen and sophomores, which means that there could be a bright future ahead of a team ready to carry on the ohana spirit. It was a great day that we were just able to go bananas. 

~:[CH10 - Day 324]:~ Light It Up

 
~:[CH10 - Day 324]:~  Light It Up

We ventured out to junior olympics and took a quick pit stop. It was great to be able to take the athletes where they wanted to go. They had a great spirit and aura around them. I think it was just the chance to do something and be together that got them so excited. When night came, the park lit up and we enjoyed the lights in the park, which wasn't too crowded at all. Regardless, although it would have been nice to have nothing to do today, I did enjoy watching them enjoy the day and see their faces light up as they enjoyed the day. I know we all had it rough the past few years and I only hope that as we head forward, we can begin to also experience the same, especially as the holidays draw near. 

~:[CH10 - Day 323]:~ Cramping My Style

 

~:[CH10 - Day 323]:~  Cramping My Style

It was nice to have this day back again, the alumni basketball games. It's great because it's a sign that we are on break and also a fun time. Without a staff game, it changed a bit, but I still was able to play in the coaches game. Overall, I got my normal steals, missed my normal shots and finished up the game well. Towards the end of the game, I felt a little twitch, but was fine since I finished the game or at least I thought. I got corralled into playing the girls game to give people breathers. At the end of the first half. I got a cramp in my hamstring and sat out the rest of the half. I worked on it and ended up playing again, although did so very gingerly. I survived, almost. At the end of the game, we pushed the ball up court, I caught the ball off balance and in slow motion, I fell backwards with my hamstring unable to support me normally. Luckily, I tossed the ball to Vitug who knocked down the buzzer beater, taking away attention from me as I fell to the ground (in embarrassment). It actually was quite funny and would allow me to get a laugh and enjoy that moment as we head into the break. I was happy to not actually be injured (just sore) although my pride, that's another story (haha). Life is actually about those moments you have an embarrassing moments. For me, they come and go very quickly. I see a lot of my students afraid to have those moments, but in MUN we teach them that those moments are the ones that help you grow. It means that you are out there trying and in the process, you're getting better. My style and body may have been cramped today, but in the end, I am happy that I can relive this funny moment, I just hope it's not over and over again. To all the students and teachers, have a wonderful fall break.

~:[CH10 - Day 322]:~ Putting Things in Place

 
~:[CH10 - Day 322]:~  Putting Things in Place

After work, I was able to get a round in on the course. It's always nice to be able to trek over to Ironwood as it's close by and a quick play. I maneuvered through the course fairly well aside from two disastrous holes. I was satisfied considering how little I have practiced as of late, however, there is still improvement to be made before next week. After the round, I headed home, got some work done, then was able to clean up a bit, putting things in place. I cleaned up my car, did my laundry and picked up around the house. It was a strangely productive day where I also had a bit of fun in the process. I wish all busy days could be like this, but at least I'll enjoy this one while I can. 

~:[CH10 - Day 321]:~ A Little Fishy

 
~:[CH10 - Day 321]:~  A Little Fishy

I actually was in the mood for ramen, but this place changed and didn't have ramen anymore. Regardless, we still ate there. In the end, I was glad we did, as we had a good variety of foods and was pretty well done. I still was craving ramen at the end, but was satisfied with the meal. It was a much needed meal in the middle of a packed day. When getting home, I had to work on a commission and before that I had a long day on top of practice and a meeting which happened simultaneously. My schedule often finds these types of situations, so I guess I'm used to it. It's definitely nice to know that in a few days, we'll be free for a little bit, but for now, I'll just enjoy this feeling of a delicious meal. As while I am still craving ramen at this moment, sometimes when your facing a situation that seems a little fishy, sometimes it's just an opportunity in disguise. No ramen, no problem, as the food ended up being even better and definitely hit the spot. Now who is ready for ramen?

~:[CH10 - Day 320]:~ Music to My Heart

 
~:[CH10 - Day 320]:~  Music to My Heart

It's always a joy to catch up with alumni. It's an even greater joy to see alumni succeed, but also love what they do. After being able to watch Jae perform, it was great to also catch up with Peter, who has had some major breakthrough's recently. I was lucky to be able to interview who a while back and then since then, he's been on a tear with albums including BamBam, Enhyphen, NC127, CL & More. We finally were able to meet up, although I thought I was driving to LA, we ended up eating in Cerritos. It was great to hear the passion he had for what he was doing and I was happy to be the first autograph he signed, which I'll display proudly! One of the joys in my job is to see people grow and succeed. There will be tough times where they struggle, but when they finally breakthrough, it's definitely reason to celebrate. By the time I got home, I was exhausted, so I napped, realized I forgot to schedule my Korean class, so I just editing video from Jae's performance. Both of these moments truly were music to my heart. These two are both proof that you can keep working at what you love and eventually find a moment you'll cherish forever. Hoping for much more success in the future and I hope you both make music that can just the hearts of others for many years to come.

~:[CH10 - Day 319]:~ Back at It

 
~:[CH10 - Day 319]:~  Back at It

Season ended last week, but there were a few who decided to run another week or more. I always love to have athletes join in for Junior Olympics and even more so when they are a young group. With four sophomores and two freshman, I am excited to see them get out on the course and show their stuff one last time. It would be nice to sleep in and enjoy the weekend, but it's worth the time if they want to spend this extra effort training. The Monday was definitely a challenge to stay focused and get myself going, but it  made it easier being with a group ready to work. The day wasn't done as I moved from cross country to Nationals tryouts, however, similarly, it was great to be among those who were willing to put in the extra time for a conference they don't have to attend. It will be tough as there are SO many qualified candidates and the same amount of spots, but just like every year, I have to break everything down and pick the best team possible. My heart does break for leaving those who I want to take behind, but I guess that comes with the job. 

~:[CH10 - Day 318]:~ I Wish I Could ...

 
~:[CH10 - Day 318]:~  I Wish I Could ...

I think we spend a lot of time saying, I wish I could ... (insert action here). While there are things that we may never be able to physically do, there are a lot of things we say this in reference to that we actually could. Sure, it would take a lot of time and effort like many things do, but it's possible. As I watched the halftime performer move around on the cyr wheel, I was amazed and thought, how many hours did it take for him to get the hang of this. Probably a lot. As we transition back into a more normal state, as I hear the students, I do hear a lot of, "I wish I coulds ..," or "I could never ..." and it's a bit worrisome. I hope that the confidence that these students were beaming with before the pandemic resurfaces so they can once again believe that the can do what they want to do, rather than sitting on the sidelines saying, "I wish I could ..." I almost feel that we all are the same way (not just students) and that we also can get ourselves up out of that seat and take that first step towards doing what we wish we could. I hope that instead of simply wishing, we take that step that we never took; only then can we start that journey towards, I can!

~:[CH10 - Day 317]:~ Out From Behind the Screen

 
~:[CH10 - Day 317]:~  Out From Behind the Screen

There were definitely parts of virtual conferences that were great. The comforts of home, not having to walk around and even cooking a meal during lunch were things I missed. Of course today reminded me that coming out from behind the screen was a great thing. As we sat at lunch chatting away or even the bus ride together as the students sang together, you could tell that there was something special about being together, When committee ended online, we would go back into our normal lives, rather in person, we get to chat and can even recap on the day. Yes, it's a bit of a pain waiting for all the students to get picked up, but in that time, it's also nice having a little chat with them before they leave. I am beat and exhausted after this stretch of events, however, I happily stepped out from behind that screen and back into the real world of MUN. Kicking off our season today was memorable and I just hope that the days ahead can be as great as today.

~:[CH10 - Day 316]:~ Weathering the Storm

 
~:[CH10 - Day 316]:~  Weathering the Storm

It's strange that in year that our theme was weathering the storm that the weather would be the biggest obstacle in our way during CIF. As the temperatures closed in on 90, athletes started to drop like flies and our athletes did their best to weather that storm. It wasn't easy, but they braved it. They pushed forward and left what they had on the course and for that I was proud. I know that they weren't happy by day's end, but there is no doubt that proud was an understatement with this group. For my seniors (and all those on the team during the pandemic), it wasn't easy to stay focused and keep training especially when there wasn't much of a regular season. The boys found their way to drastic improvements all due to the hard work they put in. They did extra workouts, pushed extra hard and really aimed at coming out on top. The ladies had kept their pieces together and added new pieces as they worked to progress and put their puzzle together. In the end, they didn't advance, but I can say that they did their best to weather the storm. This year, aside from a few, the hottest days fell on race days, but the athletes went out their and did it. Together they may have suffered, but that also helped them join together to face the challenge hand-in-hand. There are many moments from the past we want to forget, but during the past years, they made it so there are a lot of moments I want to remember. Sure there are adjustments we will need to make moving forward, but this group ensured that work as head is not as bad as it could have been. They focused, weathered the storm as best they could, and reminded me of how lucky I am to work with a group who went above and beyond when I wasn't there watching. To my seniors, thank you for your resilience, as you truly stood strong together in the toughest times and conditions we've ever faced.

~:[CH10 - Day 315]:~ When You Miss ...

~:[CH10 - Day 315]:~  When You Miss ...

The worker on the court said, "that's in" when I shot it. I was just off. I miss the free throw, be definitely won the day. Sore from the day before, I got to rest and wake up when my body wanted to, of course, it was still early. I worked in the morning met up with someone for lunch, then ventured to the game. It always seems when I don't have to work, I end up making my day more busy and today was no different. Regardless, it was a day that I truly enjoyed. Yes, I missed the shot, but the ability to do this was awesome and we even got a W out of it. Sometimes in life, our shot is wide right, short, or simply off the mark, however, it doesn't mean you lost. Sometimes when you miss, you've already won regardless. Going out and doing things, trying things and pushing yourself will help you find things that will make a day great, even if at the end of the day, you've missed your target. Life is so centralized in goal setting and meeting those goals, deadlines or marks, but instead, we should focus on the process, our experiences and our growth. As while it's great to hit the shot, it doesn't change the fact that I had a day full of good memories with great people and even had some productivity. Don't let one moment in a span of a great day ruin it. Go out and take that shot, but don't let whether you make or miss it change how you view things. Life is more than a single shot, don't be afraid to take that shot and no matter what happens when you do, take a step back and see the whole court to get a view of all that you've been truly missing.
 

~:[CH10 - Day 314]:~ The Need for Speed

 
~:[CH10 - Day 314]:~ The Need for Speed

Yes, it was the last day of the week for me (at least for teaching), but it seems like my schedule would just get crazier over the next few days. I like being busy, but at times, not having that break can also be quite the challenge. The next few should test that. Of course, running around is what I've lived for my whole life. As we raced on the track, I loved the feeling of competition and flying through the course and I thought it was a great parallel to how I work. I zoom through things, thinking about that next turn, trying to get to that finish line as efficiently as possible. This year, I avoided any crashes, but I got blocked in the end and finished as the runner up. Regardless, I think it was a fun night we could all enjoy and definitely needed to feel that zooming sensation. 

~:[CH10 - Day 313]:~ Together

 
~:[CH10 - Day 313]:~ Together

Togetherness is sometimes underrated. I think prior to the pandemic, it was all about what cool place you've been too or what amazing food you ate, rather than simply being together. I think we appreciate more than ever just the chance to be together and again I've experienced that feeling of how joyous it is to simply do things we did before. Even if the place we go is not as fancy, just being able to be around each other has been the most valuable part of it all. As while we think about all the things we want to do to catch up on what we missed, don't ever forget the quality time you've grown to appreciate with the loved ones around you. As while we slowly edge back into our normal routines and lives, let's never forget to keep priority #1 on our list as simply being together, as it is more precious than any exotic location or more special than any fine dining. As we signed cards and just chatted, I looked and just smile knowing that we were all together.

~:[CH10 - Day 312]:~ A Shell of One's Self

 
~:[CH10 - Day 312]:~  A Shell of One's Self

You often hear people say, tough it out. It's easy to say, but sometimes tough to do. Yes, building grit and resilience is something we need to do especially in times like these, sometimes when you're in the middle of a grind, you feel like a shell of yourself, not whole, but just going through the motions. This always tends to be one of the toughest stretches of the year as we usually haven't had a break since labor day, cross country and MUN is in full swing, and the holidays are but a tease as we slowly progress towards them. However, as daylight savings time turns our 5pm to darkness and we drag along, let's find joy in the setting sun, in the ability to cuddle up and cozy up a bit more, and reach out towards those around you so we can get through this together. Someone close to me told me how challenging life has been lately and it made me think of this topic. It's easy to show what you want others to see while you feel empty inside. I am not here to tell you to tough through it, rather open up that shell and allow others in. If you cannot fill the void within yourself, invite others in and soon enough you'll slowly fill that void that has grown inside you. As we drag towards the oncoming breaks, we all are sputtering on empty, however, that is exactly when you need that helping hand to help you give you want you need to refill and recharge. Happy Monday. You can do this!

~:[CH10 - Day 311]:~ Head & Heart in the Clouds

 
~:[CH10 - Day 311]:~  Head & Heart in the Clouds

It's great when you see someone around you succeed, but tougher to see them struggle. You want to help them, but sometimes you really don't know what you can do. Sometimes you can send them comforting messages, lend them an ear, or just check in on them from time to time. However, seeing someone come from the dark depths of life, fighting their demons, it's incredible to see them reach a point where their heads are in the clouds. With ever moment I captured this evening, a piece of my heart was fulfilled seeing Jae overcoming his struggles and just being himself. He chatted as himself, he sang as himself, and he bounced around (a lot) like himself and that is what lifted my heart to the clouds. Life is definitely going to have its struggles from time to time, but then there are those defining moments that lift you higher than you have ever been before. As while it's never easy to hit rock bottom, when you overcome those moments, you find something even greater than you have before. I tried focusing on capture the photos and avoid getting too caught up in the moment, but seeing him break free of the chains that had been holding back was something that just sent me to new heights. In the end, I captured many of these priceless moments, but there is no picture that can capture the feeling of the night, not only touching those who knew him, but those who were first introduced to him. Life is definitely a roller coaster of highs and lows, but at some point in your life, you'll find that moment where you head and heart are in the clouds. 

~:[CH10 - Day 310]:~ Squeezing Out Some Time

 
~:[CH10 - Day 310]:~  Squeezing Out Some Time

We weren't suppose to have practice today, but the kids insisted that we have practice and so we met up at the beach and did a quick run. I always love a group who asks for more and even when I can't schedule anything extra, the fact that they are asking means they care. Of course, the incentive of some time at the beach might have been the reason, regardless, we got a good workout with those who could attend and called it a day. I then headed over to grab my photographs for the day and just enjoy the music and food. The workout made the day extra long, however, when you have a group like this, it's worth the sacrifice to make some time. Sometimes there is just no way to make time, but when you truly see value in something, you'll find a way to make time. In the end, I was tired as I got home, but will be rewarded overnight with an extra hour to rest. 

~:[CH10 - Day 309]:~ Friday Night Lights

 
~:[CH10 - Day 309]:~  Friday Night Lights

We played a lot of football games on Thursday night this year. Today, we played on a Friday. We used Artesia to host this game and if you haven't seen their new field, it's gorgeous. Regardless of where we played, tonight would have been special as it's been twenty years since we made it to CIF. This team didn't perform like that was the case, as they came ready to play. I was honored to wear one of my track athlete's jersey through the day. Although it was long, it fit perfectly. The athlete is one of the nicest kids you'll ever meet and always thinking of others. I was glad to be able to honor him by wearing his number. I was also touched by how they came out to start the game, together and chanting the name of the coach who they lost this year, who also happen to be a track coach. He has been one of the motivations for them and it always makes me sad when I see the WP on the helmets of the players, reminding me of this amazing man who we lost too soon. We played inspired. It was definitely a back and forth game and just small mistakes here and there ended up being the difference. We had a final drive and looked like we could pull it off, however, it just wasn't our day today. I was glad to see just how much our team left out there and how well they played too. Although we did fall short, they fought through the end and almost got a final chance to have a winning drive. The final score was 20-22, however, there is no doubt in my mind that this team shined brightly under those Friday night lights and truly made their late coach, Webster Peters proud. 

~:[CH10 - Day 308]:~ A Little Chaotic

 
~:[CH10 - Day 308]:~  A Little Chaotic

Some days are quite challenging. It was a completely full day with this, that and everything in between. I started with having to finish a few deposits and POs, lectured for three periods and then checked in with my event before heading back to school to replenish what had been used. At the same time, I prepped for our CIF run and for the play. It was interesting taking a fairly inexperienced group for this, as I forgot I had to thoroughly explain everything. Regardless, it worked out. With the event going on at the same time, I could check into both and today it was loaded with people on top of what we had already gotten. After weight room, I jetting to the play and when I was watching it, I felt like I relived my day once again. It was quite fun, but (as intended), it was all over the place and chaotic. As they squeezed in the unabridged version of Shakespeare, I thought about how my day was the same type of cramming. Daily we cram more into our schedules than we even realize and before we notice it, we're in the midst of living through those crazy moments. In any case, even when it's chaotic as such, sometimes it what makes the days ahead even more incredible. Yes, today was definitely a little chaotic, but at the same time, things went well as I could find satisfaction in the middle of all this chaos. 

~:[CH10 - Day 307]:~ Bringing Warmth

 
~:[CH10 - Day 307]:~  Bringing Warmth

There are definitely a lot of problems and things to fix. As we discussed this issues, I thought of how we could fix them, but also thought about how we need to find a way to "be the change we want to see in the world." This quote is applicable almost everywhere and in our own lives, we can see when we have the opportunity to do just this. It's hard to see when there are so many problems around you, but there are gentle reminders through the darkness that remind you that hope is all around. From the progress of an athletes, finally getting something solved, or just a little interaction that makes your day, sometimes a single moment can bring you the warmth you need on a cold day. The solutions we are looking for in any given situation may not come so easily or even naturally, however, they will be there if we search for them enough. As I ate a bowl of pho with a friend who is headed off to a new adventure, I could only feel the warmness of the moment, satisfying my hunger, the warmth on a cold day, and the opportunity for quality time. When the world around you feels so complex, keep it simple and start by warming yourself up on a cold day. Love, laugh and just live. There will be sadness, loss and grief; there will be failure, fatigue and anxiet as well, but in the end, the simple things in life may be just the answer that you need. 

~:[CH10 - Day 306]:~ Full Circle

 
~:[CH10 - Day 306]:~  Full Circle

I edited photos today. Our team took photos for CIF and I was able to snag this shot with my drone. It was great to be able to have a more normal season this year and our shirts reflect that circle that we've traveled to get back to where we were. Sure it wasn't perfect and definitely not predictable, however, we completed the cycle for now and arrived back at our CIF practices, I was sad for last year's seniors, however, glad that another group did not miss out on the chance for a season. It wasn't the easiest of days today as my body and mind were still tired, but I was appreciative of being out there and also with a group who was putting in the work to be their best. When I got home, my pile of work was excessive so I canceled my language class and focused on just getting it done, then resting. However, with one of my final tasks of the night being uploading the album, it was nice to look through all the photos and smile, as no matter how tired I am right now, I am simply glad that we had this opportunity. Although there are many things we are displeased with, people we may disagree with and more, let's appreciate the time we have and know that we survived this arduous path that took us closer to where we used to be. 

~:[CH10 - Day 305]:~ The Dub

 
~:[CH10 - Day 305]:~  The Dub

It was a rough Monday. I had college recommendations to finish along with this and that and stayed up pretty late on Halloween. It was a busy day ahead, but it was a day I got through because I enjoy the CIF photo day and our first practice with this team. We rolled through our shoot, did our traditional run and then wrapped it up. I had tickets to the game that evening and so I rushed out afterwards to make it on time. Right after parking, I got a message that there was a good deal for seats and so I checked it out and upgraded my seats, really upgraded. It was weird being so close and actually there were definitely some negatives to it, but at halftime we walked to the lounge and realized the perks of sitting where we did. Food and drinks were included; definitely a dub! Little did I know that Anthony Anderson sat down right in front of me in the lounge as we ate and I'm sure there were others there as well, but it was being so close to the players that made it amazing and made it better to realize just how lucky we got. To top it all off, we played horribly through most of the game, but we made a run at the end and finished with an incredible run to steal this win. I think back to that split second where I thought if I should take this chance and now that I look back on it, I was glad I didn't hesitate. Often times, we have decisions we need to make and the route we often take is the most stable, however, every once in awhile you should roll the dice to see just what you end up with, more times than not, you'll end up with a dub!