~:[CH11 - Day 365]:~ Just a Mix

 
~:[CH11 - Day 365]:~ Just a Mix

I vividly remember my mom making fried rice. It was my favorite dish and when I was young, I watched her in the kitchen, which is how I learned a lot of the cooking skills I have today. I liked to taste everything as it went in, but one of the sauces she put into the fried rice definitely wasn't so great on its own. As I put the same sauce into a dish I made for new year's eve, I was reminded of those days. Sadly, our family did not gather, but we still good up a feast and sent out food and some traditional food to them as we could all celebrate as we would together. I guess this is like that sauce. This past year of 2022 wasn't a great year, but it also wasn't a bad one. There were some highlight such as the long awaited return to Japan, some amazing events and opportunities and meeting some incredible people. At the same time, I found myself busier than ever, isolating myself a bit more to recharge, and just trying to keep everything balanced. Things in 2022 definitely didn't work out as I had hoped, but at the same time, I cannot discount the many pluses that I had through the year. I will not going into 2023 with resolutions or high anticipation of great moments ahead, but be ready to figure out how to make the moments that are not as pleasant mix in with the other ingredients of the year to make a dish like my mom's fried rice. Not everything that tastes unpleasant will ruin what you're working on, but it can if you can't figure out how to adapt and make it work. Life is definitely a mix of ingredients that are both sweet and sour, bitter and tasty, hot and cold, etc. and I hope that in 2023, we take what is given to us and make it work so it doesn't ruin the dish that we place before us. Here's to making things work in 2023. Wishing you and your families and wonderful and safe new year. Thank you for all that you do to help make the world a better place and I am forever grateful to have you all in my life. As I close out another chapter, I am so grateful to be here breathing through another day as we head into another year and ready to mix all that life throws at me. 

~:[CH11 - Day 364]:~ Rain Drops

 
~:[CH11 - Day 364]:~ Rain Drops

I headed out for lunch today, one of the first meals I've had outside in the last week. It was quite nice to be able to enjoy the hot ramen broth on a rainy day. It was great to have another day of just chatting and enjoying the day. I didn't have any deadlines for big projects, so I could relax a bit and not have to worry about a load of work awaiting me when I got home. Instead, I focused on the rain as it dropped to the floor and the ripple that ensued. Rain often sends people scrambling like ants and of course, the roads turn into chaos. However, like many others, I see the beauty when the rain drops. There is something aesthetically pleasing when they show those slow motion videos of a water drop. There's a bit of suspense as you wait for the water to drop as you look down and see the beautiful ripple. The pitter patter of the rain also is something that always has been soothing to me. The day was similar to that pitter patter as it flow like the gentle ripples on the ground below and the soothing sounds of the day left me relaxed as I worked on finishing a list of random things. While it didn't rain all day (or I don't think it did), I enjoyed the time I got to enjoy it, warmed even more as I thought back to the hot and delicious bowl of ramen. While the broth warmed me up, it felt like everything else found a way to warm my soul.  

~:[CH11 - Day 363]:~ On Cue

 
~:[CH11 - Day 363]:~ On Cue

It was about time. Locked away at home, it was finally time to get out. It was great to get some work done and catch up on things I wanted to, but the timing was on cue to have a little time outside the house. It definitely was the longest I've been outside the house since Christmas Day. It was great to get back to the billiards hall. I think it's been about a year since I went last and I've always enjoyed the chance to hang, but also have a little competition. While winning and losing isn't the main goal, it's fun to add a little competition to the night. In the end, it was nice to finally go out and do something, yet just enough to not be too exhausting. I realized how easy it is for me to focus in and work through the entire day, of course, it's always refreshing to have a little social interaction before refocusing on what I was working on before. How have you kept yourselves occupied the last week?

~:[CH11 - Day 362]:~ Chill

 
~:[CH11 - Day 362]:~ Chill

It happens a lot. I am either really busy or just bumming. I don't mind isolating away, of course, the past few days, I've actually been working as I edit photos, finalize plans for our upcoming school trips and even did a few raids from the comfort of my home. It's funny how much you can do in a day, but also how little you can do in a day. I was thinking at some point today that while I am a really efficient person, it's so easy for me to get off track and the line between efficient and simply unproductive is truly thin. I'll do that in an hour becomes tomorrow and it's so easy to get yourself off track. While a day here and there is needed, I can also see how it can snowball in either direction. Regardless, I found time to get the work I needed done and stayed on task even though I was isolated away from the world, at least for most of the day. I headed out for just a bit to Tapioca Express realizing that I've been outside a total of an hour the past few days. While it was warm on Christmas Day, the air turned a little more chilly and we even got some rain. It was weird to have a warm Christmas, but at least we'll get some slightly chilly temperatures the next week or so. Although it doesn't feel like winter, I'd much rather have this than what the rest of the country is experience. Of course, maybe I should be outside enjoying it a bit more. 

~:[CH11 - Day 361]:~ Joker's Wild

 
~:[CH11 - Day 361]:~ Joker's Wild

There aren't any spoilers in this blog. Since it was released, I've been wanting to watch Alice in Borderland (S2). It's only been out a few days, however, I've been anticipating the second season While Squid Game was the talk of the town, Alice in Borderland was actually released before and had a similar vibe to Squid Games. I feel a sense of the underlying messages and the storylines in the show are intriguing including the ones that carry into season 2. If you're looking for a show, this could be the one, albeit a little graphic. As I spent the day binging the show, I did some work, but allowed myself to just enjoy this time. I thought about going somewhere during this break, but thought I would truly make it a break while slowly catching up on the work I needed to do. Wise choice. As I ended the night wrapping up the show so quickly, it made me think of the battles that we have in life. In the show, the characters all have to make their choices from who to trust to whether or not they can keep going on. The struggles they faced paralleled a lot of what we face in our own lives. It's difficult to say that life is great when you're facing struggles in your own life, but the chance to eat, live and breathe is something I hope we don't take for granted. Sometimes in life, we're dealt a hand that seems as if we have no chance, but hopefully if we keep playing, keep moving forward, we'll land that wild card that can help us turn the tables. 

~:[CH11 - Day 360]:~ Hope in the 0.01%

 
~:[CH11 - Day 360]:~ Hope in the 0.01%

There are times where you feel like there is zero percent chance you'll win. I often watch win probability during games and the sites will never say 100% for a team's win until the end. Why? Because there is always hope in that 0.01% chance that you'll be able to pull off a miracle. As I watched the Clippers game, I actually turned it on when they were down 12 (I beleive they were down 14 with three minutes to play). A writer for the Clippers already said it was a "bad loss" for them. Just as I watched a few of their great comebacks, I watched as the win probability made a drastic turn as the Clippers ultimately tied it on a TMann turnaround and then demolished the Pistons in overtime. It's easy to take your foot off the gas when you realize that your chances are slim to none, but when you keep pressing forward even when there is no hope, you may just get a breakthrough, even if they odds are stacked heavily against you. The reality is, you sometimes know that probability of you succeeding in some situation, but at some point, you might as well do everything you can to find success rather than simply giving up. Whether or not you end up flipping the script, in the process of chasing something with that 0.01% hope, at the very least, there is something you gain, something you learn, and something new you hope for. Instead of giving up, let's continue to press forward even when the cards are stacked against us and see how everything plays out because you just never know what will happen in the process.

~:[CH11 - Day 359]:~ Trifecta

 
~:[CH11 - Day 359]:~ Trifecta

You could argue that quinfecta fit today more as I watched the Packers win their game today, completing the fifth piece of the puzzle that needed to fall into place today. As I thought about all the parlays I did in my life, I could never have imagined them all falling into place for my team. There obviously is more to do in the weeks ahead, however, it was a great way to start off the day. I continued to wrap up editing a project and progressed pretty well through the day, leading to the second part of a successful day. Of course, the piece that completed the trifecta was definitely the most special - time with the family. I can't remember the last time we've seen everyone three days in a row, but today was the third in a string of wonderful family days. I've been excited to give out a few of the gifts I had as I brought them home from Japan including this shinkansen set. I was trying to bring it back in the summer, but with so much stuff, it was impossible. Thus, when I went for a meeting this time around, I brought an extra large back and squeezed it in on the way home. I'm not sure if he'll like it or not, but my set was my treasure and I hope it can be one for him as well. Regardless, the day was less about presents and more about the time we had to spend together. Today I was productive, I celebrated a W for my team, and I wrapped it up with quality time during a perfectly packaged day. A trifecta!

~:[CH11 - Day 358]:~ Reviving Traditions

 
~:[CH11 - Day 358]:~ Reviving Traditions

I wrapped presents and did work most of the day as we got ready to revive our family Christmas. While it was a little smaller than normal, it was nice to have a return of something that was so precious. A lot of hard work went into the decorating and we were able to pitch in to make it run well. From Santa to our gift exchange and even BINGO, it was nice to have a revival of our family traditions together. By night's end I was tired and a little disappointed my voice decided to play hide and seek again, but still I was in good spirits as I got to spend the evening with my family once again. Each year we will continue to see these types of moments reappear in our lives and with each of these precious moments, I'll be sure to treasure them and never take them for granted. Wishing you and your family a Happy Holidays!

~:[CH11 - Day 357]:~ Just Lit

 
~:[CH11 - Day 357]:~ Just Lit

It was fun shooting on media day for the girls team as we prep for the league season. I was grinding all day trying to wrap up editing the set of photos from yesterday, but took a break in order to get groceries, get presents ready then head out to take their photos. The setup worked out nicely as the shots came out pretty pure. Sometimes things just work out and for this shoot, it did. I ventured home to have dinner with the family as we chase the kiddos around the house. I went back to editing for the remainder of the night and wrapped up half way through the album. Regardless, it was quite a productive day, but also one where I was more relaxed, not having to worry about deadlines, as I could do what I wanted to at my own pace. While there's a lot I want to accomplish over break, I'll be sure to take my time and just enjoy the time I have. 

~:[CH11 - Day 356]:~ Adversity

 
~:[CH11 - Day 356]:~ Adversity

It was mostly a joyous day as the students enjoyed the final day of school of 2022. We exchanged our greetings before I headed off and helped out at a photoshoot. After wrapping up, I headed over the basketball game, as the teams played three close games versus Gahr. We won the first by one and we lost the last two in overtime. It was a little devastating, but my sadness turned to anger as an assistant from Gahr ran up to our bench and started unnecessarily gloating in front of our team. As I drove home, that moment repeated through my mind as I kept thinking about how sometimes when you win you lose and there was no better example than that. As the wave of emotions started to fade though, my thought turned towards our teams and how painful losing can be. It made me remember of all the most challenging times in my life and how difficult it was to navigate. I hope that they can see that this adversity that they are facing is what will actually make them the strongest in the end if they can keep pushing forward. As the dark cloud of their struggles linger over, keeping the hope and motivation to keep moving forward (no matter how slowly or quickly) is key. As the weight of each challenge is place on their back. it would be easy to give up and just fall, but the key through this process is to never give up. The weight of each of those challenges will make them stronger and it's moments like today that can hopefully motivate them, rather than conquer them. It's definitely not easy to face the frustration of facing each of these challenges and disappointments, but the adversity can turn into a victory greater than any winning streak could provide. In these most challenging of times, I hope that they can uplift each other to help carry the burden of these challenging times so that instead of giving up and falling, they will rise even stronger than they were before. As I went through editing the photo from the shoot today, I scrolled through the photos of these glorious and joyous moments and I just know that these are the images that await these athletes after they navigate through the adversity and when they are ready to rise into the spotlight. To the team, keep your head up and keep moving forward together. 

~:[CH11 - Day 355]:~ Life is Suite

 

~:[CH11 - Day 355]:~ Life is Suite

My body and mind were definitely exhausted, however, at the same time, my shoulders felt good as the stress and weight of the past month were finally gone. I was done. I could enjoy the time I had and didn't have the pressure I faced before. I guess it served as a reward, however, I got invited to enjoy today's Clippers game from the comforts of a suite. It was a great celebration after completing the banquet and a great way of transitioning into my last day of school in 2022. It's been a long and exhausting stretch, but I finally wrapped it up and just enjoyed the evening, relaxing, eating and watching the game. It was great to enjoy such a wonderful banquet last night, but today, I truly enjoyed the freedom I felt as I wrapped up this challenging stretch. As I got home, I smiled knowing that it was a great day, but as I type this, I can already feel that my mind and body are still exhausted and the only thing I need to make this day perfect is a good night's rest. Good night ya'll!

~:[CH11 - Day 354]:~ Momentum

 
~:[CH11 - Day 354]:~ Momentum

Momentum is an interesting thing. When it rains, it pours. Often times, when things are going bad, it's a train wreck waiting to happen. We've faced those challenges and things just went reeling and the wrong way. Of course, this year, the momentum was positive as a rebuilding year, turned into one where our athletes improved, the environment changed the the team found success. There were definitely places where we could have improved, but to make such a dramatic shift may have been asking for too much. Like I said with a number of athletes, patience is important. We used the momentum through the season to zoom past much of the rebuilding phases and now we must focus on keeping that momentum up. This team may not have been the fastest I've ever coach ,but I definitely was proud of this amazing group because of how much of a leap they made. The progress they found made their group special and I am truly proud to be a part of this special team. As I told them, this team is what you make it out to be and momentum is the same way. You can ride the wave of momentum when things are good, but when momentum is going the opposite way, you must not be afraid and step up in front of it and face it head on. This year's group changed their momentum and pushed it into a positive direction allowing this squad to discover their potential during this wave of momentum. 

~:[CH11 - Day 353]:~ Feeling Festive?

 
~:[CH11 - Day 353]:~ Feeling Festive?

If you walk around, you can feel how festive the vibe is as we close in on the holidays. However, while locking myself down, it was hard to focus on all that's around while I am glued to my screen working away. I was able to get away for a bit, however, as I enjoyed the beautiful decorations around me. After a quick break, I locked myself back down and wrapped up this unending project. It took about 200 hours of my computer converting the footage and about sixty hours of editing/rending time to wrap up this project, but when I clicked the final export, I was satisfied with the results. Sadly, I could not make each minute as precious as I wanted to, but it truly encapsulated all the great moments of the season. As the final video hit the one hour mark, I left out a lot of footage which was probably better as the wheel of death was still haunting me through the day. As it slowed, however, I sorted papers, packed envelopes and did my final checks for tomorrow's banquet. I'm too busy to feel festive, even during my little break, but soon enough, I know that I will wrap up this project and finally be able to enjoy all of the festive spirit around me. 

~:[CH11 - Day 352]:~ The Wheel of Death

 
~:[CH11 - Day 352]:~ The Wheel of Death

It was "wheely" annoying. It actually was beyond frustrating as I tried to figure out a way to get my computer to run faster. I had a hunch that Friday and Saturday went to smoothly as the wheel of death appeared and never allowed me to escape. I started the day realizing I had not converted one meet's worth of footage with took the morning to do. With a late start, I refocused and got to work. Sadly, what should have taken a few more hours, took the rest of the day and I still was not done. Luckily, I was ahead so I had a bit of time to spare, but still, this tech issue meant that I couldn't search through the footage thoroughly and create as good of a video as I wanted to. When I made the choice to use the older version of Final Cut, I wasn't sure how it would go, but after Saturday thought I made the right choice, but today, I regretted that choice and wish I used the newer version even if I was unfamiliar with it. Regardless, I painstakingly survived the day, although I did not complete what I should have even though I spent seven hours more than I thought I would have. While painful, I am glad that I am progressing towards wrapping up this project, creating something that will leave everlasting memories for these athletes. As while the wheel of death spins, it cannot defeat the will to finish this project so that athletes can cherish these precious moments they've shared this season. Bring it on wheel of death! I'm ready.

~:[CH11 - Day 351]:~ Focused In

 

~:[CH11 - Day 351]:~ Focused In

I got the rest I needed, then focused in on the task at hand - the video. I put a lot of work into the video and made a lot of progress today, wrapping up most of the video with only a small segment left for tomorrow to finish. I printed certificates and had almost everything in line to wrap up banquet prep. It felt weird as I had most everything taken care of with a few days to go, but that's what happens when you're focused in. Sometimes things are just rolling and you need to keep with the flow and not allow your progress to stop. I kept pushing forward and the results I got were just splendid! It was a great day of progress and just hoping that tomorrow is just as smooth. I'm guessing they'll be bumps in the road, but at least I am already mentally prepared for what's ahead. I stayed laser focused through the day and hope tomorrow I can do the same.

~:[CH11 - Day 350]:~ A Little Longer

 
~:[CH11 - Day 350]:~ A Little Longer

Normally we have this gift exchange after banquet and by the time we have this dinner, we are officially on break. However, this year, our break is pushed back a little and thus, next week we still have school and since our banquet was a little later than normal, I still have the stress of banquet to deal with. Nevertheless, the evening was just as joyous as normal. As while I know they had different homework and exams they still had left this upcoming week, it was still a break from the stress they'll have before we wrap up 2022. It's just a little bit longer before I can wrap up the stress of banquet and have some time to wrap up the planning of our various trips and also to finally have time to clean up around the house and catch up on editing and posting old photos and videos. It's strange that what I look forward to during our long vacation is simply time. With one of my first free weekends at home, I will actually be locking myself down and finishing up our banquet video. Hoping for the best, I hope that I will be allowed some time to enjoy this weekend, however, for now, I'll just focus on this work I have left to do and if I don't have any free time this weekend, at least I can note that we just have a little bit longer before we can smell the freedom of our upcoming winter break! Wish me luck!

~:[CH11 - Day 349]:~ In Formation

 
~:[CH11 - Day 349]:~ In Formation

I knew it was going to be tough. I only gave the athletes five days to choreograph and learn their dances. For many of them, dancing is not their forte and to teach others to do it is even more challenging. I was impressed at the groups as their coordinated themselves and created a day of these beautiful dances. Even if the presentations may never win a talent show, to see where they started to where they were was impressive. From ballroom dancing to blasts from the pasts, we had such a range of music and styles and it made it even more enjoyable. In the end, it took me awhile to decide on the winner, but the sets this group put together and the energy they brought to their performance made them stand out. Of course, they didn't win by much as I had a number of groups who did so exceptionally well. I loved it. In the end, they all joined together to say our last "ohana" to close out this dance unit. I thoroughly enjoyed our time and look forward to what they have in store for next year. 

~:[CH11 - Day 348]:~ Life Behind a Screen

 
~:[CH11 - Day 348]:~ Life Behind a Screen

It seems more and more that life for my students is behind a screen. Even before the pandemic, their phones were a source of entertainment and connection. Now the world has become even more detached from face-to-face communication and life as we know it is stuck behind a screen. For my MUN students, they get the most exposure to that communication as we constantly are speaking in class, however, with their research and papers, they too are also forced behind that screen. Since college, my life has also been like that, as I worked on my various projects in college. One time I was tuck behind the screen for 23 hours in a 24 hour span. Crazy, right? I hope that this world will change and lead us to a place where we connect more face-to-face and students (well, everybody) detaches themselves from their devices every so often so we can interact more and isolate ourselves less. At the end of the day, those screens await us, so I hope we take the time we have with others to make a connection that truly matters when there is no longer a screen to separate us.

~:[CH11 - Day 347]:~ Santa is Coming

 
~:[CH11 - Day 347]:~ Santa is Coming 

Many grew up with the stories of Santa during the holidays. We'd visit the local mall to get our photo with Santa and our family had a tradition of visiting Santa one by one which I took over years ago. Our city created a tradition of having Santa's sleigh take trips through the city of Cerritos. It's one of the cool things to look forward to during the holidays. My parents seemed excited as they waited outside to catch Santa in a chilly evening. We had good timing and were able to catch Santa. On a day where I was running around from dance practice to helping the girls frosh-soph team to working on banquet prep, it was a nice break to enjoy this moment and venture back to those carefree days when I was a child. Even in my grown age, just seeing the sleigh roll down the street gave me a smile and nice break from the loads of work and deadlines looming over my head. As we have our final countdown until the break, I'll focus in on the work I need to finish, but also take some time to enjoy the wonderful holiday spirit around me. 

~:[CH11 - Day 346]:~ Squeezing In

 

~:[CH11 - Day 346]:~ Squeezing In

The countdown clock beings for banquet as we have about a week left before its time to wrap up the final big event of the year for me. It's quite chaotic as this stretch has been filled with a last minute venture, reservations galore and even today's visit. They swung by to check out our MUN class and try to work out the details of a potential visit in the future. They drove up from the San Diego area just for part of the day to try to coordinate this, so it was a little bit of a squeeze for them as they visited the classroom, watching my seniors impressively discussing marketing tactics (algorithms, tracking), and then having a quick meeting to hammer out a few ideas and details. In the middle of it all, the power shut off at the Towne Center where we were meeting. Regardless, I was happy to have a few moments with them and crossing my fingers that a future visit and MUN trainings can happen with this school. I was luck to have visited their campus this summer and hoping that we can build a bridge in the future that can allow my students to connect with others across the world. 

~:[CH11 - Day 345]:~ From These Pages

 
~:[CH11 - Day 345]:~ From These Pages

The show may have taken their final bow tonight as I watched it being streamed on TikTok, however, what they accomplished can never be erased. Some may argue the show was a failure because of how short of a run it had, but simply to be on that stage with a cast of KPOP stars, those new to Broadways and a majority AAPI cast, you cannot discount the stride forward that they took. Sure, it would have been nice to see the show go on a run as the energy in the theater when I saw it was incredible, however, in the end, while the show ended tonight, what they have accomplished cannot never be erased. Our lives are a journal that is recorded day by day and in these pages that we write are things that will leave a lasting impression on our lives. Some of the things we write are scars that we will carry while other moments will be badges we can proudly wear. As I scroll through my collection of Playbills from the show, I smile knowing that I will always be able to see the bios of this amazing cast and just thinking about how they were all brought together for this incredible run. As I said before, I hope that we can put up a fight and bring the show back to Broadway, but even when the billboards of the show come down and the show is no longer a fixture on Broadway, nothing can ever erase the fact that in these pages, history was made. On this final emotional night, I send my deepest congratulations to the amazing case of KPOP. I am so proud of what you create and was so proud to be one of the lucky few who was able to experience it. Just remember, that from these pages, your legacy can never be erased.

~:[CH11 - Day 344]:~ The (UN)Standard

 

~:[CH11 - Day 344]:~ The (UN)Standard

Instead of a typical message, I decided to use this time to write an opinion piece on the musical KPOP. While it may not immediately have an impact on its performance since its final performance is sold out, I am hoping that in the future, the show will be revived and allow for so many more people to experience this groundbreaking Broadway musical. About a week ago Jesse Green wrote a critique of the show and in the introductory caption, he got it wrong. "The worldwide sensation and American-style musical theater form an awkward alliance on stage," he wrote. Yes, KPOP undoubtedly is a worldwide sensation that the buzz within my class often centers around the conversation. While not all my students are into KPOP, Korean dramas and culture definitely have influence in the community where we are from and the circles I traveled to, including in Japan, other parts of Asia and Europe recently, shared the same wave of Korean influence. Why did I say the writer got it wrong from the start? It's not suppose to be an American-style musical theater, it's suppose to be something new and refreshing. I watch a lot of musicals. To give you an idea, I've seen Wicked the musical between New York and Los Angeles over thirty times, watching Wicked EVERY year on Broadway since it opened. From the classics of Phantom of the Opera to the dark mystique of Chicago and the more interactive and energetic Mamma Mia!, I've definitely tried to explore as many as I could. It was helpful that I happen to know a few who were in various shows such as Allegiance, Book of Mormon, and Hadestown, among others. 

They all have their own charm to them and undoubtedly, given time, KPOP would probably be something that would have taken off. Why is it not suppose to be an American-style musical theater stage? Despite his slightly-racist comment in the New York Times critique of the lighting being "squint-inducing" referring to lighting done by an APPI (which they declined to apologize for), if you knew anything about KPOP going in, this stage was going to be styled after KPOP itself. The shows are flashy, eye-catching and bring energy to the crowd and even more so tonight, the energy filled the theater. I have never felt so much emotion and energy in a theater. The dances were on point and I overheard the girl next me whisper to a friend at intermission, it feels like I'm at a real concert. This was before ACT II which houses some of my favorite songs. 

The musical is also relatable. As Brad struggles with the struggle of not being American enough or Korean enough, I struggled with the same issue. While I am ethnically nearly full Japanese, I was born and raised near Los Angeles and never took Japanese school. I was intrigued by the language and so I dabbled in it, but never picked it up and even now, although I do photography and art in Japan part time, I don't speak enough Japanese to hold a solid conversation. Strangely enough, my conversational Korean is a bit stronger. Regardless, growing up, I faced the same struggle and although I was lucky to have a fairly tolerable surrounding growing up, I still faced the same racist comments. While the New York Times refused to apologize for their writer using "squint-inducing" in their article, no matter how unintentional it was, it opens a chest of moments where I had to face those very comments or gestures growing up. No matter how slight, still cut deep and even more so when I see my students facing those comments, while rare, it happens. 

KPOP is often associated with the glamour and the amazing songs and  performances, however, while known to many who enjoy KPOP, it's great that this struggle of what artists suffer is portrayed through this musical. Knowing a few people who went through the trainee struggles and even the day-to-day of being a KPOP idol, I know second-hand how much of a struggle it is. From the long hours put in that may not even lead to a debut, to the obstacles they must overcome, the mental stress of it all, and even the limitation placed are all things an artist must deal with. I really connected when MwE was not able to sing the song she wanted to. Ruby placed a lot of limitations, but it paralleled the realities of the life of an idol. I think that despite what the critic believed, the realities of this definitely make you realize the difficulties that come along with being a top star. The backstage video also cleverly portrayed what is actually show to us as an audience versus what actually goes on. They gave us a glimpse into something we should never see (according to the company's viewpoint). I think the Nam brothers did a great job allowing idols to convey their struggles with their fans, allowing fans to see a more human side to their idols.

The idea that many would not enjoy it because they do not speak Korea further magnifies the issue with the writer. The story loses its authenticity when you take out the Korean lines and many of the lines in Korea are understood via context clues or are repeated in the response of the next (or previous) line, Of course, when you have someone with no knowledge of KPOP or the Korean language, it would be safe to assume their critique could erroneously overlook this fact. There are many other musicals I've seen where a foreign language is used and even in Wicked where the words do not even exists. We still understand them. Even in a musical like Hamilton, which is brilliant by the way, there are moments where I do not complete comprehend the exact line they are saying, but it doesn't mean that line still can't be impactful. I think it's similar to KPOP fans. Many know the lyrics to the groups they stan, but even when they don't know the language or the words they hear, it inspires them to learn more about language and the culture. Couldn't KPOP not only inspire a new audience to explore KPOP, but also explore the culture of Korea? 

Hearing the cast talk about the musical via social media and even hearing their speeches today during the amazingly wonderful AAPI event between shows, I can see how much this means to the cast members and with how many people showed up, many of which were not going to today's performances, I know it means a lot to the general public as well. Sadly, when the influx of visitors begins to increase again and they start to explore musicals beyond the top end shows, for now, there will not be a musical and culture experience called KPOP waiting for them. I was hoping that many of my friends, family and even students would get a chance to experience this wonderful show, but sadly, it will not be the case. Much like I felt like Allegiance should have continued, I feel that this show also is one that needs to continue on. I will do my best to play a role in its revival if it's given a chance as I truly feel that it's a musical that can definitely be one that not only entertains, but also introduces people to an amazing world and culture they may never knew existed, while also teaching those who already know about KPOP, about the struggles and pressures their idols already face on a daily basis. 

For now, I sit at the airport on this crazy "day trip" journey, proud that I could support this cast on their final hurrah. I hope that I will be able to be posting again soon gaining support for them as we try to revive their musical, but for now, I will appreciate the fact that I was one of lucky few who was able to experience this musical, not just once, but twice. A Broadway critic may be right in their view if they consider what exists "the standard," but why can't a musical on Broadway not portray an American-style musical theater when you are trying to portray something that is a GLOBAL phenomenon. Broadway doesn't have to be limited, it can truly become limitless when you make something (Un)standard into the new standard. 

~:[CH11 - Day 343]:~ Time to Learn

 
~:[CH11 - Day 343]:~ Time to Learn

It was a day filled with deadlines. With a suddenly busy Saturday, I had to finish all the work I had planned for that day on Friday. I blasted through design after design so I could send the into the printers. wrapped up most of the program and converted the remainder of the footage. I had a little work to do, but I could do that while I was away. I wrapped up a bit of my ordering for the holidays and called it a night. I saw off a friend who was leaving the country, then ate dinner with the family. The night was great, but had its moments. It reminded me of when I was growing up and all the things I would get into. Yes, I may have gotten in trouble, but I think the discipline I received as a child set me straight and helped me learn a lot. I think that it's not the easiest thing to do, but definitely part of the process. Similarly, at school, adding in that discipline is definitely a must in order to set a standard for their future. Regardless, I was exhausted and while I didn't have to prep much for tomorrow, I still decided to turn in early (at least by my standards). I met all my deadlines and took that load of my shoulders so that when I return, I only have one major task to tackle, the video. 

~:[CH11 - Day 342]:~ Development

 
~:[CH11 - Day 342]:~ Development

It was amazing to watch as the development of the dances took place. To see where they started and to see how much their performances have improved is amazing. It was fun to watch them get into their performances as they practice. A few groups needed a bit more work, but in the end, they did a great job in piecing together their routines. Even the groups I wasn't sure would be able to get it together, were able to get their performances on track. Today reminded me of the transformation in MUN or the sudden improvements in cross country. When you put your effort into something, at some point you find this moment and it is truly glorious. I was a little worried they wouldn't be ready by next week, but after today, I am definitely a little excited to what they put together. They truly have developed and now I'm hoping that they can enjoy the fruits of all their hard work.

~:[CH11 - Day 341]:~ In the Spirit

 

~:[CH11 - Day 341]:~ In the Spirit

Slowly but surely, the campus is getting into spirit. The school had their ugly sweater day as students here and there brought out their sweaters they had in storage for the past year and others brought out new ones. It's always fun to see what others will wear and interestingly enough, some are actually pretty nice. Regardless, as we close out 2022, it's great to see people getting into the holiday spirit as they look forward to more time with friends and family. Life is a little hectic right now, but it always makes things easier when those around you are getting into the spirit. 

~:[CH11 - Day 340]:~ Upside Down

 
~:[CH11 - Day 340]:~ Upside Down

We had dance practice after school as the groups began solidifying their dances. It was fun to see the variety of styles we had this year and letting the athletes choose their own choreo is kind of a blessing as they end up showing their creativity and their interests. After practice, I met up with the pole vaulters who were wrapping up practice and things seemed a little upside down. One of the key techniques in pole vault is to be able to get the form correct and not be afraid of going upside down. They worked on it as they took on that challenge. They started much earlier than usual and I know that the extra work and motivation to succeed will bring them great results. For the remainder of the night, I focused in on prepping for the banquet. The next two weeks, as it traditionally is, will be spent focusing on the banquet and my life outside of it will be non-existent. Although I am a bit tired, like my students, I see the light at the end of the tunnel and thus, I keep pushing forward hoping for the break to come soon.

~:[CH11 - Day 339]:~ The Painful Loss

 
~:[CH11 - Day 339]:~ The Painful Loss

It was a good start for Japan. They had a few misses and also gave Croatia a few opportunities, but for the most part, they came out more aggressive and were rewarded in the first half. I got this weird eerie sense in my stomach in the second half. I sensed the pain of this loss and in the end, I was right. At first, I thought it may have been on a last minute goal, but even worse, it was in PKs. Of course, I would be rooting for another team in the next game and from the start, it was a rough one. It brought up the discussion, would you rather have a close loss or be blown out? Of course, you'd never want either, but is it more painful to just miss out or to be in a game where it felt like there was no opportunity? Regardless, the games paralleled with class today and we reflected on Mira Costa and a few who just missed out on an award. While athletics and other competitions on the highest level are judged in a different way, as a fan and supporter, I would take the same approach I would with my students. As I reflect on their conference and in this case, the game, I am proud at the effort that they put forth. In the game, I know both Japan and ROK performed amazing feats to make the round of 16 and Japan nearly upset one of the finalists from 2018. Both teams poured their hearts out and left in on the line. There was nothing to hang their heads about. Similarly, with my students, most of them made improvement, gave their best effort and did what they could. There's still room to learn and grow. This weekend and today, there were many who were bested, but I hope that none of them feel defeated. The pain of a loss can be immense whether it's on PKs or a blowout, but what's even more painful is if you reflect and you realize you didn't do all you could. In this case, there are no doubts. These teams and my students have a lot to be proud about and while the loss is painful, the rewards ahead will be plentiful if they use this as motivation to improve and to come back even more prepared than they were at this moment. The pain of a loss will revisit all of us, but at that moment we can choose whether we use it to push ourselves or we allow it to defeat us. Tomorrow is a brand new day and I just hope that the pains of the past fade away and we begin taking our first step forward towards the new challenges that await. 

~:[CH11 - Day 338]:~ Quality Break

 
~:[CH11 - Day 338]:~ Quality Break

I didn't have a lot of time to take a break from working, but what you don't have in quantity, you can make up with quality. I ended up sleeping in a bit, as my fatigue was piling up a bit, but then I got to work before heading out to lunch. It wasn't a long break out, but definitely great to catch up and just chat. Although with the banquet coming up, time is a premium, it definitely is worthwhile to step away, to give myself a mental break, but also to re-energize for the work ahead. In the end, the day was focused on working, but it was the quality break that gave me the energy to make it through. During the break, I got the great news of our gavel winners plus the best school award. Although I wasn't there in person to celebrate, it definitely was great to enjoy word of their success. It's not easy spending your weekend working, but hopefully, like my quality break today, my students also get a nice quality break as they deserve it after all the hard work they put in.

~:[CH11 - Day 337]:~ Figuring Out an Approach

 
~:[CH11 - Day 337]:~ Figuring Out an Approach

I was excited to go to Mira Costa. We don't always have the best performances at the novice conferences, but I think it's also the turning point for the freshmen as they learn a lot about how to improve as they head forward. Life is like that sometimes. You take on a task and struggle with it, but use it to help you figure out how to approach it the next time you face it. MUN is not a typical class that will simply give you knowledge, but it will help you build resiliency, grit and the ability to negotiate on the top of the knowledge and information gained through research and preparation. The type of changes I see from students are amazing and I am always so proud to hear about how they succeeded because of things they learned here. A lot of those successes started with the struggles they faced early on here at Mira Costa. The spirits seemed up for the group, however, as I think they enjoyed the conference and for many, I know they'll look forward to the next conference trying to figure the best approach to it. 

~:[CH11 - Day 336]:~ As Times Passes On

 
~:[CH11 - Day 336]:~ As Times Passes On

I walked by this area where I had Spanish class senior year or where I would visit my "sister's" classroom and now, they were no longer. It's strange to think how we walk through life and as we do, the things around us change. When my parents moved into the area, there were cows across the street and the mornings that were a little more moist, would lead to the wonderful smell that they were probably glad would disappear as time passed on. People will come and go and the changes all around us will be plentiful, some we hope for and others we hope would never change. As the campus will be changing over the next few years, I wonder if this change will result in those memories disappearing as well. Will I forget the salsa music playing in Spanish class or the music video we shot in one of the rooms? Things in our life will disappear, the debris will get cleared away and often, something will go in its place, however, it's our decision whether we allow the memories created in places that no longer exist to live on. As I travel from place to place, some of these spots are gone or have changed drastically, as is the nature of life, but will not change is my ability to cherish those special memories as time passes on. For some who come back to the campus, it may be difficult for them to remember this and that, but since I am here daily, simply walking by will bring back these memories that I'll tuck away for another time. As the buildings of our past are destroyed, it does not mean we are now disconnected, rather we have to decide what to leave for safekeeping, as it will be a great challenge to protect those precious memories since their structure have been destroyed. Work towards preserving these memories and they'll never leave even as time keeps passing on by.

~:[CH11 - Day 335]:~ It's Time to Dance

 
~:[CH11 - Day 335]:~ It's Time to Dance

It's my favorite time of the year for classes, dance class. After transitioning out of cross country, our PE class takes on a dance unit where students choreograph and perform their own dances. For some, it's easy, but for others, it's a mind-numbing tasking as many of them have two left feet and zero coordination. Regardless of their status, it's fun to watch them come with ideas and even if their performances are not great, the work they put in and the time spent together created memories that are irreplaceable. Sure, we ended up with some spectacular performances and some that are never going to be on a highlight reel, but regardless for each of them, it's a trophy for them to put on their mantle of accomplishments. I'm excited to see what ends up being produced from these groups, but regardless of what it ends up looking like, I know that the greatest accomplishments will not be realized for years to come.