~:[CH13 - Day 139]:~ A Momentary Celebration

 
~:[CH13 - Day 139]:~ A Momentary Celebration

From planning meetings via Zoom to prep work for banquets, my day was jammed packed from beginning to end. Of course, I had my moment to relax and celebrate that it's Sunday with a drink from Tapioca Express. It's my weekend routine to make a stop there on Sunday and today was no exception. Typically, I am running around here and there, but today, was another work day from home. With just two weeks until I venture off, I had multiple planning meetings through the day and had to submit my final plans. It's amazing how time flies, but because of it, it's best to avoid procrastination as the deadlines will come before you know it. Because I didn't, today was quite a breeze as I was happy with what I produced and wrapped up everything for the track and field banquet. It definitely was a moment to celebrate as I only have a few things left on my agenda, although one of them is quite monstrous - the MUN video. At the end of a long work weekend, it's quite satisfying to look back and realize what you accomplished. At times, it may feel like a wasted weekend as you pass on various things you could have done, but still yet, you learn to appreciate that you were able to focus in and take care of business now, so there would be no stress later down the line. For all of you who found time to get something done on your to-do list or the entire list, give yourself a round of applause and find a small break to give yourself a momentary celebration that is well deserved! In the end, it will be a good motivator for you down the road, as you'll look forward to celebrating again after another job well done. 

~:[CH13 - Day 138]:~ Under the Radar

 
~:[CH13 - Day 138]:~ Under the Radar

I woke up early with the thought that I might go to an event today, but with all the thoughts of excuses to make, I figured it would be better to stay home and focus on the work I needed to do. I was sure I could finish even if I went to the event, but I thought to myself, wouldn't it be better to be relaxed, rather than stressed for time? Thus, I canceled my plans, avoided the drive to LA, and then focused on wrapping up the prep. I actually was able to accomplish things I didn't think I'd finish today, which was great. As I worked, I watched as the rookie pitcher Imanaga pitched. I wish the Angels had snagged him, yet, the Cubs got him and he is a gem. I love how he was under the radar and as of now, he is the best pitcher in the majors. He's got a style that keeps hitters guessing and doesn't rely on overpowering batters, which may be better for his longevity. I think for all of us, we have the opportunity to use our own style to find a way to the top even when we are the underdog. I think people are too quick to replicate someone's style that made them successful, rather than paving their own path. I think many knew that this pitcher would be good, but he did surprise many! Sure, there is a long way to go, but even being able to do this through this portion of the season, it is quite impressive. I had a bit more time, so I used it to prepare for my project this summer. Inspired by Imanaga, I watch to put in the work that I can to prepare to rise from the shadows and hopefully stand out because of the work that I put in. Especially for my students, many of them will only chase things that they're good at and that they can stand out, however, I always encourage them to rather, work hard for the things you're passionate about and what to get better in. You may not be the best, but if you're passionate enough about it, you'll put in the time and work in and hopefully surprise people in the end. While talent and skills definitely put you ahead, working hard behind the scenes will give you the best chance to step into the spotlight after flying under the radar. If you are passionate about it, don't be afraid to chase after it. 

~:[CH13 - Day 137]:~ Stored Away

 
~:[CH13 - Day 137]:~ Stored Away

Once I put something away, it's going to be gone for awhile. I leave things out that I need access to and put away things that I don't. However, even if it's something I need, when it's stored away, it will probably be awhile before I get back to it because of how my room cycles. I felt like those items today, as I headed home to store myself away in my room to finish preparing for my final two banquets. It will be great when Thursday comes as I will be wrapping things up, but for the next week, I'll be in my own little storage corner. The only time I left was to go back to school to pick up the certificates for the banquet and when I came out to eat dinner. I wondered if my items felt that way as well. Sure, they're not alive, but if they were, would they feel pent up, being forgotten or would they be enjoying their time away, as they have to exert very little energy. For me, I have to use a lot of mind power, but physically, I don't move much when working on things like this. By night's end, I was still energized from the great meal and wrapped up most of the packets for the banquet. There are definitely a lot of things to do, but for now, I'll break it down and do one thing at a time while I'm stored away in this little corner.

~:[CH13 - Day 136]:~ The Workout Between the Ears

 
~:[CH13 - Day 136]:~ The Workout Between the Ears

When I planned this assignment for my 2nd period, I didn't realize that it was Mental Health Action Day. However, I think it's vital that we look into our minds every once in awhile and figure out what we can do to make ourselves stronger and to allow ourselves to find more success. With my students, I had them look at what they wanted to accomplish, the words and thoughts that hold them back, and other factors that hold them back such as technology or stress at home, among many other things. I had them look at what they could do to overcome these obstacles, but most importantly, I had them look at how they overcome this stress. I think the key question of, "how are you feeling today?" is an important one to ask yourself every day. How are you feeling? Are you internalizing your thoughts and feelings too much? Do you need to find an outlet to release the strain on yourself? There are so many things that are stressors in our lives and they tend to show up at the exact moment that we don't need them to appear. However, even if you need to release a little frustration, I hope that you don't allow it to overwhelm you. If it does, reach out to someone and don't internalize it. Life is already difficult enough, but it's even harder when you isolate yourself and don't allow others to help you out. For some, it may be the best way to cope, but for most of us, don't be afraid to reach out. Regardless, for those who have struggled with their mental health, remember that the mind is just like your body. Every day, I hope you can find the time to do a workout between your ears. Reassure yourself, encourage yourself and crush those negative thoughts that hold you back from what you want to accomplish. We are capable and I hope that we look at our lives from time to time and see what is keeping us from excelling to the heights we know we can reach. In the meantime, let's keep those workouts going so our minds are ready for everything that comes our way. You got this!

~:[CH13 - Day 135]:~ How Time Flies

 
~:[CH13 - Day 135]:~ How Time Flies

Ten years ago, I had my first senior class write letters to themselves. I heard of others doing it, so I thought I would give it a try. I purchased envelopes and stamps and let them write. I was curious as to what they would write and wondered if these letters would even get to them. It's amazing how quickly time flies. I think of the memories I had with members of this class and how everything kind of meshes together over time. Even this school year, I cannot believe we are but a few weeks away from wrapping up the year. Regardless, I think it's a good reminder of how precious time is and how it flies. Before you know it, your kids will be grown, you will be retired or getting up in the morning will be harder with each passing day. Enjoy the time that you are given today so that there are no regrets tomorrow. As while it's easy to say that you'll take care of it tomorrow, it's better to make use of every moment. To my seniors who wrote your letters ten years ago, look out in your mailbox soon, as something is coming your way.

~:[CH13 - Day 134]:~ Solving

 
~:[CH13 - Day 134]:~ Solving 

Today was a great day, then it was not. It actually was a pretty good day, but it was a day full of thinking and problem solving. It's always fun when the stock market is volatile, but it also means, a lot of thinking throughout the day of what to do. Should I hold or should I sell? How much should I sell if I do? When should I buy back in? I had some good timing on my trades, but overall it was the amount that I sold that I should have thought more into. Of course, it's a guessing game, still yet, I always seem to know better and second guess myself. Similarly, my students were looking at solving puzzles and we played our cryptography game. I made up a little activity in class and the students really seem to get into it. They seemed to enjoy the game and it was fun when I revealed all the information, as it ended up making sense of most groups. Some days in life are full of these puzzles to figure out. You may not always know the answer, but sometimes, you need to figure it out or make it up as you go along. I always like to be prepared and do things the right way, so that meant that as I wrapped up my track planning, I had to figure out how to fix a problem. I figured it out in the end and it allowed me to relax and enjoy my final minutes before I called it a day. We have the capability to solve our problems, but we just have to trust ourselves enough that we have the capability to do so. Have faith! 

~:[CH13 - Day 133]:~ Special Delivery

 
~:[CH13 - Day 133]:~ Special Delivery

I got a visit from one of my former students (freshman from last year) as he brought me some food from another teacher (my sister). It's always great to see my former students as you get to see how far they've come and how they have changed, if at all. As I wander around campus, I am amazed to see some of them as I realize that they are graduating this year. It's always a special moment to see them get to that momentous milestone as while sometimes we take it for granted, it definitely is a big accomplishment. As we wrapped up our final presentation and head into the final stretch, I am excited for the end, but will not forget to enjoy all the special deliveries along the way. While some of these encounters and moments may be brief, each of them are special in their own way. 

~:[CH13 - Day 132]:~ Every So Grateful

 
~:[CH13 - Day 132]:~ Every So Grateful

We always tend to stay home on these holidays. We all don't really like the crowds, so instead, I always end up cooking. This year, I prepared early and shopped earlier in the week, so the day was pretty chill. I had a lot of work to do for the banquet, however, aside from that, I was able to focus on getting the prep done for dinner. I matched up the marinade for the steak with one of my favorites and added sides to go along with the meal. It was a great meal, but I know that the most precious thing was to be able to spend time with my family to celebrate my mother who has given so much. For many of us, our mothers are the foundation on which we grew up and became who we are. For those lucky enough to celebrate with a mother or a mother-like figure (including those single dads), I hope that you enjoyed those precious moments together. I know that with each passing year, the number of years we have together gets shorter and while we will never know how many we have, we all know that it will not be infinite. Thus, make each day with your loved ones special and be ever so grateful for all that you have, even if you don't think it's much, the love and care of those around you is more valuable than all the riches you can accumulate in a lifetime. Happy mother's day to all those who fill that role of a mother! 

~:[CH13 - Day 131]:~ What is Spectacular?

 
~:[CH13 - Day 131]:~ What is Spectacular?

I woke up and got to work. Without having an event on Saturday for the first time in awhile, I quickly got to work and began cleaning, before heading to the computer to get other work done. It felt good. Yes, I was a bit sad that we didn't advance to this week's championship, however, I think this year more than ever, I needed this extra time to wrap things up. At the last minute, I was invited to the Angels game. I had to make a trek to pick someone up before heading to the game. While the traffic was horrendous, it was good since I got the chance to chat with him on the way. We talked about family and life. As while the amazing game and spectacular firework show after was great, it made me think, what is truly spectacular? As while I would have been sad if we had lost or missed out had I not been able to enjoy this beautiful display in the skies, I think that the most spectacular thing was just the time. Win or lose, I think the night would have been just as spectacular. As we drove, we chatted about the struggles of life and realizations of what's important in life and it definitely helped me to realize in my own life, how lucky I am to have supportive people around me. When I struggled earlier in the year, I had a number of people message me or check in on me. Even if uncomfortable, they made the effort knowing the struggles. I've been lucky that it's been like that most of my life. Thus, when I get the chance to do the same, I take it. In the end, I drove about five hours today, but when I think about it, I actually think that time was spectacular. Social media makes spectacular out to me all the great things we get to see in life, but in reality, spectacular is finding a life that is comfortable, carefree and full of love and support. The dramatic scenes of romance and adventure in movies and shows pales in comparison to just being in the presences of loved ones. While hopes and dreams becoming reality can make life more spectacular, I hope that we can see that sometimes the simple things in life are what make life truly spectacular. I think through our conversation, that was one thing we arrived at that helped define what made our lives special and at the lowest times, what made life the most challenging. I hope that in our lives we can all live spectacularly and I think that all starts with simply focusing on things that make our everyday special, whatever in your lives that may be.

~:[CH13 - Day 130]:~ Years of Service

 
~:[CH13 - Day 130]:~ Years of Service

It was weird to have senior awards on a Friday, but with the impacted schedule, it just happen to play out that way. I stopped by the International Festival at Stowers before heading back to Cerritos. It's always great to attend this event as you see the students wrap up their career in high school after four long years. I get to see their growth since freshman year and recollect some fond memories from the past. Their years of service are definitely honored at this event and I appreciate that they do so, from athletics to academics and everything in between. This year was even more special. As while I like to think that I've been at the school for an eternity, one of our teachers is completing his 53 years at the school (since it opened) and will retire this year. It's incredible to think that you've been at one place for so long and been apart of its entire history, but he has. Alongside him, they honored two people who have given so much to the school, attending so many events and supporting the students in different capacities. They truly show how much they care for the students by how much time they put into their job beyond the school day. Similarly, the students recognized besides they spent countless hours dedicating themselves to this campus and definitely deserve to be on this stage honored for their years of service. Congratulations seniors and I guess senior citizens? (Just kidding on the latter half!)

~:[CH13 - Day 129]:~ Services (Not) Rendered

 
~:[CH13 - Day 129]:~ Services (Not) Rendered

I have a friend in the Philippines who occasionally is looking for particular collectibles he cannot get there. It actually kind of fun because I used to watch the WWE (formerly WWF) and I like to see how things have changed since I watched it. I got a little upset today as I mailed a package with the items and it wasn't delivered. Since I didn't get insurance, I figured the items were a lost cause, but thought they'd easily refund my delivery fee since they didn't complete the delivery. I was wrong. I kept getting the response, there's nothing I can do. The service was not rendered, yet I was still responsible for the costs since I didn't get insurance. It made no sense. While I ultimately found another way, it made me think, in our own lives, are we delivering the services we are suppose to, the way we should? I think that in most cases, I finish my delivery, however, I also think about, did I do it well? With work, with family, and with friends, I constantly think, am I doing the job I should be doing? In some cases, it's not a requirement for us to do something. However, at the end of the day, can we look back and what we did and be satisfied with how we did things? If not, I hope that we can fix it down the road. I've worked on doing this from time to time and hope that it's a regular habit so I don't become what got me so upset today. In the end, I was happy to see that my second attempt at sending the package succeeded and it's definitely a reminder that we may not always get it right the first time, but if we make the efforts, we can ensure that we deliver in the end. 

~:[CH13 - Day 128]:~ Let The Voices Be Heard

 
~:[CH13 - Day 128]:~ Let The Voices Be Heard

We continued our student driven lessons as one group decided to have a debate. I love when they do a debate, as I can sit back and listen to them. I am always amazed at the transformation they make from the beginning of the year until the end. I think it's one of the most important skills they can develop as in life, they'll need to be able to use their voice and let it be heard. As often is the case, I get to see these students grow from where they were to the confident students they'll leave our campus as. When I look at the seniors, I think back to their freshman year to remember just how much growth they've shown over the course of small time frame. Are we also doing the same in our lives? As while I address this topic regarding student growth, I hope that we are all developing, learning and growing, especially when it comes to us speaking up for ourselves. I hope that their voices will be heard and I also hope that you all will find it in you to let your voices be heard as well. 

~:[CH13 - Day 127]:~ Matching & Meetings

 
~:[CH13 - Day 127]:~ Matching & Meetings

This always is one of my favorite assignments. Leading up to this assignment, each student is assigned 3-4 countries and has to research about their imports and exports. They then select one of their country and make a trading (dating) profile. It's fun to see their creativity come alive as they make a profile that is attractive so they can find a compatible trading partner. While some try to go to their friends, they realize they cannot work together because their imports don't match up to their exports. In the end, there's a few who struggle to find a match. It's a nice break from the stress of APs. It's not an easy assignment, but at the same time, it's fun and they don't have to focus too much. After subbing a class, I headed back home to prep for the banquet and start my series of meetings that I'll be having over the next few weeks. Planning for my projects is always exciting, but the time difference means, late night meetings - a lot of them. Regardless, it gets me excited to think of the various projects I'll be working on and I only hope that the days ahead pass smoothly and quickly.

~:[CH13 - Day 126]:~ Switching Places

 
~:[CH13 - Day 126]:~ Switching Places

It's always fun, but a little strange, to be sitting in the back of the room. This week kicked off my freshmen teaching the class. I think when students see the classroom from my lens, I think they gain a little more respect for the challenges that we face on a daily basis. The two things that always stand out are the pace at which they can progress through a power point and also how to keep the class quiet and manageable. It will be interesting to see what they come up with as while many groups will keep it simple, there always is a group that has a fun assignment that really intrigues the class. What kind of student should I be this week?

~:[CH13 - Day 125]:~ Kodomo No Hi

 
~:[CH13 - Day 125]:~ Kodomo No Hi

It's Children's Day in Japan. I may be much older now, but still yet, my mom still celebrates this day with us. I find it a bit strange to celebrate now that we are adults, but it's fun to receive this and save it. I actually have been collecting them for awhile now and have stashed away every one that my mom has made for quite some time. As while adulthood has been present for awhile now, I am glad to celebrate this day with my family as it's another reason for us to celebrate together. One day, I may no longer receive these gifts to celebrate this day, but at least I have a stash of these memories to look back upon to remember these days. What are some things you've saved that help remind you of the past?

~:[CH13 - Day 124]:~ The Battlefield

 
~:[CH13 - Day 124]:~ The Battlefield

We traveled out to Ontario this year for CIF. When looking at the entries, we knew it was going to be a tough battle. Being in Division II, always is quite the challenge when you get to CIF, as if you're able to advance, you know you're elite. This year, was tougher than most. We had to assemble last minute relay teams, which definitely made it difficult in the 4x100m, where hand offs are key. However, no matter, each of my athletes ran their best and pushed their limits. Most of my distance athletes found their way to new PRs, which included a school record that's been standing for 25 years. In the field events, the starting heights may have been above their PRs, however, they did their best to reach heights they hadn't before. Similarly our high jumpers also PRed with one just one height below the qualifying mark. Although we did not have an athlete advance to finals, today ended up being a day that was one to celebrate. They faced some of the toughest competition we've seen and they never backed down, which is all you can ask of your athletes. Track and field challenges  you both physically and mentally and these athletes did all they could this season to get themselves fine tuned for this moment. With a number of underclassmen among the qualifiers, I know they are better prepared for what's ahead and will be ready to step on the track, faster and stronger than every before. I appreciate all the time and effort these athletes gave through the season and applaud their efforts they gave today, as they all definitely battled, leaving all of themselves out there. 

~:[CH13 - Day 123]:~ The Comforts of Home

 
~:[CH13 - Day 123]:~ The Comforts of Home

Sure it's great to go out with your friends, however, although I do end up out a lot, I often prefer the comforts of home. I enjoy the food that I have at home, especially after a Costco run and I don't mind the peace and quiet as well. I'm often away because of the various jobs I do, so I actually like it when I can be at home and just taking care of this and that. I always wonder what type of people others are. I wonder what in their lives has influences why they love to be away or why they like the confines of home. Do they have good memories in home or are they so exhausted by day's end, that they just want to stay in? Are they introverted? Are there certain places they want to avoid versus places they'll gladly go? I often like to consider other people's perspective, which is why I probably end up thinking about what would others prefer to do and why. Regardless, it was a fairly quiet night at home after a few errands as I prepared for the race. I had a lot of work to do, so it was nice to be able to catch up before the long grueling day tomorrow. 

~:[CH13 - Day 122]:~ Every Opportunity

~:[CH13 - Day 122]:~ Every Opportunity

Today is one of my favorite units - character. As I introduce the character speech final, I always have an opportunity to reflect on what I need to change and adjust. It makes me think about the things I've been failing to do and what I need to change to make the most of every opportunity I am given. In life, we always lose our way at times and the question is, can we guide ourselves back on track? I question if I have taken every opportunity to be aware of what's around me and reach out to as many people as I could. What more could I have done to remedy a situation? Ultimately, how could I have made adjustments to be a better model for my students and those around me? As I talked about how our actions affects others, I thought about how what I do each day effects those around me, especially my students and athletes. As many points of corrections I found, today was also a day that I found more opportunities to give back to my athletes. For each of my athletes at dinner tonight, they found a way to make the most of an opportunity given to them, as they qualified for CIF. As good as an athlete may be, these moments are not a given and thus, appreciating this very moment is important, as commonplace as it may seem. It was a joy to sit back and see them enjoy the celebration, as I appreciated what I could do to honor their efforts and sacrifices through the year. Just like my journey with character, I know that through this season they questioned if they were on the right track. They probably battled the ups and downs, dealt with injury, and found moments when standing in this year's series of races in the rain, soaking as the rain poured down asking themselves, "what am I doing here?" In whatever we do, we'll face this same struggle. We'll wonder if we're on the right path, re-evaluate and find our way back to where we should be going. In all cases, I hope that we take every opportunity possible. For me, I hope that I can find a way to stay focused on my path ahead even when thing around me try to place obstacles in my path. I know that I must trust in myself knowing that I need to constantly remind myself and check that I am on the path that I hope to be. I hope that I am taking every opportunity to reach out to those who need it whether it be a friend, family member, student, athlete, or colleague. At the end of the day, I hope that I can find a way to take every opportunity I have it life to help others, support them, and help guide them to a place that will help them find their way. As we saw one inspirational video after another, I was inspired to take advantage of every opportunity that life gives me. In just a few weeks, these freshmen will deliver these speeches they are preparing and I hope that at the very least, they'll come to the conclusion that every opportunity given to them, is yet again another opportunity to better this world, in hopes that they see the importance of displaying good character in our daily lives. 

~:[CH13 - Day 121]:~ Mining the Gold

 
~:[CH13 - Day 121]:~ Mining the Gold

It was a busy day. Our hardest workout of the week, followed by an ice bath, backed by Premios de Oro. I thought the timing would be alright, but realized the ceremony was at 6pm, so I had a tight window to transition. Regardless, I made it. It was a little bittersweet. I love this ceremony and to hear Mr. Walker speak up there is always great as he makes the students feel so special for this honor. However, with this being his last Premios, I soaked it all in. As much as he puts emphasis on the students being the golden prize, he himself has been a golden prize for this school. His energy and spirit were injected on our campus when he arrived at a moment we most needed it. Through my life, I've crossed paths with many "leaders" and there are some who speak loudly, but do very little to demonstrate their leadership. There are others, like Mr. Walker, that no matter what is being said, already earn the respect of so many through action. There are many roles that a leader must take on, but often times, the most important is simply being present. To be the model, you inspire others to do the same or lead many down the wrong path. I've seen my share of both, but it's rare to see someone who attended so many events from spotlight sporting events to the ones that no many people attend. He was visible, he was energetic, and that in itself turned around the environment on campus. We faced our ups and downs, but the reality is, that through it all, he was leading through the work, time and effort that he put in. As he talked about those golden prizes that we honored tonight (our students), they only shine like they do when there is someone there to mine them to show their glory to the world. Mr. Walker inspires us to do just that, to work hard with our students and help them shine like the golden prizes that they are. Titles should not be the thing that helps you decide who to follow, rather, I hope that we can open our eyes and truly see the leaders that are around us. Often times those leaders are not the ones who speak the loudest, but truly show us what it takes, because at the end of the day, instead of telling us about all the gold around us, they've already rolled up their sleeves and are working towards mining that precious gold. Congratulations to all of those who are our golden prizes, to all those who are working to be one of those golden prizes, and to those who helped mine them - the community around them.