~:[CH15 - Day 181]:~ Nostalgia

 

~:[CH15 - Day 181]:~ Nostalgia

One of my former clients became a trainee. It was fun to watch him perform on stage after the long struggle of hard work and rejection. He finally joined a company and was working towards their official debut. While still in pre-debut phase, they have a two week run in Osaka. Many are from different countries, but work under a KPOP label. It's great to see that they are already starting to have a following and I am excited to see where they end up. It was strange as when I got off the train, I ended up in a neighborhood we once together in. If it was a Japanese company, it would make more sense, but coming from Korea to end up in this same neighborhood was quite the coincidence. It ended up being a bit nostalgic, still yet, I am excited where the future leads for him and his group. 

~:[CH15 - Day 180]:~ Time to Play

 

~:[CH15 - Day 180]:~ Time to Play

I actually have had the least amount of free time ever on this trip, but today, I would play. Securing a ticket to PokePark, I ventured out and explored this new place in Yomiuriland. It was a bit difficult to figure everything out, but once I did, it was quite fun. I wandered, bought a number of goods, and truly enjoyed being immersed. I checked out every corner before heading out, but truly enjoyed having a day where little work was done. I didn't have too much time to enjoy it as I had to head out on an overnight bus that evening, still yet, I was happy that I got to wander a bit without having to worry about anything related to work. It's time to play! What do you enjoy doing the most on a day off?

~:[CH15 - Day 179]:~ A Little Out There

 

~:[CH15 - Day 179]:~ A Little Out There

"Oh, no!" I thought to myself. It was raining and my key wouldn't unlock the door. The typhoon was coming and I had to find shelter. Last night, the same problem occurred again and so I walked and took photos until I could get in. On Sunday, I trekked out to Tachikawa for a shoot and wandered through the park. This road reminded me of these journeys, long and arduous. You don't always know where the road is headed, but you travel along it anyway. After the shoot and after a little coordination, I replaced my key and felt elated. It was the kind of joy where a weight is lifted off your shoulders. It was a productive day afterwards as my motivation shot through the roof. Obstacles are difficult, but they lead us to appreciate simple things in life. Things that are commonplace become important and almost a moment to celebrate.I completed my routine of sorting through the photos and then prepping for tomorrow, but I couldn't help but think back to this road wondering how we'll all find our way when we are a little out there. Best of luck on your journey.

~:[CH15 - Day 178]:~ Out on a High Note

 

~:[CH15 - Day 178]:~ Out on a High Note

At our annual gathering, we were sad to learn it would be our last here as it would be closing before next year. With so many memories created here, there were so many more created over time. From their teens until now, I've been lucky to know them and spend time with them regularly. There are those people you stay in contact with over time and even if it's just once in a while, you know your blessed to stay reunited. We already began thinking about where to meet next year, but for now, we'll enjoy this beautiful moment. The table was filled with delicious food that was truly impressive and we ended the night each singing a song to end our time here on a high note. Let's all be sure to try to stay connected and celebrate the simple fact that we still have a bond that has lasted. 

~:[CH15 - Day 177]:~ A Whole Lot of Shakin' ...

 

~:[CH15 - Day 177]:~ A Whole Lot of Shakin' ...

It was quite the interesting day as in the morning, I heard a bit of creaking. I thought it could be the construction nearby or the strong winds, but it turns out it was a mini quake which proceeded another quake less than an hour later. With a double typhoon on the way, it wasn't something that made the day any easier. My key didn't work so I wandered a bit before going in and during that time, the rain started coming down strong. Later that night, a second quake hit. None of the quakes or the storm ended up being terrible, however, it was interesting to experience it all, all within a day! When you travel around, it's all part of the experience. I survived Snowmageddon in DC and many other interesting phenomena and it will continue to add to the many stories of my life. Sometimes these moments can be dangerous, but when you approach it with the perspective of, what will happen will happen, you are less afraid of what will happen and focus more on what you can do to adjust what's coming your way. 

~:[CH15 - Day 176]:~ Somewhere

 
~:[CH15 - Day 176]:~ Somewhere

Instead of going to Nagoya yesterday, I headed there today to put a little less on my plate yesterday. It was raining so the trip itself was difficult. I wandered around the area, but was a little sad to see how dead it was in the area. Most of the shops opened later and there was a scattering of people even when they were. It could have been the rain. Regardless, I enjoyed my time at the SCMAGLEV and Railyway Park. It was a cool setup with so many generations of trains. It's fun to see how they changed over time and how they will in the future. We wandered around and ended up at Sea Life Park. If you have a choice in Nagoya, go to the aquarium, as it's much cooler. Regardless, we had a good time, but my body was done with me and I knocked out a few times on the train. I ended up getting home early and made dinner, relaxed and got some work done. As I thought more about the train museum, it was interesting to think how dependent this society is on trains. The trains are what take everyone somewhere. Overtime, these trains have become more efficient and I wonder how they will be in ten, twenty, or even a hundred years. For now, I'll continue to think of how lucky Japan is to have such a wonderful train system even when I am like a sardine in a can during rush hour (avoid at all costs). I think I'll appreciate even more (even these moments) when I return to LA. Until then, I'll enjoy the convenience of being able to move from place to place without too much effort. 

~:[CH15 - Day 175]:~ Tucked Away

 
~:[CH15 - Day 175]:~ Tucked Away

It was supposed to be an exceptionally busy day, but I cancelled my early plans to head to Nagoya and rested a bit to catch up on. work. I headed out in the late afternoon and got to the venue, which was tucked away in the middle of Kabukicho in a little underground live hall. It was cool. They were celebrating their 50th anniversary. I headed down with Yurapico and got all setup and captured some amazing moments on this stage. I liked the setup and taking pictures was quite easy at this site. As usual, Yurapico energized the crowd and had them celebrating and dancing round with a smile. I think with all the overwhelming things in life, we deserve to find that smile that is sometimes tucked away in a little corner in our lives. Our workload is often overshadowing our happiness as a cloud that weighs heavy on our shoulders. Whether it's work, life or something else, I hope that we can find that little corner where our smiles and happiness are tucked away. Even if someone was feeling down, tonight they were uplifted. "Smile" is a theme of this artist and you truly feel like doing so after each performance. I walked away hoping to find some great shots from the evening, but after 15 minutes of walking, I realized I left something in the locker at the venue. I hurried back and grabbed my stuff, exhausted and stressed as the last trains were approaching. However, I looked back at the media and smiled. In the frustration of this moment, I found what was tucked away, a smile. Let's find those things that make us happy in life and tuck them away. While we want to be happy and smiling as much as possible, for those moments when life is the toughest, let's leave a little smile tucked away. Each and every day, I pray that everyone has a chance to smile and be happy with something in their lives. While the burdens of work or the weight of life may be heavy, it's a smile that can help overpower it all, even if it's just momentarily. Let's be sure to smile, but also do our part to help others around us do the same as it just may be what they need.

~:[CH15 - Day 174]:~ A Toast

 
~:[CH15 - Day 174]:~ A Toast

It was a toast I'll remember. I trekked back to Yokohama the day after I had just came back. I thought about staying overnight, but it seemed unrealistic considering what I would need to bring both days. I arrived to Yokohama and met with a handful of people as we enjoyed our time before the show began as Umiya walked back and snapped a photo with us. The show was great, of course, my positioning was a bit of a challenge, so I focused on the show more than anything else. I think it's pretty cool to witness the environment around the group as you see so many loyal fans who go above and beyond. After the show, I got to meet the group at the wrap up party. It wasn't long, but it was nice to have a little chat with a small group of people and to toast the success of this event. It's cool to see artists when they're off the stage and compare how they are on and off the stage. Sometimes it changes and sometimes they are exactly how they are. It's been an exhausting stretch with three performances for them in a week, so the toast was well deserved and a rest should be the ultimate gift before they head off on their next trek. Let's always toast our successes and never underestimate the importance of that moment. While we expect more moments like these to follow, we truly never know what ahead, so let's toast when we can.

~:[CH15 - Day 173]:~ Appreciation Appreciated

 
~:[CH15 - Day 173]:~ Appreciation Appreciated

I always appreciated it when someone appreciates your efforts. I trekked all the way to Yokohama for today's shoot and the timing was a bit of a challenge. I got to take care of a shoot earlier in the day and had some time to meet with a friend briefly before the evening shoot. While the communication barrier has always been an issue, tonight's model did her best to express her appreciation. It felt nice. It wasn't anything over complicated, but simply put, I could feel the sincerity in her message. It makes me want to work harder and inspires me to reach out to more people. Without realizing it, I was cutting it close on catching the last train back and so I hurriedly rushed back to the train. I could have taken a faster train, but instead, opted for the guaranteed transfer back. As I headed back, I enjoyed reading another message. I often want to opt for an open few days to get some work done or this and that, but ultimately, it's moments like these that make me grateful that I spent my time and energy making the shoot happen. Let's be sure to express our appreciation when someone does something for us. I think we underestimate the power of our words, even if it's a simple thanks or even when we don't have the right words to say it. Even if it's a simple task, let's be thankful and grateful and express that whenever possible. I got home and got straight to work, transferring photos, which has become my daily routine. My hard drive is overflowing with data, but every snap has been worth it, because everyone has shown me such great appreciation for the efforts. 

~:[CH15 - Day 172]:~ A Little Peace

 
~:[CH15 - Day 172]:~ A Little Peace

It's been a bit chaotic lately, but today wasn't a busy day. I was excited to head back home and find some relaxation time without having to move around for a bit. I wanted to go watch the soccer game in Shibuya, but decided to go home, get some rest and some work done. I think sometimes we take the comforts of home for granted and today, I enjoyed going back to my second home and just having a routine day. I enjoyed my last trek, but also found that the exhaustion of it all took it's toll as I enjoyed relaxing just a bit. It may be a challenging week upcoming with the weather getting a bit crazy, but for now, I'll enjoy the beauty around me and appreciate the calmness of the day.

~:[CH15 - Day 171]:~ On Top of It

 
~:[CH15 - Day 171]:~ On Top of It

I always have back-to-back teaching days as I go from Kindai to Tezukayama. The latter always has a smaller team, but typically, they are really on top of their research, this year was no exception. I had to step away as I was recruited to do an interview with a group of students trying to go to the San Diego trip. It was interesting, but a little sad as one girl wasn't responding to any of the questions I asked. I wanted everyone to make the team to go, but there is only so much I can do. The lesson went well, but also went long, They do a good job of spending the time to get their work done. Their papers were actually too long and so we'll need to work on cutting them down. What makes this so special is that both these schools are attending a conference that will be in English, which makes this process even harder and which is why we can lend a hand. We successfully wrapped up our lesson and headed out to dinner. It was a similar style type of place, but they had many more workers, thus the pace of service was quite fast. It was fun to chat with everyone as we reconnected together just a few weeks after the wedding. As much work as I am doing on this trek, there are moments like these that truly make it work it and while I, myself, need to be on top of it as well, there are moments when I can sit back and relax a bit and enjoy the experience. 

~:[CH15 - Day 170]:~ Lessons for Life

 

~:[CH15 - Day 170]:~ Lessons for Life

After spending the morning venturing around Osaka, we headed to Kindai to teach our MUN class in preparation for their conference next month. The topics were all AI topics and it was interesting to see how they looked at Ai. We did our best to explain the topics and it helped to have two people who spoke Japanese. We must have done a good job as we were welcomed back next year as we headed off on our way. We met up for dinner at EMMA once again. It was very busy so it took awhile for the food to come out, however, each and every dish was quite amazing. One of the people Inwas with was exhausted, but with each dish, he woke up and his enthusiasm peaked. It was quite a long sitting, but well worth every minute. There's one thing that AI will never replace and that's great service that is quite personal The chef apologized as we left, but we saw just how hard he was working. We were grateful for his efforts. We said our goodbye as I realized how long it may be before I see them again. For now, I'll keep the memories of our connections close, something that AI will never replace.

~:[CH15 - Day 169]:~ Under the Lights

 
~:[CH15 - Day 169]:~ Under the Lights

It was a fun trek from Takamatsu to Osaka as the beautiful suspension bridge provided for some amazing views. I linked up with a friend for the trek and we ventured around before heading to the USJ area. I ended up having too much stuff, but managed and made it to our final destination. I got to rest a bit before heading to the event. It was truly a fun experience being among such a loyal group of fans and of course the performance was second to none. Looking at the footage, I was so happy how it turned out! We ventured to city walk after and enjoyed the beautiful evening lights and took some photos. It was another full day with little time to rest, but I definitely made the most of it and enjoyed every moment under the lights.

~:[CH15 - Day 168]:~ Open Minded

~:[CH15 - Day 168]:~ Open Minded

There was an earthquake last night and although it was minor, my shinkansen train from Niigata stopped for two hours for a safety check. It was a long delay and with an early flight, I was a little stressed out. I ended up focusing on finishing up some editing and made it back safely so I could repack and then head back out again. It was refreshing to run into some friends at the airport as we took a short adventure around Takamatsu before the event. It was a mysterious event as we didn't know what the expect with a ska band collaborating with Atarashii Gakko, but it was an event that was one of the most impressive. I think when people create events or festivals, they try to match it so that the attendees will enjoy it. However, with many AG fans not listening to ska and vice versa, they both opened their eyes to a new world and the mix created the most energetic and exciting environments. Everyone was into it and loving it, as their open mindedness allowed them to experience something unexpected. At the end of the night, a lady who I met at the entrance who loved ska was elated. She said how wonderful of a performance it was and how much she enjoyed watching AG as my friend and I responded back that we throughly enjoyed it as well. Although I had work to do, my energy was high from the amazing day as I relived the many incredible moments in my head over and over again. Sometimes when you least expect it, two things you never thought would be compatible can creat something beyond your imagination. Don't be afraid to try something new!

~:[CH15 - Day 167]:~ Let's Get Out & Dance

 

~:[CH15 - Day 167]:~ Let's Get Out & Dance

I was able to relax a bit and get some work done as my shoot with Chibi Unity was moved to the afternoon. Usually we shoot in the studio and half the dancers did, but we ventured outside for the other half and found locations around the studio. There were some cool spots just a short walk away as we really enjoyed experimenting with the locations. It took a little of an adjustment as I wasn't expecting to shoot outside so much, but I went with the flow and just captured the shots that I could. Looking through the photos, there were a lot of fun shots taken and it will be fun to create a post from this great group of dancers. In life, sometimes things don't go as you envisioned, but fo with the flow and get out there and dance. 

~:[CH15 - Day 166]:~ The Double Day Revenge Tour

 
~:[CH15 - Day 166]:~ The Double Day Revenge Tour

In what felt like two days, was actually just one long day. I woke up and ended up working on some tasks I had. I expected to leave a bit earlier than I did, but I kept prolonging the work and it ended up taking longer than expected. It happens. I jumped on the train and had some issues with the ticket. I tried to use Klook at the QR code method, but maybe never again. I think I could have clicked on QR code vs pick up the ticket, but somehow, I wasted about five minutes trying to figure it out, but still managed to board my train on time. It had a similar vibe to last year where I was rushing, panicked and boarded the wrong train, which headed to a completely different spot. In my defense, that train was running late and on my track, but still yet, there were signs. I headed up to Niigata and didn't' have the most comfortable ride there because of the couple next to me, regardless, I focused on working and managed. Regardless, I was just happy to arrive to Niigata on schedule. It was nice to arrive the day before as I got to explore the area a bit. There isn't a lock of "action" going on in the area, but it is nice to wander around a bit and get a vube from the area. I was planning to hit up a restaurant, but I went shopping for snacks for the dancers tomorrow and ended up scoring with the clearance sale, 1.5 meals for under $8. I did some work, relaxed a bit, but was just happy that I was there, successfully making it on the revenge tour, as I got on board the right train. It definitely felt like a long day and I was ready to sleep, but before I did, there was a little time to celebrate this wonderful victory. I arrived, unscathed. 

~:[CH15 - Day 165]:~ The Red Carpet

 
~:[CH15 - Day 165]:~ The Red Carpet

I thought I would have time in the morning to get some work done, not quite. It's been a hectic cycle for sure, but today, I got the red carpet rolled out for me. It's a joy to work with artists, but it's even more incredible when they go out of their way to make sure you are okay. I only briefly met Yurapico, but she treated me so well while I was working and I actually felt bad for distracting her from what she needed to do. Her staff member was also cool as we got to wander around while waiting for the second performance. That performance was in Kabukicho Tower, so of course, I went to play some UFO catcher. I was impressed as with back-to-back performances and an event in between, she never lost her energy, while still having enough energy to pay attention to my condition as well. Impressive! At the end of the night I was enamored as I was given various gifts, treated so nicely, and introduced to so many people including a number of other idols. I am grateful to meet great people such as Yurapico and her staff member, as they truly make the experience even more enjoyable. It's not going to let up tomorrow, but I will be happy as I enjoy the carry over from today's event. If we had more Yurapicos in this world, the world would be an incredible place!

~:[CH15 - Day 164]:~ A Maze-ing

 
~:[CH15 - Day 164]:~ A Maze-ing

After my morning at the gallery, I headed to Shimokitazawa for the NiNiMu FES. I thought of the area and wondered where they would hold this event, but the concept itself was completely different than I had imagined. When arriving to the venue I was supposed to be at, they told me I had to get my pass at the main venue. I headed my way to the check in point before heading back, a little bit of a maze if you ask me. The event is held across a number of concert halls in the area, so you wouldn't even know a festival is on going unless you were part of it. Of course, you could see the influx of bands walking around the streets, so you could assume something was going on. The venue I was at was smaller than I had imagined, but I perched myself in a little corner and captured the amazing moments. I am no stranger to Klang Ruler so it was nice to know mostly what to expect. Regardless, it was a long day, but also not overly packed. I was reeling in the fact that I had some good media as I edited away on the way back on the train. I smiled as I made a lot of progress and when I looked back on the final product when I got home, it truly was an amazing night full of twists and turns. 

~:[CH15 - Day 163]:~ The Aura

~:[CH15 - Day 163]:~ The Aura

It was a little different, as I got asked to do a shoot for a "talk show" at a gallery from an artist I connected with back in OC. She had a brilliant aura that made it easy to connect with her, but it was even more evident at the event. The way she organized and went about her business, the way she connected with people, showed how genuine she truly was. It's great to work with these types of people as they inspire you to keep working hard and makes you want to work with them again the future. Before the second talk show, she called me over and I thought there was a photo she wanted to me to capture, however, it simply was an opportunity to give me a thank you gift, which I truly appreciated. It's these small tokens that make you realize who you want to continue to work with and connect with as they truly show how appreciative they are of your efforts. At the end of the day, I was exhausted, but had a long weekend ahead, but for now, it's great to feel inspired.
 

~:[CH15 - Day 162]:~ Unlike Me

 
~:[CH15 - Day 162]:~ Unlike Me

People who know me know my schedules are jam packed thus there are few without anything scheduled. I actually had something I could have gone to, but I opted out in order to finish up my work, get my laundry done and clean up a bit. With a loaded schedule, I have to plot these days out carefully especially when getting used to the surrounding environment. I figured out how to use this machine, wrapped up all my work, and got to relax just a bit before preparing for tomorrow. I panicked a bit as a client told me they scheduled me on the wrong day, so I had a little bit to figure out. This day definitely was unlike me, but it was also a necessary day for my survival down the road. Always be sure to plot these days in there whether they be jammed pack for those who take things slow or slowed down for those who are always on the go. Be unlike yourself every once in awhile as your life may just appreciate it. 

~:[CH15 - Day 161]:~ Fairytale Plot

 
~:[CH15 - Day 161]:~ Fairytale Plot

It looked like it might rain, but it held out. Last time we aimed to get some photos at the park, it rained. This time, it looked like it would be the same fate, but we survived. We got our shots and enjoyed the rest of the day. Celebrating the 25th anniversary of DisneySea made the park a lot more crowded, which made it a bit annoying, but still yet, things played out just perfectly and we kind of had the perfect storyline to the day as we rolled from one thing to the next without delay. We got to everything we had hoped, which is rare in the world of Disney at any park. At the end of the day, I probably could have not bought this or that, but overall, it was beautiful to think about being able to check everything off the list and have the weather hold out for. you. Watching the fireworks in the sky was a great way to call it a night as we captured our images, enjoyed the day, and ended up with wonderful memories to carry with us, the most priceless of the itesm we picked up during the day. Life may not always be a fairytale, so we might as well enjoy it when we can.

~:[CH15 - Day 160]:~ In a Dream State

 
~:[CH15 - Day 160]:~ In a Dream State

I attended the Women in Music = Equal Stage at Tokyo Dream Park. The only issue was that I woke up in Nara. I got some work done and try to get the timing just right to make it to the event. I had enough time to spare, grabbed a little snack and headed to the event. It was a beautiful theater and there were some nice performances, however, the transitions between the performances made it drag on a bit. Regardless, the theater was energized for these artists including the one and only Atarashii Gakko! This event was Billboard Japan's event in collaboration with Music Awards Japan. I always think about the struggle of artists to make it to a stage like this and it must be like a dream to be standing up there realizing that dream. Awich put on a great performance including her rap about her struggles to get to where she was. It was a heartfelt moment when her daughter came on stage and performed alongside her. She promised she'd get there and she did. I was exhausted, but this wasn't a dream, it was reality. I ventured home excited to get to bed, but I will keep looking back on this night as there were definitely some beautiful stages and powerful messages to think about down the line. For now, good night.

~:[CH15 - Day 159]:~ Food as an Escape

 
~:[CH15 - Day 159]:~ Food as an Escape

I only had one meeting on the schedule, but piles of work to do. It always seems like a down day, especially outside of Tokyo, will be fun. Unfortunately, it meant, grinding out the editing. I edited from the early morning, watching the beautiful scene outside. It ended up raining, so it was a nice change to that view as I worked. I didn't finish everything I wanted to, but ventured out for my meeting. It was great to eat at the same restaurant unintentionally. Although the service is a bit slow, the food is delicious. I ended up chatting with the owner a bit, which was cool and we both promised to work on studying language a bit more. The entire day was about work, but food provided a short escape from the piles that awaited me back in the room. I didn't get to explore like I had hoped, however, it was nice to enjoy a tasty treat while I was out on the town. What is your favorite food to eat on an escape?

~:[CH15 - Day 158]:~ The Storms of Love

 
~:[CH15 - Day 158]:~ The Storms of Love

I headed out early for Kyoto. When I arrived, I looked outside and it was raining. I was a bit worried as I thought the wedding was outside, but it was in fact, indoors. It was a beautiful location in the Higashiyama area. From the site, you could see the pagoda rising above the city. The site was a bit small and the ceilings were quite low, but it also made it feel like a traditional ceremony. While I only met the groom last year, it's been great to see them together. They are both kind-hearted people who seem to work together well. As while it may have stormed through on the day of their wedding, I know that their union will survive any storm that comes their way. Love is never perfect, but when you realize that and are able to navigate these storms, you love tends to become stronger. It was a great celebratory night and it was wonderful to experience my first Japanese wedding. I headed home exhausted from the day as I lugged around my heavy bag with all my photo equipment in it, but I still had a joyous feel in my heart, watching two people unify together. To see them and their families so genuinely happy for this moment made it even more special. The beauty of the site was immaculant, but it pales in comparsion to the beauty of their love, storm or not.

~:[CH15 - Day 157]:~ A Weight Lifted

~:[CH15 - Day 157]:~ A Weight Lifted

Shoot at events is always a bit stressful. It's even more stressful when it's an event for someone you know. You want to do your best job, but there are so many factors that influence that. With a packed house, it was nearly impossible to get a good angle of the stage from the floor and the stage didn't really have a pit for photographers. Luckily, I was able to use the loft to get most of the shots of the evening, even being able to leave my bag there when I wandered to the other locations. It did include walking up and down the stairs for every set, but that is part of doing this job. I got my steps in, that's for sure. By night's end, I knew I got a few good shots from each set and while it was definitely difficult conditions to work in, I was glad that the weight off my shoulders was lifted. I sat around as they wrapped up, sorting through the photos, smiling with each shot that nailed it. However, it was fun to peek down as they chatted with their fans, as you knew it was a successful night. The weight was also lifted from her shoulders. I said my goodbyes to those that I knew and some others that I had met that evening and walked away. I could sense the soreness in my body already, but it's a lot easier to bare when your spirits were uplifted. 
 

~:[CH15 - Day 156]:~ A Little History

 
~:[CH15 - Day 156]:~ A Little History

I had a little time before my meeting later at night, so I explored the Edo-Tokyo Museum. It was cool to see everything over time as I felt like I was time warped into the past. I think understanding history is important as you begin to understand the purpose of things, how they developed over time and even how lucky we are to have the conveniences we have today. As a history teacher, I know that emphasizing impacts, effects, and influences is the most important aspect of history. We enjoyed a nice meal as it felt like the restaurant matched the theme of the day. I ended up heading off to my meeting, a little exhausted, but energized. It's nice when you're working with people you are familiar with as you know how they work and it makes it easier to predict how to approach it. I guess in all aspects, history is a good key to help you figure things out. I was a bit tired by night's end, but it always feels great when you fill up the day with such a variety of things, writing a history of your own life. Hopefully, you all find a way to write a memorable story of life. 

~:[CH15 - Day 155]:~ Escaping the Storm

 
~:[CH15 - Day 155]:~ Escaping the Storm

If I flew out one day earlier, my flight would have been canceled. Luckily, I escape the storm, well mostly. The weather was actually cool when I arrived, which was nice since I was wearing long sleeves. I made the incredibly difficult trek from the airport, unloaded my stuff, then headed to my meetings. I took care of a lot of odds and ends today, which made it nice, as I got things out of the way. Most importantly, I arrived. After my morning meeting, I headed to my afternoon meeting and it was great catching up, while getting some work done. We enjoyed a quick meal, which wasn't fancy, but definitely affordable. I ended up relaxing a bit before heading back to settle in, but I was just glad to be able to sit down and relax a bit. The past few times I was here, it was definitely on-the-go moments, but this time, at least I planned a little better and had the evening off. I'm hoping that this stretch of my year goes well, as my schedule is jammed pack and I hope that it's full of moments escaping and avoiding the storms, rather than getting caught up in it. Still yet, I know the storms will come so I'll do what I can to prepare for them, but for now, I'll just kick back, relax, and enjoy. 

~:[CH15 - Day 154]:~ When the Sun Rises

 
~:[CH15 - Day 154]:~ When the Sun Rises

The run was setting over a very eerie sky. We were trying to figure out if there were storm clouds or a fire nearby. Regardless, at just the right moment, the plan flew in the path and created this moment. It was a beautiful moment. No matter how beautiful today is, however, we always wonder if they sun will rise tomorrow. As I realized this would truly be my last farewell, I gave my parents a hug and headed off. I fell asleep, not thinking of much, but looking back, realizing that any of these moments could have prevented the sun from rising. Let's appreciate today. The sun rose for us. When the sun rises, it's a good day, even if we don't get the job, when we have an argument, or we have an unexpected bill. Life will be tough and stressful, but let's be grateful the sun rose today. We'll have to figure out this and that, but the opportunity that we have to do just that, albeit tedious and stressful, is a gift in itself. Appreciate the day and the time we have, especially when the timing is right. Today will practically not exist as I cross the ocean, erasing time itself, however, I'm hoping that when I reach the other side of this time warp, the sun will rise once again.

~:[CH15 - Day 153]:~ One Last Goodbye

 
~:[CH15 - Day 153]:~ One Last Goodbye

The odds were stacked against me. I had a mega album to finish, a room to clean, and a bag to pack. There's no way, right? Despite the stacked schedule, I took the risk and met up with a friend right before heading out. Not the best of choices, but it worked out in the end. I wrapped up the mega album, finished cleaning my room, and packed my bags. I still don't know if I forgot to pack something, but regardless, I do know that I wrapped up most of what I wanted to finish for the day before heading out. It might have been wiser for me to stay at home, but still yet, that final goodbye is often worth it. Who knows what tomorrow will bring, thus, if you get a chance to see someone, see them. Seeing them meant that I will have two more things to work on when I am away, but those two things are well worth the quality time I had. That one last goodbye, priceless. Tomorrow is never guaranteed, so enjoy the current moments you have and never take them for granted. As I leave, I always think of what will happen and what will change when I am away. It feels like a child going off to college, as the distance does not allow me to return home for a bit, however, change is inevitable and instead of regretting that I didn't get to say a final goodbye, I try to make the most of my time. I am often asked, how long do you sleep or how many hours to do you have in a day? It's true that I work a lot, but still yet, I don't mind working a little later if it means I could get something priceless in return. I'm sad to depart as there is the basic comforts of home that I will leave behind, but even more so, it's the connections that will temporarily be disconnected that I will miss the most. It won't be long before I am back, still yet, I was glad to say one last goodbye until the next time. Peace out. 

~:[CH15 - Day 152]:~ Closing Out the Year

 
~:[CH15 - Day 152]:~ Closing Out the Year

It sounds a little weird to most as I say I am closing out the year, as in reality, it's June 1st. Of course, for most educators, this time of year is the time where we wrap up our school year and head out on our break. Every year, there is a bittersweet end to the year as I am excited for the adventured ahead, but also have to say goodbye to another group of students. I quickly cleaned up my room, turned in my keys, then headed home to clean up my room. I was way behind. I took on the task of reorganizing under my desk and to give you an idea of how it is down there, I had to do it with a mask. Even then, I am still suffering. Regardless, I felt good as I wired everything together and got to sorting through everything. By night's end, I wrapped up cleaning my office and everything was in order (well as good as it would be with the time I had). I was lucky to get an invite to dinner, my last before I headed out. We enjoyed a delicious meal as we chatted. I couldn't stay too long, but it was nice to get out for a bit as I struggled with the tall task of getting everything in order. When getting home, I went down my to-do list and it seemed like it might be insurmountable before I left, therefore, I got ready with my plan B. While I struggled a bit with closing out the year and getting everything taken care of, I was happy that for the most part, everything was mostly in line. With only one day left until departure, I can't say with confidence that I am ready, but the reality of life is, are we every really ready? Congratulations to all those who wrapped up today!