~:[CH14 - Day 365]:~ Cheers to 2025

 
~:[CH14 - Day 365]:~ Cheers to 2025

My busiest year by far, but it could also be considered the greatest. As I sent out messages at the end of the year, I realized how many connections I had made. I was happy to be able to work with many of those who I've already established a connection with while making new ones in the process. It was difficult since my schedule was already overloaded, but it was worth every moment. As I look back, I appreciate the experiences I had, as I truly believe that you need to make them when the opportunity comes. I got lucky in a few instances and missed other opportunities, but that's part of life. I truly believe everything happens for a reason and while 2025 gave me opportunities, it also showed me what I need to work on in 2026. There are many ways that I can improve myself and figure out a way to be the best version of myself. There are a lot of things I figured out in 2025, but there are also so many more things I need to learn in 2026. It's a process and while the new year doesn't mean we have to start fresh, it's an opportunity to change things up and figure out what direction we want to go from here. Today ended up being quite different than year's past. We kept it fairly mellow and I went out to grab a quick drink before heading home to wrap up my final projects for the year. As while there already is a lot of work to do going into the new year, I look forward to what I can accomplish, how I can learn and grow, and ultimately, how to mold myself into a version of myself that I strive to become. By year's end, this process won't be complete, but each and every year, we look at what we've been working on, re-evaluate and then get back to work. As usual, I won't make a specific resolution for the new year as I think this process is always on going, but I will work on pushing forward and doing what I can to make myself better. Thank you again for always being there to lend a hand in the process and I look forward to all the great memories we can share in the coming year. Wishing you all a happy and health 2026!

~:[CH14 - Day 364]:~ A Storybook Ending

 
~:[CH14 - Day 364]:~ A Storybook Ending

I wasn't sure how this week would work out. There wasn't much of a plan originally, but I pieced things together and made it work. As I looked at the albums on my computer, I was amazed that within just a few days, we ventured around LA, Orange County and San Diego, as well as Las Vegas and Arizona. I wasn't sure if I could hold up, but I did and in the end, we closed out our adventure in a castle in Las Vegas. Excalibur isn't seen as a fancy Vegas hotel, but I think it was the most fitting for our final day together before they spent their final days in downtown. It was fun to spend so much time together and although I get to see them every year, it was fun to talk even more and have longer days than we would have had previously. I was glad they go to check a lot of items off their list and see things that they can tell their friends about. When they return to Japan, I hope that there will be many stories to tell and this story will end up being one that they can remember for a long time coming. While we didn't hit and huge jackpots, we came back with the things that are most valuable, good memories and experiences. Money can buy a lot of things, but it can't buy the most precious things. The past few days have been amazing and I truly am glad that these days will be written on the pages of my own story, alongside theirs. I hope that each of us have wonderful things to share on the pages of our story and that the journey, although at times arduous, ends with happiness and lasting precious memories. 

~:[CH14 - Day 363]:~ The Greatest Views on Earth

 
~:[CH14 - Day 363]:~ The Greatest Views on Earth

There are some great views in this country. When I took my road trip around Utah's Might 5, I saw many of them. As I've traveled around from state to state, I've collected a number of beautiful images to store away in my mind. However, the  Grand Canyon ranks up there as one of the most beautiful views I've captured in my mind. While I do prefer the south rim, with only about a day, it was unreasonable to trek that way. We set off early and headed straight to Arizona. The first stop is a bit meh in my opinion, but they were still in awe of the beautiful canyon. However, by the second stock, they were truly impressed. Their eyes lit up as one called his friend to show him the view. During the drive, I was a bit tired and it felt a little isolated as they had fallen asleep, still yet, I used the time to reflect on many of the great places I've visited in my life and the many memories I collected. As I passed by the Hoover Dam or stopping at Barstow Station, a number of memories pass through my mind combined with some of the great views I've been able to see. Today, aside from simply the scenery, the eyes of them both was a view I'll never forget. When someone truly appreciates what they are able to do or see, it's evident and it's quite the memorable moment. My heart was overflowing already, but the views of the Strip also left them in awe as we walked from hotel to hotel before enjoying some time relaxing. It was a day of great views and memorable moments, but as I said, the greatest view was the view of their faces as they soaked in the beauty that surrounded them. At times in life, money is tight and we can't always do everything we want to do, however, we can do what we can to give those around us experiences that will fill their hearts with joy and create memorable experiences they'll never forget as those are truly the greatest views on Earth.

~:[CH14 - Day 362]:~ LA Style

 
~:[CH14 - Day 362]:~ LA Style

I got to rest in the morning as they setup other plans. I met them later that afternoon. It was great to see them connect with so many people while they were here and this is another one of those days. As we've talked about LA, Kansai, and Tokyo over the past few days, today showed the LA vibe as the warm weather and In-n-Out proved to be the perfect combo to exemplify LA. They enjoyed their burgers and time together as they adapted to the warmer-than-expected temperatures as one of them exclaimed, "this is weather in June in Kansai." It's true that we often get that kind of weather year round (although we've had some rainy weather as of late). We ventured through various shops before establishing one final connection as their time in the area came to a close. It's truly been a fun adventure around here as they got to true LA welcome of burgers and sunshine, but soon we'll be off to explore, showing them more of what the US has to offer. 

~:[CH14 - Day 361]:~ The Unexpected Curve

 
~:[CH14 - Day 361]:~ The Unexpected Curve

It was another early morning rise as we headed up the hill to the Hollywood sign. I was a bit worried that it would be muddy, so we prepped "junk" shoes, but it ended up being just fine. We made it up and back in good time and were able to arrive at the bowling alley early. I've wanted to bowl here for sometime and this ended up being a good opportunity to do so. I didn't realize that on the older lanes, my ball (which typically doesn't curve too much), ended up taking a sharp left hook. It threw me off and it was hard to adjust, but I put my ball away and just enjoyed the time. It was fun to do various things and venture around LA, showing these two around and connecting them with each other. In life, things don't always work out how we want them too as we're thrown that unexpected curve, but that is why it's even more important to make the most of your best moments and connect with people that can help uplift you when you need it the most. We all have those days where we will struggle, but do you best to focus and you may just end up having those tougher moments fall back into the shadows, as unexpected moments come to the forefront.

~:[CH14 - Day 360]:~ Escaping the Storm

 
~:[CH14 - Day 360]:~ Escaping the Storm

We were about ten minutes in the drive and I almost was ready to call it quits and turn around. It was a little sketchy on the road, but just as I thought about it, it cleared up. I escaped. Down south, the clouds loomed, but it stayed mostly dry as we enjoyed the many sites of San Diego while escaping the storm back at home. It was fabulous. At times in life, there is a storm raging, but what we fail to see is the bigger picture. That storm may just be in a portion of our life, while in its entirety, we actually are in good shape. Things may be going well is so many other facets, yet we often can't see that when a storm in raging in one area. Yes, the drive home also had its miserable moments, but I arrived back safely and was glad we got to enjoy the many sites of San Diego. There are so many beautiful places to visit in the area and we were able to hit up quite a few in the six hours or so that we spent in the city. In life, don't miss out on the beautiful things because we are overcome by the storms in life. Deal with these storms as best as possible, but also find those pockets in life where there are things to celebrate and pockets of light that shine through the clouds overhead. As while the storm may unavoidable, it doesn't mean we simply have to sit in it, rather we can find a way to escape the storm and truly appreciate the other areas in our life where the storm has yet to reach. 

~:[CH14 - Day 359]:~ The Chase Card

 
~:[CH14 - Day 359]:~ The Chase Card

I opened a booster box today. I didn't get anything. I missed anything decent and of course, that means I didn't get my chase card. In every set, there is something someone eyes, just like in every facet of life, there is something someone is chasing. We can't always get what we want, but we can do our best to maneuver our way to give ourselves the best opportunity possible. Whether or not we ever uncover that chase card in our lifetime remains to be seen, however, the process will become a part of us. Hopefully, the process allows us to learn and grow and find the things that matter in life, just the ability to chase. As my niece and nephew opened their gifts, I caught this image since I gave him one of his chase cards. With a Pokemon filled gift, I know he'll enjoy a lot of it for now until this phase is over (if it ever ends). Then, he'll be onto the next. Regardless, I only hope that they both find something to chase after and learn to do what they can to reach their goals in all facets of their life, much like I hope will be the case for all of you. Hoping you all had a wonderful Christmas day for all those who celebrate and also, hoping you recover from the exhaustion of this holiday season!

~:[CH14 - Day 358]:~ As Long as We're Together

 
~:[CH14 - Day 358]:~ As Long as We're Together

I always am so thankful when we arrive at this point in the year realize how lucky I am to be surrounded with such a wonderful family. As I look around the room when we are gathered, I am surrounded by some of the most kind-hearted, selfless, and genuine people. As we assemble together for our annual family party, everyone does their part to make it happen. We have our traditions of Santa, gift exchange and Bingo to add with the time we get to spend together. It takes a village and when you have a village of people like those who surround me, it makes life easy. I am definitely privileged and while I may not drive a luxury car, I enjoy some of the best luxuries that money can never buy. As I leave the house each year, I am often saddened that it may be some time before I see everyone again, but I know that each year, I get to look forward to the time we get to spend together. No matter how difficult life gets, as long as we're together, I know that I can weather any storm, as I know that I am lucky to have such a wonderful support system around me who helped make me into the person I am today. As I finished the day a little exhausted from all the festivities, I smiled knowing just how blessed I truly am. Hopefully you all have a great system of people around you who can make your days brighter and if not, I hope you can find and connect with those who can provide you with that because at the end of the day, when you have that, everything is going to be alright. Happy Holidays!

~:[CH14 - Day 357]:~ The Last Bit of Sunlight

 
~:[CH14 - Day 357]:~ The Last Bit of Sunlight

With so much to do, I was debating between staying home to get work done or to head out to the golf course. Since I made the commitment, I decided to go to the course as the dark skies loomed overhead. There was a bit of drizzle and made me worry that we might got rained on, but it held off and aside from a few sprinkles and some mud around the course, the conditions themselves fared well. After not playing for a long time, I actually was playing decently well. I can't say that for my driver, but some of my irons and my short game was still intact. I even got a birdie during the round. We played until the very last ounce of sunlight appeared and escaped before the darkness took over. I zoomed over the La Habra to catch the boys play Sonora and even though I had a lot to do, I didn't regret taking the time to enjoy the day and also attend the game. The winter provides us with short days, but as we progress and get older, our days also seem to get a bit shorter. I hope in our lives we are able to squeeze out every last bit of sunlight so that we make the most of our days on this earth While tomorrow seems close, we never know when that tomorrow will disappear. As I looked at the beautiful reflection in the pond, I wondered what life would look like when I look at it and reflect upon it in the future. Regardless of how things turn out, I think I'll be happy if I know that I squeezed out every last bit of sunlight from my days on this planet.

~:[CH14 - Day 356]:~ Wrapped & Ready

 
~:[CH14 - Day 356]:~ Wrapped & Ready

There's one thing I didn't have a lot of in 2025, free time. Most of it was by choice as I took on various shoots and projects here and there, but it took its toll on my organization at home. As I tackled the large piles that stacked up over the year, I made a lot of progress and even got to packing and wrapping most of my presents for the year. It's a chaotic time, but it's also an exciting time as I look forward to seeing the many friends and family I haven't seen for some time. It was a little rough because I missed a lot of events through the year, but hopefully, I haven't lost the chance to connect one last time in 2025. I'm beginning to prep and I feel wrapped and ready for this final countdown as the final count towards the next year has found its way to single digits. I cooked a nice meal for my family to celebrate my freedom and progress today, as I they regained focused and got back to work. How are you final days of 2025 looking?

~:[CH14 - Day 355]:~ Cleaning Out the Closet

 
~:[CH14 - Day 355]:~ Cleaning Out the Closet

It was about six years ago that I bought this card. I was searching online, buying Ohtani inventory here and there believing in his potential. He was coming off of Tommy John surgery so his value took a hit, but I still believed and collected cards here and there. When cleaning, I discovered what I had purchased over the years and was appreciative of my belief in him. However, cleaning isn't always about discovering gems that have monetary value, rather, it's about uncovering things you have forgotten about. Aside from the value of the card, the story behind it has just as much value. Just as a sentimental card, a drawing, a souvenir, and other mementos discovered in the process, there was a lot of value discovered during  day where I was cleaning and working on catching up with uploading albums. I made a lot of progress today, but I also did a lot of reminiscing as I searched through a pile of things, many of which I have long forgotten. My cleaning journey will continue so I wonder what I will find in the days ahead, but for now, I'll hold onto the memories I already recovered and look forward to remembering much, much more. 

~:[CH14 - Day 354]:~ In a Flash

 
~:[CH14 - Day 354]:~ In a Flash

One of my alumni messaged me today asking where I was at. They were at the reunion and I was invited to it. Unfortunately, I was going to the GYM RAT Challenge at our school with a media day scheduled with the girls team. It was a must as there was only so much time left before I needed to complete the starting lineup videos for the season. Time flies so quickly whether it be from day to day or from year to year. Deadlines come up quickly, but time also passes by just as quick over the years. Another alumni messaged me talking about how quickly time has passed by, as it felts like it happened in just a flash. To watch my little cousin out on the floor playing for our school seemed surreal as it was just yesterday that I remember her playing for city league. Time flies by so quickly so cherish each moment and appreciate the time you have on this earth as time will be gone in a flash. Your time on this earth is precious so treasure each moment as if it was your last. 

~:[CH14 - Day 353]:~ In the Design

 

~:[CH14 - Day 353]:~ In the Design

I finally got around to opening my packs of the Mega Dream set from Japan. It's one of the most beautifully designed sets and in my first booster box, I pulled this beautiful Gengar along with a number of other good pulls. When I think about how I view things, visuals is a big key. As I wrapped up another post today, I really put a lot of effort into the visuals of it and when I look back at it, I was happy with how it came out, which is why I think this set of Pokemon cards appeals to me. They put a lot of attention to the details and that's definitely a big key in drawing interests to this set. As I wrapped up the final tasks in my classroom, I got to come home and work on a few things including my Japanese. However, I also neglected a lot of things during my first moments of break. I guess this student-free day was a lot more relaxing by design, but by night's end, I realized that maybe I should have accomplished a little more today. I guess that's a problem I will tackle tomorrow, but for now, I'll just say good night knowing I added this beauty to my collection today and I'll be on my first full day of break starting tomorrow. 

~:[CH14 - Day 352]:~ Just Give It Your All

 
~:[CH14 - Day 352]:~ Just Give It Your All

The basketball team has faced some struggles. Half their team has been out and even with a few returning tonight, they still had a full lineup missing from their roster. They were outmatched, but they never let up. They actually jumped out to a lead to start the game, but slowly lost footing as they went. In the end, they fell short, but what I truly was impressed by is that they gave it their all. They never backed down and they kept pushing forward, trying everything they could until the very last minute. Today was the last day of school with students, so there was a bit of a reason to celebrate although today may have been even rougher of a school day than yesterday. Once again, I felt a bit rushed and overwhelmed, especially with dealing with a few things during the break. Still yet, I did what I could and managed to survived. I gave it my all this week as I balanced the final week of school with a number of on going projects. Tomorrow will be a nice relaxing day as I can move at my own pace undistracted, but for today, my measurement of success for myself and the team is that we both gave it all our until the very end.

~:[CH14 - Day 351]:~ Too Good To Be True

 
~:[CH14 - Day 351]:~ Too Good To Be True

It was a much needed meal at the end of a rough day. Day one of finals went smoothly, but day two, was a little rough. For some reason, I felt overwhelmed with grading, organizing and planning for the conferences in January. There was so much to take care of and the day was even shorter than normal, thus causing this sensation of being overwhelmed. I guess yesterday set an expectation that I could feel relaxed during finals, but I guess it was too good to be true. Of course, I survived and I got to enjoy a wonderful meal with a friend as we caught up and chatted about this and that. We didn't talk about anything specific, but just the fact that I had time to sit down and eat with someone without too many worries made it wonderful. I came home to wrap up the media from this weekend's events which were met with great praise. I was happy since there were a number of high profile performers in this cast and to get rave reviews from them made me happy. While the day started off rough, it improved and maybe by day's end, I found that zone of comfort I had yesterday. Who knows what tomorrow will bring, but for now, I'll enjoy this ending wave that carried me to the finish line.

~:[CH14 - Day 350]:~ From the Heart

 
~:[CH14 - Day 350]:~ From the Heart

I really appreciate it when someone puts a lot of thought into their gifts. I don't need anything expensive, rather, when there is a lot of thought put into a gift and it's from the heart, its value is immeasurable. One of my athlete put together a little gift and I really liked it. It was simple, but thoughtful and I think that my favorite gifts fall in this category. I am privileged to have most things that I need in life, thus, I think I've put more weight on things that are sentimental. I've kept every letter and card I've received in my lifetime (as far as I can remember) and while they may be stashed away, they still are important to me. This is another item I'll put in that memory box full of the many treasures I've collected in my lifetime. One day I'll open it up and see all the blessing I've received in my lifetime. As while commercials will remind you to buy this and buy that this holiday, don't forget to include that heart-filled message reminding those around you about how they've been a blessing in your life. As for me, receiving something like that would be the best gift anyone could ask for.

~:[CH14 - Day 349]:~ Impressed

 
~:[CH14 - Day 349]:~ Impressed

I always set stern guidelines when finals come around. I give the class deadlines for late work, deadlines to correct errors, and more. I think setting those boundaries is important to stay sane as a teacher, otherwise, you'll get bombarded with requests. Despite a focused and serious demeanor today, I truly was uplifted when I came across this extra credit assignment. One student took some time to draw a number of images to create this country brochure. There are many moments while teaching where you get frustrated or disappointed, but it's moments like these when you are uplifting, knowing that that there is hope after all. With finals rolling around, the final wrap up of the year will begin and while it's a stressful time for students, often, for a teacher, it's actually a bit more relaxing. There is a little less to worry about aside from grading as long as you have all your ducks in a row. Today, I wrapped up grading, reviewing anything submitted late, and correcting any errors. The end of 2025 is closing in and the stress of it all is starting to disappear like the marine layer in the morning. Slowly, but surely, I can see the finish line and I am excited for a little break from it all. 

~:[CH14 - Day 348]:~ Attention to Detail

 
~:[CH14 - Day 348]:~ Attention to Detail

After a late shoot, we woke up again in the morning to head out to downtown to shoot again! It was cold last night, but just as bitterly cold this morning. Imagine trying to twirl a baton. Now, imagine trying to do that when the weather dips below 20. However, despite the challenge, there were few mistakes and he stayed focus. I could only imagine how difficult it is for him to focus as he has to live away from his family a lot as he travels across the world for months at a time. After a few weeks in Tennessee, this weekend was his first time in downtown and he loved it. We captured a lot of amazing footage and I got to see up close, the attention to detailed required for his craft. It's always a pleasure to witness what each artist has to go through to stay on their game. From dealing with the elements to upkeeping their body, there are so many things that one must do to be a master at their craft. For Issei, on top all the shows (five in two days), he was able to do two shoots with me, workout, and even stay on top of his social media. It's such a load, but he managed it well and even with a smile. At times, I felt like I was inconveniencing him as I came during a time with five shows, but he never let that show, as he was always up for the challenge and was excited to explore the city for the first time. When you meet people like this, it's motivating as you realize you can do more to fine tune your own craft and make it so that you come closer to perfection. I closed out the short weekend by catching one last show before rushing to the airport to find out that my flight was delayed. Fearing I'd miss my flight, I talked to the staff who actually got me on a delayed direct flight that got me in earlier than expected. I guess my weekend was truly blessed as all worked out as I rolled on home after an incredible 48 hours. 

~:[CH14 - Day 347]:~ The Greatest Show on Earth ...

 
~:[CH14 - Day 347]:~ The Greatest Show on Earth ...

It's really cool to cover a variety of shows as you get to meet a number of amazing artists. Of course, you do meet some you'll never work with again, but the majority of people you meet are truly amazing! Growing up, I always associated the circus with the greatest show on earth, but this show truly was dazzling! I got to meet two Japanese artists who were on America's Got Talent and another who was on Japan's Got Talent, who also was the world's baton champion. I met an array of people with such a variety of skills from acrobatics to magic, juggling and more. In just the short span of a day and a half, I made some great connections and it made me happy that I decided to take this trek. I almost didn't make it out as my flight was late and my connection was tight, but someone was looking over me as the other plane was delayed and so I made it with ease. Everything went smoothly from start to finish and although I was tired after taking a red eye, covering three shows, and doing a night shoot after, it truly was one heck of an amazing day. My body was frozen by the time I got back to the hotel. However, all the struggles that went into today were worth it, as all the experiences I had in just this one day were truly irreplaceable. Take that chance as you never know what you'll discover!

~:[CH14 - Day 346]:~ Be More Spontaneous

 
~:[CH14 - Day 346]:~ Be More Spontaneous

If you read through my old blogs, you'll come across one with a fortune cookie that said, "be spontaneous." I thought I might have been before, but I think it's even more so the case now. In a last minute decision, I looked at my calendar and figured out when I could head out to cover this show, "Pomp, Snow & CIRQUEumstance," which had an artist who I've been trying to coordinate with. He said, "I'll be in the US." Little did I realize that it was all the way in Nashville. Strangely, looking at the schedules, it seemed like things would work out, so I coordinate with him and the company and headed out to to Tennessee after work. It was definitely spontaneous. Who knows how this trip will end up going, but what I do know is that it will be another one for the memory book, knowing that I went out on a limb wondering what I could find. Whether the branch breaks and I land on my behind or if I see sights I could never imagined will be determined soon, but I doubt I'll regret this decision as I still live by the motto that a fortune cookie delivered to me a long time ago. Have you ever had a fortune that rang true in your life?