CALIFORNIA!!!

Okay, so my Aunt April just nagged me for not keeping up on my blog. However, in the priesthood session of conference I was excused from writing incessantly. So I am safe.

I just got back from spending only 3 1/2 days in California, and though the time flew by fast, it seems like I spent an entire week there. With so many wonderful friends, I was busy making sure I had an opportunity to see them all. I do apologize to my coolest mission comp, Guzman, my coolest mission non-comp, Papas. my old high school friend, Matt, my old Orlando roommate, Jeremiah, my former flight student and now instructor Chris... - I think I should stop there - I just did not have enough time to make it everywhere.

Financing the trip was easy.Recently, I had canceled some flight plans after purchasing the tickets so I just used the flight revenue to purchase the new tickets - effectively free. With so many friends, lodging was easy, and by that I mean free and in abundance. Meals ended up working out the same way. Wow! I am such a scrub. I did not pay for a single meal, and I hope this confession does not come back and bite me. I just reviewed my bank statement and sure enough, my rental care was my only expense. SWEET!

Tuesday I drove up to Santa Monica to watch planes at the airport and catch up with the old flight school. That afternoon I drove down to Orange County to meet up with my former student, now good friend, Mark. We went mountain biking through Laguna Hills. I should have known that after months of pushing him in an airplane, he was going to be more than happy to return the favor while biking. It was exhilarating and beautiful. I love the outdoors. About 15 minutes in to the ride I realized the camera was still in the car. Sorry.

Mark and me after riding and a good dinner.

Tuesday evening I got to meet up with the old YSA group out in Hacienda for the weekly soccer games. I was not up to playing because I was still dead beat tired from riding and seriously cramped both thighs. Yes, I am a baby. Nonetheless, it was still fun. Afterward, my old EFY-1909 friend, Meagan, and I headed out for a donut run. I am not too sure why since I know Dallas has FAR better donuts anyway. Wait, I DID buy myself a box of power bars at Wall-Mart along with some dental floss and liquid bandaid for my boo-boo - stupid bush.

Late night donut run with Meagan


I spent Wednesday with my brother Jordan, dad and much of my step family in the Palm Springs area. I had not yet met any of my cousins on that side of the family, or many of my sisters. They really are great people. Very warm, welcoming and open. As I got to know them I was impressed with each sibling and cousin for unique reasons.

My dad.


Wednesday night, I returned to LA county to stay with my old roommates in El Monte. I cannot think of any better roommates. It always felt like I was living with family, and during a time when I needed that the most.

Thursday after noon, I met up with the law office where I used to work. It was humorous to be the only one in street clothes. Thankfully Larry was there so I was not the only whitey on top of that. Could you picture it? A whitey in street clothes hanging out with a large group of Hispanics in business atire.
Everyone there except the boss man who was at trial and a paralegal who had to hold down the fort while we were away. Thanks for taking one for the team Daisy.

Capstoning my visit to California, I got to meet up with my dear friend, Emily, that same afternoon. Sadly, she had just injured her back, so we decided it would be best to not run around the city all night. Instread, we had a great time staying in and catching up. I always enjoy talking with Em because she's doesn't simply look forward with optimism, but sees the blessing that are here now.

And now I am home for at leats another week, though working. I am excited because this month begins out new work schedule and I get to look foraward to attending my home word at least 3 weeks out of 5 - better than 1 week out of 4 when I started and far better than mearely randomly as it has been this past year. It's exciting watching as little things in life continue to unroll.