Life is Cool

I've found writing to be much harder to implement now that I'm back in the mix of day to day action.  Work + friends + busy schedule make it hard to prioritize writing. I've really struggled to sit down for a focused two hour writing deep dive. 

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Makes me both realize and appreciate the extent to which I was in a bubble.  Writing was my primary focus for three months and I was in my own world.  It came easy because it was my only priority.  Thankful to be back into the groove of life, but I miss the writing.   

I'm determined to weave it back into the mix.

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Back in 2014 when I started writing, I would write three things I was thankful for.  A few minutes at the start of each day. No editing, no shape, no expectations.  Just focus on the good stuff and try to do it a few times a week. 

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I'm bringing it back. 

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preset: positive, 2023 edition

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1/16/23

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song of the day: Mellowing - All Them Witches

This album continues to deliver.  It's rising in the ranks of my all time favorites. 

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1) This weekend, while watching football, we ordered a Mediterranean platter.  Blu sat solemnly next to my plate, badly wanting in on the action.  While I was both entertained and annoyed by her prolonged bout of extreme begging -- I was lucky to capture a moment that I will never forget.  Blu barked. 

 

Blu has never really barked, she clearly doesn't know how barking works, and it didn't come out right.  She sounded like a seal.  It was the most precious sound, and a beautiful memory. 

 

And I was happy to reward her with her own taster plate of our feast.  I hope it becomes a thing. 

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2) Rain.  A great forcing function.  Forcing me to find cool stuff to do inside. 

 

I picked up basketball as a result of the rain.  I now have basketball in my calendar every Wednesday / Friday from 12:30-2:00.  I expect this to be the best decision I make this year.  Talk about easy goals.  Thank you rain. 

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I read a book.  This is a rare one, and I have low expectations for it get real steam -- but I have started book #2 and have genuine enthusiasm.  I would love for this to be a thing but I have no agenda or goal.  If it carries on I'll be stoked.  If not, oh well.  If it's just a flash, I enjoyed the flash.  Thank you rain. 

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Hot yoga.  Another fun activity to do inside.  Every time I do yoga I'm reminded how much I enjoy it.  I always think to myself -- I really do need to do this more often.  It's good for the mind, body, and soul -- real range in terms of impact.  I decided to do hot yoga every Monday at noon.  I expect this to be the second best decision I make this year.  Thank you rain. 

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3) San Diego State Men's Basketball.  Went to my first game this weekend.  They played like absolute dog shit, but I had a lot of fun at the game.  College basketball has a different flare than the NBA -- energy in the stadium is so different and I love the small arena.  I think I'm going to try and make the remainder of the home games this season.  I'd love to have a franchise in San Diego that I rock with, and this is the most appealing option.  I'm leaning in.  And stoked.

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1/17/23

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Song of the day: This is Just the Beginning by Hugo Kant

Jazz with a modern twist.  Adhering to the core fundamentals -- balance is what I look in jazz.  This song has great balance and flow.  One of those songs that leads you to the watering hole. 

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1) Last night it was hailing in the middle of the night.  It woke both of us up, and Blu was there pacing in our room shaking.  She's not fond of the sound of rain, and especially not hail.  At 2 AM I brought her into bed and we cuddled until the hail stopped.  I frequently wake up in the middle of the night, many times from an intense dream.  My way to re-set and move past the intense dream is to go cuddle Blu on the couch for a few minutes.  You know she's down as she quietly licks her chops whenever she receives a good pet.  It's something I greatly appreciate in my life.  One of those nuanced gems that you'll hold in your heart forever. 

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2) Hawthorne Coffee.  There's a strong vibe of community.  Julia and I are among an elite group of regulars and the twice a week stroll to the coffee shop has become one of my most appreciated aspects around routine and quality time.  It brings me joy.

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3) A productive day keeps the demons away.  A line from one of my journals in 2014.  A brilliant line and one that helps me keep perspective.  Having a tough day?  Bust through it with hyper productivity.  Almost a guarantee that the winds will shift in my favor.  A testament to the value of hard work -- I love working with passion and enthusiasm.  This new project at work was self directed, and I'm attacking it with force.  It's generating good energy -- and I want to keep it up.

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I was enthusiastic in saying no to an offer to join some founders in Vegas early next week.  Aint going to let Vegas throw off this flow. 

 

I Got Rhythm (a nod to Teddy Wilson). 

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1/19/22

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Song of the day: Frank Sinatra by Cake

A throwback to the first CD I ever bought.  Randomly came up on shuffle earlier this week and I was transported back decades.  A new found appreciation for those horns.  A classic. 

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1) Yesterday on a long drive I realized I had forgotten to blog and I was hit with a spark of sadness.  A good sign.  I'm onto something that is making my life better. 

 

Preset Positive.

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2) On that same drive I had a long conversation with my mom.  I can feel her deep sense of love for me.  A special bond and one that I value. 

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3) On that same drive I had the chance to connect with a founder in Grand Junction Colorado.  He had helped organize a founder networking event when our company did a pit stop on our nine leg cross country journey via Amtrak (wish I would have blogged on that one).  One of my favorite trips, and one of my favorite stops. 

 

A random email, that led to a random event, that led to a friendship, that's lasted three years.  Sometimes it all just comes together naturally.  It made me appreciate my job.  I'm talking to people constantly -- and many of those have turned into friendships.  I got founder friends all over the country, and that is awesome. 

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So frequently I (and I think we all) get caught up in the weeds of the work.  Head down, trudging through the weeds.  Every once in a while something random opens up perspective and shows the bigger picture.  This conversation was one of those moments.  And it's important to not take those moments for granted. 

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1/23/23

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Song of the weekend: Old School Hollywood by SOAD
This song makes no sense.  And then it beats you in with a breakdown loop that competes with the best of em.  Makes me think of my friend Ryan who is both in Hollywood and loves baseball.  I love when music makes a direction connect to a good homie.

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1) Loved having a local weekend.  In the chaos of never ending plans, weekends, and travel -- a low key local weekend hit the spot.  Got to see most of my favorite friends in San Diego this weekend and made my round.  Hit my favorite beach spot.  Went to the boat.  Bar hopped. Watched a lot of football.  The niners won a grinder. 

 

Makes me appreciate both San Diego and my community here.  Lessens the need for big weekend trips when you're having so much fun staying put.

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2) Forward progress on boat stuff.  Had my first charter of the year and seven charters booked this week.  Crazy how one tweak to the business can completely impact the trajectory.  Makes me both excited and nervous about the revenue potential in 2023.  And drives the need for me to get my shit straight.  This week I'm meeting with a local entrepreneur who's going to help me with all the legal / accounting / infrastructure work.  I'm excited for what this next chapter holds.

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3) Forward progress on Wefunder stuff.  I can pinpoint inflection points in my career, and I believe I'm in one now.  There's something magical when you feel full of inspiration and drive to tackle a new project with everything in you.  I'm so thankful that I have the agency and support to go down this longer term pathway for results -- and to be able to do it with my best homie as my counterpart.  Green pastures.  Graze on. 

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I'm really trying to lean into the momentum and fully embrace the situation I find myself in -- both with Chill Charters and Wefunder.  Now is the time to put my head down and work.  I will look back at this period as an important and exciting one.  I can feel myself leveling up.  My headspace is all time. 

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1/24/23

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Song of the day: I'm Scum by IDLES. 

Yesterday I spoke to a dope investor.   There's something about people from Israel.  Never met someone from Israel who I didn't really like.  They have a vibe, and its my vibe.    He's invested $5M in music tech startups.  A former radio DJ, producer, and all around music guy in the 90s, he embodied what I envisioned my life would be had I pursued music after college.  I hold no regrets, but it brings back memories.  Before getting into business, I had to get his Mount Rushmore of music -- which is an easy way to find great new stuff.  Nick Cave, David Sylvian, Talk Talk, IDLEs -- four bands I had never heard of.  An easy push for musical discovery -- and it hit quick.

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Within seconds of starting IDLES album White Priviledge I was deep in the hole.  Who the fuck are these guys.  They rule.  The best kinda wormhole that exists on this planet.  Finding a new favorite artist.  When you know what you'll be listening to on loop for a month.  The bangers just keep hitting as I slowly consume the album -- every second of it is working for me. 

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Certain bands embody a lifestyle with their music.  This is a rare trait, and only exists with a select few artists.  You just know who they are, what they represent.  I suppose this is where cult comes from.  It's a lifestyle.  And the music speaks directly to that lifestyle. 

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For a long old while I'm known as scum.

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Fuck off. 

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1/27/23

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Song of the day: Crow Dance by Moxi and Loon

They released their first album this week, and I went to the kickoff show.  It was awesome.  They are my favorite local band, and they play loud, raw, and aggressive.  I like those three words. 

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1) Not feeling particularly inspired to write today.  But trying to build consistency and routine around this concept.  I can see the trickle down working in practice.  I'm more aware and actively seeking the good things around me -- which is truly creating a preset:positive outlook in the granular day to day.  The key is granular.  We operate in the weeds the vast majority of the time.  It's valuable to orient around the small nuggets of appreciation (versus big elaborate epiphanies on acid in Joshua Tree). 

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2) Yesterday I cleared my calendar to think, get organized, and think strategically.  I felt it was one of my more productive days in January.  Racing through the back to backs and staying on top of emails is one form of productivity.  You do that 2, 3 weeks in a row -- and then sit back and reflect and strategize and brainstorm.  I'm going to layer these days into my schedule more frequently.  Maybe start with one day of no meetings every third week. 

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3) Chill Charters is going legit.  Meeting with attorney Monday to get my shit straight on the business.  Then heading to a short list of bookeepers.  Then a CPA.  I'm excited about what going legit could mean for me -- off to the races.  Why not shoot for $1M in revenue?  I think I could do it, and I'll have no reservations if legally I'm solid.  That's an exciting dose of inspiration to start 2023 and coming at the perfect time of the year.  I'm stoked. 

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2/2/23

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Song of the Day: Paper Tigers, Thrice (new release)

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1) Yesterday Thrice re-released Artist in the Ambulance, one of my all time greats.  A top 10 album lock.  And the re-release was a gold mine of fun.  Windows down.  Full volume.  Blast that shit.  Another wave of musical inspiration. 

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A nice touch to have a bunch of contributing artists -- as if they handpicked their top tier list to come in and collaborate.  I didn't know Manchester Orchestras lead singer had a solo run -- so that's a joy to be able to dive into (check The Wall by Andy Hull). 

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Easily a weeks worth of cycling and new discovery ahead so I'm very appreciative of that. 

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2) Yesterday in my weekly Wednesday basketball circuit I ran into a good homie from high school.  We were co-MVPs of our JV team in high school, and then both got promptly cut the following year on varsity.  A shifting tide I never truly understood.  Coincidentally he's having a kid (literally) this week.  So I suppose he was one big ball of anxiety and complex energy.  I knew the move.  Let's play bully ball in the paint.  Bully ball is like moshing.  A fantastically healthy release that'll gas you quick.  I was skunked after a full hour, but proudly went 4/4 on the Ws.  My jumper is in an upswing.  So lots to be appreciative of here. 

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3) Had the chance to sit down with my dad for 2 hours and basically brain dump everything I've been working on professionally in January.  A laundry list of wins, momentum, vision, angles, people, networks, perspective, future.  Boiling over with excitement and resolve. 

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2/6/23

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Song of the day: That Old Feeling -- Pee Wee Russell

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1) Finally made my way to the record store in San Clemente and weeded through the jazz section, lucky to find a $7 Pee Wee Russell album.  The clarinet is under appreciated and this album highlights it.  An added gem to have Vic Dickenson on trombone.  The ol' clarinet / trombone combo -- the New Orleans special.  Another 1958 classic in the collection.  I'm convinced this is the peak year of jazz. 

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Trying to keep up the momentum of a huge leveling up with jazz over the holidays.  But admittedly more in a heavy set transition, led by Thrice and IDLES.  The record store / cheap jazz hunt keeps the jazz vibe alive. 

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2) Had a much needed reset in San Clemente this weekend.  I've been running hot with work, and at the doctors office last week they let me know I needed to chill the fuck out.  Perfect timing.  I feel much better after a two day unwind with no phone and lots of movies. 

 

The highlight was the full moon.  Julia and I posted up at the end of the San Clemente pier, a dual sunset / moon rise that did not disappoint.  A goal of mine in 2023, to catch every full moon.  Find a good spot with a vantage point facing east.  For whatever reason, the moon has a reliable and epic routine on full moon day.  A slow rise over the eastern horizon, in full display as it slowly creeps into the night sky.  

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3) Forward progress, one step at a time.  I have some health stuff I need to address.  I'm making progress in taking Chill Charters fully legit.  Work stuff is progressing at a very fast rate.  I've been reflecting a lot on compartmentalizing everything.  Focus on the next stepping stone -- don't get caught up in the chaos of "all of it", but rather break these big things into small parts.  With each step I'm making progress.  And the immediate step ahead is less daunting than the full scope of these projects. 

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Similarly, when I look at my schedule between now and June, I can't help but feel overwhelmed.  I have a ton of stuff -- both personal and work -- and it's a lot.  But if I focus on this week, it's manageable.  And I need to continue to break the big stuff into small stuff.  Focus on a shorter horizon.  And trust in myself. 

 

I got this. 

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Julia has also helped with framing.  Shifting from "have" to "get".

"I have to do this"

"I get to do this"

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Perspective and framing.  It's a mental game. 

 

I got this. 

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2/14/23

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Song of the day: Bitch Better Have My Money, Rihanna

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How sick was that Superbowl performance though?????  Legendary status. 

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1) My homie Nicolay has this song as his go to karaoke song.  I have a vivid memory of him crushing this at the little hole in the wall karoke spot in Japantown in SF.  A memory recall that was much appreciated.  Nicolay is my guy.

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2) Had a nice hangout with my mentor last night.  We got the OGs together for a nice home cooked meal, followed by a joyride around SF, a pitstop at the dispensary, and leisurely stroll through the empty streets of the Inner Richmond.  One of my most fun hangouts in a long time.  Talking about life.  Laughing.  Building lasting friendships.  It really is what life is all about.

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3) I'm reading a book about MJ.  Channeling that MJ zest into my life.  My first true love.  This is essentially the book version of the Last Dance and it brings about so much joy.  Every time a book captures me, I truly appreciate the experience.  I think the key learning for me is to read about what I'm most passionate about (basketball).  The level of detail is ideally suited for a NBA nerd like me.  The best. 

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3/1/23

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Song of the day: Lush by Four Tet.  Reminds me of my brother Josh.  If you know that drum, you know.  Everyone in my family knows that drum.

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I've been bummed at my lack of consistency.  Two weeks cold.  Time to pick it back up.  No need to be discouraged.  Bring it back to the basics. 

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1) I'm going to be solo for the next four days.  I'm looking forward to my hang out with myself.  I think I'm going to go to Idyllwild for a full reset.  Excited to pick up some snow shoes and test that out as a new nature adventure.

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2) I appreciate my parents.  They are always there to answer the phone.  Their love for me was noticed this week.

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3) Love Island.  Not sure if there's ever been a show that allowed me to fully check out like this one.  An escape into a fully "fuck all" mode.  I dabbled with the feeling of shame, as it's so clear I could be spending my time more productively, but then came to the decision that a proper brain turn off was its own unique form of productivity.  Also realized that if you know, you know (suz). 

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I love myself today. 

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3/2/23 (TEEEEEEEEE IT)

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Song of the day: SW9 9SL by Four Tet.  This album has been on repeat for 24 hours.  Julia hates it.  I think its the bomb.

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1) I'm in a good headspace.  In the two weeks I took off from writing I was not in a good head space.  The two are loosely connected.  But I appreciate the good days more because of the bad ones.  I'm very content with my flow at this second.

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2) Will I pursue adventure?  The joy of the question.  Having fun finding the right point on the spectrum.  Feeling confident that I will choose right. 

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3) I had an important realization this week.  My style with work is different than anyone else.  Its something that I can't teach.  Its not something that others have been able to replicate.  Its unique to me and it works really well for me.  I wrote a chapter in my book about Authenticity.  That is my super power.  It gives me depth. 

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3/4/23

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Went on a long snow hike today, my first push into the snow shoe category.

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I was intimidated coming into the situation, but I was pleasantly surprised with the extremely chill vibe.  Not an ounce of danger. 

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It became very apparent that I was the first and only person on the mountain coming up from Southridge in Idyllwild.  Fresh snow.  No tracks.  For miles.  Open mountain.  Pure beauty.  Just me. 

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GREAT SUCCESS!

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::

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A playlist from the solo (chocolate treated) trek,

the dance songs that really had the knees moving.

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Parallel Jalebi, Four Tet (scope ~24:00-34:00 of this -- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ca6pjR2TLns&t=1818s)

Higher, Aktiva

Let me Go, Duke Dumont

Father Ocean, Ben Bohmer

and this one for kicks.  The Internet, Manchester Orchestra.  Rock out song.

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The solo dance party in nature.  All alone.  Just hanging with my best bud (me). 

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::

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An excerpt from my book that I thought about today.

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When the world stopped for just that moment.  A peak life moment.  I live for them, and I have them at volume.

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I will never lose this day.  One day in my future I will link back to it, and be able to sit where I sit now.  The memory implanted.  And the music is the outlet back. 

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I live for them, and I have them at volume. 

That's my special sauce. 

A truly epic hike, experience, day. 

Thankful. 

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3/7/23

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Song of the day: Cope, Manchester Orchestra

Their new album comes out on Friday, can't wait.  Ran my 2021 playlist back over the weekend and it delivered a massive upswing back into Manchester Orchestra, which is a good thing.  Their tune hits the spot. 

This is a beautifully cut live performance -- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63uaPVN0sGA

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1) I ran my snow hike back, with one of my good homies.  A totally different experience.  No music.  Just hangin out, talking shit.  Both extremely into the entire experience.  Snow shoes were truly an amazing find.  I'm so stoked about what's ahead. 

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2) Coming off back to back days of epic hiking, I had the chance to cancel literally everything going on this week, and focus solely on staying here.  It'll end up being a 11 day trip in total, which I'm thrilled about.  The air up here is very calming.  It's nice to have no plans, nothing to spend money on.  Just chilling.  So thankful for this pad. 

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3) Some life lessons that came on shuffle on my IG.  A nice little hack is to load up on self improvement channels.  A steady flow of good vibes, and many times they hit at just the right point.  Like today. 

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Discover your purpose in life.  Determine the reason you wake up each morning.  Choose something that aligns with your strengths, passions, and the needs of the world.  This is what gives life meaning.

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Let go of what you cannot change.  Recognize that some things are just out of our control, and that's okay.  Let go and focus on what you can change.

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Find peace in imperfection.  Recognize that nothing in life is perfect, including yourself and others.  Instead of striving for flawnessness, find joy in the imperfections that make life unique. 

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Dont compare yourself to others.  Everyone has a different timeline and unique path.  Its important to focus on your own progress, rather than trying to measure yourself against others. 

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Even small changes can add up and make a big impact over time.

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I particularly love the point on imperfection.  That's one I've been thinking a lot about recently. 

 

Play the cards you've been dealt.  Make the most of it. 

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3/10/23

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Song of the day: Slow Your Bloom - Parra for Cuva (thanks to the homie Tomer).  The whole album is a spitting image of my current headspace and vibe: good.  All good. 

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1) Values alignment.  Working with people that are working for the right reasons.  It's under rated.  And it feels good when you surround yourself with people with good values.  That was a big focus of mine coming into 2023 and I'm happy to see how that's developing.  New, quality relationships, that are binded through values.

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2) Australian Survivor.  Season 10.  The best season of Survivor ever.  I'm completely consumed in each episode. 

After watching a full 50 episodes of Love Island, I'm happy to put that to rest.  It was a good run, but switching back to Survivor has amplified how much better Survivor is.  My show forever.

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3) Eating healthy.  Thank god for Julia.  She was gone for a few days where I had my life to myself, and I so quickly spiraled when it came to healthy eating.  Then she comes back, and its back to the veggies and healthy stuff, and I couldn't be happier about it. 

Babe -- if you see this -- thank you sincerely!

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3/17/23

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Song of the week: the entirety of the new Manchester album.  It's so good.  I've probably listened to it 50 times this week.  It just really hits the spot.  So much depth and layers of awesome.  It's currently in the running for best album of 2023.  I love this band.

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1) Some really fun basketball yesterday.  The tournament is so fun, this is the kickoff to basketball season.  As soon as this wraps up we're transitioning directly into NBA playoffs.  A good season of the year.  I love the game.

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2) Been trying hard to find my own steady flow in work.  The ups and downs continue, but I feel I have a level head about it.  After 4 years on the same grind, it's really understanding that a bad week can easily be followed by a good one.  The ups are as constant as the downs.  The goal is to try and find a very mellow groove and prevent extremes in the emotional frequency -- which is super hard for me, but important -- because the volatility is not a good way to live.  The steady groove is so important. 

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3) Disc golf this week was empty.  A very fun round, and Alex came back into the mix -- a very welcomed third musaketeer in Willy and I's world.  I remember fondly deciding that disc golf was that one activity that brought me an extreme dose of happy in my weekly routine -- and I'm proud I've kept that up.  Heading back out this afternoon for a good round.  Goodness. 

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3/20/23

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Song of the day: Oysters in my Pocket - Royel Otis

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1) Kelcy came to visit this weekend and she has quickly elevated herself to be one of my favorite all time friends.  Vibes on point.  Grateful to have so many friends that have stood the test of time.  Kelcy is a special one. 

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2) I got the Ikon pass which gives me access to the mountains for the last little bits of this season.  And I'm going to take full advantage.  Got a NY trip this week, and then headed straight to the mountain for a few days of skiing.  I'm so excited.

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3) Tortillas at Pancho Villas.  They just hit the spot. 

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3/3/23

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Song of the Day: Techno Show, Peach Pit

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1) I've loved the new Spotify DJ, my favorite application for AI right now.  It's weirdly on point and ~80% hit rate.  I like when he cycles random classic rock stations.  A lost genre of late -- it's good to cycle back to the roots.  Classic Rock as a mood is one that should be in somewhat steady rotation.  I also appreciate his sprinkling of metal into the mix.  Still trying to teach the robot how to pick the right music at the right time of day -- mornings are for metal, evenings are for jazz. 

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According to my 2022 yearly breakdown on Spotify:

mornings: angst hardcore mayhem

afternoons: psychadlic tense upbeat

evenings: sentimental tranquil minimalist

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i'll take it.

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2) really intentional this morning.  get out of bed right at the alarm.  shower.  some house productivity.  write out a checklist of things to do today.  start with writing. 

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actively apply preset:positive into my week.  easily done when you get off on the right foot.  trying to have a great week.  and it starts with this.  consistency is what i seek. 

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3) i've been spending a lot more time on my plants.  (i hope) the weather has officically turned into nice.  with that, a focus on plants. 

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i've historically spent a considerable amount of time playing games on my phone, especially when on routine or casual phone calls.  i've deleted instagram, reddit, and all of those games.  turned my phone into "gray mode".  trying to minimalize its impact in my day to day.  and focus on plants instead of phones in that flex time.  phone time was down 70% last week.  trying to keep that up.  a good habit to break.  and more time with my plants. 

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bingo bango.

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3/4/23

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Song of the Day: The Spy, The Doors

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Compliments of Casey.  He came over for a late night of loud vinyl and singalongs.  On a tear, drunkenly, we get down into the debate of the Doors.  I land on the "na" side of the equation.  Until this song played.  Moved the Doors up a notch.  A good karoke song for sure.

 

1) Now filled up with new music and that's a good day.  Thank you mucho.

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2) Disc golf course was completely empty.  Probably the nicest day I've ever had an empty course.  And I shot par.  It was about as close to perfect as disc golf gets. 

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3) SDSU lost in the championship.  I thoroughly didn't care.  But enjoyed hanging with Christian and getting some free Chinese food.

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4/5/23

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Song of the Day: Digital Cowboy, Polyrhythmics

In honor of Jazzfest, I feel like this works.  Some funk.  Some horns.  A nice groove.  A jam. 

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1) I can't wait for Jazzfest.  Figuring out the schedule and itinerary was a daunting task.  There seemed to be 1,000 live music options scattered through the couple days we're going to be there.  And the joy of Jazzfest is stumbling into some epic unknown musical territory.  I tried to go light on the ticket purchasing to have ample room for "blind" exploration.  Three weeks out baby, let's go!!!!

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2) First baseball game of 2023 in the books.  Bummed I missed Spring Training this year, but nothing like a $12 ticket (big win) and a light sunburn in April.  Sat up in the upper deck near the right field post and had a cool vantage point of the stadium.  The key for me was direct sunlight and being isolated from the crowd.  The big win of the day was the 14 minute bike ride from my house to the stadium.  Hard to beat the convenience and price for an afternoon at the ballpark.

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3) How you doing?  I'm great. 

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The new default setting.  It's true. 

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Life is fucking hard.  But I'm healthy and I got good friends, and a happy wife and a happy dog.  That equals great.  That needs to be front and center.  That's the shit that matters.  And that shit is locked in.  The other little granular bullshit doesn't matter.  So whatever. 

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I'm great. 

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4/10/23

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Song of the Day: This

A pickup from a very fun pool session over the weekend.

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1) Bachelor party = a host of new friend prospects.  I was thankful to be able to meet so many cool dudes in SD -- expanding my social network and friend group.  The early stages of a new social circle.  This is exactly how Jesse's bachelor party developed.  Some really strong new relationships, but this time all centralized in SD.  I'm thankful for that, as I believe I have some serious prospects and more friends is a good thing. 

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2) At the bachelor party I was, for the first time in my life, extremely leveled and paced for a 4 day party marathon.  No FOMO in calling it at midnight and closing shop early.  No powders.  Just very chill.  It was the first time I really felt that I was properly paced through the whole thing, and the whole thing was more enjoyable for that reason.  Maturity and age showing itself, in a good way.

​

3) First true weekend of HEAT.  It was very hot in the desert and we had a nice pool.  Very much enjoyed the rays of sunshine.  Got a nice tan and a subtle burn in the works.  Feeling ready for that transition to hot weather, let's go. 

​

My head is in a good place.  I've got a new work project that I'm planning to transition to.  It brought me a lot of joy to mentally process the ins and outs of the shift and I feel more motivated about the trajectory I'm on.  Been a tricky month, but there's more clarity ahead and I feel good about it.  A good week of mental clarity and stability and confidence.  Gotta keep it up this week. 

​

4/11/23

​

Song of the Day: Cumbia Del Olvido, Nicola Cruz

A steady flow.

​

1) Thankful to have a good mindset today.  So many days where I'm feeling conflicted about work.  Today is not one of them.  That feels good.

​

2) The productive sweep in the morning.  Get up, do 30 minutes of productive house work.  Julia appreciates it.  Fuels my motivation to get going in the morning.  A routine that helps get the wheels in motion.  Something I appreciate.

​

3) NBA playoffs start today.  It's going to be awesome.  Go Kings. 

​

4/12/23

​

Song of the day: Althea by the Grateful Dead

A classic jam, getting in the mood for my trip to Austin.  Bust out the cowboy hat. 

​

1) Anders sent me a blind invite to meet in Austin.  I have no idea what the agenda looks like.  I'm guessing it will either be a Blink 182 or Taylor Swift concert, or ideally both.  But maybe it has nothing to do with music.  Maybe we're just going to be slumlords of the strip.  Regardless, I'm excited. 

​

While I'm naturally stoked about Anders bachelor party, a 1:1 trip with him in a fun city like Austin has got me tingling in the balls.

​

2) A few weeks back I made a big decision to remove all my time waste apps.  No more games, Instagram, or Reddit.  Those three apps consumed many hours every week.  I've since limited by phone time by 70%.  I saw myself get sucked into the habbit of playing games passively while on work calls.  I swapped that out for gardening, cleaning, and organization as my passive double task, and I've seen my headspace improve in a big way. 

​

I also changed my phone to black and white, no color.  HUGE difference.  No more red notification bubbles.  You can immediately sense how the brain reacts to color.

​

The phone is now a utility.  I need my phone for basic day to day shit.  Spotify / music is a must.  I use venmo regularly for my business.  I need Uber here and there.  And I need my phone for tickets.  The key is that the phone is only suited for utility.  If I need something pointed I have a range of helpful apps and utilities on the phone that make my life easier. 

​

But I don't need my phone for boredom.  I don't need to be scrolling.

​

My life is much better because of this. 

​

4/18/23

​

Song of the Day: Burn, Burn, Burn - Zach Bryan

​

This weekend was epic.  A proper cowboy experience out in the middle of Texas.  Filled with gems of fun.  Crushing Texas life with my best bud Anders. 

​

Seeing Zach Brown was a music highlight of my life.  Never quite been to a country concert like this.  It was something special.  Even more special that it was a blind show.  Had never heard of the guy before the show -- and this guy really knocked it out of the park.  I was completely blown away.  My favorite blind show ever.

​

Country music is special because the crowd singing together culminates in the most beautiful sound in the world.  The energy is something that has a special special flavor.

​

The show was 40 miles from our hotel in Austin.  Which made getting back quite the adventure.  Putzing around central Texas in a proper drunken state.  Multiple hours of adventure following the concert -- while many were frustrated and locked into their phones trying to catch an Uber -- me and Ders thrived.  A true display of adventure.  No desire to go home. 

​

Honestly just pleased I didn't get hurt or arrested.  One of those kinda weekends.  One of those kinda perfect weekends. 

​

4/19/23

​

Song of the day: Motorcycle Drive By by Zach Brown

​

Getting back to "life" was a struggle this week.  The past two weekends I've eaten a mountain of meat.  Haven't been working out.  Haven't been healthy.  It started to catch up to me.  I felt like shit. 

​

(side note -- totally worth it!)

​

Many times a workout catalyst is found in the dressing room.  While trying on some overalls that didn't work at all, I took a look at my face, and my belly, and said -- "I gotta turn this one around".  This is not the vibe. 

​

I've been on two eight mile runs and consumed many juices, smoothies, and vegetables over the past two days.  As quickly as you can be feeling like shit, you can replicate that with health.  Work out and eat good.  It's not complex, it's an issue of motivation and consistency. 

​

I have *another* (god help me) four day banger coming up in New Orleans for Jazzfest.  8 days from now.  I'm deadset on making sure I utilize these next 8 days to reverse that health trend.  And proud of myself for the intention and follow through.

​

I'm doing great! 

​

4/21/23

​

I missed journaling on 4/20.  Go figure.  Stupid stoner I am.

​

Song of the day: Beers on Me, Dierks Bentley

Diving deep into the country category.  I figure I'll build a sick country playlist for the next week, and upon my return from New Orleans I will be redirected to whatever that brings -- which is surely going to be rad.

​

1) Thankful for Blu.  Cuddles in the morning.  Morning walks.  Unconditional love on both sides.

​

2) Thankful for Julia.  Relationships go through cycles, but she is my steady in life, and that matters more than anything.

​

3) Thankful for health.  I was in a rough spot coming back from Texas.  On a four day work out streak and crushing smoothies and green juices like my life depended on it, which it kinda feels like it does.  I can already see it in my face.  Need to string together another 6 days and I'll be in tip top shape for NOLA.  Let's go. 

​

If this Chill Charters promo cruise goes well this weekend, I will be immensely stoked.  Fingers crossed.  I need the luck of the gods at my side.  Chill Charters is the bain of my existence -- and also -- the thing I'm most proud of.  Confusing and honest. 

​

4/24/23

​

Song of the Day: Sweet Virginia, Rolling Stones

Just happens to be playing at this second.  Good song. 

​

I'm on a 6 day streak of workouts.  I feel so good.  Getting into it was tough, but I can feel the benefits so directly and it's like a drug.  I want to keep it going because I feel so good.  A few things I've learned along the way. 

​

-- Anchoring down at a 20 minute commitment helps me get going.  I typically end up going 30-40 minutes, but a 20 minute minimum makes it easier to pull the trigger and get it in motion.

​

-- Weight training is an important addition into the overall mix of workouts.  Feeling that morning after pain in the biceps and abs is a perfect pain. 

​

-- A mix of workouts is key.  I'm cycling yoga back into the mix today.  Run tomorrow.  Basketball the next day.  Weights following that.  I think this is a key to it all. 

​

I've layered in a ton of juicing and smoothies into this as well.  I can already see it in my eyes, my face, and soon my belly.  I'm curious how long a run I can string together.  Hoping I can keep it in motion through Jazzfest (3 days away!!!!). 

​

Feeling STOKED.  I'm (truly) great!

​

4/25/23

​

Song of the day: Benny's Here, Natural Child

Getting ready for New Orleans, jam on.

​

Enjoyed watching Jimmy Buckets get a 56 piece last night.  YouTube TV has been a true gem for watching playoff basketball.  Being able to quickly spot check every game and tease my interest in watching the 4th quarter -- it optimizes the time I spend watching.  And catching a glimpse of greatness is a sweet sweet addition to any day. 

​

Really hoping the Kings can pull out a big W tomorrow night and take the series lead.  I love this team. 

​

Watching the Clippers has been painful.  Especially against CP3, my arch nemesis of the game.  Hate his game.  I will come back to the Clip Show when they get rid of Kawhi.  Fuck Kawhi. 

​

Been nice to have such a consistent cycle of good basketball on every night.  I appreciate that.

​

I'm great!

​

4/26/23

​

Song of the day: Sandman, Broncho

Compliments of Spotify AI, I appreciate you.

​

The process of "moving" for this remodel is quite the emotional / psychological game.  The tricky thing is that there are huge pros and huge cons. 

​

Pros:

-- I get to live in Idyllwild and tease out my long term aspiration of living in the country

-- I will spend more quality time with Julia

-- I will spend more quality time in nature

-- I will have less distractions

​

Cons:

-- Missing out on Tuesday disc golf

-- Missing out on random concerts, beach trips, hangouts in San Diego.  Less flexibility for all the random shit that comes up

-- No more in person meetings for work

-- Tons of work (a new laundry list of errands)

-- Tons of money (very expensive)

​

I'm trying super hard to lean into the pros, and to ignore the cons.  Very hard in practice.  I have a lot of anxiety about the whole thing.  But this is a good thing.  I will not regret this 10 years from now.  I have an opportunity to make this fucking awesome.  Just like COVID, being locked up for 6 months, I look back on that time and it was so fun.  Those are good memories.  This is similar to that. 

​

5/2/23

​

Song of the day: Pixie by Mem Shannon

​

My playlist is full of goodies as a result of a big swing of fun in New Orleans for Jazzfest.  Julia and I had a total blast.  So much live music squeezed into the weekend, a new wave of inspiration.  The set by Mem was particularly fantastic.  Front row seats and a blind set that turned to gold.  Some ol' fashioned blues rock n roll with a splash of funk.  Hits the spot, every time.  New Orleans is the best. 

 

But......Jazzfest kinda beat the shit out of me. I've been in a daze the past couple of days trying to recover and get back into the groove.  Things are so busy in my life and I feel the pressure of many things hitting me all at the same time.  

​

In the moment it can be hard to keep perspective of the value of stress and pressure.  I've always looked at these moments as positive in hindsight.  These periods make you stronger.  I should look at this as an opportunity -- to level up -- to put myself in a better position in life.  These are the periods where you have the best opportunity to "level up".  

​

But.....at this second I feel I'm being pushed for all I've got (and the hangover from New Orleans isn't helping). 

​

Getting Chill Charters back into the swing of summer has been a huge challenge.  There's a lot more competition this year and we're seeing the volume from my OG channels go down by a significant clip.  I've tried to counter act that by getting my act together on the marketing front.  New content of all my boats.  Investing in paid media and SEO.  Trying to develop new channels to build the business.  I feel pressure, and it's uncomfortable.  It's a lot on me emotionally.  

​

We're going through a remodel on our house which is going to take us to Idyllwild for the next couple of months.  Figuring out all of that, and staring at a never ending list of errands is daunting.  Packing up my life for a few months -- not the easiest thing to figure out.

​

I'm leading a new project at work -- one that I'm super excited and passionate about -- but it's not easy.  To build momentum from scratch is not easy.  It requires more effort early to get it all in motion.  I'm trying to find a good pace with it and put in the extra energy necessary to get that early momentum.  But seeing empty numbers for consecutive weeks is painful.  I feel like a failure.  

​

I'm feeling socially exhausted. With some EPIC trips under my belt this year, I'm deeply thankful for all the fun.  But also very very aware of the extreme imbalance and lack of rest.  I'm hoping that Idyllwild will do the trick in forcing that balance socially.  

​

Just gotta take it step by step, day by day, task by task.  I will look back on this period through a positive sense and all of the pieces will inevitably come together.  The big benefit of hindsight and age.  You know you'll land on your feet and be better because of the stress and pressure.  That's my north star right now.  

​

I'm good.  I got this.  

​

5/9/23

​

Song of the day: Runner by Ariel Posen

​

Sticking with the blues.  If they have that metal thing on their ring finger, it'll likely be in my lane.

​

1) I was thinking about how I was feeling sluggish and a bit beat up yesterday.  Woke up this morning and immediately went on a 4 mile run and a sit down to write.  That is my formula for re-calibrating.  I've found the reset button.  Back on the upswing. 

​

Last week was tough!  I think the main issue is that I had a mountain of errands with the move, a very busy work schedule, and I was coming off a very busy social schedule.  Those in culmination really got the best of me.  I cried on my drive to LA last week, just feeling extremely overwhelmed with it all.

​

This past weekend I buckled up and knocked out about 12 hours of errands and big projects.  It was like a huge weight off my shoulder.  I felt so incredibly good about clearing my errand list and having a productive weekend.  Just what the doctor ordered.  I'm feeling great. 

​

2) A huge nod to Julia who completed her pilates teacher training yesterday.  It's been a 6 month process with 100+ hours of practice and preparation.  I'm so proud of her.  She set her mind to a big goal and she knocked it out of the park.  I love seeing my people succeed and win in life.  Especially Julia. 

​

Babe -- if you're reading this.  I love you so much and am so proud of you! 

​

5/22/23

​

Song of the day: Techno Show, Peach Pit

​

That breakdown at the end just hits.  Was the last song I listened to yesterday, and first song I listened to today.  Put me in the right mood.  Especially important on this Monday morning. 

​

Been almost two weeks since I last sat down to write.  A lot has happened.  It's probably been the most chaotic mix of things in a two week span in recent memory.  Much of it has been positive, so I'm trying my best to lean into all the good stuff. 

​

::

​

My truck was stolen.  That was a huge blow.  That truck helped form my identity.  It was the source of so many awesome experiences.  It was an extension of me. 

​

I had always viewed a car as a pure utility.  There was never emotion for me.  I never really understood the connection between human and car. 

​

Until I had that truck.  Everything changed when the utility extended to my passions of nature.  The week after I bought my truck, Josh and I went out to Anza and had a very serious off roading adventure.  The entire saga of the truck could have been over before it started.  Josh really pushed it to the max -- but it all worked out -- and at that point -- I had a new found perspective of what a car could be. 

​

I put my heart into the truck.  And it gave me so much back in return.

​

I've put a lot of work into finding the silver lining around this situation. 

​

When I first asked Sonny to find me a cool truck, I had no idea what I wanted.  I put blind faith in Sonny. 

​

Now I have a crisp understanding of what I want to double down on, and the changes I'm looking for in the next truck.  I trust that I'll ultimately land a truck that fits exactly what I want, because now I'm tuned in to the relative pros and cons of different styles of trucks. 

​

I also got super lucky with insurance.  I bought the truck for $15k and got $25k, which gives me options.  Thankful that my blind faith in insurance panned out when the rubber hit the road. 

​

I'm also having a lot of fun looking at trucks online.  Evaluating the different options is a nice outlet for my free time.  It's like Tinder, but for a truck.  Slightly addictive, fun. 

​

Shifting perspective from a negative to a positive.  It's not easy, but I feel the many cycles of this over the course of my adult life have left me in a good headspace.  It's the right way to approach every situation. 

​

::

​

Which brings me to Chill Charters. 

​

"When it rains, it pours"

​

On Friday our pontoon was involved in a sting operation by the cops, and our boat was impounded.  It's been a long time coming.  Every summer, the cops decide they're going to shut down "illegal" charter operations for a few weeks, and then they go away.  We've always found a way to skirt the bullshit -- but on Friday -- we finally got busted up. 

​

I'm thankful to be at year six of Chill Charters.  So many challenges have been thrown at us.  We've overcome them.  It's become a pattern.  I can't imagine this situation will be any different.  We will figure it out, even if the plan isn't totally clear. 

​

Stuff like this is a forcing function.  Put your "action hat" on and get to work.  Figure it out.  Will it to victory. 

​

It's stuff like this that has really defined what being an entrepreneur is all about.  Easy in theory, hard in practice, practice makes you better at it.  The longer you're in the game, the better you get at it.  Practice makes perfect. 

​

My hope is that this will be a huge blessing.  We've been needing a better host marina for a long time, and this might be the catalyst for it.  One day, all our boats will be "fully legit" and we'll keep riding the wave forever.  You just gotta be leveled, patient, and positive.  It all figures itself out.  We will be that much stronger when we conquer this obstacle.

​

Negative situation --> positive outcome.  Mindset is everything in life. 

​

::

​

I moved to Idyllwild last week.  Albeit temporarily, it had all the stress and chaos and errands and bullshit as a proper move.  The list of errands was daunting, and a couple of hard weeks to flush out. 

​

When we finally got everything in place and started our drive up, I was completely gassed.  I had nothing left in the tank.  I almost had to ask Julia to drive.  I was emotionally and physically on empty. 

​

I feel I'm still ramping to the peaceful environment that Idyllwild provides.  Still gassing up emotionally, but in a much better spot. 

​

The Idyllwild situation has forced many tough tradeoffs.  Basically trading "fun" for "peace".  Gave up tickets to Thrice and Galactic.  Got a nice 4 mile hike in the woods and home cooked dinners out on the porch in exchange. 

​

Leaning into all the positives of those tradeoffs.  I really needed the break in chaos and feel thankful to have such a beautiful pad to post up in.  As I think about the couple months ahead, I'm filled with happiness. 

​

I can feel the peace and quiet as I quietly gaze up at the mountain in an empty home in the middle of the forest.

​

::

​

Emptying all the thoughts that have been swirling in my head.

​

Prioritizing the process of writing to find peace and meaning in everything that's happening.

​

A friendly reminder, that the "pad and pen" are always there for me.  And that process rarely lets me down. 

​

In the course of this session I have given this album a full run through, and I plan on cycling this album throughout my week.  A perfect soundtrack for where I'm at in this moment.  Give it a listen, and thank me later. 

​

Goodbye Enemy Airship, The Landlord is Dead -- Do Make Say Think. 

​

::

​

I'm great.  Life is cool. 

​

6/6/23

​

Artist of the Day: Frederico Albenese

​

I needed a punchy, crack of the whip, GRIP IT AND RIP IT, approach to today.  I threw on shuffle, caught the vibe, and doubled down.  Play it loud.  Lock in.  Crush. 

​

Yesterday was sluggish.  After a very fun but exhausting weekend, the Sunday chill session had much to be desired.  Didn't have it in me.  Woke up late, lazy to get up, unmotivated.  That predictably tested the emotional frequency and I started to feel bad about myself.  So I went on a 5 mile hike in the mountains with Blu after work, got my head straight, and committed to a fire power day today.

​

I frequently think back to these words I wrote from 2014, my first year of journaling. 

 

A productive day keeps the demons away. 

​

::

​

Elizabeth and Eric's wedding was extremely fun.  Biking down Lake Michigan, finding basketball courts and cool people to play with, spending a few hours at the park with Madison and Ross, thrifting -- with some epic finds, some really dank spicy margaritas and homemade chaco tacos.  Chicago in the summer is a true treat. 

​

The highlight of the weekend was a 10 minute What's My Age Again --> Staying Alive session with the DJ/band.  Where my true colors are shown brightest.  The bride said I was unparalleled on the dance floor, which is a top tier compliment.  Got myself loose with the juice, and let it go. 

​

::

​

I'm slowly falling in love with my new truck. 

​

I think there was a genuine sense of anxiety buying anything for $20,000 on Facebook marketplace, but I trusted the universe wouldn't provide bad karma to me on this one.  Now that I've had two long drives with no issues my confidence is rising.  It's big and cool.  I hope this becomes my new best friend.  I named him Chuck the Truck.  I can't wait to go on adventures with him. 

​

Next stop is some brand new big all terrain tires.  Excited to do some off roading adventures and check out all these forest roads scattered on the huge vista sitting under Idyllwild. 

​

Let's go. 

​

:: (i'm thinking of getting this staple tattooed)

​

6/14/23

​

song of the day: the thief in marrakesh got caught in amsterdam trying to escape by Arc De Soleil

​

Technically three songs.  All dynamite picks.

​

this has been a hard week.  but there is hope ahead. 

 

for the first time in my life, I feel truly strained by the marathon of social obligations.  i believe this could be a turning point for me.  i don't think it's short term, i think its long term.  i've entered a new phase of life.  it just feels different. 

 

i've enjoyed it all in the moment.  the weddings, new cities, bachelor party blow outs, concerts, ski trips.  all super fun.  i have very fond memories of it all.  i pride myself on my experiences and rich life moments. 

 

the build up and wind down is where things get tricky.  the recovery time is longer.  a nuanced understanding of my gas tank.  i'm filling up to a quarter tank, knowing that i need more time to fully refuel.  with another big social event days away.  and life is stacking up around me.  not in a good way. 

 

keeping up with the basics seems more than i can handle.  in the past month: move out of our house, settle into a new house, a stolen truck, insurance coordination, buying a new truck, more errands, impounds from the police, citations from the coast guard.  figuring out how to approach every fucking weekend with the boats.  and a full time job thats hot and heavy.  going from a BD team of 8 to 3.  rapidly rehiring to keep the ship afloat.  building a new product.  answering a never ending flow of emails. 

 

not the kinda stack i was asking for.

 

stressful, dude. 

 

idyllwild has created this extreme juxtaposition.  a tiny mountain town with no pulls.  no music.  no sports.  limited food and drink options.  slow.  boring.

 

the idyllwild timing was tricky.  we had to move up on may 15th, with a 3 weekend streak of weddings and bachelor parties in the first 4 weeks.  the 3 weekend streak has me skating on thin ice emotionally.  my gas tank is dangerously close to empty. 

 

this is the biggest one yet, four days of pool, good homies, food, and cocktails.  it's sure to be a great time. 

 

but what has me the most excited is what i come home to. 

 

for the remainder of 2023 i have two weekends planned.  and i'll be in idyllwild the majority of the time.  my future looks SLOW AND BORING.  and i couldn't be more happy about it. 

 

i can't wait to find a groove with work.  the past month has been so choppy.  terrible personal conditions for me to go full blitz.  i've got something to blitz.  i've got fire.  and i'm so ready to lock in and go into hyper productive mode.  to find rhythm and routine and vibe.  it's going to be good. 

 

to let my gas tank properly refuel.  to think more intentionally about how this evolution should influence my approach to plans in the future.  to practice saying no.  to embrace this shift in the ever evolving life experience.  less can be more.  this is what is ahead for me. 

 

and i'm happy about it. 

 

life is cool. 

 

now time to go party in cabo. 

​

::

​

6/19/23

​

Song of the day: Drinkee by Sofi Tucker.  This is quite the wedding kickoff song for the dance floor.  Got the KNEES MOVING!

​

1) Excited about day one back in Idyllwild.  Fresh slate.  No plans ahead.  I have a mountain of work on my plate.  My dad says these are the "Ramp Up" moments in professional life, and I've been through many of these cycles.  This is not a foreign feeling.  This is go time.  This is when I need to step up and crush. 

​

2) I'm really hoping to find some rhythm and consistency in the next couple of weeks.  And for me, the tell tale sign is writing.  The extent to which I can weave it into my routine more regularly.  That's a big goal of mine. 

​

3) I reworked a few of my go to playlists.  Sunscreen and Kicks were masterfully curated over the break.  I had to let go of a lot of songs, which was a healthy process.  I also stack ranked both with some of the master gems of the playlist.  Gives me some more optionality for the killer playlist non shuffle, or the generic run through with shuffle.  I was very happy about the end result. 

​

4) Hanging with my boy Tones was a true treat.  The Anders wedding was fucking epic. 

​

::

​

6/21/23

​

Song of the day: Open Season, Orgone

​

The kickoff to my Suncreen playlist.  It's the jam of jams on the Jazz Funk kick I've had since attending Jazzfest back in April of last year.  I've built up quite the arsenal over the past 14 months, and this one reigns supreme.  It just kicks that head bop into motion in any and every situation. 

​

1) I feel more on top of my shit at this moment than I've felt in weeks.  I was talking with Julia yesterday about my previous couple of weeks:

Tahoe bachelor party: 3 day work week

Chicago wedding: 1 day work week

Jonny visit: 3 day work week

Cabo wedding: 2 day work week

​

It's so incredibly challenging to try and squeeze a busy work week into a condensed couple of days.  The pressure builds up and you're in a constant state of feeling behind.  That panicked feeling has started to subside.  I woke up this morning feeling somewhat leveled and on top of my shit. 

​

Having the next four weeks wide open is a true blessing. 

​

2) After work, Julia and I went on a power walk on this 5 mile trail near my place in Idyllwild and it was truly the best.  Having that as my "post work" option is something I value deeply.  Just being able to hang out and talk for an hour, up in the woods, followed by a nice dinner and movie.  This pace is a true blessing. 

​

3) To pile on the "my life is awesome right now" train, the one who might appreciate it most is Blu.  She was clearly gassed by the chaotic past couple of weeks.  Her partnership in good walks, steady poops, cuddling in bed, and joy in the day to day is a shining gem in the day to day.  I've so enjoyed her love and appreciation for the steady state. 

​

Blessings, blessings, blessings. 

​

::

​

6/26/23

​

Song of the Day: '94 Camero - Tyler Halverson

​

Very much on a country kick right now, peak summer vibes.  You can feel it in the air. 

​

1) Had a lot of fun hanging out with Stein this weekend.  He encapsulates living large. 

​

I had my first real exposure to proper rock climbing.  I was full of inspiration.  Made me extremely jealous that I wasn't equipped to participate.  The learning curve is significant and I don't know if I have it in me -- but man, as I made my exit as they started their ascent I was full of jealousy! 

​

Can't wait to go back up there to hang out on those big rocks.  Lilly Rock up close is something special. 

​

2) Upon my descent, I was focused on finding a loop trail from Lilly, and that ended quite unfriendly.  Scaling down a massive mountain, no trail, dense brush, a process of mindset more than anything.  I got this.  I got this. 

​

And in the back of my head the whole time. 

This is adventure.

I love this feeling.

Danger.  Yum. 

​

Not real danger, but relative danger.  It wasn't no walk in no park. 

​

I can't wait to go back and try again. 

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3) The hiking ramp up is well underway.  Figure I have a good 20+ miles in my backpocket over the past week, and eager to beat that this week.  Got a 7 mile planned for today.  Then a 10+ this weekend.  And hopefully more. 

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I absolutely love it. 

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7/10/23

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Song of the Day: Old Man Gullich, Muscadine Bloodline

The entire Teenage Dixie album is absolute dynamite.  So many bangers.

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One thing I've noticed recently is the shift in vibes from season to season. 

Summer = Country / Americana / Classic Rock

Winter = Jazz +

Spring = Funk + Blues

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