My Own Sacred Grove

I went camping this past weekend outside of Seaside Oregon with some friends. With so much weighing heavily on my heart and mind, I made frequent visits alone into the wilderness where I was able to find my own "Sacred Grove". It was here that I was able to read my scriptures, ponder and pray. I grew up in Oregon, and though I haven't been back since I was a little child, it all seems so familiar to me. I was reminded, amazed and humbled at the beauty of this world that our Heavenly Father has created for us.
What an incredible opportunity it was to reconnect with my Heavenly Father and to feel his love. Even amidst the whirlwind that is my life at the present, I was able to feel his comfort. I echoed the words of another when I thought to myself "Lord, how is it done?" I am amazed at how the spirit can calm our souls in times of trial.
I couldn't think of a better "reading room" in which to ponder the scriptures. I wish I could sit by the creekbed everyday and study.

I was amazed the beauty that surrounded me. These beautiful bell-shaped flowers were everywhere.

As I trekked further down the trail, I felt small in this universe as I noticed all creatures, great and small.

I even managed to carry on a conversation with this chipmunk who kept coming closer. I would speak, and then he would respond. It was quite magical...and humorous.

I even took notice of the many snakes on the trail. This is one of my little buddies that I almost stepped on.

This ain't Hawaii!

I had only been in Portland for a few days when some friends dragged me up to Moulton falls. I nearly had a heart attack when I hit the water.

This ain't Hawaii, thats for sure. I jumped in once and was done for the day.

Mattbob, Crystal and Me.

Wallabies in Hawaii??

Who knew? Once upon a time, in 1916, three wallabies (a male, female and juvenile) were brought to O’ahu to be part of a privately owned zoo in ‘Alewa Heights. The breeding pair was being held in a tent when a dog broke in and attacked them, setting the wallabies free. Currently it is estimated that there are approximately 250 Wallabies on the island. Most of the population lives in Kalihi valley, between a series of cliffs and ledges that protect them from predators. The animals are not formally managed or tracked, but are protected by the state.

Being the island adventurers that we are, we decided late one night to make the treacherous hike in hopes to spot these little creatures. We never saw a darn thing, but we have a great story to tell!!

Cheee-Hooooo!

What do you do between school and work...?

...you play!

Hangin' in front of da Moana Surfrider in Waikiki

Giovanni's Famous Shrimp truck in Haleiwa, North Shore

Uncle Duke and I. Two south shore rippahs.

Every surf sesh should end with a Matsumoto's Shave Ice!

"Stick a fork in me, I am PAU!"

On Thursday, I had my last final exam of my undergraduate career. It was the beast of all beasts...Managerial Statistics. Time ran out and I gladly handed my exam to my professor. As I walked out of the classroom, I could barely contain myself. I had perma-grin from ear to ear and before I made it down the steps and out of the building my eyes began to well up. Sounds stupid, but it has been a long hard road (much harder than it is supposed to be for some reason) and I never thought that I would get to this point. My heart is filled with gratitude and humility for all of the many people who helped me. I will never be able to truly repay them.

Minus the Bear - Honolulu, Hawaii 2/23/08

Last night's Minus the Bear show at Pipeline Cafe. Amazing show with great friends!

Just for the record, after seeing these pics, I start my diet and workout regimen tomorrow!