It was a cold evening. Ominous clouds lounged overhead, threatening to envelop the sleepy town beneath…not that it was much different from most other nights in foggy Daly City. But this night, ah, this night held the honor of being the first, of many nights, when strange tales were told. The clouds seemed an appropriate touch.
“IV Sedation is for pussies. Pussy pussy pussy…”
This was the first of many stories, all speaking of the same journey of a trial, a trial reaching into the extremities of the human body. They say some were not destined to face this challenge; they were not born with the proper instruments that force this battle. Yet others seemingly welcome the fight, relishing a chance to forever banish the anguish of gnashing teeth and crushing gums. Those who accept face violence and blood.
Yet another ring on my trunk of life. I took my birthday beats in video game form, owe a few beers to the guys at the office, and stuffed myself with sushi.
At least I don’t get hazed renting cars anymore.
Given the small size of San Francisco’s Japantown, they manage to throw down an annual grandiose cherry blossom festival, celebrating the coming of spring and giving the Chinese New Year festivities a run for their money. Sui and I had wanted to check out this party years prior, but this time we finally went with like-minded individuals; thanks to Jeff for organizing the trip.
(For those unwilling to read through my usual event-oriented rants, you can go straight to the pictures)
It was a once-in-a-lifetime event. The Olympic torch’s solitary North American stop was San Francisco, so carrying the flame through our city symbolized our embrace of the Olympic spirit, save that one minor detail concerning the host country of this year’s competitions. It’s sad that having the games held in China has overshadowed the actual athletic contest (thus far), and activists are using the controversy as a launching pad for their own little soapboxes.
But no, all I wanted was to see someone tackle a runner.
Our office was a scant two blocks away from the official route, so we took a stroll down to the waterfront to catch a glimpse of the action. It was, as expected, a sea of crazy: banners and signs everywhere, people shouting incomprehensible slogans, and clashes between pro-Chinese supporters (much more than I had expected, although reports say the Chinese consulate shipped them in from elsewhere) and free-Tibet-now demonstrators.
More pics can be found in the album. (I’d post them here but a recent software upgrade broke parts of the site)
The abundance of carny games and people at the Santa Cruz Boardwalk was slightly disappointing, so our entourage headed along scenic Highway I, meandering our way along the Californian coast, enjoying great views of the ocean and for for those of us sensitive to winding roads, motion sickness.
Following a coworker’s recommendation, we stopped at an unmarked area off the highway, where a slanting trail lead downwards to a cozy patch of sand and rocks isolated from the rest of the world. Panther Beach, as it is known, was a picturesque location; rocky cliffs shelter its beauty from tourist eyes, lapping waves erase yesterday’s footprints, and September winds add an encouraging chill:
Jeff has the executive summary of this story; read on for my long-winded version.
It was a foggy day, but certainly most days in Daly City are foggy and a hint ominous. Jeff was throwing a housewarming party, and in the name of good impressions and high partying standards we dropped by Costco to pick up much-needed culinary provisions (i.e., food). As Jeff was backing out of the garage, I noticed a little ball on the ground in the driveway, curled up and somewhat chilly.
Giving him a tap of my foot, I expected the mouse to get the message and run home. He was very tiny, and I didn’t want to accidentally crush his long tail with my foot nor allow 3000 lbs. of Scion the same opportunity. Contrary to expectations, however, the little guy didn’t budge, and a few more pushes ensured he was out of the blind vehicle’s rampaging path. He remained hunched low to the ground and his lowered eyes betrayed none of his intentions.