Today was the last day of school for my preschoolers. The children did a wonderful job performing their song and dance for their Aloha Ceremony, and the Ethnicity Potluck was a hit. Although I feel heartbroken that I won't be able to see some of the children next year, it makes me happy knowing that I was once a part of their lives and that I somehow helped them grow into better individuals. I was also surprised at the generosity of the parents giving hearts. Amongst some of the gifts I received was a necklace from Kate Spade with the simple phrase, "Smile," which is something I hope I brought to the children at CUPS. 

*Note: I have decided to put my dailies to a halt for now, since I will be working on the MidPac Blogs during the summer. Till next time, I will keep you posted. :)

Today was a bit of a stressful day at work as we got together our last minute items and prepped for tomorrow. Tomorrow marks the last day of school and we will be celebrating with our Aloha Ceremony and Ethnicity Potluck with the families. 

Note: This post is two days late. 

Today, I had the children in afterschool care start making their farewell friendship flowers to give to one another on the last day of school. 

Note: This post is three days late. 

Today, I attended Ryan's Funeral at Hosoi Mortuary. It was also the first funeral I attended. The first time I cried was while standing in line to give my condolences to the family. From the flower arrangement to his smiling picture and even the scent of incense, everything felt overwhelming as fresh tears came rushing down. I brought a bouquet of white assorted flowers to give to the family, and I paid my respects to them. While I was sitting, I looked up to see his sign of, "Beloved Son," and every time, I felt a little heartbroken. The eulogy presented by Sara was bittersweet but beautifully done. Michael's prayer brought new tears. The video made by Ricky reminded me of how wonderful Ryan was, and I couldn't help but break down. Despite the outpour of sadness, I felt glad to see that he had so many supporters throughout his life.

Reverend Miki Nakura said something simple, but true today which brought me back to reality. He said, "Traffic accidents, tsunamis, earthquakes, cancer... these are not the cause of death. The cause of death is because we are born. We are born to die, that is our destiny." 

And here, I would like to put in my own quote, "Life is a gift, live for the present." 

Ryan, thank you for being such an inspiring individual to so many people. Your presence on earth affected everyone in so many ways. Though your life was short, you lived a fulfilling life. From here on, I will promise to live as you did- to the fullest. 

To the man who wore loud shorts, for now, I bid you farewell.

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Today, Brent and I went out to Shriner's Beach Club in Waimanalo where I mingled with CUPS parents and families. Afterward, we went to Sea Life Park and watched the dolphin show. Later, we went to KokoNuts in Koko Marina for shave ice, and Cake Couture in Niu Valley for cupcakes. We parted ways and I came home to take a brief nap. In the evening, I drove out to Magic Island for Ryan's tribute photoshoot.

Today, I had work. Afterward, I went to Ala Moana with Brent and Candice. I managed to find a cute camera bag and some cute clothes at Nordstrom. Later, we had dinner at Genki Sushi and went to Ward Theater to see "Bridesmaids," which was one of the most hilarious movies I've seen all year.  

My favorite quote from the movie and a line that is relevant to my current situation: "You are your problem, and you are also your solution." 

*Note: This post is a day late.

Today, I had work. The children had Aloha Chapel in the morning, and had ice cream for snack afterwards. It was also one of my students last day, so she brought in some snack to share at lunch and tulip flowers. I thought it was sweet that she brought these since we have been singing the "Tulip Song," in class. The children will also be singing this song on their last day as one of their graduation songs.

*Note: This post is a day late.