They make a person believe their work is done.
Self diagnosed.
Our good friends Drew and Kelsie spontaneously invited Alexis and I to Hawaii with them. Good company and paradise? Who would say no?
We spent a day and night in the touristy and beautiful Waikiki, enjoying the calm waters and local eats. Seeking the local experience, we drove in our tiny convertible across the island to the North Shore. We stayed the rest of our nights at a small beach house, in a Mai Tai fueled state of rest and relaxation. Day after day, we explored, watched sunsets, and emptied our cups. It was nice to just slow down for a change.
Thanks for having us along.
At least they aren’t using MapQuest printouts anymore.
Mom and Dad exploring the Huntington Library.
The college I went to, wrote and printed their own textbooks for many of their courses. I was hired by them before I even graduated to be the illustrator for all their books. These images are a few samples of the work I was doing.
Come a long way since. Bizarre looking back and thinking I was content with it for a time. Met some great people, but I didn’t belong there. Co-workers told me I didn’t belong there. The person who hired me told me I didn’t belong there. Sure enough, I got a call one day, and put in my 2 weeks the next.
Glad I had the opportunity, more glad I didn’t settle.
My friend Jon Kim, who once convinced me he was from, and escaped North Korea. I believed and told this to people for at least a year. Still a running joke.
For years now, no longer than a few weeks have gone by without catching up over beers. Sometimes talking about nothing, sometimes talking with weight in our words. Always enjoyed the conversations.
He’s moving to Seattle today, so there’ll be a bit less of all that. I’m glad to see him go though. Nothing sad about a friend chasing opportunity, trying to better their life. Upwards and onwards.
Godspeed Jon Kim.
Spring Shaving
Three generations of Smiths. My Gramp, my Dad, and me. I was 15 years young.