I finished my road trip in Omaha. I flew to Cleveland for JVI orientation. And now I'm back in the Nati.
The last part of the road trip was great. Well, except for Las Vegas, which we found overwhelming and gratuitous. Zion and Bryce were stunningly beautiful, although rather crowded I was able to feel back to nature after spending time in San Francisco and LA. We took a long hike down to the Virgin River. The trail leads directly to the water and we continued right up into the canyon, wading and trudging along the riverbed.
JVI orientation was two weeks of intense training. We spent nearly everyday from morning till night in workshops, team building activities, and presentations on everything from spirituality to safety and security. Although it was occasionally overwhelming I am deeply appreciative of the work that went into the "Big-O" as it is called. I made some great friends in just two weeks and then I had to turn around and say good-bye as they flew off all over the world, or, like me, returned home to wait out the next couple months until departure.
This waiting phase has been strange. Harder than I imagined, but also refreshing. My schedule is loose, and the work I am doing is fun. I'm working at an outfitter, selling kayaks, canoes, backpacks, boots, and everything else in between. It's kind of like a really small, locally owned REI. With my new roof-rack I am able to take my little whitewater kayak to work with me. After work a coworker and I have been hitting the river and trying to perfect our Eskimo rolls. Other than that I've been running and biking a lot. The more active I stay the happier I am here. This past week I moved my brother into his freshman dorm at school. It was great to be back in Chi-town, and to see many of my friends and mentors. I'm hoping to make it back as many times as possible between now and leaving. We'll see. Thanks for reading and God bless.
Me in the Virgin River at Zion National Park
Bryce Canyon
More from Zion
Kickin it on the river after work. I love my job.
