San Francisco

I'm staying in the Bay Area, specifically Oakland. I'm about a half hour walk down the hills to the train station known as 'bart'. There is a nice easy walk you can take along the lake, hop on the train then end up in downtown San Francisco.

To sum it all up I pretty much walked around 14+ miles my first day in the city. I took nothing more than the train that brings me under the Bay. I got off at a stop called the Civic Center. I quick grabbed some Burger King, and walked west about 2 - 3 blocks, checked out city hall, and walked up route 101. I walked along this road for a long time. Approximately 1 hour. I walked through the Palace of Fine Arts, which was beautiful architecture. I reached the Bay where you can see the golden gate in the distance. I walked along the beach/bike trail until I reached a good location to snap some pictures of the bridge. It really is a gorgeous view.

(Second pic is the palace)

I was getting some blisters from all the walking. One actually started from Yosemite. I kept trucking along though. I was thinking about the guys at home again. They never fail to push me. I decided to take a picture and use the very little battery life I had left to send it to them.

I sent it to Dan, Jake, and Nate and kept on walking towards the top. Every time I think, 'just a little further..' or 'I'm almost there', or even doubting whether I want to do something anymore or not. I look at this keychain. Whether I end up appreciating or regretting the decision I make to push forward, it is absolutely worth it. For every time these guys, or this keychain, make me want to move forward, it reminds me that no matter how many times I could do something that doesn't seem worth it, there will eventually be one time that does.

On the bridge, guys!!!

I finished my day by walking back to the train. The 14+ miles walking up and down hills in the city and having pretty deep blisters on my feet, was definitely worth getting these pictures. I say this because like I stated before, I sent the picture to the guys via text. The response.. While listening to some inspirational music.. gave me chills.

Jake responds saying that he loves how we mean so much to each other. He says that he brags about us all the time.

Our friend group is amazing, and still growing. 

Dan agrees and says that this is awesome, loves us, and hopes I'm having a great time.

Nate finishes it off with something that I take and store in my heart, which will probably be one of the most meaningful things, and it's only day 3.

He says 'I see you buzzed your hair like you said you wanted too ;) like I said man, anywhere you go with that key chain, we will be with you. That picture I feel is like the ROCK that shows what we mean to each other and what we all know we have to be thankful for! I wish we could be on this journey with you bro! Love ya buddy! 👍🙌'

I don't know if I've ever thanked Nate and Dan's mom and Dad, for the keychains they gave us, as much as I should have. I carry it with me everywhere I go. Symbolizes so much. Thank you Lori and Chris!!!!!!!!!!!!!

To the guys, thanks for the brotherly love. We will last forever.

Tuesday I continued my journey once more. I attempted to take the bus from a block away to the train station instead of walking to try and save some time. Of course, I ended up getting on the wrong one. So I just went to the train on the other side of town. Oh well! Haha.

Monday I managed to walk damn near Half of the city. San Francisco is a lot smaller than I had thought it would be. To give you a reference here is a map. I walked the blue line to get to the bridge, and now I decided to take the cable car to fisherman's wharf, and pier 39.

  I mainly only wanted to walk along the bay and sea the sea lions. Ha! Awesome little dudes! I should say big dudes, they are huge.

As I gathered my photos and enjoyed the view, the history of the submarines, and other fun things.. I was debating on whether or not I wanted to walk to Coit tower. I walked down, went into a back little alley, found some random cement steps that looked like thy came from a horror movie, and climbed on up. Little did I know I was going through an awesome trek through very green leaves, flowers, and little houses.

I ended up at the base of Coit Tower. What a view.

I then walked back down the hill, and into the city to take a train back to Oakland. Though, during my walk back to the train I walked by several homeless people. I am not sure what everyone's take is on the situation but sometimes I just get thrown back against a brick wall. I passed by (sadly the usual) Homeless beggars and mentally ill/unstable people. One pair in particular hit me hard. I actually turned around and debated with myself whether I should approach them. 

There was a mother and supposedly her daughter sitting by the train entrance. The mother was reading her daughter a book while a sign rested in front of them saying 'me care for me daughter'. My thoughts are is this person really homeless because how was this child raised to be this old to begin with and why would you point out your daughter in the sign unless you were seeking empathy, not money. (I guess it could work for both but it just sets me back). All I could think about was how I had the power to change not just one but two people's lives by vast amounts, but I decided not to, because those questions came into my mind.

So my last venture on in San Francisco was seing the Painted Ladies (Victorian houses from the beginning of the Full House), The Golden Gate Park and up to Land's End.

The walk was a semi hike through some trails in the park, and very very long. A opulent of times I got turned around and was not ping in the correct direction. I kept on going with out a map, passed the Japanese Tea Garden, Academy of Science, and a few gardens. Awesome scenery.

 This took around 3 hours to get through and up to Land's End. I was greeted by an ocean view. I decided to not take the trek all the way up to the look out. I was eh okay down beneath. ;) It was definitely relaxing and much needed.

 I then took my first Uber ride back into the city and took the train back to Oakland, hopped on the bus, and rested.

The next couple days I wasn't feeling so hot. I got sick and rested for a good long while. James worked from home and I slept a lot. 

Shayna and I had a good last day together. She helped me print out my itinerary, made me get more things that will most likely be useful while I'm abroad but I was trying to save money. :P

Anyway, about to board the plane from LAX to Delhi! I will write about LA soon!

Thanks Shayna and James!!!!! I miss you guys so much already. Fantastic trip to SF and much love. Shayna, seriously thank you for helping me with everything. Love you.

~Boy

Venture On!

Yosemite August 23 - 24 2014

I want to preface that this is a long one. It covers Yosemite, some of Mirmosa, and my pup.

I arrived in Oakland California and was greeted by my sister and her boyfriend, James, strolling up in a nice new rented Nissan. First stop: Burritos for dinner.

While catching up with them both, we began to talk about Yosemite. This is something I've been wanting to do for a while. James has been too, so we were pumped up looking at trails and maps. See below for the trail map. With the clock hitting midnight in just a few ticks, we decided that we would make the 3+ hour drive the very next morning. 

We decided to head all the way to the Eastern side of Yosemite to hit these trails. On the drive we passed some pretty harsh landscapes of burnt trees. This was kind of upsetting to see but somehow we still had an appreciation for it. It is as if Mother Nature was saying, 'Hey! Don't forget I'm here and could very easily take this away from you!!'

Knowing we only have one day here, we were trying to plan the hike with the best views for our short span of time. The three of us argued and kept offering new ideas of how we could spend our day. We continuosly shrugged off each others suggestions. There are a number of day hikes to choose from. As soon as we took the first turn inside of the ever so long park entrance, silence was among us. All three of us let vulgar words roll off our tongues. We no longer cared because we knew whatever we did that day, it would be amazing.

If driving through the park entrance wasn't enough of a majestic and inspiring sight, the hikes themself had so much more to offer.

First step..parking. It was a challenge. We ventured on into the Mist Trail trekking through to Vernail Falls. It was only a 1.5 mile hike and only had us elevate by foot about 1-1.5K feet. Our elevation from sea level was approximately 5,100ft. This trail had multiple lookouts with spectacular geography, mainly composed of large rock formations. It was an awesome view.

Approaching our destination we were presented a fall that crashes into clear waters below. An ever so sweet rainbow was inviting all the visitors at the bottom of the waterfall.

This was not the end of the trail but we decided to hike back to reach the second trail, Mirror Lake.

Mirror Lake is known for the lake which sometimes acts as a mirror for the Half Dome. You can see it's reflection. Unfortunately we couldn't see this because there was no water. Fortunately we went into where the lake would be, and got even more clear views of the Half Dome. Oddly enough you couldn't actually see the half dome, because we were on the side that looks like it was a sphere cut in half. James described it well. Either way, it was still a fantastic view. :D This trail was a flat hike so it was easy to walk this area. Awesome views of the formations surrounding us.

Now as promised to the P-town Guys... I you made it here with me.

This time I was sure to not hold you sideways. 😄

All the way guys from start to finish, got you by my side!

We headed back with the sun beginning to go down. On our walk back to the car we ran into some visitors. Check this out.

 We were pretty damn close. By close I mean with reaching distance. There was actually a boy who was putting his hand in them but that could have probably back fired on him. They must be so used to the people around the area. They were so calm and gentle. Must not forget that they are very powerful animals. ;-)

We then headed off and stopped at a restaurant called 1840, scarfed down some glazed salmon, and finally arrived at Sierra Mountain Lodge, our B&B. We open the car doors and our jaws dropped. The last time I saw a sky this clear was.. never. I've seen clear skies before, but not like this. We showered up, got some wine and chatted outside under the stars.

At first we thought the sky had clouds, but what it really was, at least what we think it was, was the Milky Way galaxy. In the pictures below there is a consistent form you can see taking shape. The pictures aren't great but definitely helps describe what we saw that night.

I went inside to grab my camera, ( tried a bunch of settings for the crap lenses I have haha). I was able to capture some pretty crazy pictures that had the sky full of stars that we had no clue exhisted. 

I was texting Kat and saying how the skies were gorgeous. I really wish she was able to be here right now. Sometimes I think that the moon is going to be our connection when we can't talk while I'm away. Eventually, we may both be able to see it at the same time. Cheesy? 😂👏 I can't wait to have a sky over us whether it be clear or rainy. Just need the sky.

So this next part I think is humorous. I was typing this while laying in bed and I'm not 100% sure what I was trying to say. Any help translating would be appreciated. 'Lastly, you know I'm going to stick OSS to this kind.          

What a way to end a great day. :D time for bed! I am Soooo tired.

Thanks Hames and Sharna???;(('

With that, I went to bed.

The following morning we went into the lobby of the B&B. They had a cool map with pins showing where all their visitors one from. We added our own pins. Shayna laughed at me for adding two pins but I really think that KU and Ptown have a spot in my heart. The two yellow pins are the ones I placed! I think you can figure out what yellow ones I mean.

I had a conversation with Jon, the owner of the B&B. I asked how he likes it and his response was that he loves meeting people from all around the world. We had a good conversation about the people you meet along the way. I then spoke about my journey and where it is taking me. He wished me luck and we were on out way. It's small interactions like that, that make me appreciate every little thing I encounter. Such as the little old lady from the town of Mirmosa. Her name was Miriam and she ran Miriam's Shop, full I chocolates and antiques. She spoke about the bridge in San Fran, how she remembers it before the bridge, and how she loved talking to us young folk. She was such a kind hearted woman. So kind she didn't tax me on the post card I bought! Heads up R281. Your first one is on it's way soon! This town was a nifty little one though! Tons if history here.

Three hours later and a long nap. We arrived back in Oakland. We started to make dinner and had some of James and Shayna's friends over. They were all awesome characters. Reminde me of what I have with my buddies. We had some intense conversations on the ALS Bucket challenge, traveling, and just some funny stories in general. Good people with good ambition. Afterwards, Shayna and I received some text messages about my dog. He has not been doing well, which made it hard to say bye to him when I left. He has cancer. Vanessa, my other sister, text us to let us know the updates. TyTy was in for emergency care. For those who don't know, I call him (along with my sisters), 'Stupid Head'. He is such a doofy dog. I miss that white faced old man. Feels like yesterday I was spinning him on the hard wood floor when he was a puppy. Feel better TyTy! I know you already know this, as dumb as you are.. But I love you buddy!!!! Skippy please take care of the old man, you little white rat! 😢

That was a long one. Thanks Shayna and James for an awesome first few days!!!

Now the city calls my name. Time to Venture on!

~Harrison

Day 1 Aug 22 2014

Last night and this morning was an incredible reminder of how many, who and what kind of people surround me. I can't imagine embarking on a journey or taking the next big step for the next big thing.

As I've said before, and a couple of you keep reiterating my own words back to me: Without farewells then we wouldn't know how much these relationships really mean.

What's going through my mind?

Of course, all the great things I am leaving behind. I left an incredible job that allowed me to meet some of the most positive, helpful, skilled people I know. Working at Apple again is one of my few goals that I will try to accomplish as hard as I plan out my adventures. What a phenomenal experience.

Leaving my friends and family behind. I can't believe how many of you reach out to me to give support. I've barely left the PA border and all I have is love and encouragement. You guys are my rock to everything. Not just traveling. You all help me an incredible amount. Not sure what to say. I'm always overwhelmed with how you all show up.

Speaking of being overwhelmed. I had no intentions in being or finding a relationship before I left. A few weeks ago, I was starting my last few weeks of working at Apple, right after my return from Canada. I was running full force ahead at work, taking on whatever I could, at the best of my ability. A new hire came in to work at our store. Unfortunately I was just coming back and she was leaving for training elsewhere. Another week or so goes by. I can't say it enough that I feel so incredibly honored to have met this person. We started talking about different things like volunteering and going abroad (both obvious passions of mine). Naturally I started rambling about my documentary, THIS IS UGANDA. I rambled and probably made a fool of myself, as always. She took that opportunity to watch the documentary that night. She came in and sent me an email giving me some feedback. I was shocked that she watched it that night. This girl ain't half bad! :D 

For those if you who do not know about my Facebook friend request phobia. I don't friend anyone at all. For some reason I did not hesitate at all to try and find this girl. My fingers clicked 'add friend' and then my mind started freaking out asking 'what have you done!?' Luckily it wasn't as bad as I had thought it would be. XD

Only having her not accept the request immediately or within the next day or two, made me think I was being creepy.

So I approached her at work, asked if I added the right person or not, and within a few minutes after her shift was over she added me. Crazy how a dumb social media website can make you go nuts right? ;-)

I had it in the bag. We exchanged phone numbers over FB, and kept chatting over the next week.

Eventually, we formed a bond just over conversation. Next thing I know we were hanging out for the next two and a half weeks. 

This person is so supportive of me, and can't wait for me to come back of course. What's even better, she can't wait for me to have this experience. 

This trip just turned into something new. It turned into a partnership. A group effort. Last night she gave me an amazing gift, very personal, and thoughtful. She gave me something to bring along with me that touches base on the many things I care about. How she was even able to do this from only seeing each other a couple weeks is insane. Feels like we've known each other for quite a while. I know this is crazy. I know it's not fair to either of us to call it a relationship after only finding each other for a few weeks before I left. I know it's not fair to expect her to wait, or for me to wait 7 months. When she gave me this gift, full of memories, best wishes from peers, and pieces that are unknown which will be revealed later on through dates and specific moments.. 

It is then that I realized I am not leaving anyone behind. I'm bringing everyone with me. Thank you so much Kat.

We both are hoping for the best obviously, but there is so much that is still unknown. We definitely care for each other a lot. And that's about all I care about right now.

Here is a taste of what to expect:

California is up first.

Then India.

This is far more than a journey for myself.

Love all of ya!!! Ps I miss all of you already and my cat, haha.

~Harry

Remember, there is always more good in a day than bad, sometimes you just have to look for it.

Plan! Take Risks! And Venture On!