Savoring every ounce of down time

July 21^st, 2006:

Today we toured Denver’s state capital building and met the head of the House of Representatives. Interesting stuff. It’s been years since I’ve really thought about politics and how the U.S. political system is organized. It was a real kick back to 4^th grade and freshman year poli sci.

Afterwards we had the rest of the day to ourselves. This was great. It was our first opportunity for unstructured “free time” since our arrival. Most of us traveled up and down 16^th street, ate at the Cheesecake Factory (Wouter had his first experience with a terrible American waitress and fantastic vanilla and banana cream cheesecakes), and gathered at Rock Bottom for some drinks.

July 22^nd, 2006: Rough Blocking & Host Family Pizza Party.

Not too much to say about today. The pictures will say more. But, I did “audition” for a solo today. I think one of the other singers got the part. They have more confident rock star voices than I have, but it was nice to be consideredJ.

Thank you host families. We wouldn’t be Up With People without you!

July 23^rd, 2006: Boulder with Juliebeth and Josh; Dinner with Nicolina

For me, this was an incredibly relaxing day. Most of it was spent in Boulder with Juliebeth and Josh. Great conversation with wonderful backdrop. I couldn’t ask for more on my day off.

Upon return to Broomfield, I received a voicemail that Wouter and Nicolina had experienced a bit of an adventure while in the mountains. I’ll hold the details for later when I know more of the story. Thankfully they survived and we were all able to enjoy dinner together in Broomfield.

Hopefully tonight will be restful. We have a full week of training coming up.