One to write home about, literally. This past weekend was our bi-annual weekend get-together for our nearest and dearest climbing friends in South Korea. It is one of the few times a year we gather together in the same place at the same time to celebrate our unique family-like friendships and create new memories. True to form, the festivities commenced Friday evening and the next 36 hours or so was full of excited energy and laughter. Sunday afternoon we were exhausted from it all but full of joy and satisfaction. Here is a brief rundown of the weekend shenanigans.
We kicked off the weekend with a delicious barbecue at our place followed by a Saturday morning breakfast of homemade cinnamon rolls (thanks Dusty), eggs, fruit, and lots of coffee. It was a slow morning to get around and make decisions due to the drizzle outside but eventually it dried out and we all made our way to Shinban for some yoga and climbing. Shauna led a bunch of us in a super amazing practice which prepared our minds and bodies for some fun and exciting afternoon climbing. The newest addition to our family, Epic, had a ball running around in circles, chasing dragon flies, and chewing on sticks. Saturday evening we all headed to Bryan and Shauna's for some delicious South St philly cheese-steaks. Then Dusty posed the next challenge for us all, a dance competition. We were all divided into teams and had only a few hours to pick a song and choreograph a dance to perform in front of everyone. Let's just say it was a MEMORABLE competition and we got it all on video. Finally, we all headed back to our place so the girls could do some clothing/book exchanges. It's always so much fun sharing and trading with each other. We finally all headed to bed around 3am. Those that slept at our house were lucky enough to sleep in Sunday morning. Shortly after a light breakfast we headed back over to Bryan and Shauna's to celebrate Hana's birthday (she's 3). The party was hopping. We partook in appetizers, games, and cupcakes followed by our own parade outside. Everyone gathered musical instruments and played them in unison as we all walked to the park together to let the kids get their energy out. It was a crazy and chaotic blast of fun. The adults took turns resting and playing with the kids and by the end of it all, we were exhausted! One by one we all said our goodbyes and Dusty and I headed home for some much needed rest.
We're always so humbled and amazed at how God has blessed us with such amazing friendships. We are so thankful to have such wonderful people in our lives. Thanks to everyone who made it. To Bryan, we will never look at you the same after seeing you dressed in Shauna's bikini-top and tube dress (falling off) and dancing like a girl (followed by the security guard knocking on the door). Shauna, for the amazing yoga session and the delicious elmo cupcakes. Hana for your sweetness and love of dogs. Jess and Charlie, cuz you guys are just such a fun couple to be around. Terra (Harriet) for listening, for being my trusty belayer and inspiring me to climb hard. I love climbing with you, girl. Zen, for your joy, zest, and butter. Heidi, for your laughter and sharing your new experiences. Hanna, for your hilarious dance moves. Louise, for your gentle sweetness. Josh, for your genuine personality. Tom and Kate, for all the tasty pastries. Madeleine, for crawling around on the floor and making us all laugh. And Will, for your hilarious rap poem about poo. Indeed, it was a weekend to remember.
