Who have Jero, Lea, and Feris become?
I assigned a project to help the kids reflect about their Japanese experience. In the process, I learned more about them.
Moments of the Week (May 8-14)
In puberty news, Jero showed off and was grossed out by his growing armpit hair. Maricar knows that time of the month is here, and reminds Lea every day.
To give you a taste of the weather, our dehumidifier is doing its thing and fills up its gallon bin daily.
Lea had her first volleyball fixture (game) and served 3 straight aces for a come-from-behind storybook victory. Her teammates surrounded her and then lifted her up. Disclaimer: They are all beginners and if they can serve it in, it will probably be an ace.
Finally took Jero and Feris to the doctor to check on their ear wax plugged ears. The prescribed ear drops are working and they can hear again.
Feris seems to come home with a new story about a boy behaving badly every other day. This time, it was one in her swim group that was full of excuses to get out of doing laps.
Thinking Out Loud
What does our creative work say about our personality?
Who have Jero, Lea, and Feris become? When they were each born, I wondered what their laugh would sound like and then their voice. After seeing them physically develop, my curiosity shifted to their personality. Who are they? How much of it is influenced by nurture vs nature? As parents, do we see a filtered version of it?
I set up a contest. While in Japan, the kids alternated using a DSLR camera. They then created a digital portfolio, choosing 10 of their photos and writing a description for each.
Points were awarded for the photo composition, descriptions and overall portfolio. The stakes were high with the winner getting earbuds and cash. Consolation prizes were cash.
What were my takeaways?
I'm surprised by the moments they decided to showcase and the details they remembered. Although there is a vast range in age, I got a fresh look at their personalities. They are each so distinct.
Jero is an Imaginative Storyteller - He takes a scene and builds a story so the audience feels present. His work showcased his humor and down-to-earth relatable approach.
Lea is a Clever Artist - The layout of each page was well thought out and unique. It captures her out-of-the-box thinking, witty humor, and perceptive nature.
Feris is Authentic - She doesn’t put a filter on her thoughts or say what she thinks others want to hear. Her work shows real feelings and ideas. This is she.
PS Reach out if you’d like to see their portfolios.
On The Move
Run With Me on Strava - 59.91 mi, 6,703 ft Elevation, 36 mins of Swimming
Tuesday - Golf Course Road repeats. Challenging.
Wednesday - Beach Circuit Intervals. Tried a new social group. I found the pace too mellow and relaxed.
Thursday - Progressive 5k. I still got it.
Monday & Friday - Barefoot running with swimming.
Weaved in burpees to the post-run routine. Managing to stay consistent with the pull-ups and push-ups.
A friend is training for his second marathon. He dropped 5kg and has been consistent with his training. On Sunday, we did a long run (20 miles) with the last 8 miles at his Marathon target pace. I’m feeling it.
Another friend is working his way back from injury and the goal was a 3.5 hours trail run with 700m of elevation for every 10k. We got plenty of elevation and were rewarded with clear views.
Choosing the winner must’ve been tough. How did that go?
Btw - who are your favourite Substack writers. I'm following James Breakwell who is very amusing.