Day off? No way!

"Rest when you're weary. Refresh and renew yourself, your body, your mind, your spirit. Then get back to work."

-Ralph Marston

The weary swimmers were blessed with a day of rest, relaxation, and paddle boats. Spending time with these virtuous young teenagers brought tears to my eyes. I'm Josh Pyne, and I live in Las Vegas, Nevada.

After waking up and leaving the "beat lab," I was pleasantly surprised to find Jacqueline hugging her Ipod and searching desperately for some much needed company. Something deep in my heart told me that grilled-cheeze sandwhiches were the only cure for her early-morning funk. Our breakfast was accompanied by a deep and intriguing conversation about the many activities that we partake in. Being an aspiring gymnast, conversation about one's sports and hobbies came easily. Riayn, my younger sister, was the next person to join us in our secret escapade to the kitchen. I believe it was her brilliant idea to stretch just minutes after waking up.

Fast-forward through many pulled muscles and bleeding gums and we find ourselves on a trek towards the community center of Desert Shores. Expectations were high, but the excessive heat almost pushed the swimmers past the point of submission. The feeling of relief was overwhelming once we arrived at the lagoon. Stepping on the molten hot sand was the last obstacle in the way of pure nirvana.

Laughs were had and bonds were created throughout the day. The first trip on the paddleboats proved to be lackluster due to lack of speed and enthusiasm. Hopping on Rob's boat only cemented my hatred for these putrid creations. Rob and I kept entertained by mercilessly ramming into other boats and discussing different battle strategies. Docking the boat proved to be easy and we sprinted back to the shade for some delicious chili-dogs and purple drink. Jesse and Morgan shared my appreciation for hood-talk and related to me when I ranted about my "PURBLEE DRANKK."

The second expedition on the paddleboats was much more fun due to the inclusion of my sister Justine, her man-friend Sean, and Jacqueline. After an hour of exploring, the acquisition of Melissa and Natalia only added to the hilarity and weight on the boat. Sean serenaded us with his own rendition of Lionel Richie's, "Hello."

Arriving at the previously mentioned shaded area, we were treated to cake and song dedicated to my cousin Chase. Celebrating his birthday provided a gentle and heart-warming ending to our day at the lagoon.

-Josh Pyne.