April 12, 2019 – Lake Tahoe, California

“I know a place where I want to go
Could you just stay by my side
It’ll be alright”

I can’t believe it’s over already. Before leaving Tahoe, I promised myself that I would drive around the lake and take pictures. This is remarkable. I enter a state of trance; enveloped in music, recent events circulate around my mind like the blood flowing through it.

“I want to go, I want to fly
I want to take myself to a new sky
I want to live, I want to die
I want to thank myself for getting out”

I’m solving puzzles alongside Camila and others in my first escape room. Not only is she bright, but her spirit energizes mine. Two weeks later, I’m in another room with Melissa and Andrew. She loves games; her playfulness and radiant joy uplift those that surround her.

“Take me to another place
Take me to another place”

I’m watching Andrew sing karaoke at Classic Cue with Melissa and Andrew’s brother, Ethyn. He belts out the lyrics to “45” by Shinedown. Soon after, Melissa and Ethyn tag team Beyonce’s “Single Ladies.” These people have been a blessing to me in many ways, but I am most grateful for their friendship. Of the friends I’ve made at resorts over the years, Melissa has proven to be the most genuine and true. She will be greatly missed.

“I know a place that I want to fly
Could you just open your eyes
And free your mind
I want to face what I haven’t tried”

I’m saying goodbye to Camila for the last time after a fantastic night downtown with our friends. I hug her lovingly as I wish we were all back at the hotel watching live music or having deep conversation at the bar. Work won’t be the same without her presence, her smile. She walks to the cab and I hold back my emotions, envisioning a trip to Argentina to visit her when I can.

“I want to go, I want to fly
I want to take myself to a new sky
I want to live, I want to die
I want to thank myself for getting out”

I’m sitting in a hot tub with my cousin Kelsey; she has returned to Tahoe for the weekend to celebrate her friend’s 30th. Appropriately, a mansion was rented for the weekend to accommodate the large group. We indulge in games, food, drinks, and socialization. This year has brought us even closer together.

I’m at my boss’ house, celebrating the end of the season with those of us that are left. I offer a gift to Chef Phil, who has proven to be an invaluable resource and friend to me over the season. We proceed to let loose and have a blast. I leave in the morning, wishing the best to my friends, and saying goodbye to Tahoe with high spirits and a thirst for what’s to come.

“Take me to another place
Take me to another place”

Rufus Du Sol – New Sky