Thoughts from Cindy

I've attempted writing a blog entry a couple of times, but had a hard time figuring out what to write. I went on a walk this evening and enjoyed the bright pink clouds as the sun was setting, and I kept thinking about how much I wish Samson were still here. So, I just wanted to write down a few things I was thinking about.

I remember the first time I met Samson. It must have been the winter break of 1996 or 1997. He came up to SJ to visit my sister Tracy while they were in college. I remember wondering to myself, "who is this guy!?". He had that big floppy hair still! :) I got to know Samson over years of Thanksgivings, Christmases, summers, various celebrations, and just hanging out. We both were at UCLA at the same time and even hung out from time to time when Tracy wasn't around (I was in undergrad and he was in dental school). I learned that Samson was smart, friendly, generous-spirited, enthusiastic and fun.

The funniest thing I remember about Samson was this time that I had this cool diskette case that I bought at a office supply store. He said that he really needed one and he asked if I would give it to him. It was the year that the Dixie Chicks came out with the CD with the hit "Ready to Run" and I happened to have it playing in the background. I told him, "if you learn the words to this song and sing it, you can have it." Samson, being so determined, did it! He actually sang the Dixie Chicks. It was hilarious. He was such a good sport and made me laugh so hard. He didn't care about how obnoxious I was being, he just wanted me to have a good laugh. I'm laughing and crying at the same time just thinking about it right now.

Another favorite memory of Samson is the time we went to Bryce Canyon together. It was just me, Tracy and Samson. We met in Vegas and drove to Bryce Utah together. We hiked, rode horses, and took pictures in front of every vista point sign. Bryce Canyon is one of the most beautiful places I've ever been. There are beautiful red rock formations and canyons. Samson and I had the same point and shoot Canon camera, and he suggested, "Let's have a photo contest! At the end of the trip Tracy can judge who took the best photo at Bryce!" I experienced Samson's competitive side and it was so fun. We had a great time enjoying the scenery and snagging photo opportunities from each other. We each literally took hundreds of (the same) photos. Perhaps this is why I think Bryce is one of the best places to visit. We had a wonderful time.

I think about Samson many times a day. I can't help but miss him and I often wonder where he is now and what he's doing.

That's it for now.