Yesterday, I had the opportunity to lead a workshop for a special group of Joy Ambassadors at Trimet, public agency that operates mass transit in a region that spans most of the Portland metropolitan area in the U.S. state of Oregon.

A couple of months ago, I was invited to do a presentation on Joyful Leadership where leaders of the organization learned the concepts of "The Game of Joy" and how to use them to elevate personal well-being and deepen connections at home and work.

Yesterday, we got a chance to roll up our sleeves and experience these fun Joy Games and apply joyful strategies to navigate challenges, overwhelm, stress, self-doubt, burnout, and deepen team trust and connections.

So grateful for this opportunity to empower these Joy Ambassadors and Leaders to inspire joy throughout their organizations and communities. Thank you, Shelley, Adriana, and Darcie and the team at Trimet for such a special session together.

You are making an impact every day with the joy you create and share! ...

It`s hard to believe that exactly 2 years and 14 days ago, I first set foot into the Pure Barre studio in Sugar Land. I had just moved back to Houston to help take care of my parents.

I remember being a little nervous walking through the studio doors that first time. I didn`t know a single person and of course, I was the only guy in the entire class. I got there early and found a nice corner in the back.

I had no idea that within such a short period of time that I would find an incredible community of positive, supportive, caring, inspiring new friends that shared a passion and commitment to personal growth and fitness.

Have you ever done something so challenging that you knew it was because of those around you that help you get through it and take yourself to the level?

I never knew that I could complete 32 barre classes in 24 days for the Fall Fit Challenge recovering from a foot injury.

I never knew I could finish 20 classes in 11 days and then continue to complete a total of 40 classes in 30 days for the Barre Stronger Challenge.

I never knew I would consistently complete at least 15 classes a month for 12 months in the Platinum Barre Challenge.

I never knew I would eventually teach 265 Pure Barre classes in the just a year.

I never knew that I would take 519 classes in just over 3 years.

What I did know is that I could not have done ANY of this without my fellow classmates, teachers, and community. You have been the wind beneath my wings.

This week, my heart felt like it was in peaces. After each of my 4 classes, I shared that I was going to be moving to Austin and that was my last day teaching.

Saying goodbye can be so hard, yet the strength to do so came for the deep gratitude I felt for the opportunity to be a part of this special family and to share and experience joy together.

I will miss you all so much Pure Barre Sugar Land! You have shared with me such a gift I will forever treasure! Thank you! 🙏❤ ...

4 weeks ago, I went for a little road trip...

through 12 states, 11 cities and 4,800 miles.

For 30 days I slept in 11 different beds, reconnected with friends, met new friends, savored local cuisine, explored new sites, listened to lots of books and podcasts, did some research, reflected, and tried new experiences.

But what was most memorable, meaningful, and joyful was the opportunity to share a deep connection with people.

An 80-year-old Harvard study showed that the one factors that determines the joy and happiness our lives are the connections we share.

I`m so grateful for all these special moments we all shared together! There were times when we were so present together I forgot to take a photo together (Gary, Mark, Rachel, Zee, Steven)

All of you made these last 4 weeks feel like 4 months of life. ...

What`s your favorite style of barbecue?

Texas? Memphis? Carolina? Kansas City?

Each has a unique approach and taste.

On my way to Oklahoma, I got a chance to stop by the popular award-winning Slap`s BBQ in Kansas City. I had an order of their tasty ribs and famous burnt ends along with some mac and cheese, and coleslaw. It was finger licking good!

I`ve tried many styles of bbq and the common thing I`ve noticed about the best ones is that they aew made with passion, love, and the joy they bring to their customers. ...

Apparently, not everything is bigger in Texas. I was quite blown away by the size of the Mall of America last week in Minneapolis.

A rollercoaster inside the mall? Really?

I rarely visit malls, but I have to admit it was joyful to wander around this place and explore. ...