Thursday, Jan. 2, 2014: HAPPY NEW YEAR!

>> started from the bottom, now we’re here

It’s crazy to look back at old photos — pictures that go all the way back to . . . a year ago. Astonishingly, it hasn’t been that long since our move to the new box; at this time last year, we were still training in a third of the size space with slanted floors and a very leaky roof.

One of the greatest parts about our community is that whether we’ve had a little or a lot, we’ve been thankful. It attests to the great character you have when approaching challenges, hardship or struggle. It’s not something to be avoided. Instead, you encounter it, walk through it, and come out stronger on the other side, being grateful for the lessons that can only be learned through the fire.

As we reflect on 2013, our hearts swell with affection, humility and deep appreciation. There are too many good memories to mention in one small post, but here are a handful of highlights of the year (listed in chronological order):

• Moving to our new location in February

• Coach Tam (an angel who lifts heavy things) walking through our doors in February

• A generous equipment donation from CrossFit CEO and founder Greg Glassman in March

• Getting to hang out with Camille Leblanc-Bazinet and husband Dave Lipson who trained with us for under a week in June

• Having adventures around the island with Andrea Ager in July

• Spending time with Camille and Dave at the CrossFit Games in July

• Our first weightlifting meet on Oahu in July

• Being rescued by CFUM friend and Imperial CrossFit owner Allen Velasco and family in August

• Hana Relays in September

• Gymnastics Certification in September

• Hawaii State Games in October

• Nightmare on Lower Main Street in October

• Strongman / Strongwoman in November

• Christmas party in December

We’re beyond thankful first for our coaches: Mary, Jason, Allison, Josh and Russ (even though he’s not an active coach, Russ, Helena and kids are still an important part of the family). We couldn’t have done any of this without you. And mahalo to Anders, Holley, Toby and Zack, who have helped with various gym operations

Thanks to Zack who has helped build our facility, and to people like Cory, Jason and Anders, who are quick to help with tables, chairs, tools, resources and skills

Mahalo to Renee for manning our Facebook page; thank God it’s updated regularly

Thanks to our original members who have stuck by our side since the start

And to each of our CFUM athletes — we know your names, we know your lifts, we know your injuries and challenges, we know your strengths, but most of all, we know what you’re capable of. You are the reason we get excited about each day. Thanks for continuing to show us what it looks like to be strong in mind, body and spirit. We like to think that we motivate you, but in reality, it’s the other way around. Mahalo for continuing to inspire us!

Get ready for an exciting new year!

>> SCHEDULE REMINDER: We will hold open gym during regularly scheduled hours: 8 to 10 a.m. and 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Due to recent holidays, we are adding a metcon to the mix, which will start promptly at 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. Come in and sweat it out!

010214 WOD

A. Open gym

B. Three rounds for time:

400-meter run

21 American kettlebell swings (53/35)

12 burpees