Some friends say that 2011 wasn't a good year for them. For me, it was a mixture of the good and the bad. I may have expected too much of this year, and so I have resolved to just keep my expectations for 2012 in check. Still, I have a lot to thank for, and I choose to count my blessings, for they still trump the unpleasant things that have happened.
1. Our new home
Until now, I'm still thrilled over the fact that Francis and I have a place to call our own. This is such a big blessing for us. The holidays found us so busy fixing the house and decorating it for guests, and so far, we like what we've accomplished. Our small abode is still a work in progress, though, and we're taking our time to make it as cozy and Baguio-ish as we want it to be.
2. Baguio trip with mom
It was two (or was it three?) years in the making, but I was finally able to bring my mom to my favorite city last July. Unfortunately, my sister was not able to join us because of her work, but it has been a fun experience with mom and hubby. I was finally able to share with mom why I love Baguio so much, and based on the pictures (she became an overnight camwhore in Baguio, haha), she had a great time as well.
1. Our new home
Until now, I'm still thrilled over the fact that Francis and I have a place to call our own. This is such a big blessing for us. The holidays found us so busy fixing the house and decorating it for guests, and so far, we like what we've accomplished. Our small abode is still a work in progress, though, and we're taking our time to make it as cozy and Baguio-ish as we want it to be.
2. Baguio trip with mom
It was two (or was it three?) years in the making, but I was finally able to bring my mom to my favorite city last July. Unfortunately, my sister was not able to join us because of her work, but it has been a fun experience with mom and hubby. I was finally able to share with mom why I love Baguio so much, and based on the pictures (she became an overnight camwhore in Baguio, haha), she had a great time as well.
Mom looking out Vocas' window
3. My first out-of-the-country trip
An opportunity to travel out-of-the-country presented itself when Francis was assigned to Vietnam for almost two weeks last August. Though we've planned to really fly out of the country on the latter part of the year, Vietnam was hard to pass up. So we took a peek at our finances and decided that it won't hurt if I follow him in Ho Chi Minh. It was a fantastic trip, what with all that rich history, delicious food and to-die-for coffee!
An opportunity to travel out-of-the-country presented itself when Francis was assigned to Vietnam for almost two weeks last August. Though we've planned to really fly out of the country on the latter part of the year, Vietnam was hard to pass up. So we took a peek at our finances and decided that it won't hurt if I follow him in Ho Chi Minh. It was a fantastic trip, what with all that rich history, delicious food and to-die-for coffee!
Taking in and documenting the flurry that is Saigon
4. Ovarian scare no more
Had a little health problem that involved a functional ovarian cyst. Thank the Lord it was nothing serious and it resolved itself a few months after, so there was no need for another invasive surgery. It was such a relief to hear the good news from my OB, considering what I've gone through last year with my ectopic pregnancy. (Speaking of which, that ugly feeling still crops up whenever someone I know gets pregnant, but I hope this year will continue to heal me so that I can finally rid myself of that ugly, nasty feeling.) It was another scary health issue, but the Lord answered our prayers; had it continued swelling, I would have gone under the knife again. But after two weeks of observation, a miracle happened and that swelling went kapoof!
5. Real Living's 101 Great Condo Ideas and Makeovers
I've worked so hard on this project, which was assigned to me by RL's EIC, and I have nothing but thanks for the oppotunity. Working on the book kept me sane from all the stress that my day job brought. What made this endeavor more fun and fulfilling to do is the fact that the team I've worked with is such a nice bunch of people. This book definitely made my year.
This is still available in all leading bookstores,
so go get a copy for only Php120!
6. First holiday in a new nest
Like I have mentioned, this holiday season is extra special because it's the first one we've spent in our new home. Despite the chaotic schedule of cooking, cleaning, organizing and entertaining, this season is one of the best yet!
Our humble abode
So when you think this year didn't really make it to your best list, count the blessings--big or small--and things will take on a new perspective.
Happy New Year, dear friends! I pray for an abundance of blessings for the coming year!
Happy New Year, dear friends! I pray for an abundance of blessings for the coming year!
