a year in review

Here it is, my final set of lists before the new year! With only 7 hours (and counting) to go, I wanted to put into words and pictures what this past year has been like and also include some of my hopes for 2010.

In 2009:

1. Lots of relatives (cousins/nieces/nephews from Chicago, the Philippines and London) who I haven’t seen in a while or ever came to visit this year. It was really nice being able to bond with them and to meet family I’ve talked to on the phone but never saw face-to-face.
2. Saw some great shows: “Guys & Dolls” and No Doubt’s comeback tour with Paramore
3. Atlantic City day trip with my family for John’s birthday
4. Two NYC trips with John and Jason at the beginning and end of summer which allowed me to explore the city in a way I rarely do.
5. Was asked to be a part of Susan’s wedding as a bridesmaid; which is also the first time a close friend of mine has gotten engaged.
6. Ocean City + Baltimore, Maryland summer vacation with theedorks
7. Halloween: Spa day with Mary Ann and then an unexpectedly nice birthday dinner for my uncle in Connecticut with the Domingo’s.
8. Low moments: getting my car towed in New York (which was a slight relief cause I initially thought my car was stolen), disintegration of a couple important relationships in my life, frustrations at the work place, health stuff.
9. Despite all of theedorks’ different and busy schedules, we all made the effort to find time: having our own valentine’s day date, driving to Tida’s in Long Island to make breakfast, lots of brunches/dinners, keeping up traditions like our holiday dinner, shopping and more.
10. My favorite long weekends and holidays of the year are Thanksgiving and Christmas. And neither disappointed! Love, love, loved seeing so much of my fam and friends.

For 2010:
Initially I was going to make another list but now that I’m thinking about it, I’ll just throw out some thoughts. More than anything, I want to experience and open myself up to more opportunities. More possibilities. And that extends to meeting new people, forming new relationships, maybe repairing old ones, furthering my career, maybe find that person. Who knows? I just want this upcoming year to be even better than the last. I want to be happy. I want to see my family and friends happy. Even though I always lament how quickly the previous year has come and gone, I enjoy the idea that a new year can also come with a fresh start.

So here’s to 2010 – happy new year everyone!