The Year That Was

Happy New Year to all!!!

While the rest of the world remember the year 2008--from the most spectacular Olympics ever to the collapse of the real estate and the world financial system to the beacon of hope brought about by the election of a new American president, Charles and I also came to ponder upon how the year went for ourselves.

I remember a lot about 2008, but if I have to narrow them down into 10 highlights, they are as follows:

1) We had one of our most memorable vacations--in Cebu and Bohol. Charles' family from Hongkong joined us for the first time and it was also then that we said our farewell and sent our well-wishes to our friend Chichi, who was leaving the company and the country.

2) I visited Europe for the first time. Although it was a work-related trip and Charles wasn't with me, I did get a chance to see the landmarks of London. I dream of going back there and visiting the other European cities as well.

3) I miscarried. We had our first chance to have a baby and I lost it. It was both physically and emotionally agonizing.

4) We lost on investments. The financial crisis not only affected the big guns, but also small-time investors like us who put our small savings on real estate and stock investments hoping to make a little bit more money. Some of the losses we may no longer recoup.

5) My sister gave birth to our first nephew. He brought joy not only to my sister and her husband but also to the entire family!

6) My boss and mentor for the last seven years, whom I have regarded with the highest respect has left our company. I fear that I may not get another chance to work with him or somebody like him again.

7) We made Minnesota a second home. Why Minnesota? Because my new boss is out there and so I go there almost every month. We took advantage of the real estate meltdown by getting a house there for a lower-than-market price. We are currently renting it out and the income is at least helping cut our investment losses.

8) I got a new hobby! I guess most of those who have access to this blog know how I got into blogging. I am enjoying it so far and I am hoping--really hoping that I won't tire out of it.

9) My entire family joined us for Christmas. After ten long years of not spending Christmas together, we finally did it this year! This made our holidays extra special.

And finally...

10) We are expecting our first baby! After a terrible miscarriage, I have mixed emotions about this pregnancy. We are very happy of course, but we also have some fear and anxiety that it might turn out just like the first one. But so far, everything is fine and we are hoping this goes really well.

Just like most people, we did have our share of triumphs and failures in 2008, but looking back I think that I would consider 'the year that was' a quite remarkable one!

So how do you best remember 2008?

***This photo was taken last summer in Disneyland. It didn't turn out as sharp as I want. I find fireworks very challenging.***