The New Year

2007 has come and gone quickly, as usual. It's been a year that I can sum up, however, with many learning moments on career choices, academics, parenthood and love -- all of which I hope to build on in the new year.

In 2007 Anna started pre-school, visited the Philippines for the first time and is growing into a loving, affectionate and clever (albeit very feisty) toddler. Her dream in 2008 is to begin pursuing her dream to be a 'ballereeeeeeeena.'

We have cherished the opportunity this year has given us to be near family; Anna has grown to adore her Tito, Tita and Lolo among many others including my close friends here in Ann Arbor and afar. I continue to be thankful for the loving community of people that surround us - a community, without which, I am sure life would be less enjoyable and definitely, more difficult.

I started running again in 2007 - I ran in a few 5Ks, ran the Ann Arbor Dexter 10K for the first time, and then of course, the Virginia Beach Half Marathon. The fall term, and other issues interfered with the consistency my training, but I'm learning to be ok with these dry spells. Such is life, and there is nothing stopping me from picking up and running again.

Now, of course, after the holidays I've got a little extra junk in my trunk but do not regret for one second, the 2.5 week vacation / lazy-ing around with Anna and eating YUMMY food, catching up on movies missed and a few nights out with my brother and old friends as a reward (as well as a much needed recuperation) from a difficult fall season.

I have much to look forward to in 2008. I'm going to diligently plan vacations, start a very exciting career in the private sector (whoooaaaa), run a few more races and spend more time with family and friends. I am most thankful for Anna of course, and the love that continues to grow exponentially, just when I think I couldn't love her any more.

Happy New Year to all!!