Welcome 2009

While 2008 has brought about many positive changes, I am excitedly looking forward to the new year. Welcome, 2009!

Reminiscing on 2008, I am grateful for the many blessings:
I had my mom visit us from the Philippines and spend some wonderful time with us.
My daughter got her first paid writing gig. Congratulations, Ms. Author Sami Tayag!
We moved back home to San Dimas, a place I really love! Close to my really cool sis and niece.
I started the year working on three awesome contracts, worked ten months virtual training from home...and am now looking forward to even greater opportunities.
Reconnected with some really awesome friends.
The United States elected its first person-of-color President. GO-bama!
... among many other (too personal to mention) blessings.

While 2008 had its truly remarkable highlights, I am one with those who look to 2009 to bring in the big blessings and the awesome mojo to all of us.


My head isn't entirely in the sand to not realize that the economy has been a challenge to many individuals, families, and businesses. While I can be singing prosperity to all, I wish to retain sensitivity to realize that some may not be in that mind frame. It can be difficult to see that ray of hope for those who may have lost their homes, jobs, or life's savings.

I think of how Pastor Jim (Faith Community Church) always reminds us that though tragedy can strike in an instant, so too, can blessings strike just as swiftly. Just put yourself out there, so when the blessings strike, you are in sight and can get a good dose of it. I will be right there with you, getting soaked, when the mighty rain of God's love, provisions, and grace fall from the heavens. Let's get drenched together.

Now, isn't everybody excited about Obama taking on the presidency in a few days? The historical significance of this event is monumental. I am ecstatic to have this happen during my daughter's young adulthood. The inspiration and possibilities that it signifies are life changing. It shows that anybody, regardless of race, having a strange-sounding name, and background, has the opportunities to make a gigantic difference in this world.

So, tonight when the clock strikes 12:00, I will be seen and heard, with the traditional New Year's welcome shenanigans. Banging pots and pans to clean out 2008's residual energies; eating and drinking to start 2009 with celebration, wearing something with polka-dots signifying money, hugging and kissing whoever is close to share the joy, and thanking God for another year of many blessings.