What a Year

Here we are, another year. Happy New Year 2019! I've had some time to reflect upon this past year of 2018 and recall what this year meant to me; the various experiences, blessings and challenging moments. I want to recall and reflect upon some of them here. 

Last year on New Years Day, I went to Starbucks with my mom and relaxed. I was enjoying a really good book called 'The Genesee Diary' and writing down some quotes from it. It's always exciting ringing in the new year whether that's something mire low key and relaxing or more exciting and invigorating.

I tried out some new recipes this year which is always inspiring to me. The key is having the motivation and energy to start it, the time and perseverance to go through with it and an empty stomach and people to enjoy it with. :)

Whoppie Pies!

Chicken and couscous soup

Autumn squash pizza

Pastel- meat pie

I got reading glasses this past year. Initially, I was hesitant since I thought glasses wouldn't look very good on me. But I've come to use them often and like them.

There were beautiful sights including the beach on the 4th of July, going to the Fair, seeing Vancouver and Victoria and pretty sunsets while on walks.

I wrote and designed a few cards to be sent to refugees and immigrants coming to the United States. Even if I never meet them, I think it's empowering to send a message of welcome and support.

There were some challenging and lonely times this year. Each season was full of graces and blessings, yet each felt so different and full of growth and new experiences. In the summer, one of the harder days that I remember brought me to take a picture so I could recall how I was feeling then when things would be different and better.

There were many, many beautiful moments this past year. Not all of them can be taken by a picture, some need to be experienced. I'm grateful for the laughs, and quality time with my dear sisters Susie and Elisabeth who I see frequently and am in touch with and blossoming in relationship with them. I was able to see St. Mary's a private Catholic College, and it's beautiful chapel and campus.

My sister Susie and I were able to spend more time together on weekends and think of fun things and activities to do together throughout the summer and year. One of my favorites was this local and beautiful hike that had an amazing view. I remember this day well.

My sister Elisabeth and her husband had their baby boy later in the year. It was very endearing, touching and full of joy meeting and holding him. I've been so blessed being able to get to know him and see him frequently. Not to mention becoming more comfortable with newborns:)

The end of the 2018 year has been a time of preparing for transitions, appreciating and grateful for all the times with family, and extended family, a lot of growth and learning, and lovely moments that consisted of solitude, busyness, deserts, and waiting.

I was able to visit the beautiful Carmel Mission and revel in the beauty, rich history and exquisite paintings and manger displays for the Christmas season. I now only want to learn more about this beautiful and deep history of the California missions as well as St. Junipero Serra.

Last but not least for my overview of the year includes growing closer to my Catholic faith, some of my favorite saints, Mother Mary, and learning and growing in devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. I only want to continue to increase in the Faith this new year, whatever it may bring! Cheers and blessings for 2019!!