My friend, Matt and his wife are now parents of an adorable baby girl named Delaney Belle Miller. I just got back from the hospital visiting them. Both mom and the baby are doing wonderful. The baby was due on December 21st, but was delivered via C-section yesterday at 5:17PM. Matt called me and he was definitely excited yet extremely tired at the same time. They've not gotten any sleep the past couple of days. The grandparents will be visiting over the weekend so I told them that I'll come by the house sometime next week. I can't believe Matt is now a dad. Matt and I have known each other since my undergraduate years at Drake and we had a lot of fun hanging out at church and just being undergraduates. Now, he's a parent. How exciting!
Today was the first day the agency was open after closing for the Christmas break. I went to five out of our eight counties that we serve to deliver brochures and I got a nice taste of Iowa not seen before. Normally, when I drive across Iowa, it's always on freeways. This time, I took small highways and it showed me a side of Iowa that is truly gorgeous. Heck, I even drove across a lake on a mile-long bridge! Trust me, that's a big deal since I've always thought that Iowa was a flat and "dry" state. That's not the case. There were a number of rolling hills that were really neat to see. It's only taken me nine years to come to this realization, but it's better late than never!
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
Monday, December 25, 2006
Merry Christmas!
A merry Christmas to all! Actually, there's not that many hours left to you wish you Merry Christmas, but it's better than nothing. Yes, I did make it to the steak restaurant for an amazing steak dinner. John and his brother joined me. The three of us had a lot of fun. There's nothing like a good meal with nice company.
This morning, the day started kind of early (8:30AM) because I was volunteering to have food prepped and ready to be delivered. Prior years, the DM Marriott would prepare home delivered meals to be delivered by volunteers to some of the area home bound older adults. This year however, the Marriott was not able to prepare the food because they are in the midst of a major renovation. We were a little concerned because we had no idea where we were going to get the meal prepared. Kind of as a last resort, the Central Iowa Shelter came through for us. What disappointed me was that the for-profit places/agencies/companies would not even entertain us. Talk about Christmas spirit (or lack of it). Anyway, the Central Iowa Shelter would prepare the turkey, mash potato and grave, and we had volunteers cut pies, bag bread, butter, milk etc. We had an assembly line going. There were close to twenty of us volunteering our time on Christmas morning and we all had a blast. That's the true Christmas spirit in my opinion. Volunteer delivery drivers started arriving as early as 10:15AM and thank goodness we had some of the food ready. All in all, we had close to 480 meals delivered to older adults who otherwise would not have a meal on Christmas day. We even got coverage on the local news and that's great for all involved to get the word out to people. I'm just thankful there are people who are willing to give of their time on Christmas day to make a difference in the lives of others. If not for all the volunteers there's no way we would have been able to get this done. Kudos to all!
After that was done, I was off to Joel and Kathy's house for a marvelous Christmas dinner. We had more than enough to eat and after dinner, we all sat around and chatted. It was a great way to end the day. That's really how Christmas was for me. How was your Christmas? I hope you had an excellent Christmas celebration!
This morning, the day started kind of early (8:30AM) because I was volunteering to have food prepped and ready to be delivered. Prior years, the DM Marriott would prepare home delivered meals to be delivered by volunteers to some of the area home bound older adults. This year however, the Marriott was not able to prepare the food because they are in the midst of a major renovation. We were a little concerned because we had no idea where we were going to get the meal prepared. Kind of as a last resort, the Central Iowa Shelter came through for us. What disappointed me was that the for-profit places/agencies/companies would not even entertain us. Talk about Christmas spirit (or lack of it). Anyway, the Central Iowa Shelter would prepare the turkey, mash potato and grave, and we had volunteers cut pies, bag bread, butter, milk etc. We had an assembly line going. There were close to twenty of us volunteering our time on Christmas morning and we all had a blast. That's the true Christmas spirit in my opinion. Volunteer delivery drivers started arriving as early as 10:15AM and thank goodness we had some of the food ready. All in all, we had close to 480 meals delivered to older adults who otherwise would not have a meal on Christmas day. We even got coverage on the local news and that's great for all involved to get the word out to people. I'm just thankful there are people who are willing to give of their time on Christmas day to make a difference in the lives of others. If not for all the volunteers there's no way we would have been able to get this done. Kudos to all!
After that was done, I was off to Joel and Kathy's house for a marvelous Christmas dinner. We had more than enough to eat and after dinner, we all sat around and chatted. It was a great way to end the day. That's really how Christmas was for me. How was your Christmas? I hope you had an excellent Christmas celebration!
Friday, December 22, 2006
Christmas party and Christmas vacation.
Our agency had our annual Christmas party today and looking back, we certainly had quite a lot of changes. Our staff more than doubled and we had two people leave. Change is not necessarily bad and I do believe that with the changes that's taking place, it's a good thing. At the end of the day, we are able to serve more older adults in our service area and that's a very good thing.
The office will be closed on Monday and Tuesday which means that we have a four day vacation. I really do not mind four day vacation, but it can get a tad too long. I'm sure I'm speaking as a minority here. For a lot of people, vacation gives them time to reconnect and spend time with family. My family is not here so Christmas is really spent with friends and that's great but I remember telling a number of people that Christmas is the time that I do miss my family the most because it was always such a big thing growing up in Malaysia. You would think after nine years of being here in the US, I would have gotten used to it. Guess not.
A number of years ago, I started a tradition of having a nice steak dinner (I love steak!) after Christmas Eve Mass and I'll be headed to Flemings Steakhouse (www.flemingssteakhouse.com) this year. I went there last year and was most impressed with the quality of its steak. John may be joining me if he does not go to his brother and sister-in-law's place. One way or another, I know I'll be having a magnificent dinner.
I'll write more about Christmas on Christmas day. I've gotta leave other stuff for me to write about!
The office will be closed on Monday and Tuesday which means that we have a four day vacation. I really do not mind four day vacation, but it can get a tad too long. I'm sure I'm speaking as a minority here. For a lot of people, vacation gives them time to reconnect and spend time with family. My family is not here so Christmas is really spent with friends and that's great but I remember telling a number of people that Christmas is the time that I do miss my family the most because it was always such a big thing growing up in Malaysia. You would think after nine years of being here in the US, I would have gotten used to it. Guess not.
A number of years ago, I started a tradition of having a nice steak dinner (I love steak!) after Christmas Eve Mass and I'll be headed to Flemings Steakhouse (www.flemingssteakhouse.com) this year. I went there last year and was most impressed with the quality of its steak. John may be joining me if he does not go to his brother and sister-in-law's place. One way or another, I know I'll be having a magnificent dinner.
I'll write more about Christmas on Christmas day. I've gotta leave other stuff for me to write about!
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
I wish some of the snow came here.
A dear priest friend of mine sent me the link below. It appeared on National Public Radio (NPR) on Monday and I was glad he sent it to me. There's much wisdom in what Richard Rohr said.
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=6631954
Yesterday evening, John, my dear priest friend and I went out for an amazing seafood dinner before going to the "Blenders" concert. They are a group of guys who hail from North Dakota and sing acapella. It seems they've been to DM a number of times but I've never been to their concert. They did a good job bringing some festive spirit at least to me. Overall, they sounded good - much better singing without any musical instruments.
Looks like it's snowing pretty hard in Colorado and I wish some of the snow would head this way. I guess that's not going to happen. I just love the snow (I blame my mom for planting that seed within me!), and it would be nice to have some snow on the ground if it's not going to snow on Christmas (looks like that's going to be the case this year. Bummer.)
The RCIA group met for the last time this semester and we watched the last two Vatican II videos. Although the video itself is a little old, the materials presented are still very much relevant even in this day and age.
Christmas is only a couple of days away and one of the best things about not having family around is that I don't have to worry about getting them presents. As long as I make the obligatory phone call wishing dad, mom and sis a Merry Christmas, it's all good. Can't get any simpler than that, right?!
That's about it from me for this evening. I'm really getting into typing on my blog which I guess is a good thing!
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=6631954
Yesterday evening, John, my dear priest friend and I went out for an amazing seafood dinner before going to the "Blenders" concert. They are a group of guys who hail from North Dakota and sing acapella. It seems they've been to DM a number of times but I've never been to their concert. They did a good job bringing some festive spirit at least to me. Overall, they sounded good - much better singing without any musical instruments.
Looks like it's snowing pretty hard in Colorado and I wish some of the snow would head this way. I guess that's not going to happen. I just love the snow (I blame my mom for planting that seed within me!), and it would be nice to have some snow on the ground if it's not going to snow on Christmas (looks like that's going to be the case this year. Bummer.)
The RCIA group met for the last time this semester and we watched the last two Vatican II videos. Although the video itself is a little old, the materials presented are still very much relevant even in this day and age.
Christmas is only a couple of days away and one of the best things about not having family around is that I don't have to worry about getting them presents. As long as I make the obligatory phone call wishing dad, mom and sis a Merry Christmas, it's all good. Can't get any simpler than that, right?!
That's about it from me for this evening. I'm really getting into typing on my blog which I guess is a good thing!
Monday, December 18, 2006
End of the year letter.
I wrote and sent this letter to family and friends. I might as well put it on my blog.
Believe it or not, it's that time of the year again when I send my end of the year e mail. Can you believe that it's almost the end of the year? Boy, time sure flies when you're having fun, doesn't it?
1) Boston/Chicago/Kansas City/ - Went for a weeklong Boston vacation in January. In many ways it was a classical concert vacation. Saw some amazing symphony performances that were out of this world. I also went to Chicago and Kansas City to meet up with dear friends in the fall. We had a great time catching up with one another.
2) Beyond College/Before Forty - I was invited to join a young adult faith formation group led by Joyce Rupp. Some of you may have heard her - she's a world renowned Catholic author and speaker based in DM. I've known Joyce for a number of years and this is the first time I get to participate in a group led by her. It's a fantastic experience.
3) Concerts/Musicals - Chris Botti/David Sanborn, Chanticleer, Ramsey Lewis, Lion King, Queen with Paul Rodgers, Aida, Rat Pack Live at Sands, Pirate Queen, Blue Man Group, Annie, Kenny Barron, Doubt. I made it a point this year to sign up for a number of classical music performances and musicals. I also made it to a number of concerts. Yes, I did see Queen live! Trust me, I can die a very happy death now!
4) New downtown apartment - I'm now living in downtown DM. I moved there on April 1st and am loving every minute of it. The size of my apartment is at least twice the size of my old apartment which means I have room for friends to spend the night. I walk pretty much everywhere I need to. The only thing lacking is a downtown grocery store, but I'm sure we'll have one in the future. The apartment is a perfect location too since I take the bus to work every day.
5) No longer coaching soccer - I decided against coaching soccer because in all honesty, I could not handle the kids. They weren't taking things seriously and I knew sooner or later I would lose it with them. So, before that happened, I quit. On the flip side, by not coaching soccer, I'm able to be the RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults) coordinator at my church. That has been a tremendous experience to walk and journey with people who will be welcomed into the Catholic Church over Easter.
6) Ordination - My major trip this year took me to two of my best friends' ordination in San Juan, Texas and Belleville, Illinois. If I had stayed on in seminary, I would have been ordained a priest in June. Needless to say, that did not happen, but I was honored to be invited to their ordination. It was a very moving experience and now they are priests. We met up again in the middle of October and both of them are doing very well in their ministry. I also visited a friend from Drake who lives in St. Louis. She's doing great.
7) Midterm elections - Growing up I was never interested in politics, but let's just say that I was very interested in the mid-term elections this year. I don't think anyone would have thought that the Democrats would take over the house and senate. That's amazing news for someone who can't vote, BUT if I could, I would vote Democrat. American politics like it or not affects me since I'm living and working here in the US. So for me not to be interested or at least not know what's going on would be irresponsible. I still have much to learn pertaining to politics but I'll get there with time.
8) Friend/friendship - I reconnected with a dear friend of mine from many years ago and the journey has been tremendous. It's always great when someone takes the time, and makes the effort to stay in touch. That means
so much to me because some friendships are worth the hurt and pain it may cause because at the end of the day, you know it's going to be bright sunny day!
I do hope all of you are doing well with your endeavors and I have to apologize for not staying in touch as often as I should. I'll definitely add it to my new year resolution for 2007. Yes, 2007, it's almost here. What are you looking forward to the most for the coming year? Are you closer to your dreams/aspirations? Are you taking steps to make your dreams/aspirations reality? If not, why aren't you? Just some food for thought as the year comes to an end. I wish you nothing but the very best for 2007 and don't be surprised if you receive random how are you? e mails from me over the course of 2007!
Believe it or not, it's that time of the year again when I send my end of the year e mail. Can you believe that it's almost the end of the year? Boy, time sure flies when you're having fun, doesn't it?
1) Boston/Chicago/Kansas City/ - Went for a weeklong Boston vacation in January. In many ways it was a classical concert vacation. Saw some amazing symphony performances that were out of this world. I also went to Chicago and Kansas City to meet up with dear friends in the fall. We had a great time catching up with one another.
2) Beyond College/Before Forty - I was invited to join a young adult faith formation group led by Joyce Rupp. Some of you may have heard her - she's a world renowned Catholic author and speaker based in DM. I've known Joyce for a number of years and this is the first time I get to participate in a group led by her. It's a fantastic experience.
3) Concerts/Musicals - Chris Botti/David Sanborn, Chanticleer, Ramsey Lewis, Lion King, Queen with Paul Rodgers, Aida, Rat Pack Live at Sands, Pirate Queen, Blue Man Group, Annie, Kenny Barron, Doubt. I made it a point this year to sign up for a number of classical music performances and musicals. I also made it to a number of concerts. Yes, I did see Queen live! Trust me, I can die a very happy death now!
4) New downtown apartment - I'm now living in downtown DM. I moved there on April 1st and am loving every minute of it. The size of my apartment is at least twice the size of my old apartment which means I have room for friends to spend the night. I walk pretty much everywhere I need to. The only thing lacking is a downtown grocery store, but I'm sure we'll have one in the future. The apartment is a perfect location too since I take the bus to work every day.
5) No longer coaching soccer - I decided against coaching soccer because in all honesty, I could not handle the kids. They weren't taking things seriously and I knew sooner or later I would lose it with them. So, before that happened, I quit. On the flip side, by not coaching soccer, I'm able to be the RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults) coordinator at my church. That has been a tremendous experience to walk and journey with people who will be welcomed into the Catholic Church over Easter.
6) Ordination - My major trip this year took me to two of my best friends' ordination in San Juan, Texas and Belleville, Illinois. If I had stayed on in seminary, I would have been ordained a priest in June. Needless to say, that did not happen, but I was honored to be invited to their ordination. It was a very moving experience and now they are priests. We met up again in the middle of October and both of them are doing very well in their ministry. I also visited a friend from Drake who lives in St. Louis. She's doing great.
7) Midterm elections - Growing up I was never interested in politics, but let's just say that I was very interested in the mid-term elections this year. I don't think anyone would have thought that the Democrats would take over the house and senate. That's amazing news for someone who can't vote, BUT if I could, I would vote Democrat. American politics like it or not affects me since I'm living and working here in the US. So for me not to be interested or at least not know what's going on would be irresponsible. I still have much to learn pertaining to politics but I'll get there with time.
8) Friend/friendship - I reconnected with a dear friend of mine from many years ago and the journey has been tremendous. It's always great when someone takes the time, and makes the effort to stay in touch. That means
so much to me because some friendships are worth the hurt and pain it may cause because at the end of the day, you know it's going to be bright sunny day!
I do hope all of you are doing well with your endeavors and I have to apologize for not staying in touch as often as I should. I'll definitely add it to my new year resolution for 2007. Yes, 2007, it's almost here. What are you looking forward to the most for the coming year? Are you closer to your dreams/aspirations? Are you taking steps to make your dreams/aspirations reality? If not, why aren't you? Just some food for thought as the year comes to an end. I wish you nothing but the very best for 2007 and don't be surprised if you receive random how are you? e mails from me over the course of 2007!
Sunday, December 17, 2006
Let's get this blog started.
Sunday, December 17th
One of my new year resolutions is to get a blog started. That way I can journal without having to write in a journal! It's not quite 2007 but it's close enough. It'll be interesting to see how long I can keep this up. Just got back from having dinner with my Religion Education (RE) students. They are a fun group to be with, and I know I'll miss them when I no longer teach RE at the end of spring 2007. The time off from teaching may just be temporary. We'll just have to see. The weekend was overall a low-key weekend. I had my first Christmas party for the season on Friday and it was a lot of fun. The next party will be the office Christmas party on Friday. It'll be nice to have all the staff especially the new one there.
One of my new year resolutions is to get a blog started. That way I can journal without having to write in a journal! It's not quite 2007 but it's close enough. It'll be interesting to see how long I can keep this up. Just got back from having dinner with my Religion Education (RE) students. They are a fun group to be with, and I know I'll miss them when I no longer teach RE at the end of spring 2007. The time off from teaching may just be temporary. We'll just have to see. The weekend was overall a low-key weekend. I had my first Christmas party for the season on Friday and it was a lot of fun. The next party will be the office Christmas party on Friday. It'll be nice to have all the staff especially the new one there.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
