It Came & Went

This year has definitely had its ups and downs. I turned 25. I’m about to graduate college. I’m going be an uncle to a new child. I traveled. I was forced to quit my job. I met a friend for the first time. I lost a loved one. I’m still in love. It’s never a normal year…and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

It started with me missing Arnell’s 27th birthday party because of the Year 1 Confirmation retreat. No worries. It’s commonplace. I hate having to miss it EVERY year. However, I did start the year with a successful retreat. Upon coming home, I surprised him with a limousine to the closing night of The Lion King. Beb, never say that I can’t surprise you. You’ll never know what’s up my sleeve and in my wallet. Ha.

Unfortunately, Lolo Ben passed away not too long after that. I have never seen my cousins so sad before. I was sad to him go too. I’ve never met anyone who was so proud to be a grandfather. He will always dance in our hearts.

With every low, a high must follow to balance us. Two of my best friends FINALLY said “I do.” Randy and Patricia honored me by asking me to design for their wedding. I have never been so inspired to design. A trip to Cabo San Lucas soon followed. The trip allowed me to grow closer to friends and we all learned to avoid the “Herbies.” I had the munchies for the first time and I suppose it will be the last. I’ll never forget the fireworks at night…nor will I forget the fireworks between Tanya and I. ha. I also learned that Burger King doesn’t carry Horchata. I went snorkeling for the first time. I experienced so much. Cabo will definitely be trip I will never forget.

Another wedding happened just weeks after Cabo. This time, I flew out to Maui. Riva and Kuya Brian had a picturesque wedding. Though that trip was shortlived, I met an old friend for the first time. Seeing Rodel’s success inspired me to get a move on with life. His talent was so apparent and it’s obvious why he was so in demand. I had to do a little damage control at the rehearsal dinner, but I suppose that’s what family is for. God has a plan that’s bigger than us…rather than fighting it. I went with it. Being in the middle isn’t such a hot place to be.

July brought about a little fun too. I got to be in the audience pool of “So You Think You Can Dance?” I was able to meet some celebs and got to go backstage too.

I finally got to leave Pumpkin Patch after 2 years. I suppose we agreed to disagree and I still think that it sucks to be the only manager not to have a nice send off. It’s good to know that I was able to make an impact in the store and in the company. Fuck it. I’m glad I’m gone from that place. No one deserves an aloof and uncaring boss. With that, I left for Vegas.

I know that I will not be meeting my boyfriend’s parents anytime soon. However, meeting and getting to know the rest of his family was something I really wanted. I never thought that his relatives (and their dog) would love me so much. His cousins were thrilled to have me over since I fixed a lot of techie stuff around the house. I was glad to do it. Maybe one day, I will fully be part of his family, but for now, I’m happy that I got to meet and fit in with part of his family.

During that trip, I had 2 companies fight for me. Lucky Brand and Coach were willing to employ me, and after some offers, Coach won me over. I ended the year by showering many loved ones with Coach gifts. I have to say that the hard, stressful work REALLY paid off. Now, I’m giving myself a big pat on the back with Coach products. Hey, I deserve it.

2007 is ending with 2 expectant mothers, a cousin and best friend moving away, and a drive to graduate.

I have learned a lot this past year. I have my health, my family and my lover. After a journey like 2007, I could not ask for anything more.

Here’s to an awesome 2008.