Yes, we're one of those couples that send Christmas letters, partly out of a genuine desire to let friends and family know what's been going on, but also as an apology for not staying in better touch for the year (AGAIN)!
To Wonderful Family and Friends: Since last we wrote, obviously, with many new experiences yet some things really don’t change like being so busy at work! We hope all is well with you and your families. We miss getting to spend time with many of you, but you are in our hearts and prayers.
End of 2008 was memorable; my grandmother arrived and we were so fortunate to have her (Lola Louisa) here in Australia for few months.
In 2009, we saw the world go to economic meltdown and indeed, it has been a wild ride. We are joyful for the happy times and we will surely remember the sad times; and treasure the memories of both.
We have had a few challenges in the family. The passing of Sherwin’s grandmother (Nanay Rosie) last March allowed her to be free of pain and at peace, without more worry or suffering. However, it created a large void for the family and she is missed very much. Then, 6 months after, the unpredictable damage that the tropical typhoon
“Ondoy” brought to family and friends in the Philippines was destructive and affects some. Once again, our hearts go out to so many others who have been affected. Some says bad news comes in threes and hopefully this is the last. Just recently, Sherwin’s grandfather (“Tatay Nano”) had a major accident and he was hospitalized for almost 3 weeks. He needs one on one care since then. We hope and pray he will recover soon. He is strong and fit at his age and we believe he will surpass what he is going through right now.
On the happy note, during the first quarter of the year, we’ve finally accomplished our long overdue project for our humble abode - a “small” renovation in our kitchen. We are both (extremely) satisfied with the outcome.
Due to some major spending early this year, we thought an overseas travel for our birthdays was close to impossible. Lucky enough, a good airfare deal was advertised (almost like a buy one take one), thus, even unplanned, we managed to have a great time on our two weeks holiday in the Philippines. The trip back home last end of May kept us in touch (a quick one) with some family and long-time friends. Overall, they are healthy and happy. The vacation was exhilarating! There was so much to learn and experience especially for Sherwin who had a glimpse of Philippine history while on tour. We did the usual sightseeing / touristy stuffs in Puerto Princesa (Palawan), Cebu, Bohol and Ilocos (Vigan-Laoag-Batac-Paoay-Pagudpud). We will definitely return without hesitation (next time is just to relax and enjoy the beaches). Unfortunately, it was a short visit, but we are grateful to spend time with very special people.
After few consecutive year of trips to Snowy Mountain, we skipped this year (yeah, no skiing!) but glad for different interstate adventure. We travelled to Melbourne and watched the
MotoGP last October. Before we went back home, we grabbed the opportunity to see penguins (must see while in Phillip Island) and also visited a friend and her children. It was a quick long weekend getaway but it’s worth it.
A few occasional travels around New South Wales were terrific because the moments were shared with friends who visited us from overseas. Time was very limited but we enjoyed all the time we have spent with them. Hopefully, they will come back so we could show more other beautiful place outside Sydney.
On some other personal note, the wonderful journeys in successful fund-raising activities were overwhelming. We both strive hard, continuously support (as much as we can) various organizations that believes so strongly in making a difference; not only by giving out monetary donations but also putting effort/getting involve on saving our health and our planet. We are ever grateful for friends who believe the same by helping us to help these charity organizations. Once again, from our heart, our sincere thank you for your support and let’s continue to do so if we can. “Give until it hurts”.
And yes, my new found “hobby” kept my life a bit interesting. I’ve been recently hooked to baking typical Filipino breads (but I’ve been baking cakes already before). I do not know how far will I do it but the main thing (as always) is I am enjoying it. Also, I was so delighted to have grown few (about 10) jade plants beautifully in a pot this year that I just trimmed from the existing plant that I have. It takes hard work but I am fulfilled when I saw them healthy and growing.
We were truly happy that we have also reconnected with old friends (back in the Philippines from primary, university, etc) and immediate families who are now residing overseas. We have lost in contact at all and some of us have not communicated for many years. We’ve missed out many things yet there is now a great opportunity to catch up for the time we’ve lost. The art of technology is indeed amazing and we love it!
The festive season is here again and after a challenging year, we certainly deserve to let our hair down and have a good time. We look forward for the exciting year and let’s do our best to make 2010 a great and rewarding year.
Merry Christmas and have a joyous blessed coming year.
Love,
Sherwin and Leng
