liveˈliv:v; to have a life rich in experience

My cousin and nephew

from the same womb at different times

Currently, I am sitting in the living room, as my mom is in the kitchen preparing dinner.  How lucky am I?! Never in a million years would I have thought my mom would visit me here in Brisbane, and see how I’ve been living, so it’s pretty cool.  I still can’t believe she is here.  We arrived on Sunday evening after a 10.5 hr delay with our flights. Thought I’d take this time to reflect on my trip home, since I did not have any down time to blog.  I found myself describe the whole trip as a whirlwind of activities.  I did not get to see or spend time with all the people I wanted to see, it was difficult to match up times, and be accommodating towards friends with a tight schedule, and also when I did not have a car everyday. I left Brisbane and arrived at LAX on Friday 8/8, and was greeted by my friend Krystal.  It was so sweet for her to pick me up, and we got to catch up on the way down to Westminster.  We had lunch at Brodard’s and had a delicious meal- and I had my nem nuong fix. That day I hung out with Lilly and my nephew, Minh.  We drove to Val’s house to pick her and Chloe up to go to South Coast Plaza.  Afterwards, Lilly dropped me off to pick up the car from Thay’s house so that I have one to drive for the next few days. Friday, I hung out with my mom and we went shopping in Costa Mesa, and then I went home to get ready for my cousin’s wedding/reception.  It was so great getting to see most of my rellies at the same time. Saturday was Minh’s 2nd birthday party celebration -and the theme was Mickey Mouse.   Mom and I spent the morning running around getting stuff to prepare for the party.   There was a good turn out and the weather, of course was great.   10 July 2014: I started this post…but never completed.  I can’t remember that far back.  But I will post this anyway.

December is my favorite month. It is a magical month filled with much merriment.

It was the month I decided to make my trip back home to California to spend the holidays catching up with my family and friends.

It is THE month to go to Disneyland to experience the winter wonderland…under the sun.

To be home also meant that I can eat all that my heart and stomach desired; all the food that I had been craving for when I was living in Brisbane.

December was the month I first met my new angelic nephew who stole my heart.

It was a whirlwind trip that included a 4 day weekend in Washington (which included a day trip to Vancouver), a breezy night in Santa Barbara, and a quick two days visit in Vegas.

Looking back, I know I am the lucky one. I am grateful for my family, and my lasting friendships that endure life’s many changes, for the love that remains the same.

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