Build Up and Let Down

First and foremost, Happy New Year! 2008 is here... finally! Last year didn't seem so kind to me, even though I had been anticipating my 27th year on earth for what seemed like an eternity. Turned out -- things just weren't so great, at least half of things. On a positive note (that's what we should focus on anyway, right?) we did buy our first home. I can think of several negative notes, but I won't make myself relive those moments.

The holidays have come and gone. Above, you will see our party of four at Cafe Malaga. Michael, Janette, Sarah and I had dinner at one of the most quaint but delicious restaurants I've ever experienced. It was Sarah, Janette and my second visit there. It lived up to its bar-raising status this time, too.



We took to the cold streets to make our next stop at Landon Winery for a very enjoyable evening in one another's company, and then it was off to home to countdown to the new year with each other and Carson Daley.

I guess I'm just bummed everything is over now. The Christmas spirit really found my heart this year. Love and joy surrounded me this year with my wife, puppies, friends, and family. Our trip south was excellent and lived up to the warm-spirited time that makes Christmas with my family so special. Then, back home with Sarah's family, the holidays at home were just great. Michael came in for New Year's and it was great to spend some quality time with him. He's a true friend and brother.

Now what? I guess this year will be whatever we make it. We have some good times planned... and I've settled in to my environment here better. I guess as we get on the road to normalcy at the start of this new year, I have to look foward to the same life I've always enjoyed -- one with love, excitement, family, friends, a clean house, a life full of possibility, (maybe kids?!), and of course, beer. :)

First Fortunes

Before Mike left, we had lunch today at Pei Wei. Here are the very first fortunes of 2008:

Ryan: Emotions can be sweet and sour, so can your meal.

Sarah: Life is full of little decisions - like white or brown rice.

Janette: Keep true to the dreams of your youth.

Michael: Be assertive when decisive action is needed.

Here's to 2008, everyone.