We do not remember our lives in days, but rather, in moments. Though I was only in the bay for 5 short days, many memorable moments are ingrained in my head, and I thought I could take this time and space to share them with you.
1. I pulled off the best surprise visit in history. I admit, my mom was a bit suspicious because of the Southwest charge on my credit cart bill, but I covered up pretty well. =) My parents were shocked beyond words (the looks on their faces were priceless) though the first phrase that came out of my mom's mouth was, "I'm never going to trust you again!" I wasn't prepared for my sister's reaction of joy and tears, but I have to say that I am genuinely touched by it, and I'm glad I went home for her graduation.
2. Seeing Well, Demond, and Phil all in one day was one of the best moments of my visit. With each of them, I share a special bond, and to be able to hang out with them individually was a blessing in itself. Wellington's realization that I was not his same Jenny-Poo who left the bay months ago (because independence builds character) was classic after I rolled my eyes at his claim that his middle initial stood for "wonderful." Having Demond introduce me as an honor to have sit in on his lecture was in and of itself flattering. And Phil--meeting his wonderful and hilarious parents was an amazing experience. All I will say is that nothing has changed after 8 months of not seeing them. They're still my guys, and I can't wait until D visits.
3. My sister's graduation - having Jackie call me over and over again asking me where I was because she didn't want me to miss her walk across the stage once again reinforces how much our relationship has changed throughout the years. Seeing her diploma handed to her was one of the proudest moments in my life because it was a milestone in her life, and I was there to witness it. It also didn't hurt that she was so happy to have her friends and family celebrate her day with her. Kudos to everyone for making this day special. I love you, Jackie, and I think we're in a good place now. Considering the fact that we fought every day growing up for everything from mom and dad's attention to our "side" of the bed, we've come a long way. I know that my opinion matters to you, and just know that regardless of what happens, you'll always have my confidence and support. I'm SO glad you'll be in the bay for the summer so that I can hear your voice every day instead of keeping in touch via email and myspace.
4. After a long and trying day, going for a run and coming across one of the most beautiful and peaceful sunsets I've ever seen made my night. Land's End is most definitely the place to be (aside from Mt. Tamalpais) during the sunset...nothing beats the gorgeous sun setting to the west, looking directly at Mt. Tam to the north, the GG bridge to my east, and then just looking down at the boats and ships sailing across the Pacific. It's enough to mend any crappy day. And then the stars after my run--I don't remember the last time when I saw so many stars in the sky. The stars and moon have always comforted me, even when I was a kid, because they reminded me of how regardless of where I am, we're all gazing upon the same sky, the same moon, and the same stars.
5. Hanging out with my girls after 6 months of not seeing each other...Clare and J9ners are just that cool. We can do nothing but sit and talk and still have a good time. That night, I was reminded of the time the 3 of us were in LA, going to Disneyland, and watching V. Mars...those were the days.
6. Going back to visit my old coworkers and seeing one of my best friends, Leslie, even though it was only for 5 minutes, was pretty cool. I had some great times on the 4th floor of the Gerbode building, and seeing Mareo, Kimi, Nata, and Eric right before my flight was a pretty sweet treat.
Now that I'm done with that, I just wanted to update all of you on my everyday life in Houston and also my Baking for the People project.
I've started apps already, and I will eventually (very soon) write my personal statement. I think I've known what I wanted to write all along, but I'm too afraid to actually sit down and write it because the sooner I'm done, the sooner my app will become official, and the sooner I will find out about my future. It's been such a trying year that I'm not prepared to face the possible outcomes. I guess I'm scared, and with you guys not being here, I'm even more afraid, but independence builds character, right? Who knows, there's always a chance that I'll get in, right? For now, I just have to keep telling myself that everything happens for a reason, and in end, everything's gonna be alright.
Work is the same--it's work. I'm still having fun, and I feel that I'm getting more comfortable with my job and position as an ICP. I'm slowly learning how to stand up for myself, but I am no longer as terrorized with having to speak to big groups of people. I also really enjoy making my rounds with Felix, Amy, and Deniece. They're a really cool bunch.
Baking for the People is great. Thanks to all who have ordered and donated to my cause - J9ners, Analisa, Daphne, and Aunt Maggie. Tanya, I promise to email you back. I have cookies for you...=) I have money in the pot right now, and I really just need to get my act together to raise more money and hook up with a women's or homeless shelter. When I get to it, I will let you guys know. Besides that though, I baked up a storm the few weeks before I went home, especially when Clare was here. It was like constant baking for 5 nights in a row. Crazy insane, dudes.
Going home last week supports how much I already know that I have one of the best and strongest support systems ever, both in my friends and family. I really miss you guys, but I think I do need to be here too because I need to find my own way. I am too free-spirited to stay in my comfort zone. I will always be out there, wandering and looking for happiness.
Until next time, I wish you all the best. Take care, and I'll see all of you guys the next time I'm in town!!!
J
