My iPhone 4S Bakes Cookies

So today is the day that I move up in the world. I’ve been very happy with my 3GS over the last few years, but I decided before the holidays that it was time I upgrade to the 4S just because. Yay, it’s finally here! Technology and me do not always mix so well, but so far so good. It’s sitting on my desk restoring from an iCloud backup, or doing whatever iPhones do.

Apparently, so I’ve heard, the 4S is quite a step forward from the archaic 3GS. There was much buzz and hoopla over its release, so I’m expecting big tings from this phone. In fact, I expect it to revolutionize my life. Beyond the usual syncing of my calendar, ability to check e-mails from anywhere, and iMessaging people near and far, my hope is that my new phone will also:
– Transform into things like a canvas bag when I need one at the grocery store.
– Teleport me places because it would just be so much easier.
– Manipulate time somehow… you know, like stop it.
– Randomly talk to me about the meaning of life, and not in the ‘Ask Siri’ sort of way.
– Clean the bathroom. I don’t like doing that, so there must be an app for it.
– Bake me cookies for those rare occasions when I crave them.
Anything less will disappoint.

The Year of… 2012

So here we are. Another year has somehow managed to fly by. Each year, my siblings, cousin and I try to come up with goals for the upcoming year. Not so much resolutions, which oftentimes are forgotten within the first few weeks, but more of a reflection on the past year and what we think the New Year will bring. How do I want to approach the next 365 days? 
2011 was all about embracing the phrase: “Yesterday is History, Tomorrow is a Mystery, Today is a Gift, That’s why it’s called the Present”. It was a great year in which I seized many opportunities in Calgary, while continuing my love of all things travel. I journeyed to Hawaii, Vegas and throughout Europe. I experienced things that I’ve always wanted to experience- skydiving, seeing lava from a volcano, rock-climbing, scuba diving, and an open-door helicopter ride. I ran my first half-marathon and realized that I love hot yoga. I pushed myself physically and tried to stick with my fitness goals despite some setbacks. I turned 30 without hesitation, and I truly believe that I’ve now entered what will be one of the best decades. I discovered that I have an absolute love and admiration for the outdoors, and the awe I feel for nature is akin to my understanding of a spiritual experience. The peace and connectedness when I’m hiking in the mountains and surrounded by incredible majesty add an interesting perspective on my day-to-day activities. What is important to me exactly? How do I see what’s important when the daily routine repeats itself? Who are important to me and how do I let them know that their presence in my life inspires me to be better and do better? Without the support and encouragement of friends and family, I do not think I would be trying to experience and live life the way I do. “Life is either a daring adventure or nothing” (Helen Keller). My own experiences, and the ones I’ve shared with family and friends, have helped solidify my relationships and strengthen those bonds. I’m so appreciative of that and I do not take it for granted. 
So what will 2012 bring? Well, I plan to have a similar approach to life this year. Seize moments. Take risks. Embrace opportunities. Push myself because I can. But this year will be different. This year, I want to be inspired by love; love for the things I choose to do, the experiences for which I yearn, and the relationships that are so important in my life. I think it will be a year of changes, and though I’m not fully aware of what those changes will be, I feel incredibly excited and happy with the possibilities and the unknowns. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t nervous at the same time, but I hope to be more introspective as I try to understand and trust the emotions I’ll be feeling. That’s not an easy task for a self-proclaimed cold-hearted Leo who’s not really all that cold-hearted! Whatever the situation is, I want to dive in wholeheartedly and trust that a happier, stronger me emerges. However the year unfolds, I know it will be a good and positive 2012. 

My Brother, the Sensei

BrotherSensei

Omg, it’s the New Year. 2012. There are so many things I want to do this coming year. But before I ponder on all of that, this is a congratulatory post to my brother Ryan :). Right before Christmas, he was awarded the rank of “SHODAN” 1st Degree Black Belt in the CJA (Combined Jiu-Jitsu Arts) Style of Jiu Jitsu. It’s crazy to think that he began his journey from white belt to black belt 20 years ago in 1991. What a great example of sticking to your goals! The family was there to cheer him on, celebrate with him as he was awarded his belt, and watch him lead part of a class as a Sensei for the first time. Congrats Brotha! The fam is so proud of you :).

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Christmas2011

I can’t believe Christmas is here! Whoohoo :). The family Christmas tree wouldn’t be complete without this little dancing snowman under it. Isn’t he cute? :). Today I’ve taken some time to reflect on how grateful I am for the people around me and how fortunate I have been for the experiences I’ve had in my life. Time is a funny thing- I remember being home for Christmas last year and I’m not sure how 365 days have flown by. It really does make me think about how it’s important to seize the opportunities presented and enjoy every moment. I can’t wait to see what 2012 brings :).