2011, The Year That Was

At times, it baffles me how fast time flies. It seemed like it was very recent since I made a similar post like this last year and now it is time to do another to recap this year. Like 2010, 2011 was great. In fact it was amazing. Yes, it started slow, but I feel like in the end, it all worked out. So here are 11 events that made this year (in no particular order), the year the was for me.

1. January. This was the lowest part of the year when, I had to defer my enrollment to The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities because the planets did not align. It was such a bummer for me as all that I needed left was my VISA. However, it took 2 months for them to finally issue it (2 weeks after classes here started) and this in turn sort of left me no choice but to defer my enrollment. Yes, when most of my friends were going to start their new chapter of life in their respective universities in America, I was stuck in Malaysia, where for the next 8 months or so, I did absolutely nothing (except driving here and there, A LOT of driving).

2. Singapore with the family. It was a (rather impulsive) decision my sister and I cooked up for the family, just before I left for the USA. It never seemed like it was actually going to happen, but then, it did. When it did, everyone in the family was stoked. Yes, I did go to Singapore the previous year, but I did not care. This time would be with my dear family. We covered the Singapore flyer then walked the grounds of Marina Bay Sands. We also did the Singapore Night Safari and also conquered Universal Studios (quite literally EVERY SINGLE RIDE from 10am-10pm) besides shopping like nobody's business on Orchard Road. Good times, good times.

3. Heading to Minneapolis, finally. It was the day I anticipated the most all year. When it did come, I honestly did not know how I felt. While waiting to fly out, I decided it was too late to turn back. I did not waste my time and energy waiting for this day only to give up in the end. Eventually, I made it safe and sound and quite honestly Minneapolis grew on me almost immediately. I am pretty much settled in now and am glad everything worked out perfectly.

4. Fall 2011. It was my first semester here. I honestly did not know what to expect. Yes, classes here are harder than what I am used to but after the semester started picking up steam, and I got to know more people, it became easier for me. I have to say, I surprised myself with this semester. My CGPA is at an all-time high and I made it in the Mechanical Engineering program automatically. I am happy. I am grateful. Life is great. Thank you God. :)

6. Thanksgiving in Nebraska. I couldn't believe when my parents said OK. It was one of the best birthday presents ever. I flew to Nebraska to visit my dear friends and have fun. And boy did we have fun alright. From walking the grounds of UNL, to cooking a decent meal and a great Thanksgiving dinner with a friend's friend, what else could I ask for. This year, there was a lot to be thankful for alright.

7. Christmas in Wisconsin. So it finally came. The moment I have been waiting all semester long. To visit my host family again. It has been 3 years since I have seen them last and it feels so good to be back (feels because guess what, I am writing this here, home in New Berlin). In fact, it feels so good, that it was as if I had never left. I was welcomed with open arms from both my mom and brother Tommy and I couldn't be happier. Christmas dinner was amazing, as I got to meet the whole family. I also was surprised with Christmas presents. Yes, despite this being my first Christmas ever, it was (and will probably be) the best one I ever have.

8. Being independent. I have to say it is rather hard to be independent. To be on top of your bills, cooking for yourself, laundry, making sure the money is in check. A lot. Quite honestly, I think I've been doing alright in this department. Being away from the family teaches you to be independent I suppose, and I am grateful that I have been coping, thus far.

9. MTV World Stage 2011. I almost did not go and when I found out I scored 2 tickets, I decided my younger brother was the one I wanted to bring along. It was the one last thing before I leave to Minnesota that I would do with him. He enjoyed it alright, and so did I. I am glad I brought him along, cause he never has been to a concert before. And what better way than to attend a 30 Seconds to Mars and Neon Trees concert. Great huh? I am sure he had a blast and will cherish the memory of his first ever concert forever.

10. Kept extraordinary friendships in tact + made new ones. What can I say? I love my friends. I surprised myself here by getting to know the people I know today. Quite honestly I figured I was going to be a loner the whole semester. However, that all did not happen. I surprised myself by befriending a lot of new people and I feel very comfortable here now. Thanks, all of you. You know who you are.

11. Tennessee. This was a surprise trip for me, but I am glad it did happen. It is such a beautiful place with beautiful weather and breathtaking scenery, everywhere. It was an amazing trip spent with even more awesome people. Thanks a lot mom, Uncle Tom and Tommy. Love you guys. :)

All in all, 2011 was such a blast. It seems like my new chapter of life took off exceptionally well. Although I still am getting used to a lot of things, I feel like I am getting there. Despite missing home at times, I am glad I have my friends here who put a smile on my face every single day when I get to school. Love you guys. So, here's to everlasting friendships. Here's to more great memories to cherish. Here's to 2012.