2009 Presented a lot of opportunities to learn and practice patience as it was a rather cumbersome year. I’ve learned that it’s more important to count blessings rather than dwell on regrets and tragedies of the past. So here is a rundown on all the great blessings of 2009 for me and my family. FYI, this is in no particular order.

Tahoe
In June, Izza, Zara, Junior (Izza’s brother), and I spent 5 days in Tahoe in a posh time share owned by Izza’s Aunt. It was given to us as a wedding present. It was much needed R&R. We kicked it at the lake and had a great picnic along the shore.

Zara’s Baptism
Seeing Zara initiated into the faith and celebrating her first Sacrament was such a blessing. Family and friends joined us at St. Joseph to welcome her into the church.
Zara’s First Birthday
In November, my baby girl celebrated her first birthday surrounded by a plethora of friends and family.

Hollywood Trip
In April, I was hired to keynote and play music at a Youth Day Conference in Hollywood, Ca. The good peeps at Immaculate Heart of Mary parish flew me and a couple friends down to SoCal. The gig was originally for Jesse Manibusan. He had other commitments that weekend and passed the gig on to me. I met new friends, and shared the gifts God had given me.

LA Congress
In March, I was invited to backup Jess on the main stage of LA Congress during morning liturgy/prayer. It was exciting to be singing with others in front of so many people.

Izza Singing Again
Izza rediscovered her gift this year as she sang with very talented musicians at Bernardo and Leslie’s wedding back in December. She truly hasn’t missed a step. I hung on every word with bated breath cheering her on and sending her positive prayers. She really made me proud.

Zara’s First Steps
On November 16, a day after Zara’s Bigtop birthday, Zara took her first steps. Both Izza and I were fortunate to be there to witness it.

Oakland Youth Rally
In November, I was reunited with Jess once again and we led the morning worship session. For the last song of the set, he handed me his guitar and asked me to tie it up. I then led 600+ teens in a roaring and enthusiastic version of Every Move I Make. It was awesome. I then led worship for 3 sessions of intimate Eucharistic Adoration alongside my friend Megan Gluhan.

First Confirmation Class Confirmed
In May, I saw my first Confirmation class at St. Joseph get confirmed by Fr. George Moeckel. I was proud to see 45 teens confirm their Catholic faith, amongst them were Jenika Marinas, Joseph Garcia, Allison Lucarelli, Nick Simard, Alex Agcaoili, Rachel Das, Chrystalle Navarro, Jessica Hewitt, Sonia Dassapa, Lizzie Wanschura and Brandon Sie who are now practicing their faith as Youth leaders in our program.
