Skype users unite

Staying connected when you're globally situated is a must. Thanks to Skype, we are able to communicate and keep in touch almost hassle-free with family and friends. Now the tricky part is to get a schedule that fits 3 time zones. Some sacrifices will really have to be made, and if you are willing, then it's not going to be much of a problem at all.

Another cool feature that Skype has that we use (not abuse) is by subscribing to a monthly fee of $2.95, you can get your calls routed to your landline and cell phone. Your Skype contacts merely call you through Skype using your Skype account, and whether you're online or not, you'll get the call via pc/landline/cell all at the same time. In fact, last night, I was using Skype on our landline when we got another call through Skype and Jojo picked it up on his cell. That's having 2 separate conversations with just one Skype account. Awesome, isn't it?

Twilight Saga

I've read all four books on vampires and werewolves (or not, according to Edward) by Stephenie Meyer. The first 2 were pretty good, they kept me engaged and awake reading till the wee hours of the morning. The last 2 though did not have the same impact. I don't know. But I still can't wait for the movies.

Permanent residency

There's so much to say, so many good things have happened. But let's start with the obvious (based on title alone). We finally got the green cards. After only 9 months from submitting the application, we received the notice last Sept 11, and then the actual permanent residency cards a couple of days later. Life is sweet.

And then more good news for Gabriel - as he prepares for first communion (and subsequently first confession). He's quite the American boy now, when just the other day, he mumbled something that I didn't understand and so I asked him to repeat. He told me politely, "It's nothing, mom. It's just a random thought."

Gabriel also made the Dealey chess team, where only 24 students get to represent the school. Awesome. After having enrolled him to the United States Chess Federation (USCF), we only hope he can play tournaments and improve his rank. We're definitely excited for him.

And then there's soccer and orchestra. This year, Gabriel switched from violin to cello, and his music teacher says this is good for him. If he's dedicated enough, he can apply for scholarships for college later on. Gabriel gets to practice his craft with the 4th graders as the other 2nd graders are all violinists. I think this is a good thing, him playing with older children.

So all in all, this is looking to be a good year for Gabriel.

In church the other day, Gabriel was being friendly with the baby who was seated in front of us. He would make faces, and managed to get a couple of peek-a-boos. I remember my dad. When I was little, no more than Gabriel's age, I would remember him being friendly with kids in the church too. I bet my dad would be happy with all these good news.