Goodbye 2020 👋

My niece was born in 2020. I went to Canada in 2020. And...and...I’m still engaged to Em. Other than that 2020 has been pretty forgettable (like I won’t forget it, but I wouldn’t want to relive it). Tomorrow is 2021. I get that things won’t change overnight, but it’s at least a change on paper. 

Bac and I will be hiking per our annual tradition. I don’t like it, but she does so we’re going 😂. As we say good bye to 2020, it’s good to remember that we can always learn from it and we can take positives from it as well. The same can be said about life. Anyhow, see you in 2021. Thuong you about 2.5 inches (maybe 3). Troi oi troi oi 😉.

Driving Ba Chu

Today my baby told me she likes me driving her to work. She said she was happy the exit was closed so we could drive together longer. Awwww.

I’m sad she is stressed out about cleaning her house. So I’m taking this time to write on the blog. I wish I could help her, but I can’t. We don’t know how. Anyway, I love you honey. TTQD very nhieu nhat. I’m probably gonna leave now like you ask me. I’ll nho you. Ngu ngon Em.

#100

It's the 100th blog post! This is my baby:

I'm making her a scarf. She is helping 😀 Love you bruh. I hope to finish your scarf soon. TTQD until then and after then too.

Khoc Khoc Baby Wah Wah

Since Em never sees the comments that I reply to her comments, I'll have to reply here or on her blog. I don't like not Nice Danh. I don't like not Nice Uyen. I just hope you remember that a lot of what you feel and think are things that I feel and think. The difference is how we respond to it.

If you like Nice Danh, then remember that Nice Danh likes Nice Uyen. Anh is buon qua di. Going to khoc khoc wah wah now 😢 But still TTQD!

Building on the Rock

I read today's Catholic readings in hopes that they would provide some significance to my post, but they don't. They were able reverence to God and your parents. And living through God's wisdom. There was also a mention of Anna (some prophetess). Anyhow, the reason I thought about the reading was because I recall something about Jesus building his house on the rock. Or something about the keystone (I just looked it up). I think I misunderstood it, but it also works. Sorry, I digress. Basically what I want to say is something I've said before, but today it has a little more meaning/relevance to it.

I love you. You brighten my dark moments. You magnify the bright ones. Jesus said to build our house on him so that he can be our strength and foundation. You are my strength and foundation. Jesus is cool too, but I rely on you. As for the keystone, apparently, that reading refers to completing the church/house. You complete me. So you are both my strength and you complete me (#jerrymaguire). I tried to find an inspirational picture, but I decided this picture was a good mixture. It shows the beauty of nature/God. And it shows the beauty of us. I hope in time, I am your rock and gable stone (people mistake it for keystone which is the beginning of building). I also hope in time, we can learn to grow and be better people for ourselves and for each others. I pray that we can learn to set aside our negativities, while nurturing our positive qualities. I know we'll never be "perfect", but I want us to strive to be perfect for each other by being perfectly imperfect (wrong in all the right ways). Well I have to go pick you up from work now and stop by Minh's on the way. I'm sorry this was a longer than normal post. I'm also sorry that I don't really spell check anymore because I hate rereading what I right. It's kind of like listening to how I sound. ATEN!

No Regrets.

Typically, the hours and days after Christmas are spent returning gifts we didn't want and buyings gifts we wanted, but didn't get. Fortunately for Christmas this year, I got everything I needed and some things I wanted, but probably didn't deserve. Granted I wish, I could return Covid, but I don't think the universe is accepting returns 😁

I always joke that I want to return you to Co Hong, but she won't take you 😉

But you're the bestest gift. I look forward to opening you every day. So on this day, week, month after Christmas, I won't be returning you. I've found my Ellie. And I don't need anything else. TTQD!!!

Bonus Post 🎄

The evening is full swing,

The dawn will soon be here,

In a week the bells will ring,

As we cheer in the new year.

But with each passing day,

There’s one thing what will remain.

The laughter, love, and play,

Our passion will never change.

With Love. Today, tomorrow, forever. ATEN!!!

Merry-ish Christmas Em!

Good morning baby. I see you haven't read yesterday's post yet. In the spirit of Christmas, I wanted to get you a special gift, a morning Christmas blog post 😀

These are strange and unforgiving times, but through all of it, we have each other. It's something I'm fortunate and blessed with. I know it's been really tough on you, but I want you to know that it's not forever. This inconvenience is temporary. It'll change and the things that don't change, we'll work our way through it together as Team Uyen-D.

Take my hand (remember when we first started dating and you asked why I didn't hold your hand? LOL). Walk with me. Together, Team Uyen-D can overcome anything. I'll see you soon baby. TTQD!!! ATENN!!!

Twas the Night Before Christmas...

...and all through the house, nothing was stirring (I hope we don't have a mouse) 😁

I can't think of anything more in the world that I want for Christmas besides Em. And I have you. Even as shitty as the year has been. Having you has made it more than okay. I know there are lots of things you probably want, but did not get for Christmas. I hope that our relationship for you is like it is for me.

On this night before Christmas, thoughts of us being together run through my mind. Unfortunately, I won't be able to wake up to you Christmas Day, but I'll see you shortly after. I look forward to many more days waking up to you. It may not have been love at first sight for you when we met, but it is now. Hopefully you don't get your eyes fixed anytime soon. TTQD!!!

"Trophy" Significant Other (Husband)

I spent the last few days trying my best to clean up (house, work, life, etc.). I came across some old documents and it got me thinking. What's important to me? Family? Friends? Money? Boba? LOL. Those things are definitely important, but Em, you're #2, but really #1, since we're basically married, hehehe.

Being that's the case, one of my goals for the coming year is going the best I can to make sure I make you happy. I want to make sure I'm the positive (overall, because things happen, LOL) aspect of your life. Much like you're the positive (overall, because things happen, hehehe) in my life. Until the day I'm your trophy husband, I'll settle for being your trophy significant other, trophy baby, trophy fiancé :) TTDQ!!

Back To The Beginning...

Thanks for thinking about me during these tough times. I appreciate it. I don't know what the future of travel holds, but I appreciate that you're thinking about it. In celebration of Tuesday, I'm throwing it back to our first trip:

I know we haven't been hiking in a while. But I'l glad you're still able to go with others. I promise we'll go more in 2021. It's the least we can do. Also, I'd like to drive to LA to see Matt and Nha if that's something you want to do as well. Love you lots. Smell you later. TLG!!! 

Silver Linings

Hey baby (yeah you, Uyen Ngoc Do),

Do you know what a "silver lining" is? If so, that's good. If not, it refers to the outline on clouds (please see below):

You can even find them in some of our pre-pre-engagement photos :)

It basically means that even in bad situations you can also find something good. I think you've done a good job during these times and I want to encourage you to continue. We have so much to be thankful for. I know you can't see me, but I'm safe. And when we finally see each other, it'll be great. So keep your chin up honey. I love you very much and you keep me going. ATEN!!

 

To The One Who Makes Me Feel Like I'm A King

That's you Em. Just so there's no confusion 😂

I know sometimes you don't think I appreciate you, but I just want you to know that I do. It should be said and shown more often, but I do.

I appreciate you being a trooper while we deal with Covid. It's just another reminder that Covid doesn't just impact the patient, but those around them and beyond.

There will come a time when we'll be able to enjoy a little more normalcy, but until then, let's also try appreciate the moments we have now.

Families are tough. We didn't choose them, but we have to deal with them. I'm not talking yours (I'm just using the picture because it was from a year ago), but mine. Mine brought Covid to me... Also, kings and queens have good and bad days too. Anyhow, never forget I love you. And even if your eyes get better, please don't forget you love me. TTQD!!! 

_________ Makes the Heart Grows Fonder...

Dearest Love,

I wuv you very much. My love for you does not waver (although you may think/feel that it does). I know these times are a little overwhelming to say the least, but we'll see it through together. We'll be better for it. No one wants to suffer like this, but with you, it's beyond bearable. Thanks for being my partner in this. I don't know what I would do without you:

It may not seem or feel like much, but a little normalcy on an otherwise not normal Saturday, is much appreciated. When was the last time there was a Saturday where golf wasn't mentioned? In these times, I hope you know that I care about you. I also hope you take some time for yourself. I'm sure you know that if we don't take care of ourselves, we won't be able to take care of each other. Thanks for all that you intend and all that you do. It's all appreciated. TTQD!!!

Easy Peasy, like Mac and Cheesy (Yummy Too)

There are many ways to say it, but bottom line: you can't control what happens to you, but you can control how you react. The last few weeks have been a testament to that. This morning I was looking at a cup I got as a gift:

It's a reminder that there are always blessings in life if you look hard enough. Fortunately, for me, I don't have to look that hard. No matter what happens, Em is always a positive thought to start my day. For that I am thankful. Thanks Em. Love you lots. 

No Tears In Heaven?

I'm sure I speak for most people when I say this, TEARS SUCK. Even if they're happy ones. Today I saw tears on my Em and it broke my heart. It's the reality of the world we live in now. I know the right thing is to sacrifice a little today to gain a lot more tomorrow, but it doesn't make it an easier. I had to cancel golf. CANCEL GOLF!!! But if cancelling golf meant Em would never cry again, I would gladly cancel golf every day.

 

She's even beautiful when she cries. In my defense, I didn't cause these tears, but they don't make them any less easier to deal with it. It may seem dark now, but I promise I won't die before it's bright again. I love you very much. So don't be too sad. TTQD!!

Parlorman, Does What A Parlor Can...

In high school my math teacher/cross country coach had a saying, "Ever tried? Ever failed? Try again. Fail again. Fail better." It doesn't sound like much, but it's actually great advice. Basically it's telling you that it's okay to try even if you know you're gonna fail. As long as you improving, even if it's a little, you'll be okay. It's a great way for me to view life. It's also one of the many reasons I thuong Em:

A long time ago, I was sick. Em made porridge for me. I appreciated that she tried, but it was not good 😅

But she didn't give up. Just like she doesn't give up on me. She figures out what she did wrong and she tries again, fails better. Which brings us to today. Her porridge was much better. I'd go as far as to say it was good 😀 Thanks for being willing to try. ATEN!!

Perspectives...

Let me begin by saying, my feelings for Em have not changed. I never really knew what I intended to write daily on this blog. I know the last few posts have been less directly about my love for Em, but just because I haven't written about it, doesn't mean it isn't there. Unfortunately, a lot has happened in the last few days that have weighed upon my thoughts. 

I remember that every time I came back from my Habitat trip, I would have a different perspective of what's important in life. Seeing those less fortunate, allowed me to appreciate what I have. Lately, different occurrences have provided me with a different perspective as well. It's easy to appreciate things when you're at the extremes (good or bad). What's difficult to do is have perspective when thigs are "normal". Unfortunately, these aren't normal times. So it's been a lot easier to view things in a lens that reminds me how fortunate I am. I don't take that for granted. Still thuong you EM! #neverstopthuonging

Whoa, Crazy Coincidence? Or Am I Psychic?

Life has a funny way of throwing wrenches into plans. You really have to stay on your toes because things can change in the blink of an eye. Today was a great example of that. As previously mentioned, you can't control what happens to you too often. The only things really in your power is how you respond. Looks like my last few posts were preparing me for everything to come down today...

Seems like things always happen in trifecta. Usually bad, rarely good. And that's what happened today. But rather than dwell over things that are beyond my control, I've adjusted and I've made sure I've done everything I can (the only box that is important when it comes to "Life in Four Boxes). And now, I'm in a position to move on to tomorrow, rather than get stuck in the past. There's light at the end of the tunnel. Stay safe Em. ATEN!

#itsyourlife

It’s probably been said, but it’s worth saying and hearing again: It’s your life. As such, we should really try our best to make that life as stress-free as possible. Sometimes the easy thing isn’t the right thing. Sometimes we have to choose between evils:

Remove the negativity from your life or find ways to minimize that negativity. It’s easier said than done. But trying is better than leaving it unsaid and undone. Just try. You’re one step closer to peace. Peace be with you Em. ATEN!!

Timing...It's All About Timing

Lately, I've tried to post when I think of something, so I don't forget. I actually thought of something a little after getting into bed last night, but now I can't remember it. Sigh. So...here's a picture of dinner:

I firmly believe that the ability to eat freely and often is probably the greatest gift and freedom a person can experience. The fact that I get to share it with Em and her family is an added bonus. Thanks for sharing the experience with me Em. I got no birdies today, but it was still a good day because I have Em. I thuong you very nhieu. TTQD!!

It’s Beginning To Feel A Lot Like Christmas...

Three years ago today, Em and I put up our first 🎄 together. Three years later we’re still going strong and I couldn’t be happier.

In these difficult times, it’s often hard to always find something positive. There’s a lot of things to be troubled by, but I can always rely on Em to be a bright spot in an otherwise gray world. I’m always reminded, there will be bad moments and days, but it’s doesn’t mean it’s a bad life. Thanks Em for being the good. TLG!!!

Eighty Posts

This all began 80 nights ago because my Em had a dream about a blog (although she later admitted she didn’t know what a blog was...😂). But 80 days later I still love her as much as I did 800 days ago.

Today we were playing mah jong and when I said I don’t need to win because I’ve already won. She was so embarrassed. It was very tute. Unfortunately I couldn’t capture that moment. But just one of the many reasons I love you Em. ATEN!!!

The Certainty of Uncertainty

There are very few things in life you can rely on. An old saying goes, "The only guarantee in life is death and taxes." Life always has a way to throwing wrenches in to plans and knocking you off your path. Take a look at 2020. It's been quite a shit storm (biggest understatement of the century). That's why I'm very blessed that I have something I can rely on, the love of Em:

No matter what the world throws at me. Even if 2021 is worst that 2020 (please God no!). I will always be able to rely on the love of Em. Thanks for wuving me. I thuong you to the moon and back. I know you probably won't approve of this picture, but it was taken about a year ago and shows you loving me :) TTQD!!

Simply Joys

Happiness and satisfaction can come from the simplest things. We all love big gestures, but when it comes down to it, we would all likely go prefer substance over size. Cue in this little guy:

He may be smaller than my head (although that’s pretty big), he immediately brought a smile to Em’s face. A little goes a long way if you do it right. Just like Em. She’s a lot of wonderful in a little package 📦. I thuong her very nhieu. TTQD!!! 

287 - So Much Thuong

I've always been a person who associated music with emotions and memories. Often times I can pin a song to specific moment or emotion that it consistently evokes. Music has always been a great communicator of emotions for me. Sometimes sad. Sometimes happy. Often nostalgic. Occasionally curious. Like I used to always wonder where people get the inspiration behind the music. Thanks to Em, I know a little more about that now:

I tried to insert video of "Can't Help Falling In Love With You", but it wouldn't let me :(

I love you very much Em. I can't imagine my life would be the any better without you (I don't even want to try). I was listening to this song today and I immediately thought about you. I wondered what you were doing and how you were. You're the first thing I think about when I wake up and the last thing before I go to sleep. If I could control my dreams, you'd be there every night. Thanks for choosing me. ATEN!!

Every Day Matters

People often comment how Covid has blurred all the days together. That makes it really easy to lose sight of the importance of each day. 

Every day is an opportunity to make memories and to communicate appreciate to the people and things that matter to you. Em matters and so does the love we have for each other. That’s why I continue to write (along with other things) so that she knows I care. Thuong you bruh. TLG!!

Love Is Simple

Some things in life are complicated. Most things are not, but we try to make them. Fortunately, the love between Em and I is easy:

We let each other do what we enjoy doing and try to participate when we can. But above all else, we simply love each other. Thanks for loving me. I love you the most.

Foodie Friday

Thank goodness it’s Friday. So many reasons to be thankful. Got a good girl. Got a good job. Got good people surrounding me. But there’s one more reason today:

Good food. Thanks to TD and the fam. Always feel blessed to never be hungry. 🙏🏽  God keeps looking out for his fattest 🐑. #blessed #aten

Love Is In The Air

It feels like Friyah, but it’s only Thursday 😩 But that didn’t stop us from having fun:

Two loves of my life. Em and food. Looking forward to making more memories with you, but not necessarily immortalizing them in photos 😜 Thuong you lots. TTQD!!!

And So It Begins

The day after Thanksgiving is the countdown to Christmas, but I’ve been able to ignore it until now. It’s usually a hectic and stressful time of planning and buying and giving, but in these times it’s actually a welcomed distraction from the current situation.

Today I got to see one of my friend’s daughters. Usually she’s very clingy and it can be a little much, but today it was nice. Haven’t seen the family in a while. It’s her birthday coming up and I need to find her a gift. She was nice and gave me some ideas. Now I just have to execute. But instead of being stressed, I’m gonna enjoy the chance for some normalcy as well as the opportunity to spread some joy. Sometimes it takes the extraordinary to help us appreciate the ordinary. TTQD Em!!

Insanity and the Virtuous Cycle

Insanity is often described as doing the same thing, but expecting different results. But what if you want the same result? Then you should keep doing what you’re doing. Creating a virtuous cycle.

This is where it all began. I don’t know what I did, but I’m gonna keep on doing it because it got me Em. I love you. Gonna be with you until the end. TTQD!!