Rolling With the Punches

The first half of 2011 has gone off with a bang and really flown by. In the first five months, so many big events have taken place. For anyone who hasn't heard, and that's mostly people who live out of ear shot from my mom (said with only love Mama!), I signed a new contract for work and will be staying another year in Vietnam. It was a big decision that I decided was the best thing for my career even though I miss everyone dearly. On the plus side, if you haven't had a chance to visit me and you want to, you have until July 2012 to get yourself out here! A little while later, I entered a new decade in my life, and so far, so good. It was fabulous having my friend J out here to help me celebrate in style. About 2 weeks ago, I moved to a new apartment. Even in another country, I still move every year! I love my new place and my awesome neighbors, but it is also a little sad because my roommate D has left me for the US, hence the move. She boarded a plane last night after going out in a blaze of glory her last weekend. Vietnam won't be the same without you, D! On top of the changes here, there have been tons of happy celebrations at home with the arrival of new babies (congrats, A & A on becoming parents!), marriages, and engagements. If the first half of 2011 is any indication, the second half of the year is going to be fabulous, and probably pass by even more quickly!

Below are a few pictures of my new apartment, my birthday, and D's weekend extravaganza. I hope you enjoy them!

My new living room, as seen from the kitchen.

My new kitchen, hallway,
and bedroom way in the back.

Bright sunglasses were all the rage at my birthday.

Posing on the rooftop.

All the cool kids wear fake Raybans.

Me and D at the CAMA music festival. Proceeds went
to save the monkeys in the region.

The main stage at CAMA.

I never thought I'd wear a cowboy hat
in Vietnam! Hanging out at 16 Cowboys.

Me and D at the CAMA after-party.

DJ dance partyyyy!