Despite 2016 being a tough year, there were still quite a few things to be grateful for. After dinner on New Year’s Day, I took the family out to McDonald’s for some dessert. We reflected on the year. Photos on my smart phone were a good source for reflection. So as a reminder, I thought I’d post some highlights for 2016 down below (just the good stuff):

BBQ with Friends

We hosted several barbecues throughout the year. And although most of them have returned to Malaysia, we’ll hopefully host more in 2017.

 

 

Science Fair – April 1

 

Melur won second prize for the “Queen’s University Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering Award”, while Arman won the Bronze Medal in the “Physical and Mathematical Sciences Division Award – Junior Age Category”.

Spelling Bee – April 16

Arman participated in the Spelling Bee.

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Trip to Toronto – April 16 – 17

We had a trip to Toronto for Arman’s chess tournament. We took this opportunity to buy a dress for Melur’s graduation at Vanier Middle School

Melur’s Graduation – June 24

Melur graduated middle school, and won an award for best student in “Visual Arts”.

Melur’s Year Book – June 29

Melur’s art work was selected for the school’s Year Book!

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Trip to Malaysia – July 11 – Aug 11

One month in Malaysia, to meet with family (on both sides), and lots of eating. We had a rough time getting our passports done. Here are some pictures:

New car – Oct 1

Our first new car. The previous car we purchased, though technically our first car, was purchased used. This one is brand spanking new:

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Sherlock – Oct 23

We adopted a cat from the Humane Society, and named him Sherlock:

Visit from Uncle Lyle – Oct 18 – Dec 3

Uncle Lyle stayed with us a while. We even managed a day trip to Ottawa to check out the Parliament and Art Museum on Nov 24:

I turned 40

And finally, this is the year I turned 40. Coincidentally, an old friend from Michigan was in the area, and he dropped by for my birthday. The 6 of us (Uncle Lyle included) had a nice festive birthday dinner at Sakura Restaurant:

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Let’s make this year better than the last!