Thanksgiving and Christmas were foreign to me growing up, but New Year for me always meant a new beginning, renewed energy, new goals and plans, reflection of the year that ended, reassessment of mistakes, a new beginning… ever since I was a little girl. Exactly a year ago, Chris, Gabriel and I were in our apartment in NYC with my parents and my sister Cristina’s family. I hugged and kissed my husband at midnight and was never so certain about our future and about the year ahead: new life in Europe, adventure, about 5 to 6 trips mapped out (Chris’ and my favorite thing to do after eating), a new baby…

Then 2005 turned into what it did. I still count my blessing though… an absolutely wonderful child, blessed Gabriel… FRIENDS new and old, old good few friends who endured this with me, who supported me emotionally, whose absence would have made life absolutely unbearable… the greatest job and the greatest professionals and the greatest people at my job… I could not even begin to thank them enough for everything they have done for me… then my family, my mom, dad and sisters who are faraway but so close in my heart, whose unconditional love and support I am so blessed by… finally for my love Chris being alive and fighting… he continues to show me what love is, he continues to re-define the meaning and concept of love…

For 2006 I do not dare to foresee the year… but pray and hope I have the strength to keep in this journey; that I continue to be blessed by all that I have been in 2005, to be able to be there for Chris… that Chris returns to life with his son and me…

I wish from the bottom of my heart that 2006 be a great and better year for all and everyone. And I want to thank from the bottom of my heart all those who have helped me and Chris and Gabriel in the unthinkable year that just ends.

With all my love,

Koo