What an incredible and unprecedented year. January started out as pretty normal, we made a trip to Perth and as usual had a wonderful time. News of the new emergent virus was of concern though, as it was spreading fast. We had taken our masks along due to the bush fires that hit Australia, who knew we would be using it on our way back because of Covid.

We got back to Penang in February. I was pretty apprehensive when we were at Penang airport as I saw there were still planes flying in from China. And at that time China was at its peak with Covid cases. The boarders were still open. Sure enough, the first Covid case was detected in Penang just a few weeks later. And in a matter of days there were a surge in cases and we were under lockdown. Just like that David began working from home and we stopped going to church.

Something new to us, the lockdown made us a little anxious at first, until we got used to it. Knowing that we were safer at home, we preferred to stay home. Once we began to get used to the new normal of wearing masks and cleaning our groceries we felt more comfortable. Though we felt isolated at first, we began to realise that there are so many things in life we do not need and can do without. It was a blessing that our kids could attend catechism classes online and our formation classes could be done online as well. We began attending Mass online. We also stopped dining out so there was lots more cooking at home and exploring new recipes.

March and April went by and with us spending more time at home. I had a simple birthday celebration at home. Blessed with what I had, and surrounded by loved ones, I was indeed thankful.

We were also able to spend more time making music videos for our channel and starting my blog!

May and June came and we were busy with Pentecost and with something else so dear to our hearts. Our trip back to Perth in May had to be cancelled. Trusting in His plan for us as we prepare to migrate to Australia. In July God blessed us with a very precious gift. It was also birthday month for Elisha and Izayah. A quiet and meaningful celebration at home.

August and September came and went with two more birthdays, Josha’s and David’s. Homeschool went on as usual, and time was spent on exploring new curriculums and putting in school applications for Josha.

By October we were waiting for Advent so we could start lighting the candles and putting up the Christmas decorations! Finally it was the season of Advent and this year we had a little extra decorations and lights put up in our house. We were going to stay home so much so why not?

December came and brought the busyness of Christmas with it. This year we got gifts for a few dear friends, and we did some glass painting, something that we truly enjoy doing. We also did some baking, and two videos. But the highlight of the season was having Nana and Nanima stay over at our place. Kids were super excited and we had a great time. I enjoyed cooking for them and catching up with them.

We stayed over at their place for New Years, and we were able to spend quality time together and enjoy more delicious food.

All in all 2020 was a good year for us. We are thankful for all the blessings that came our way, great and small. Thankful for good health and we pray that the Covid situation improves in 2021.

We welcome 2021 with smiles as we cling onto faith and hope!