New.

Happy 2012! Courtney, myself, and my two friends Allison and Estela, who are visiting for a week, had an awesome night here at the Seri Murni Crisis Shelter with 7 lovely women and 3 babies. Our festivities included a yummy fried chicken dinner, watching a concert and countdown in Kuala Lumpur on TV, making party hats, cheering and hugging each other when the clock struck, a Shirley Temple toast, delicioso brownies from our very own baker Courtney Ghirardelli, ice cream, and Goldfish crackers (supplied by Allison and Estela). It was the perfect way to welcome this new year.

As Hot Mama F. said in her toast, "To a new year and new beginnings."

I wanted to share part of a prayer that we were given at orientation. This prayer is called "Passover Remembered" by Alla Bozarth-Campbell and it continues to move me as it did the first time I experienced it.

It is the first of many beginnings.

Remain true to this mystery.

Pass on the Whole Story.

Do not go back.

I will guide you safely home

to that place you have not seen yet.

I am with you now

and I am waiting for you.

With glitter and hats and crying babies and chocolate brownies and Malaysian style dresses, sending you all much love and peace!