With the wedding and most of the home renovations behind me in 2018, I expected 2019 to be a slow and relaxing year. This wasn’t the case as I ended up interviewing for a new job, then traveling between jobs and spending a lot of time prepping for Burning Man. But I can’t complain because it was a great year for my career, traveling and having a lot of fun. 

2019 Goals

[ ] Finish the house (Exterior too!) – Arrr.. too close but not 100%
[X] Switch to a new team or start a new job
[X] Visit Palouse Falls
[X] Visit Crater Lake
[X] Go snowboarding a ton
[X] Hike to ‘The Wave’ (Got our permits already!)
[  ] Hike to Goldmyer Hot Springs – A new job got in the way!
[X] Take Chi to camp in Olympics National Park
[  ] Camp in Zion National Park & Hike the Narrows and Angels Landing – Had to pick Burning man instead
[X] Attend Burning Man
[X] Hawaii Trip (Maui for Yuliya & Adams’ big day!)
[X] Start a home decor instagram and/or blog

2019 Highlights

New Job

After my third year at Amazon, I was curious about new teams and companies. I knew 2019 would bring change. And so, I successfully landed a new role at Facebook after a phone screen, virtual interview and a full day onsite in Menlo Park! It was a refreshing change from nearly 4 years at Amazon. While it’s uncomfortable to be in a new environment, I love the talented team, the different culture, and new challenges. 

The Wave & Park City

The Wave was as beautiful and surreal as expected. But the best part was being one of 20 people allowed to hike it per day. Snowboarding in Park City, Utah was a nice bonus. 

Snowboarding on Mount Hood

We loved how quiet and exclusive snowboarding here was in late March. It was a romantic snowy getaway in the coziest little cabin. 

Visitors to Seattle

We were blessed with great visitors this spring; my in-laws and two of our close friends from Toronto. It was great to spend time with them and show them around Seattle. I also got to know Chi’s parents and sister a lot better.

European cruise with my parents

My parents never had the opportunity to visit Europe so I wanted to take them there. The 7-day Western Mediterranean cruise was a perfect getaway for them and I think they loved it. 

Another Honeymoon to Seychelles

In between jobs, I wanted to visit a unique once-in-a-lifetime destination. After some research between Tanzania, Maldives or Bora Bora, I ended picking Seychelles with a short stopover in London. I got to see one of the most unique beaches in the world. 

Visiting Toronto x2

We got to visit Toronto twice this year. While it’s a busy trip, it’s always nice to spend time with family and friends. 

Burning Man

This was one of the most unique experiences of my life –surviving the harsh conditions of Black Rock Desert and immersing in the culture of this temporary city. My bike project was pretty cool too. 

Crater Lake National Park

I checked off another National Park on my list. But unexpectedly the sunset here was truly the most beautiful one I have ever seen in my life. 

Palouse Falls 

Another bucket list check and this was a unique canyon-like sight in Washington state. I hope to be back one day in spring to see it lush and green.

First time to India

Traveling in business class is a checked bucket list item on it’s own but finally getting to experience Mumbai and Coimbatore was a lucky work trip I got to experience this year.  

First time to Hawaii

I fell in love with Hawaii like most people. Nature, people, food and vibes live up to the hype. Can we retire here one day? 

Revelstoke & Banff

We started the new snowboarding season with a trip to the Canadian Rockies. Snowboarding above a sea of clouds was unreal at Revelstoke, and Banff is even more beautiful as I remember.

Finished the home interior & styling

It’s probably closer to 99% done. We need new bedding and Chi wants to finish the garage (i.e his man-cave). I need to invest more time into @simpledesignlife. 

2020 Personal Goals

[ ] 100% finish the house: landscaping & deck
[ ] Share more @simpledesignlife content
[ ] Do financial planning
[ ] Clean up digital files / photos / emails
[ ] Get back into shape
[ ] Snowboard in new states (California & Montana)
[ ] Camp at Zion and hike the Narrows/Angel’s Landing
[ ] Camp or visit Yosemite w/ Chi
[ ] Hike and Camp at Goldmyer’s Hot Springs
[ ] Hike and/or camp at Enchantments
[ ] Travel new, far & different (Chile/Patagonia + South Africa)
[ ] Alaskan cruise with family
[ ] Plan a 2021 Asia/Europe snowboarding trip or Mardi Gras, New Orleans