Many happy returns

The phrase, "Many happy returns," can mean "have many happy more days, especially birthdays," according to The Phrase Finder.

While my birthday is indeed around the corner, I'm using the phrase in a more literal sense in this situation: After more than a one-month absence, I'm finally updating my blog. A lot has happened during that time period.

For one thing, my 3-year-old (and first ever) laptop's hardware malfunctioned, and considering the laundry list of issues it already had (broken CD-ROM drive, USB ports that don't work, fraying adapter, battery doesn't recharge, etc.), it was about time to get a brand-new machine, which I'm using right now.

There was about a two-week gap in which I didn't have my own laptop at all, in which I waited for my family to give me the new laptop in person. In this day and age, especially with the convenience of things such as wireless Internet, not having a certain piece of technology can be challenging.

Also, it has been hectic with school and work that sometimes it can be and feel overwhelming. However, I've also had chances to relax, such as during the recent Labor Day weekend. The photo above is an example of such a time for relaxation: a nighttime cruise around the San Francisco Bay (That's the Golden Gate Bridge in the background, while I'm in the foreground) with a very special person. I've definitely become more appreciative of taking breaks. Everyone needs to stop and take a breather.

Breathe in, breathe out. Inhale, exhale.