2008 WISH LIST

1) Give down payment for property in Santo Domingo
2) Travel on a cruise with Isabel and visit Paola in Miami for a few days
3) Stop compulsive behavior with the ear
4) Regain my ideal weight
5) Move out of the Bronx
6) Go back to college
7) Quit smoking
8) Launch my writing career
9) Complete dental work
10) Invest and safe more money


#1. The ambition of owning a property in Santo Domingo still lingers. Though I've heard from several friends that is not a good idea, an investment in real estate is always a good idea. Besides, it's not like we're breaking the bank! It'd be nice to have a place to go back in the island, where we can kick back in comfort.

#2. It's something I've talked with Paola as optional, since my intentions were to go back to Colombia for my sister's wedding. But since my sister decided not to tie the knot just yet, I might relax instead in Miami for whole week: spend three days with my little sis Paola and mom, and then sail for four days or so on the ocean.

#3. That's easy. I've done it before and I'll do it again. This time, I know it'll stick.

#4. It would imply working out regularly, implementing new routines such as jogging, etc. I can feel the envy generated by weight loss, the look in the eyes of those who gradually sink deeper and deeper into fatland.

#5. Oh, yes. Enough is enough. The other night my friend Michael and I took a trip to the neighborhood deli and saw a freak show that convinced me: this is not the best place to raise healthy children. New Jersey, here we come!

#6. Among some of the longings and desires talked over with Michael, I confided him my great shame, while endowed with great wit and talent, I have been wasteful. It is, yes, shameful to be so God-damn smart and not much to show for. Education will grant me that satisfaction and fill the void that's been eating me up slowly inside year, after year, after year.