Entering a new year is always strange, maybe because nothing really weird happens, it is like one minute we are still here and suddenly we are there.
2008 was quite a challenge for me almost from the beginning, at all levels I tend to drive my living: Personal, Professional and Emotional.
Personally: My house was in construction most of the time; some of the plans were from my father some mine, some from my mum. Much work was needed and I was part of every task, which was quite fulfilling. Now the second phase of construction began and I’m quite enthusiastic about it.
Professionally: I had to get back to Sao Tome and Principe (STP) a small island on West Africa and ensure they didn’t join Japan at the International Whaling Commission (IWC), the international body that regulates whaling. I was one of the lecturers at the Forum Biodiversity and Ecotourism, with the talk; Non-lethal use of Cetaceans a multidisciplinary perspective. I eventually accomplished the mission (with much help from various people) with success since STP didn’t show up at Chile for the 60th meeting of the IWC.
At the Chilean meeting I was representing the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) with whom I hold a contract until the next IWC meeting that will take place in Madeira, Portugal.
I also got into a business I never had the chance to really be, Surf Industry. I started working with Fatum Surfboards and now I’m in charge of their website (www.fatumsurfboards.com)
Emotionally: I got involved with a fine and very special girl but unfortunately before the end of the year we broke up. My wish is that we can still relate from now on a different dimension. Whoever, the task is not easy.
2009 is a very important year because much is expected of me until and during the IWC meeting in Madeira. My only hope is that I can perform at the level I’m expected to, accomplish much and get a place at this field of work. Some other plans are also on the cooking but nothing certain yet.
I hope this year may bring you happiness, laughter, health and prosperity!
During 2009 we will have the conjunction of Jupiter and Neptune, Jupiter 24′ south. First of three in a triple conjunction of Jupiter and Neptune (May 25th). . A total solar eclipse (on July 22nd). The longest lasting total solar eclipse of the 21st century; and sometime during November the retail sale of incandescent light bulbs will be banned in Australia. Just to mention 3 events.