Decision Day

 Wow, a bit of a general summary from some of Rania's choices and decisions around her college choices.  It is now May 1 and a decision has been made!

 Before getting into it, FAFSA and the federal government sure did not do anyone any favors this year.  What a mess.  Despite having our FAFSA in on January 3, while the new form was still in beta, the last few weeks have been frantic conversations with Marist, Dayton, College of Wooster, Villanova, Loyola about financial aid updates and what is needed.  During that time, the financial aid packages for some of the schools has changed a fair bit, and what a mess. 

 In the end, Rania is excited to be heading to Loyola in Chicago!

Update: Unfortunately, as of September 2024, well after this decision, the financial aid package was adjusted significantly - and not in our favor.  What a bummer.

 

Tribute to Juvy

 Seems hard to imagine, though saying goodbye to Juvy is so hard after so many years.  With her visa wrapping up and a bit of travel that she wants to do, we wanted to get some photos with those of us who are here. 

So so so many wonderful memories. 

 

Graduation Coming?

 Seems crazy to start seeing the seniors in their graduation outfits all around the school.  About a month more until graduation.  Crazy!

 

KLCC, Night View

 

A photo from KLCC on Saturday night.  Always spectacular!

ISKL MW 2024 - Gunung Kutu - Celebration Video

 Another spectacular Malaysia Week trip!  Wow, so fun to get to be in such beauty and see so much growth from the students.  This was the highlight video from the week.

Here is the original video on YouTube if easier: https://youtu.be/Zg6_C90HD0A   

Celebrating

 

An 18th birthday celebration with Rania's friend.  Fun times.

Malaysia Week Gunung Kutu - Short Rafting Run - 2024

Another (shorter) run as part of a fun day of white water rafting at Sungai Slim. 

Original video: https://youtube.com/shorts/wR8ax1sSTHM?feature=share

Malaysia Week White Water Rafting - Gunung Kutu 2024

A fun white water rafting run during our final day of Malaysia Week.

Amazing Bridge Team

 After an incredible Malaysia Week experience, we said goodbye to our amazing vendors, Neal and his team from Bridge.  Wow, what a great week!

 

White Water Rafting

 Some great pictures from our last day - packing up camp and then heading for some fun white water rafting. 

ND Life

 

Not sure if this is spin class or what - though looks like lots of good smiles.

Malaysia Week Gunung Kutu Waterfall - 2024

Some fun at the waterfall!  What a great spot. 

Original video: https://youtu.be/pq0Mpa3-KvI

 

Waterfall Hike

 One of the highlights about Gunung Kutu is the waterfall hike.  It was quite a bit of fun - and always fun to hang out at the waterfall that is just upriver.  Also, some great massages from the natural water!

 

Climbing Gunung Kutu

 Another very successful day of climbing the mountain; the kids were great.  Lots more pictures from the Malaysia Week website!

https://sites.google.com/iskl.edu.my/mw2024/rainforest-sites-2024/gunungkutu

Also, I made the decision to go to the very top, up the ladders, which I only do on occasion.  Certainly not my favorite thing, given my increased trepidation of heights. 

Hiking

 I've found that hiking in Malaysia often works best with good traction.  Hopefully my Tevas can continue to sustain some success and not fall apart; they've been sewed and fixed a lot. 

Good Times

 A great picture from Gabi at Notre Dame.  Love the smiles. 

Malaysia Week Arrival

 On the first day, Doug's group - which is fabulous - made it to Gunung Kutu and set up camp.  It looks like it will be an amazing week. 

With Friends

 Gabi is having a fabulous time during her spring semester at Notre Dame. 

College Life

Some pictures from Gabi's day at Notre Dame.  The Center for Social Concerns has sure been a fabulous place for Gabi and her family.