2021 is looking up to be a better year as I finally received official notice for my first R01 research grant from the NEI! I spent the new year zenning out by pruning my bonsai, composing Ghosts of Tsushima haikus, and making my own tonkotsu ramen. The Serious Eats’ version seemed too serious, so I opted instead for recipes from Glebe Kitchen & Ramen-Lord. We liked the 11-hour sous vide char siu, but the 12-hour pork bone broth was not as satisfying as the Ippudo kit delivered from Sun Noodles. At home, we updated our decor with new floating shelves for the loft, and a flamingo lamp and hex pedestal for the guest room. We also took advantage of our Netflix premium upgrade with Queen’s Gambit and the Haunting of Bly Manor. With both of us getting our Pfizer COVID vaccines and our local stay-at-home orders lifted, we ventured out again for crepes, donuts, and curry. We’re not sure if Indian buffets will be back anytime soon, but we did enjoy exploring the nearby playground at the Ironworks. We hope that the new year will be a mark of new beginnings