All posts in: Books

15 Feb 2021

Blog Roundup

Patricia Chang
  • Instagram Really Isn’t Optional For Restaurants Anymore [SF Eater]
  • Ella Emhoff and Amanda Gorman have been signed to IMG [Fashionista 1/2]
  • Even the White House Logo Got a Makeover [Fast Company]
  • How to Make McDonald’s Hash Browns At Home [The Takeout]
  • BTS Is Heading to ‘MTV Unplugged’ [NYLON]
  • The Most Popular Brand in Every Country, Mapped [Digg]
  • This Concept Video for Virgin’s Hyperloop Transit System [Mental Floss]
  • Why Aren’t More Asian American Costume Designers Helping Tell Our Own Stories? [Fashionista]
  • Former FBI Agent Analyzes First Date Body Language | WIRED [Source]
  • How to Adjust Covid-19 Social Distancing Pods When Someone Gets Exposed [Vox]
  • The Many Lives of Steve Yuen [The New York Times Magazine]
  • Jenny Han Talks ‘To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before’ [Call Your Girlfriend]
  • ‘My People Are Dying in Silence – and I’m Here with A Megaphone’ [AdWeek]
  • Nordstrom Introduces Black_Space to Amplify Black Designers [High Snobiety]
  • I’ve Never Been More Prouder – Or More Heartbroken – to Be Asian American [Byrdie]
  • 38 Moments to Talk About From the “To All The Boys” Series [The EveryGirl]
06 Dec 2020

Blog Roundup

  • 5 Ways to Elevate Your Lunchtime Sandwich [Men’s Health]
  • For My Asian Mom, Feeding Me “Everything” Was An Act of Love [Refinery29]
  • TikTok’s Top 10 Songs of the Year [Hypebeast]
  • How Tinned Fish Took Over the Internet [Refinery29]
  • 11 Minutes of Exercise A Day May Help Counter the Effects of Sitting [The New York Times]
  • The Bay Area Will Fully Lock Down on December 6 [Eater]
  • Around the World in 130 Chicken Soup Recipes [Atlas Obscura]
  • How to Make Hot Cocktails That Actually Taste Good [Thrillist]
  • Photographer Explores Asian American Identity in ‘Where We’re Really From’ [NPR]
  • Whether on the Street or in Museums, KAWS is Having an Effect on Popular Culture [The Study]
  • Warner Bros. to Release All 17 Movies in 2021 Lineup on HBO Max [Hypebae]
  • Radio Disney to go off the air in 2021 [FADER]
29 Nov 2020

Holiday Gift Guide 2020

[Ohom Kopi Mug and Warmer Set] – $75

When it comes to Christmas shopping, Kevin and I are no strangers to waiting until the last minute to shop for my parents. Instead of shipping things directly to our parents’ home (to avoid spoilers obviously) we wait until we’re back in Seattle to do all of our shopping. Most times, it can be what you expect it to be: hectic and chaotic. Other times, it gives us an excuse to leave the house and visit some of our favorite local spots while we’re out.

This year, we won’t be returning home for Christmas. Instead my parents will receive their presents unwrapped, but boxed from USPS. It’s not the holiday we hoped for, but we’ll make this sacrifice for the safety of those we love. In previous years, you’d be getting this holiday guide from me the week before Christmas. Since I had some time off this week from Thanksgiving, I decided to get a head start. You all may need it since you might also be doing some shipping of your own!

I didn’t intend for the theme to be so focused on home life, but after the year we’ve had and what 2021 may look like, this seems fitting. Moreover, festivals and celebrations are all about cheerfulness and colorfulness, one way of achieving it could be through decorating the home with some beautiful lights and lamps like the ones available at thelamplife. When the home looks bright, our mood brightens up instantly. This is the reason this time, I have focused on the gifts that can make your home a little more “home-y” and you more comfortable. In addition to getting this guide earlier than usual, you’re also getting MORE because nothing is sold out yet.

[Ortofon Orbit Special Walnut Turntable with Built-In Pre Amp] – $549

Read more “Holiday Gift Guide 2020”
17 Nov 2020

A Promised Land Playlist

In other news, our favorite former President has just published his memoir “A Promised Land” today. Since we recently finished “Know My Name,” this memoir along with many others are at the top of my list for what’s to read next. One thing that I’ve always loved about Barack Obama as President is that he was the most relatable to my generation. He was kind, earnest, genuine, and warm. More importantly, he had exceptional taste. Previously, we’ve always shared his playlists and now with the memoir out, we’ve got another one! Today, I’m enjoying this as the backdrop to our rainy work day indoors, but I hope you can enjoy this wherever you may be.

12 Jul 2020

This Weekend:

At this point, it doesn’t even feel like we’re in quarantine anymore unless it is by choice. And for the most part, that’s exactly what we’re doing. Parts of the country are re-opening up, but it hasn’t been successful. After several months of this, I generally feel like I’m doing okay so we stay indoors and limit ourselves to the deck attached to my apartment. I did, however, run a few more errands than I normally do this weekend which was a welcomed surprise because I love taking longer drives.

What We’re Watching: The Claudia Kishi Club

I binge watched Netflix’s revival of “The Babysitters Club” in two days and could not get enough of Claudia Kishi. She was my favorite character back then in the books and she’s even cooler in 2020. Growing up, I was a huge fan of the series and Claudia playing a young Japanese American girl with her creative flair resonated deeply with me. She was the opposite of the stereotype that we have all become familiar with and some of us needed her character to pave the way ourselves. Netflix’s “The Claudia Kishi Club” says it’s a documentary, but it’s only 17 minutes and we wish it were longer. The special features six Asian American creatives discussing what Claudia Kishi meant to them growing up and it’s the most heartwarming thing you’ll watch all weekend.

What We’re Listening To: JoJo – good to know (Acoustic)

Before I knew we were going to write this post this weekend, I already [shared] that I was listening to JoJo’s acoustic release of her “good to know” album. Two days later and we’ve still got this on repeat. I always love original albums, but there’s something about one that is stripped down that really tugs at the heart strings. We’re just so excited about her come back.

What We’re Wearing: [Leith Ruched Body-Con Tank Dress] – $56 – $29.93

I’ve been having a lazy week lounging in leggings, but because yesterday was Saturday, we pulled on this latest dress that we purchased. Since I’m new to becoming a regular at online shopping, I never know how my purchases will turn out, but I’m glad that this was a perfect fit. Now looking back on it, I wish I had purchased this in several colors! It’s the perfect day to night dress and one that I know I would’ve loved wearing around the office. For now, we’ll just wear it around at home, but we’re okay with that.

What We’re Eating: Soondubu

Ever since Kevin and I discovered the Soft Tofu Kit at the Korean Market that we go to in Daly City, it has become our favorite thing to make! The kit itself just holds the tofu and the sauce, but all you have to do is add water and your favorite toppings and you’ve got a meal. My usual adds:

  • 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil
  • Oyster Sauce
  • Soy Sauce
  • Sugar
  • Bell Peppers
  • Peas
  • 2 eggs
  • Mushrooms
  • Green Onions
  • Black Pepper

Cook it all up and serve it over rice and it’s the perfect comfort meal.

What We’re Drinking: Yakult Soju

This is the easiest cocktail to make! Normally, I don’t drink by myself at home, but since we’re not going out to bars, I figured this could take the place of my happy hours. I was introduced to this combo at a bachelorette party earlier this year so ever since, I’ve just had it on hand in my fridge. All you have to do is mix soju with the Yakult yogurt drink. I’m told it’s even better if you add Sprite, but we have yet to try that!

06 Jul 2020

We’re A “Claudia”

Maybe we’re a bit old to be watching Netflix’s revival of “The Baby-Sitters Club,” but we’re here for one reason and one reason only. Her name is Claudia Kishi. Growing up, the Baby-Sitter’s Club was my childhood. I couldn’t wait to be their age and to have a group of best friends to call my own. I don’t know how we would define these stages, but the first is that you acknowledge what it is that you want. Then you ask yourself, is it obtainable? Do you see yourself? That’s why representation is so important. There were so few Asian characters I could look up to growing up, but I was happy to consider Claudia Kishi ours.

Now, we all know that this goes beyond looks and that Claudia’s personality is one that shines. However, the “looks” part of it, as simple as it may be, is honestly what we notice first. Claudia goes against the grain in many ways, but through and through she’s authentically herself. She wasn’t an unbelievable character. She was a young girl who loved fashion and was an aspiring artist. Though her parents were tough on her, they supported her.

It has been many years since I read the series, but it didn’t take long for me to remember why I loved it. Netflix’s rendition has a refreshing perspective – one that includes more diversity than the series ever provided before. There’s even a brief storyline of a child identifying as transgender and it wasn’t in an obvious, over the top way. It was done tastefully. Obviously, I’m excited about the series, but more importantly, I hope it leaves a lasting impression for young girls who will come to know and love this show the way I did growing up.

04 Apr 2020

This Weekend:

As I’m catching up with my friends this week, I’m noticing that we’re all asking each other similar questions. “What are you watching?” “Any good books lately?” “What are people cooking these days?” There’s a lot of time to spend on things that we might not normally prioritize. More than ever, I’m noticing that I’m seeking recommendations from those in my network for things I might not gravitate towards. This could change week-by-week and we may not be able to post one of these every weekend, but I thought it would be nice to capture what I’m doing now.

What we’re watching: Crash Landing on You (Netflix)

OK, so this is another excuse to post a picture of these two! Korean dramas aren’t normally in my wheelhouse, but when I was suggested to give Crash Landing on You a try from two close friends, I figured I couldn’t make up an excuse. After all, what could I say? I don’t have the time? What I love about this series is that there’s something for everyone. There’s a little comedy, romance, action, thrill, and mystery. It’s actually the 2nd highest rated drama in Korean TV history, which means it’s more than worth checking out. I’ve been watching the show for about a week now and even caught myself going through three episodes in a day. Each episode is about 90 minutes a way. Part way through, I decided to savor the series taking my time because I don’t want it to end!

What we’re wearing: [TNA Leggings]

You would think that since I dress up for work every day normally that I’d do the same at home. In fact, it has been quite the opposite! Getting showered and dressed every morning is still part of the routine, but I also want to be at my most comfortable. I have six pairs of these leggings that I just rotate through and am still probably looking to add more to my collection. Since they are affordable, it’s easy not to feel bad about making a purchase.

What I’m Reading: Chanel Miller’s “Know My Name”

I’ve had this book since December and I’m taking my time with it. As many of you know, this hasn’t been an easy read. I also don’t normally read books these days on a regular basis often opting for shorter pieces online. However, I continue to just be in awe of Chanel – her writing, her presence, and her strength throughout this entire ordeal. Despite how challenging of a read it is for me, I know we’ll all be better for it on the other side and I’m hoping to finish before shelter-in-place ends.

What we’re supporting: local restaurants

There’s no shortage of organizations that we all could be donating to right now. I live near a neighborhood that I spend much of my time in when not shelter-in-place. Many restaurants here are greatly being impacted and one that stands out in giving back to the community right now is [Che Fico.] They are currently selling family-style meals at $50 that include bread, salad, an entree, and dessert which can feed 2-3 people. For those that can’t afford this, students, those impacted by shelter-in-place, you can sign up for a free meal. The restaurant already is contributing 250 meals a night through this program. And for those that can help, you can also donate to this program to help keep it going. As much as possible, I’m spending more time preparing my meals at home, but to have some sort of normalcy, we are getting takeout 1-2 times a week.

What we’re eating: Garlic Noodles

My excuse for never cooking at home is always time. I’m at work late or I have social activities afterwards that prevent me from doing so. Without this excuse, I was able to use my extra time to make a delicious meal for myself. I’ve actually never made garlic noodles before, but Jean Wang of [Extra Petite] had a fairly simple recipe to follow with most of the ingredients already being in my pantry. We tried to capture me in the process of cooking this for my Instagram, but it was harder than it looks! Whatever the case, it was a recipe that we could continue perfecting, but I’ll keep this in my back pocket for now.

28 Dec 2018

Barack Obama’s 2018 Favorites

It wouldn’t be a complete end of the year round up post without a say from our favorite former President. Please come back.

01 Aug 2018

Anna Wintour to Stay at Vogue ‘Indefinitely’

Looks like we can finally put to bed the rumors of Anna Wintour leaving ‘Vogue!’ That’s great for us because honestly, did anyone actually want her to leave? As these rumors have been popping up, I imagine that exact same scene that occurred in “The Devil Wears Prada” where Meryl Streep tells Anne about all the people that would leave with her if she were “out at Runway.” Many thought that this upcoming September issue would be Anna’s last, but the rumors have officially been squashed as of this week.

CEO Bob Sauerberg took to the Conde Nast Twitter account yesterday to clear the air:

[Source]

26 Jul 2018

“To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before” Trailer

Even after watching this trailer twice, I still have no idea what this film is about! Regardless, I am excited about another Asian American female lead. Given that the books did quite well, I have hope for the Netflix film and can’t wait to see it! Readers, have you read the book series yet? Also, have you ever written imaginary letters to your crushes?! I have never been caught dead in this situation, but it is the exact scenario that I could see myself falling into. Oh to be young and in love…?