2013: A Year in Review

Said goodbye, turned around, and you were gone, gone, gone…

Throughout the year, I’ve been compiling a page of memories from 2013 – including notable events I experienced, books I read, music I listened to, movies and television shows I watched, etc. – and now it is complete! CHECK IT OUT: Scrapbook 2013. I also created a few photosets of my Top Favourites of 2013 on Tumblr.

2013 was a tricky year of goodbyes, changes, and the search for a new beginning. I went from a foundation of stability to a gradually sliding slope (as I transitioned from an involved and studious university student to the unfamiliar territory of an unemployed graduate). Honestly, some days, it took a lot of willpower to hold on to the hope that things will look up soon. But I know that it will, with hard work and patience.

The purpose of these year in review posts is to look back over the year and reflect on what you did and what you learned. Even though I didn’t reach my goal of finding a job and starting my career by the end of 2013, I still accomplished quite a bit, such as writing, volunteering, traveling, and of course, graduating. The most important lesson I learned this year was to be brave. Bravery manifests itself anywhere and everywhere you allow it – in small acts (in getting up to face a brand new day) and in bigger steps (in sharing your passions with the world). The more you embrace courage, the more you’ll get out of life.

I’d say that all of the good things offset those unlucky moments of 2013. Looking ahead to 2014, I have high hopes that this year will be better. 2014 is a multiple of 7. 7 is my lucky number. Therefore, 2014 will be my glory year!

Like a drum, baby, don’t stop beating.

So This Is Christmas

Another Christmas has come and gone. This year, Mom and I had a quiet celebration together, and I captured some of those tranquil memories with the Nokia Lumia 1020. Here’s a glimpse into my Christmas 2013!…

Continue reading “So This Is Christmas”

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas, my friends! I wish you and your cherished ones peace, love, and joy as you celebrate the most wonderful day of the year. May your winter dreams be enchanted with snowflakes, candy canes, holiday magic, and everything that your heart desires. – Elizabeth Rosalyn

Hooray for Hollywood!

I had a sensational and memorable time during my trip to Los Angeles, California at the end of July!

Within a week, I was able to visit the sights I’ve wanted to see and accomplish the activities I’ve wanted to do in the City of Angels. I hiked up to the Hollywood sign, scoped out the stars along the Walk of Fame on Hollywood Boulevard (and even saw Walk of Fame ceremony for the late Peter Falk (Columbo)… and DICK VAN DYKE happened to be a special guest!), checked out the handprints at the TCL Chinese Theatre and saw The Bling Ring in cinema, watched two shows (American Idol Season 12 Tour at Nokia Theatre and Chicago at Hollywood Bowl), went to museums (Grammy Museum for music, Paley Center for television, and Hollywood Museum for film), did tours of Dolby Theatre (where the Oscars are held) and Paramount Studios (home of Lucille Ball, Community, Glee, and more television shows and movies!), chilled at the pier and beach in Santa Monica, shopped at Hollywood & Highland, the Grove, the Farmer’s Market, and Santa Monica (and window-shopped at Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills), and spent a day at the happiest place on earth, Disneyland!

I took over 1000+ photos, which I’ve uploaded to my Flickr album (the American Idol tour pictures can be found on my other Flickr album)

Years ago, I left my heart in New York City, but now, Los Angeles has certainly stolen a piece of my heart as well. I’m already looking forward to the next time I travel to LA! πŸ™‚

Remembering Cory Monteith

Cory Monteith

I am heartbroken over the death of Cory Monteith. My thoughts, prayers, and love go out to his family, his friends, his fans, and everyone who is affected by this tremendous loss.

Like most, I was introduced to Cory through Glee and instantly connected to his character of Finn Hudson, a young man who was trying to find his voice and embrace who he is, flaws and all. I was incredibly impressed by his talents as an actor, and he became one of the most beloved members of the cast for his funny, friendly, kind, and humble nature.

Besides acting, he made his mark through music (the photo above is from a Pinkberry event I attended where he played the drums with his band, Bonnie Dune), through his philanthropy work (he was an advocate for organizations such as Project Limelight, Virgin Unite, and GLAAD, and was the recipient of the 2012 Do Something Award for his efforts to motivate youth to take action on social causes), and even through cheering on his hockey team, the Vancouver Canucks (he was always so happy and proud to be a Canadian – and it made me feel the same way).

It is so devastating when young people pass away so suddenly (he was only 31), but I believe he has left behind a strong legacy during his time with us. In a society that mercilessly ostracizes those who struggle with very REAL issues like addiction and depression, he is someone who had the courage to seek help, and thus, he inspires others to do the same. He went through many challenges along his journey, but he always fought through with hard work, optimism, and bravery. To me and many others, he will be remembered for his authenticity, compassion, and perseverance.

Thank you for all that you’ve done to make a difference in our world, Cory Monteith. May you rest peacefully.