I had another post planned to share but somehow it doesn’t feel right to write about my frivolous travels today. Today is the day my mother and grandma sent my grandpa’s soul to eternal rest. He passed away two days ago on Wednesday. It came very suddenly and the funeral arrangements were made very fast. He had been sick in the hospital for a couple of weeks due to a blockage in his brain. My mother already had plans to go…
Words for 2016
I know I’m late, but happy new year everyone! Last year, while everyone else was talking about their resolutions and/or plans for the year, I kind of let New Years quietly slip by. I was in the middle of a serious writing funk and couldn’t come up with anything retrospective or profound. Eventually, I wrote this, vowing not to give up writing. But the truth is that I quite like the beginnings of a new year. It’s like holding a new…
Wanderful Christmastime (illustration)
Well, it’s that time of the year again. That time when trees get decked out in lights, stockings get hung, presents are wrapped, and Lady Liberty trades her copper gown and spiky crown for a Santa robe and hat. ;) I’m loving the festive atmosphere here in Taipei, though word is that the people don’t actually celebrate it (they don’t even get the day off of work). They just like to decorate for it. So I’m not expecting any special celebrations…
14 gift ideas for the stylish traveler (an illustrated guide)
Happy Monday! Now that Thanksgiving is over, we can start to talk about Christmas, right? :) Buying gifts for travel girls may be a little tough. We don’t tend to put too much value in stuff. And there’s always the chance that we may not be able to take certain things with us given our limited luggage space. And contrary to what some blogs say, we do not want any random items involving maps or travel quotes. But don’t worry! I’m…
A hand lettered gratitude list (Thanksgiving 2015)
I’ve always loved the American tradition of Thanksgiving. This is perhaps the one holiday left that hasn’t fallen prey to materialism (Black Friday, however, is a different story). We don’t spend the weeks leading up to it stressed about finding gifts or the perfect outfit to wear. Instead, we show up for dinner only with our favorite recipes and our stretchiest pants. For the most part, Thanksgiving has remained true to its intention as a family holiday: a time to spend…
An illustrated guide to packing for Taipei (fall/winter)
Since I’m still in a drawing obsession, I thought I’d illustrate a packing guide for Taipei, as this is where I’m settled for the rest of fall and into winter. (Mainly, I just wanted to draw some clothes and other girly things :P.) I think fall is a lovely time to visit Taipei (just make sure it’s past typhoon season!). The weather is cooler, there’s a nice breeze, and the sun is not so harsh. It’s still a bit humid,…
When the words don’t come… draw! (Life Lately from Taipei)
Please forgive me for being so inconsistent with blogging these days. I’ve always been a fan of the “if the words aren’t coming, then don’t blog just to keep a schedule” mindset. I’ve kept it no secret about my love-hate relationship with blogging and the cyclical slumps I seem to get. And lately, I’ve been in one of those. My mind can’t seem to formulate words into pleasing sentences and just the thought of opening up WordPress stresses me out….