Saturday 23 November 2013

the most fashionable outfit to date on GingerSteps

Yeah, admittedly our previous outfits were subpar. So Hamela and I put our heads together to bring you the most breathtaking outfit to date. It's simple but outstandingly chic, extraordinarily stylish and above all, cute.

Is it this?


No. We've done that before.

Ok, then you must be thinking...this?


No, we didn't like that one enough to post it.

Instead, I present to you something 100 000x better: Onesie Fasion


The subtle grey tone really compliments that hand gesture as well as that complicated model squat. And that hood! No need to style your hair with this, and no accessories needed.


haha, we're only joking, but not really

- Ginger

Onesie: Urban Planet
Sneakers: Rebok

Tuesday 12 November 2013

Bleaching Hair

So I finally got around to bleaching my icky faded blue hair. Because so many people are wondering how it's done, I just decided to write a quick tutorial-esque post. So first things first: you need the bleach powder AND developer. The developer is what activates the bleach. You need a brush. Let me clarify again. YOU NEED A BRUSH. It’s crucial for even application of the bleach. You also need to be wearing a fugly t-shirt that you do not care about, and strips of aluminum foil.


Step One

In a bowl, mix your powder bleach and your developer. I purchased by bleach and developer from Shoppers Drug Mart. I’ve also used some brands from the States, and the piercing booth in front of Bang On in Metrotown actually sells you the kit. If you have lighter, finer hair get the lower volume (30-40) and if your hair is relatively dark then get higher volumes (40-50). If you’re a beginner consult the vendor. Also, if it’s your first time, then you might want to start off with Volume 30.

Moving on…I pour in my developer first and then the bleach after – this will insure that all of the bleach has contact with the developer. Mix it very carefully either with the end of the comb/brush or any wooden or plastic stick you have. It should be thoroughly mixed and make sure that the bleach hasn’t just settled or conglomerated at the bottom. Don’t skimp out on the developer: usually it’s one packet of bleach to one bottle of developer.




Step Two

Okay! Now it has been thoroughly mixed. Next I divide my hair into two sections, and then into strips. If you’re doing your entire hair, the thickness of each strip is not that crucial, all you need to do is make sure that your hair is evenly coated. If you’re doing just the bottom like me, the strips are more important because you can control how much you want to dye. Don’t be lazy. Make sure your strips are nicely varied but relatively uniform at the same time (talk about contradictory). The strips will keep your hair from getting a visible, straight line and will allow your bleached hair to blend better.

you can already see the green stripped from my hair
So with your brush you take a strip of hair and apply the bleach to one side, then comb. Then flip it and apply + comb the other side as well. Then wrap it up in the aluminum foil and then clip it up! Repeat with the rest of your hair. Once you’re done, leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour. Keep checking regularly though!




Step Three

Check to see if you have achieved your desired colour, and go back to apply more if you missed a spot. Once you’re done go wash your hair and voila!


NOTE:
Do not exceed an hour. If you need to, bleach your hair more than once. You most likely will have to if you have black hair. I bleached my hair 4 times before it was light enough so that I could dye it blue.

Help is great. Help is actually highly recommended at first.

If your hair is already lighter at the bottom, bleach the darker parts first and then go back and do the lighter parts later.

Bleach can make your hair just fall off or break off, but it won’t unless you royally screw up and keep it in for like two or three hours.

Make sure your hair is dry. Just like you don't want to straighten/curl your hair when it's wet, you don't want to bleach/dye it when it is either.



Have fun!

- Ginger

Monday 11 November 2013

Steph's Autumn Haul

With the colder weather approaching and months of saving, I stocked up on some autumn-cozies and splurged a little while I was at it. All of these items were purchased with my own money and were bought over the course of the past couple of months.


1. Kate Spade Watch
For the past year, I’ve been looking to somewhat invest in a watch. At first, I only wanted an inexpensive but classic looking watch, but after giving it more thought, I gave myself a budget and saved up for it. When I finally reached my goal, I went shopping at Holt Renfrew and experienced “love at first sight” with this Kate Spade watch that I purchased. Even though, I had always planned on getting a black leather one, none of the ones I saw were “the one.” So, I went with this nude leather strap with the gold frame because it just adds a feminine touch to any outfit I wear. Definitely my most favourite purchase in a while.


2. Slippers
While I was shopping online, I saw these boot-slippers that just looked super cute and comfortable. Sadly, when I went to the store, they didn’t have it in grey, the original colour I wanted, so I just settled for the pink one. I must say, I don’t regret it at all. These boots definitely keep me cozy and make me feel cute even when I’m in my baggy pyjamas.


3. Night Shirt
Speaking of pyjamas, I bought a t-shirt when I was at H&M thinking I need a somewhat simple graphic tee to add to my everyday wardrobe. But, after trying it on at HOME (sigh..), I realized it was just too baggy and long. Thing is, the shirt is just so freaking soft. A lightbulb went off in my head. And night shirt it is. Great thing about it is, if I wake up late and or I’m feeling lazy, I don’t need to change my top. Just layer it with a cardigan and some leggings, and we're good to go! #winface


4. Sweater
Another purchase I made at H&M was this sweater because well it looks nice, it's my style, and autumn sweater weather is here. I like how soft it is and the price was very reasonable.


5. Toque/Beanie

What do YOU call them? I love hats, so I had to get a nice black toque so that I could wear with almost everything. Even though it was a tad on the pricey side for a toque, I just thought that since I'll be wearing it almost all the time, might as well get a better quality one from Plenty. Gotta say this Obey toque has saved my butt on many of my bad hair days. I can either just leave my hair down or put it in a side braid, and I'm able to greet the world without embarrassment...of my hair.



Saturday 9 November 2013

Book Review: A Tale for Time Being

The other day I was going around my school library cos I had some free time before a workshop and I came across this section just for leisurely reads! I was completely taken by surprise, because I love books and most of UBS’ books are academic, so I've never borrowed a book just to read on my own (from the University Library, that is).

"Great Reads" Section at Corner Library
So I happened to be walking by, and I'm not sure if you can see the book I ended up borrowing in the above picture, above but for some reason my hand just gravitated towards it. I pulled it out and I immediately fell in love with the cover. 

The cover does kind of pop!
I love reading. One thing that I hate about having a busy life is that I seldom have the time to set aside for reading, as I love to do that hours at a time, just curl under by blanket and immerse myself into this new world. I get so attached to the characters that once I've finished, I feel like a lose a little part of me, because the life of that character will be no more. They’ll have reached the end of their journey and leaving me hanging…

For some strange reason, I didn't feel this way for this book. That doesn't necessarily mean I hated it, or I felt detached from the characters, but I just felt a great sense of resolve, even though the great mystery isn't technically solved. 

So this book follows the story of Ruth who finds a mysterious diary that has floated on to shore from Japan. Ruth is a Japanese novelist who moved into a remote village for her husband. To be honest, I’m not sure if the actual author is writing about herself because I mean it does all fit, but I’m not sure if her finding Naoko’s diary is fictional or not.

So Ruth finds this diary, right? And she gets all worked up because Naoko has a pretty emotionally turbulent life, and she might be dead by the means of: suicide, tsunami, etc. Ruth then gets absorbed into Naoko's life and becomes obsessed with finding her, even though it's been ten years since Naoko's finished her diary. The story gets a tinge supernatural (and corny) at the end with disappearing and reappearing pages that happens to rewrite itself as Ruth begins to acknowledge whatever is the thing she needed to realize.

The book is cut into a series of 3 parts and within these parts the book goes back and forth between Nao’s world and Ruth’s world. Honestly though, during the first third of the book I dreaded reading Ruth’s sections because she is just so whiny and she just bitches about everything including her friends and husband, but later I really did end up liking her and appreciated her quest to find Nao. Because she cared, I cared. I would say that Ruth’s character development is subtle, whereas Nao’s journey is way more eventful and turbulent. Either way, I have a great fondness for Nao, and great respect for Ruth.

Anyways, I really did like this book. I fell completely in love with Nao: her enduring innocence despite all of the wicked sick things that she experiences. I’m actually quite sure that I came across this tale by pure coincidence, but how do we know that I wasn't destined to find it and read it just as Ruth did of Nao’s diary?


I give this book 3.5 out of 5 stars, because it was really good but I would have enjoyed it way more with less Ruth time and more Nao time. Nao is a charming girl who won my heart and sympathy and all of that jazz. Ruth was just okay. I know that the point of her parts was to show the process of looking for Nao, but I wish she just kept it shorter.

- Ginger

Monday 4 November 2013

Featured Artist of the Month: Julie London - October 2013

Stephanie’s Featured Artist of the Month – Julie London – October 2013

Last month, I featured a hip hop artist; this month, we go back in time to the 1950s – 1960s. Since childhood, I have always enjoyed jazz but only exposed myself to the big names such as Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, etc. That was until last year, I heard the song “Cry Me a River” (not the Justin Timberlake version, even though I love that song, as well). It was sung in such a classy sultry way that I just had to learn more about the artist. That was how I discovered the sexiest singer ever, the beautiful, Julie London.

If I grew up during her generation, I would definitely go lesbian for her. She was hella sexy.
Her voice and her performances are very sensual, but done in a composed and acceptable manner. The smoky tone in which she sings effortlessly expresses the strong, yet extremely feminine woman in her songs.

“Cry Me a River” is her most signature song, and duly so, as it is also my favourite Julie London classic. In a more relatable context, it is similar to JT’s version in terms of what the lyrics is trying to convey: “I’m not taking you back.” This song itself is very relatable to many relationships. You work so hard on a relationship, the other person doesn’t appreciate it, and so, you try your hardest to just move on. But, no. Only when you’re gone do they appreciate your presence.



If you end up liking this song, remember to check out her other songs such as “When I Fall in Love.” If you’re ever in need of a calm song while studying or getting ready to sleep, Julie’s soothing voice is just perfect. It’s also perfect for the chill autumn season. Stay cozy and awesome everyone.


-          Steph =]

Saturday 2 November 2013

Ginger's Hallow's Eve

So I partied last week with Step-on-me-Poo, yes it is true. I just wanted to dance and so Steps and I danced the night away without reservations. We just sweated away all of our frustrations and stress. And no, there was no nasty grinding involved with any boys! Can you guess what I was? It's pretty ambiguous, but...


But on Halloween, I did something completely different. I went to my church event where we play games, eat candy and just plain ol celebrate time together. I get it, trick-or-treating is a part of childhood that everyone should experience, but I think Hallelujah Night is a great way to get kids off the dangerous streets and focus on the positive, bright and fun part of Halloween.

Yummy cookie making

We all wore pajamas and wacky hats. It was a great time, and we were full of energy. I'm not going to post the pictures of any kids because I don't want to go around asking permission from each of their parents, but no worries, I still have plenty of pictures of myself (har har har).

I was going to wear a matching onesie avec ma soeur, mais I just decided to go with a purple robe with a crown. But even before it started my friend stole my crown and in turn I took my sister's animal ears (unidentified animal) and in turn she took another friend's husky toque. Overall I must say I looked swaggie. Yup.



I love my mom
Just a selfie with my mom for good measure

I'm wondering what you did for Halloween. I honest to goodness had so much fun this year.

Thursday 31 October 2013

Steph's Weekend (Oct 25 - 27): Halloween Funtime

This week had been extremely stressful, and even though I was quite devoid of sleep, I still had myself a crazy Halloween weekend. Starting off with dinner with Taiwan’s de facto embassy, TECO. We were invited to an all-you-can-eat BBQ and sushi dinner where we just kept talking and eating for hours. Honestly, don’t be intimidated by the word embassy, the Director of Education is one of the nicest, easiest to talk to “middle-aged” ladies I know. However, due to all clubs having events of their own that night, we had to say our goodbyes not knowing when all of us can gather for a nice dinner again.

Now, this is the part where Ginger is actually involved in my week/weekend, which hasn't happened since the summer. Ginger and I went clubbing with my student club. We drank. We danced. We had fun. I went as a sailor, and Ginger dressed up as a mourning bride in a VERY sexy dress. Even though the atmosphere was not what I’m used to for clubbing, I still enjoyed it since I was with my bestest friend.
 


Gotta take a selfie in the washroom.


To end the week of craziness, I just went hermit mode for the rest of the night. Hurray for hermit mode and Netflix!

....I wanted to insert a selfie...but after looking through my photo album on my phone, I realized I actually haven't taken a selfie by myself since the summer. Woopsie.

Well have a good week guys!

Steph :)



GINGER NOTE: Steph is an awesome dancer



Tuesday 29 October 2013

I found my old iPod!

I found my iPod nano the other day, and it brought me utmost joy!
The thing is, I had pretty decent music taste back in the good ol' day when I was experiencing teenage angst and the turbulent emotions that accompany that phase. I must say, it is the best gift I think I have ever received.
Here are some of my favourite artists that I rediscovered in no particular order

1. Panic! at the Disco

Lying is the Most Fun a Girl Can Have Without Taking Her Clothes Off

I remember having Panic! being my jam for a good chunk of my high school years, it was all I would play. They're actually going on tour next year and guess who's going to be there, front and center? (me). PS. Brendon Urie is hot

2.The Academy Is

Skeptics and True Believers

Another band by Fueled by Ramen. I'm pretty sure that they're not very well known, but I can't say for sure. I was 100% an indie gal. It tears me apart, because on one hand I'm pretty sure that they deserve(d) more, and on the other I like to bask in the glory of the feeling that I get to have them all to myself

3. MCR

I Don't Love You

Oh my goodness, I remember singing this song as I cried in a dark room. The thing is, even though they were depressing times I don't associate MCR with that kind of dread. Well, I do, just not to the point where I have come to detest them, but I do still love to soak in their lyrics when I'm melancholy.

4. Relient K

Be My Escape

Just, feel good music.

5. Imogen Heap

Just for Now (live)

Super artistic, super eccentric. I'm not so into Imogen Heap/Frou Frou as I was before, but I can appreciate that she helped me be myself in my developmental years.

6. Jason Mraz

Curbside Prophet

I still listen to him and his recent music, but there is something so special about his old music. I used to fangirl over him since Geek in the Pink.

8. Death Cab for Cutie





Song for Kelly Huckabee
Okay, so I still listen to their music, but Song for Kelly Huckabee was forgotten until I scrolled down my entire music list. Serious gem. 
Along with artists there were some random songs that I really enjoyed:
1. The Shins - Phantom Limb

2. Rosette - Crushed

3. Jumper - Third eye blind


Anywho, I'm pretty sure that music is something that helped everyone in their lives at one point or another. I have actually stopped updating my list so much now, but I definitely agree with Frank Ocean: it's the emotions that help you understand the lyrics. That's ultimately what connects us to the artists, not the fact that they wear clothes from Target or that they also enjoy a good cup of frozen yogurt...(well I guess a little).

- your Ginger

Saturday 26 October 2013

longing for your warmth

I regret not belting this maxi. How cute would that have been? I love this cardigan because it's comfortable but it also brings some life to this piece. No extra jewelry needed (except maybe a belt!)


Admittedly, this dress is a tad too long for both Ham and me, but that is why we paired it with these cute boots from Aldo (or Spring).



- Ginger


Maxi dress: Winners
Cardigan: Tobi
Boots: Spring-Aldo

Thursday 24 October 2013

Steph's Weekend at Fright Night

Halloween is one of my most favourite holidays. There are tons of events and activities, and I love dressing up. If I had more money and time, oh, the costumes I could wear. The past weekend I went to Fright Night at PNE. For the non-Vancouverites, it’s basically a bunch of haunted houses and rides hosted at our local theme park. It was my first time there and it was hella cold, but in the end, I had TONS of fun.

My Halloween Costume in 2010
Since my friends and I went as a group and on the first day it opened, we got an amazing deal. During the summer, if you wanted to go there for only a little more than the rides running now, it is basically double the price. On top of that, there are extra admission costs if you want to go into ONE haunted house in comparison to the SIX haunted houses already included in the Fright Night tickets.

Also, while you walk around the amusement park, there are entertainers dressed in scary costumes who are totally up for taking photos with you. They are super friendly, but do so in a way that they’re still in character. It’s eerily cute, if that makes any sense. Especially the bald, physically disfigured…mental hospital people…hmm don’t know what they are exactly…but they’re awesome.


Atmosfear



Now beware, it is currently autumn, so it gets pretty chilly at night. When you’re up in those rides, even colder. So, dress warm. And wear suitable shoes! My friend actually dropped a shoe on the Hells Gate ride and had to walk around the park with a make-shift shoe from first-aid for the entire night. My favourite ride would be the Atmosfear. Don’t be fooled by the name, it actually isn’t scary at all. It’s like a merry-go-round but faster, higher, and REFRESHING! That cold autumn wind…feels so good!!! But seriously, do layer up.

Anyways, I definitely recommend you guys to get a group and go together. I would love to go again this year (GINGER! HINT HINT! :D ), but it’s a hectic month, so I’m not sure if I’ll have the time. I would also love to go on the Ghost Train in Stanley Park, but I’m not sure if it’s worth it. 


Coming up next: Halloween Clubbing with Ginger. Stay Tuned!

Hope you guys have an awesome weekend :D (but please be safe!)
- Steph 



PS. GINGER EDIT: My sister tells me that the haunted houses at PNE are actually HAUNTED. Yup you heard it here first, folks (not, haha).

Tuesday 22 October 2013

Ginger Thoughts: Feeling Like a Failure

I was so swamped the past two weeks with all of the midterms and essays and assignments, I didn't write anything for my Saturday post and it threw me off the loop! I was going to write a Ginger journal, but lately I've been feeling quite uneasy.

This past week I've been feeling something that I'm sure everyone feels once in a while. For instance, I am no stranger to feeling incompetent. I think my failures in the past can be credited to several things: I compare myself to others, and I procrastinate and become unmotivated easily (while at the same time setting high standards for myself). This year I actually started off pretty well and have been consistent with studying. Yet the past few weeks test after test I feel like I'm just letting myself down again. I know I'm not perfect and no matter how much effort I put into anything I can't achieve perfection. I think the thing I hate the most is admitting that I'm bad at something or talking about my failures. It's just another reminder of how I should be ashamed of myself. I had a midterm on Friday and a data analysis on Saturday as well as a seminar presentation amidst preparing for the term paper for the seminar. Then I had a language midterm, a math midterm and history paper. I completely tanked the math midterm and I was so nervous about my presentation that for a good minute I just sat there hyperventilating in front of the class.

I couldn't believe that despite all of the preparation that I've done I still ended up at the bottom. I started feeling guilty and blame myself for everything. When so many others are willing to sacrifice everything they have for education and the loving support system I have from my family and friends, how can I sit here and think myself as being worthy of any of this? Honestly, I can't even come to a conclusion because I have no advice. I know what I'm supposed to say: It's okay to feeling incompetent sometimes, you can channel that energy into motivation to continue to work hard. I really want to say that. Trust me when I say that I wish I could smile and be positive and give this pretentious but inspiring piece of advice, but how can I when I'm still here, feeling the exact opposite.

Thursday 17 October 2013

Television Review - Upstairs Downstairs

I’ve been in a UK TV series phase recently, and holy crap, Upstairs Downstairs was amazing. The show is actually a continuation of a ‘70s show taking place at the same house, 165 Eaton Place, but with new owners and some new staff. It takes place in the ‘30s with references to the English fascist movement, the social conflicts of that era, and the events leading up to WWII.


The first thing that captivated me was its visually STUNNING scenery and costumes which was justly noted with Emmy nominations for Outstanding Art Direction, and Outstanding Costumes for a Miniseries or Movie. Although the ‘30s was the time of the Great Depression, the show captivates the vibrant beginnings of a new family and household.

Cast of Season 1

Next is the characters and all of their relationships with each other. I love how each character, even the junior servants, have some sort of development, and all are portrayed so sincerely. It’s something I’ve noticed with UK dramas - everyone is an amazing actor. Though I gotta say, not a big fan of Persie. That foolish, ungrateful b****.


One of the reasons I love UK series is that a lot of them are mini-series. This means I can binge watch on Netflix without feeling super guilty for “wasting” time watching TV. Moreso, I found this series to be quite inspirational and educational. Got to brush up on some history. Many of the characters are genuinely nice and generous people, and Lady Agnes learns to not only become a housewife and hostess during the series, but to do so in an independent manner.

Cast of Season 2
Sadly, this series only has two seasons due to one of the main actors’, Jean Marsh's, illness. Many people argue that the second season failed to live up to the series' former glory due to her absence. Sure, the series lacked the calm motherly compassion of her character, but it was still an intriguing show nevertheless.



This is definitely one of the best TV shows I have watched this year. It seduces you with its beautiful imagery and storyline. It toys with your emotions and values when characters express opposing views. It’s just a really well produced drama that should totally garner the attention and love of North American viewers.


From a sincere fan,
Steph =]

Tuesday 15 October 2013

Ginger's Thanksgiving!

Before I tell you what I've been up to the past week (exams, and more exams to come), I want to share my little 2 cents about what it means to be grateful...

It's something that should happen everyday and thankfulness is something we should encounter all the time. I wonder why though, why all of us (myself included) have such a hard time when it comes to remembering how privileged we are. I know that I should be grateful for the abundance that I have been blessed with, yet sometimes I refuse to acknowledge it in order to feel sorry for myself. I think that in our lives we are so consumed by what we should have, that when some trivial problem surfaces, we sit around moping rather than fixing the problem. We don't know what to do because we are consumed by our own sense of self entitlement. I realized that I can't really force others to change how they feel, but what I can do is start with myself:

I will be thankful for all the good things that I have, but I will also be thankful when it is hard to remember to be:
I will be thankful for the problems that make my life difficult, because problems offer the gift of solution (however indirectly)
I will be thankful because problems build character and wisdom as I set out to conquer each and every one.
I will be thankful even when I incur a loss because it will teach me not to make that mistake twice.
I will be grateful for shitty friends because it will help me appreciate the good ones and help me become a better one
I will be grateful for my lack of natural skill and affluence because I will hunger for success and build good work habits through copious amount of effort
I will be grateful for every extra step that I have to take because it will teach me perseverance.

Yup, I think that's about it.


So this is a mini update on how I spent my thanksgiving weekend:

Thanksgiving at church
So my mom doesn't actually cook our own turkey until a week after thanksgiving, because my mom's in charge of providing the meal above for our entire church (that is a lot of turkeys). I'll post on that on Saturday along with a special message to my brother (it's his birthday today!)

@Dasarang

I also celebrated my dear friend Jimmy's birthday. We ate delicious chicken with green onions. We went to karaoke/noraebang after and rocked out (well I rocked out) to a bunch of MCR.


Why post this picture if I'm going to blank out their faces? To prove that I have friends.
Happy belated Jimmy!!!!

Saturday 12 October 2013

Beauty Inside and Out

It is getting co-o-o-o-ol here, but the last two days displayed some amazing sunshine and it was warm enough for Hamela to wear these torn leggings. We decided to take our dog out on a walk while we were out shooting photos, and the outfit proved to be both comfy and warm. 


Hamela has been living in this sweater for the entire week, I swear it's beginning to smell like sour yogurt (joking). I thought that it would be really cute if she threw a jean jacket on top and topped it off with a washed out pair of blue high tops.

THE LEAVES HAVE FALLEN

Hamela took worn leggings, took some shears and cut (with much caution) a bunch of horizontal lines. We also got the idea to wear the jean jacket inside the sweater to give off a cool, laid back 70s effect.

fixing her hair

and voila! I actually think this outfit is even better.

our lawn needs maintenance!!

For accessories, I paired these long, black cross earrings with my mom's old gold ring. I don't know what the stone is, but I do really like it! As for the bag, we just chose my maroonish leather messenger bag.

Wine Not! (:


There you have it! We know how to be cool.

will you ever get to see his face?

...and my elusive dogs says au revoir! See ya again on Thursday and Saturday.

- Ginger



Sweater: Illest
Jean Jacket: Forever21
Leggins: DIY
Converse
Earrings: Aldo
Ring: mom's
Lipstick: Wine Not

Thursday 10 October 2013

Steph's Thoughts: Taiwan

Sorry guys, but I’ll be on a rant-about-Taiwan spree for just another post or two. I can’t help it, it’s just such an awesome country filled with awesome people. And yes, I say awesome too much, but it don’t mean it’s not as awesome. *snap snap snap*

Taipei - where my family's from
I love talking about Taiwan with my friends. Everything about it just makes me want to share the amazing-ness with others. As a Taiwanese, food is ALWAYS on my mind and or in my mouth. But, despite the amazing cuisines, it isn’t just about the food itself. When you’re in Taiwan dining out in those Taiwanese restaurants located on at least every block, it’s that home-sweet-home feeling you get even while sitting on that little plastic stool with strangers right next you. It’s the extremely friendly street vendors who strike amazing conversations that leave you smiling your entire meal. It’s the generous store owners who offer you free food when they see you become a regular.
Mom's hometown, Yilan. I love visiting this town when I'm in Taiwan. It's really beautiful.
A lot of the people in Taiwan are passionately outgoing. Sure, half of these people might shy away if you’re a foreigner, but once past the language barrier, the friendliness or 熱情 is a trait that makes me proud to be Taiwanese. Just don’t make politics a conversation topic...umm…ever. HAHA

I really miss my little island. Despite being born and raised on the other side of the ocean, Taiwan will always be my home.

Yours truly,
Steph =]

PS: Sorry for the lack of photos. I`ll continue a Taiwan blog post when/after I go back to visit.

Tuesday 8 October 2013

Ginger Thoughts: Women, Men and Misogyny in the 21st century

I'm not sure if any of you reading had come across this viral video yet:




A man (?) is kneeling and is being repeatedly slapped by his girlfriend, who is accusing him of inviting another girl home. The entire time he just takes the beating, bawling his eyes out and protesting that he is innocent. Personally, I don't really care about the guy and the girl. The girl should probably go see a therapist and find out why she is so insecure and abusive as well as take some lessons on how to be a decent human being. What I'm really shocked about are the comments that people are posting about the girl.


These are the first three comments that I saw, and while it doesn't reflect everyone's opinion on this situation, I couldn't believe that I was reading this at all. Really? Are we still at this stage? I thought that we'd evolved far enough in order to know that these types of comments are unacceptable. In an age where we are trying to battle inequality, injustice, prejudice and persecution I cannot fathom the type of upbringing these people had that make them believe what they are saying is right.

I would highlight one comment that bugged me the most, but I can't even do that because they are all equally ridiculous and offensive. I don't even know what I would do to discipline these pathetic excuse of human beings who think they are "enlightening" the world with their misogynistic, highly inaccurate CRAP. Probably beat the shit out of them. HAHA joking.

Monday 7 October 2013

Steph's Weekend: 10/4-10/6

For those of you who don’t know yet, I’m Taiwanese. Even though I was born and raised in Vancouver, I’m still very proud of my heritage. Since Taiwan’s National Day (aka Double 10 Day) is coming up, Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO), our de facto embassy, hosted a reception at the Vancouver Convention Centre where I served as a volunteer along with other Taiwanese club executives. With events and people like these, I just can’t help but say: I LOVE TAIWAN! 我愛臺灣!
Excuse my face. This was supposed to be a funny photo picture.
Can't wait for 10/10

On Saturday, I participated in the Color Me Rad 5k run. Boy that was an intensely fun event. We warmed up with Zumba. Sadly, I have no hand eye coordination so I was mainly just swinging my body around looking like a clumsy rag doll. After our run, which went by surprisingly fast, it was time to dance and do some colour throws, all of which were HELLA AWESOME! I definitely recommend this event for those who want to do something fun but charitable at the same time.

I went to work the next day to find customer comments on the desk – all awesome reviews. I gotta say that my store really does have the best co-workers anyone could ask for.

Played some Guild Wars 2. Some people said they would play with me, but still waiting. *sad face*









That about wraps up my weekend. See you all in my next blog. =]



Yours truly,
Steph