I am so excited to finally be switching all of my summer clothes to Autumn/Winter outfits as my city is finally gaining some cooler weather. I miss my cozy sweaters and hoodies, and after being away from San Francisco for so long, I absolutely cannot wait to feel the cool breeze against my skin again.
Entertainment
Streaming service(s) might change from the time of writing this post due to the services’ contract with the movie/TV show networks.
The Haunting of Bly Manor (2020) | 1 Season, 9 Episodes
What was supposed to be a one-episode per night turned to binging the entire season in two nights. I honestly cannot fully explain how enthralled I was with Bly Manor. The characters, set designs, and overall storyline were perfectly splendid. Though the spooks weren’t as terrifying as Hill House, I feel like the tragedy that all the characters faced were more than enough to fill in that piece. I don’t want to spoil too much for those who haven’t watched it because I highly recommend that you watch it, right after reading this post.
Maturity Rating: TV-MA • Genre: Drama, Mystery • Original Language: English • Streaming Platform: Netflix
BECAUSE THIS IS MY FIRST LIFE (2017) | 1 Season, 16 Episodes
I actually didn’t know what to expect when I first watched the series. I had no idea what kind of story it was, other than love being involved, so I was pleasantly surprised that I found myself binging it until I finished watching the entire season. The first few episodes were a little more difficult to watch as I found myself relating to the main character more than I anticipated – writers, worried about age and the idea of running out of time, never experiencing that once-in-a-lifetime love, and comparing our life timeline with others. This is also the first drama I’ve seen where the main female lead had a more calming persona. Everything about her personality and actions defines patience and levelheaded. I think this is also the first K-Drama I’ve seen with more mature characters, around 30 years old and above actually. What I also love about this series is how they tackled three different love stories while incorporating the importance of self-growth, selflessness, and healing.
Maturity Rating: TV-14 • Genre: Romance, Comedy • Original Language: Korean • Streaming Platform: Netflix
THE SECRET (2016)
I heard about The Secret years ago, but I never knew about the documentary until months ago, and have had it on my watchlist since then. For the most part, I have heard about the actual secret, and let me tell you…it works. I will be writing about my personal experience with it in more detail soon, so be on the lookout for that.
Maturity Rating: Unknown • Genre: Documentary • Original Language: English • Streaming Platform: Unknown
NCT's Resonance Pt. 1 - The 2nd Album
I wasn’t around during NCT 2018, but I’m glad I got to experience their comeback this year! When they first announced their comeback, I was actually expecting a title track with all 23 members, similar to the one they did for Black on Black. I was surprised that the songs were divided amongst the members, which I’m fine with. Though Make A Wish (Birthday Song) is a catchy song that I can listen to all day (don’t get me started on the lyrics of the English version of this song), From Home is my favorite out of the entire album. Aside from the soothing vocals and instrumentals, the meaning of the song hits home for me, and the music video is beautiful in every way. I also like Dancing in the Rain, Déjà Vu, and Faded in My Last Song. Do give NCT a listen. They’re an amazingly talented group with a diverse range of music.
Foods
BONCHON RESTAURANT
My friend and I recently discovered Bonchon, a South-Korean based international fried chicken restaurant franchise, and wow. Just…wow. So far we’ve only tried one order of their 8pcs. Small Fried Chicken Wings (half spicy, half soy garlic) and Tteokbokki. Both were mouthwatering delicious! Keep in mind though that the Tteokbokki was insanely spicy, was not expecting that, but loved it, nonetheless. The meals were good enough for two people and definitely made us full. If they are located in your city, give their food a try!
Gratitude
I'M GRATEFUL FOR...
- Catching up with some old friends through video chatting;
- Being more productive with my blog;
- Taking better care of my body;
- Cleaning out my wardrobe;
- Having long hair.
A gratitude list does not have to include major life events (but include them when they do happen). Simple blessings, such as showering with clean water, are overlooked privileges to be grateful for.
Incorporate or reserve at least 10 minutes of your daily routine to write at least three (3) things you are grateful for.
We all need a good reminder to keep our feet on the ground.
