Cathy Trails

A Hidden Vietnamese Bakery in Chandler That Took Me Straight Back to Childhood

2025-04-20T16:58:00.004-07:00

This past Friday, I had the day off thanks to the Easter holiday weekend. Instead of filling it with to-dos, I decided to spend it simply—sharing a meal with my parents. I texted my mom to see if she and my dad were craving bánh mì, and of course, she had a spot in mind.

She told me about Kim Thao’s Bakery in Chandler, Arizona, a newly opened Vietnamese bakery run by a woman who used to work as a receptionist at her longtime family doctor’s office. Now, she’s serving up some of the most authentic Vietnamese dishes you’ll find in the East Valley. Naturally, we made the trip.

Walking into Kim Thao’s felt like opening a portal to my childhood. The smell of fresh baguettes, the quiet hum of the cooler, the trays of familiar dishes lining the shelves—it all felt so warm, so familiar. There were caramelized pork chops over rice, neatly packed to-go containers of nước mắm, and traditional Vietnamese iced coffee, cà phê sữa đá, already perfectly mixed with sweetened condensed milk and poured over ice. You couldn’t see the milk, but you could taste it—creamy, bold, and just sweet enough.

We ordered a stack of bánh mì sandwiches and while we waited, I browsed. The bánh cuốn—steamed rice rolls filled with minced pork and wood ear mushrooms—caught my eye, so I picked some up to enjoy later for dinner.

The sandwiches were beautifully packed. The baguettes were golden and crackly on the outside, soft and warm on the inside. Inside, the classic combo of Vietnamese cold cuts didn’t disappoint: thinly sliced head cheese and pork roll layered with a rich, savory smear of pâté. On the side came a baggie filled with all the fresh fixings—pickled daikon, pickled carrots, sprigs of cilantro, and jalapeño slices. Everything was fresh, vibrant, and clearly prepared with care.

My mom and I brought the sandwiches back to her place and dug in. The crunch of that first bite was everything. It’s the kind of bánh mì that makes you stop mid-bite and just appreciate where you are, who you're with, and what you’re tasting. I brought one home for my husband too, and he devoured his just as quickly.

That night, I warmed up the bánh cuốn. Each roll was soft and tender, the wrapper made from a steamed rice batter (not rice paper!) that gave it that silky, slightly chewy texture I love. Topped with crispy fried shallots and served with the perfect pour of fish sauce, it was the kind of dinner that doesn’t just fill you up—it soothes you.

Kim Thao’s Bakery is the kind of place that stays with you. It’s more than just a spot to grab lunch. It’s a reminder of where you come from, of flavors passed down, of home. For anyone looking for the best bánh mì in Chandler—or just a place that puts heart into every dish—this bakery is a gem.

Come for the food. Stay for the feeling.

I Went to Mexico City to See TOOL—and Ended Up Falling in Love with the Whole Damn City

2025-04-05T17:21:00.006-07:00

When my husband suggested we fly to Mexico City to see TOOL perform live at Azteca Stadium, I agreed, anticipating an adventure. He’s the true TOOL enthusiast. Me? I’m more about the food, the vibes, and exploring new places. By the end of the trip, not only was I vibing with TOOL—I found myself utterly captivated by Mexico City itself.

We packed the weekend with world-class cuisine, luxurious accommodations, an exhilarating Lucha Libre wrestling match on Friday, and the TOOL concert Saturday night. It was one of those transformative trips. Here’s everything we did, ate, and loved.

Where We Stayed: The Ritz-Carlton Mexico City (Yes, It’s Worth It)

Let’s start here: the service was impeccable. Room service delivered exactly at 1:17 a.m. as promised. The check-in desk starts at the 37th floor, and we stayed on the 38th—above the city skyline with panoramic views of Chapultepec Park and beyond.

The blooming jacaranda trees in March made everything feel surreal. The Ritz had that elevated, calming energy that made it feel like a true retreat.

Book through Expedia’s Ritz-Carlton Mexico City listing here!

What We Ate: Michelin-Level Magic, Tacos on Fire, and Sushi That Stunned Me

Let me just say this: CDMX did not miss when it came to food. We didn’t have one bad bite. And I’m already dreaming of going back just to eat my way through more of it.

Carmela y Sal

This spot absolutely blew me away. The creamy-but-chunky guacamole, those warm tortillas with fried black beans inside (maybe tlacoyos?), and mezcal cocktails that had the perfect smokiness. The flavors were layered, rich, and explosive in the best way.

Kill Bill Sushi

Who knew some of the best sushi of my life would be in a landlocked city? Every bite was tender, fresh, and elevated with touches like foie gras + unagi, crispy garlic, and truffle. Light jazz played in the background while my taste buds basically ascended.

Taquería Orinoco

A classic, and for good reason. I had the most melt-in-your-mouth al pastor tacos, and the salsas? Absolutely no joke. I’ve been slowly working on my spice tolerance, and this was the ultimate test—but I held my own.

What made it even more special was that we met up with new friends and after the Tool concert, they were so kind to share this incredible place with us after the concert. The vibe was vibrant and welcoming, and the tacos… next-level.

Friday Night Lucha Libre & TOOL on Saturday

On Friday night, we kicked things off with a totally wild, high-energy Lucha Libre wrestling match. It was theatrical, colorful, and way more fun than I expected.

Fun twist? We later realized that TOOL was sitting in the next section. We didn’t notice at the time, but saw their post on social later. The universe was clearly setting the tone for the weekend.

Then on Saturday, we all met up at the TOOL concert together that night at Estadio Azteca. TOOL fans, you already know, it was visually insane and sonically spiritual. And while my husband is the diehard fan in the relationship, I have to admit… I totally get it now.

Exploring the City (Between Bites and Shows)

Chapultepec Park – Gorgeous, expansive, and peaceful.
Zócalo Square – Historic and grand. That cathedral? Just… wow.
Polanco – Refined, elegant, luxury meets laid-back.

I didn’t get to dive as deep into every neighborhood as I wanted (next trip!), but the energy in each spot was so unique and vibrant.

What I Missed (and Why I’m Already Planning My Return)

One word: Pujol.
I tried to book a reservation and it was completely full. Lesson learned—reserve it way in advance if you’re planning a trip to CDMX. It’s one of the top restaurants in the world, and yes, it’s worth the hype.

Still manifesting that next time it works out.

Final Thoughts: From TOOL to Tlacoyos, Mexico City Changed Me

I went for a concert. I came back a different person. Mexico City gave me beauty, flavor, art, music, warmth, and a kind of magic that I wasn’t expecting.

And while TOOL was incredible, it was the city that won me over. From the high-touch luxury of the Ritz-Carlton to the grit and flavor of a late-night taco spot with new friends, this was the kind of trip that sticks with you.

Planning your trip to Mexico City?

Stay at The Ritz-Carlton Mexico City
Try to reserve Pujol early
Prioritize tacos, walks, and spontaneous adventures
And yes—say yes to the concert ticket. Even if it’s not your band, the experience might just change you

FourTillFour: A Cozy Coffee Spot You’ll Love in Scottsdale, AZ

2025-02-19T10:43:00.001-07:00

If you’re in Scottsdale, Arizona and love good coffee, you need to check out FourTillFour! This cozy little spot never disappoints—from their perfectly balanced mochas (hot or iced) to their lattes with fun flavors like lavender and date, every drink I’ve had here has been amazing. Here's a happy ol' me drinking a hot mocha with oat milk!

Established in 2015 by Arizona native Nico Samaras, FourTillFour was born from a love of vintage automobiles and a desire to bring specialty coffee to the Scottsdale area. The name "FourTillFour" is a clever nod to the classic Porsche 356 model—3:56 being four minutes till four—a tribute to Nico's passion for these iconic cars.

Nico's journey began with a fascination for cars, especially Porsches, which he nurtured alongside his father. This automotive enthusiasm eventually merged with a deep appreciation for quality coffee during his time in San Francisco. Upon returning to Arizona, Nico envisioned a space where both passions could coexist, leading to the creation of FourTillFour.

The Coffee: Crafted to Perfection

At FourTillFour, coffee isn’t just a beverage—it’s an experience. The café offers a range of classic espresso-based drinks, including:

Espresso: Rich and bold, perfect for purists.
Americano: A smooth, diluted espresso for a milder taste.
Macchiato: Espresso marked with a dash of steamed milk.
Cappuccino: A balanced mix of espresso, steamed milk, and foam.
Latte: Creamy and smooth, with the option to add house-made syrups like lavender or date for a unique twist.
Mocha: A delightful blend of espresso and chocolate.

For those seeking non-coffee options, they also serve matcha, chai, and house-made lemonade. Milk alternatives like almond and oat milk are available to suit different preferences.

The Pastries: Local and Delicious

But let’s talk about the pastries, because they’re just as good as the coffee. My absolute favorite is the strawberry scone from Arcadia Farms… it’s made fresh with real strawberries, and you can totally taste the difference! Their oatmeal cookie is another must—crispy on the edges, chewy in the center, and packed with flavor. It’s the perfect treat to go with your coffee.

The Vibe: Relaxed and Community-Focused

What really makes FourTillFour special, though, is the vibe. It’s the perfect place to sit outside, relax, and enjoy Scottsdale’s beautiful weather. There’s just something about sipping a great coffee while soaking in the sunshine. And if you’re into cars, you have to check out their Porsche meet-ups on select Saturdays—such a cool community event that brings car lovers together over coffee.

With plenty of outdoor seating and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s the kind of spot where you can bring a book, meet up with friends, or simply enjoy some alone time while savoring your drink.

Plan Your Visit to FourTillFour

So, if you haven’t been to FourTillFour yet, consider this your sign! Whether you're grabbing a quick coffee or spending the morning catching up with friends, this place has all the cozy, community vibes.

Have you been to FourTillFour? If not, what’s your go-to coffee spot in Arizona?

My Luxurious Stay at Grand Hôtel du Palais Royal in Paris

2025-02-16T18:24:00.002-07:00

During my recent trip to Paris, I had the pleasure of staying at Grand Hôtel du Palais Royal, a luxury boutique hotel located just a three-minute walk from the Louvre Museum. From the moment we arrived, the experience felt elevated—the staff greeted us warmly with hot towels to refresh our hands, and their hospitality remained impeccable throughout our stay.

What made it even more special was the personal touch. After mentioning that it was my belated birthday and my daughter's early birthday, the hotel surprised us by decorating our room with balloons. It was such a thoughtful gesture!

Dining & Attractions Within Walking Distance

One of the best things about staying at Grand Hôtel du Palais Royal is how easy it is to explore the heart of Paris on foot. Whether you’re looking for a Michelin-starred meal, a charming café, or a quick stop at a historic site, you’ll find plenty just steps from the hotel.

Where to Eat (All within a 5-10 minute walk)

Angelina Paris – Famous for its thick, rich hot chocolate and decadent pastries. A must-visit for first-timers in Paris.

Café Marly – Located right next to the Louvre, this stylish café is perfect for a relaxed coffee or a light meal with incredible views of the museum’s glass pyramid.

Bistrot Benoit – A classic Parisian bistro known for traditional French comfort food like onion soup and escargots.

La Régalade Saint-Honoré – A local favorite offering modern French cuisine in a cozy setting.

What to See & Do

The Louvre Museum (3-minute walk) – The world’s most famous museum is right around the corner, home to the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and endless masterpieces.

Palais Royal Gardens (2-minute walk) – A serene escape from the city, perfect for a morning stroll or a quiet moment with coffee.

Place Vendôme (10-minute walk) – A stunning square known for luxury jewelry stores like Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels and its iconic Napoleonic column.

Sainte-Chapelle (15-minute walk) – A hidden gem known for its breathtaking stained-glass windows inside a medieval chapel.

Île de la Cité & Notre Dame (20-minute walk) – Cross the Seine River to explore one of Paris’s oldest neighborhoods, home to the historic Notre Dame Cathedral.

Shopping Nearby

Rue Saint-Honoré (5-minute walk) – One of Paris’s most famous shopping streets, filled with designer boutiques like Chanel, Goyard, and Saint Laurent.

Galeries Lafayette & Printemps (15-minute walk) – If you love luxury department stores, these two are must-visits for high-end fashion, beauty, and gourmet food halls.

Le Marais (20-minute walk or quick metro ride) – A vibrant neighborhood filled with trendy boutiques, vintage shops, and historic cafés.

Spacious & Thoughtfully Designed Rooms

One thing that stood out was how spacious the room felt, especially by Parisian standards. The layout was well-designed, with the toilet room separate from the shower and sink, making it more functional. The hot water in the shower was perfect—hot enough to be truly relaxing, which was exactly what I needed after long days of walking around the city.

The hotel was also exceptionally quiet, allowing us to get a full night’s rest without any disruptions. This is something I really appreciated, especially in a bustling area like the 1st arrondissement.

One of the biggest perks of staying at Grand Hôtel du Palais Royal is its location. Being just minutes from the Louvre meant we could start our days early without having to rush or rely on transportation. The Palais Royal Gardens were also just steps away, offering a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.

Beyond the museum, the hotel is within walking distance of some of Paris’ best shopping, dining, and cultural landmarks.

Would I Stay Here Again?

Absolutely. Grand Hôtel du Palais Royal offers the best of both worlds: a peaceful retreat with five-star service and an unbeatable location in the heart of Paris. The attentive staff, quiet atmosphere, and thoughtful details made this stay feel special. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, traveling with family, or just looking for a refined Parisian experience, this hotel is a fantastic choice.

If you're planning a trip to Paris, you can check availability and rates for Grand Hôtel du Palais Royal HERE.

8 Things I'm Loving These Days

2020-09-16T07:37:00.001-07:00

Hi friends!

How has your week been treating you? Over here, the weather has been cooling down by just a bit and I'm super grateful for that. I'll take any little bit of a breeze in Arizona. Where are you at? Is it fall already for you?

Below are just some things that I have been up to and loving. It's so great to be alive and happy I can share this with you ☺️

1. What I’m watching —

Dana Carvey: Straight White Male, 60 - - Remember Garth from Wayne's World? Well, he is still crushing it in the comedy world. If you know me, you know I like to laugh and there were some bits that I am still quoting right now. Especially the one about millennials and raising a teenage boy. I won't give it away, you'll just have to check it out! I highly recommend this if you're just looking for something lighthearted and fun to watch before bed to wind down for the night.

2. What I've been reminding myself —

Ask what YOU need from the day FIRST rather than what the day needs from you.

I found this statement to be SO freeing! After stumbling upon this wise saying, I gave it a shot by not checking my work email first thing in the morning while still in bed, doing a little something for myself first to set the intentions of the day and REALLY listening to my mind, body and soul. Some days, I needed to simply take one work task at a time and ease into the work day. Some days, I just needed to do my own thing and just daydream a little.

Life's too short to be hurried along from what others want from you. Prioritize yourself.

3. What I’m listening to —

This song gives me all the good emotional feels. I found this song PC (pre covid) and I'm still loving it.

4. What I’m looking forward to —

My birthday this month! I loooooooovvveeee birthdays. I've met some people in my life that don't like it, don't like the fuss around it or see it as aging and getting older. I, on the other hand, see it as a valid excuse to have a damn good time and celebrate being alive. I plan on celebrating by ordering take out from my favorite pizza place, Pizzeria Bianco, and just reading fun books and spending time with people I love.

5. What I’ve added to my routine —

Collagen powder. While getting my hair trimmed for the first time in 6 months, I noticed my hair stylist had glowing, thick luscious hair so I asked her what I needed to do to have HER hair on MY head - - except not blonde because I look just look like a weirdo with hair any lighter than medium brown. She told me she puts a scoop of collagen powder in her coffee each morning and after using it for a month, she has noticed a drastic improvement in the health of her hair. SOLD!

P.S. It tasted weird in my green tea as well as fruit punch.

P.P.S. Orange juice does the trick. Completely masks the powder taste.

I've only been drinking the collagen powder supplement since 5 days now so I don't have any results to speak of yet. But I am optimistic! We will see!

6. What movie I'm looking forward to seeing —

Dune official trailer - this has that Blade Runner 2049 vibe that I'm loving! I'm a big fan of Timothy Charlemagne especially from the Call Me By Your Name movie that took place in Italy - what a gorgeous film and incredible performances all around. This Dune movie should be a big hit!

7. What wine I'm digging —

I just opened this one and it's got a subtle and alluring hint of chocolate at the very end.

8. Words I am pondering —

“I must not fear. Fear is the mind-killer. Fear is the little-death that brings total obliteration. I will face my fear. I will permit it to pass over me and through me. And when it has gone past I will turn the inner eye to see its path. Where the fear has gone there will be nothing. Only I will remain.” - Frank Herbert, Dune

I Don't Think I Liked School Photos

2020-09-14T06:00:00.003-07:00

So I was visiting my parents over the weekend and came across some old family photos. I was so amazed to see this little awkward gem...

Just by looking at the expression of my face, I could just tell how much I hated taking school photos like this one. I'm sure the photographer was just trying to get through as many kids as possible and didn't take the time to really make sure each kid looked their best.

My parents always made me wear those little bracelets. Almost all of my cousins wore it. I think it was made out of boar's teeth or something not normal. They always said it was for good luck.

Pretty stylish, huh?

8 Things I'm Loving These Days

2020-09-06T10:50:00.002-07:00

Hi everyone!

Here is your weekly dose of the "8 things I'm loving these days".

1. What I’m watching —

Aggretsuko Season 3 on Netflix. Oh yes. Never have I ever related to a red panda so much - - the corporate office culture, the stress, pressure, anxiety and just trying to make it day by day all while going to a karaoke bar some nights to let out some steam. Brilliant.

2. What I found useful —

Is your computer's desktop crowded with unnecessary and forgotten screenshots? My coworker showed me THIS and I feel like such a sophisticated adult for using it. Even better is that this trick on MAC computers took only 2.5 seconds to clean up my desktop.

3. What I’m listening to —

Tim Heidecker's Nothing song. He's one of my favorite entertainers and a creative genius of comedy. Ever heard of Tim and Eric's Awesome Show Great Job? It's ridiculous stupid...so stupid that I LOVE it and has become an integral part of my life. He also played a small role, the best friend's husband, in the movie Get Out. He has been dabbling in music and I must say, I am impressed and have listened to his new song many many times already. Check it out!

4. What I’m looking forward to —

Ricky Gervais finished writing the screenplay for the 3rd season of After life and I can hardly contain the excitement that's been bubbling up from the depths of my soul!

5. What I’ve added to my beauty routine —

My new favorite beauty product I started using and after only using it for just 1 week, I'm already noticing positive results. It's a serum that I use only once a day after washing my face and worn underneath my moisturizer. Full transparency, I've struggled with eczema on and off throughout my life and am very sensitive to most products. Therefore, when I found this serum, tried it, and the fact that it actually IMPROVED my skin made me SO freakin happy.

6. What I randomly did —

I photoshopped THIS for Clyde the Basset and the #FlyClydeChallenge challenge. I would do it again in a heartbeat.

7. What I might watch on Hulu —

I came across this movie and I am intrigued. I don't believe I've watched anything with Andy Samberg as the lead but I've always enjoyed his goofy music videos. PLUS, IMDB and Rotten Tomatoes gave Palm Springs decent ratings so I had this bookmarked and ready to go when the night is right.

8. What I've been thinking about —

This quote...

"The most overlooked and under appreciated growth strategy is patience." ~ James Clear, author of Atomic Habits

Lately, I've been feeling quite restless and more often than not, seeing results from the things that I've been doing fairly consistently and for some time. I want to see things grow, flourish and succeed but I forget that I need to continue to invest time into it, always. So when I came across this quote, it calmed me and reminded me that it's okay that things...projects...results or whatever you might be working on may not have growth...yet. And, that's the key word, "yet". Because with time and patience and consistency, that "yet" will one day, transform to a success.

I'd love to hear your feedback on Twitter or from your comments below. What are some things you might be pondering this week? Did you have a favorite from this list? What do you want to read more about or less about? I'd love to know. Send a tweet to @cathytrails and hope to connect with you soon!

Some Lingering Thoughts About You Cannot Kill David Arquette

2020-08-31T06:00:00.001-07:00

Saturday night my husband yelled from downstairs, "CATHY CATHY! I have something to show you, it's IMPORTANT!"

Immediately, my heart dropped and I'm thinking oh gosh I hope he's not hurt, did our bank accounts get hacked or did something bad happen to a family member...all these thoughts were circling in my head while I rushed down my creaky stairs.

He's on the couch and something is playing on the TV...he plays it and on the screen are two basset hounds roaming around David Arquette's house. It was a trailer of the latest documentary You Cannot Kill David Arquette. And here I was thinking it was something super bad or serious...well, it was actually serious because we both have a serious obsession with basset hounds but thank goodness it wasn't bad haha!

I didn't know a thing about David Arquette except that he was Deputy Dewey in all the Scream movies.

I didn't realize he owns not one, not two - - but THREE BASSET HOUNDS...yeah, it's super cool. Him owning basset hounds, by default, make him a super cool dude already.

I didn't realize he was such a FIGHTER!

He has definitely had some ups and downs throughout his career. In fact, David says in the documentary, "I've been auditioning for like 10 years without actually getting a role."

Remind me NOT to ever complain about something not working out in a week, a month, or even a year...

I don't want to give too much away and would love it if you checked it out too. All I can say is, this documentary did an excellent job portraying the struggles David Arquette has had finding roles after playing Deputy Dewey but rather than giving up altogether, he revamps himself and his efforts by diving all into a passion that has always permeated his life - - wrestling.

You Cannot Kill David Arquette is highly recommended in my book! Check it out and let me know what you think :)

I Think I'm Going to Start Sharing 8 Things I'm Loving These Days

2020-08-27T06:00:00.003-07:00

Why 8?

According to my mother, the number 8 is a lucky Chinese number. I googled it too and this is what it told me...

Maybe if I blog about my 8 favorite things consistently enough, the universe will deliver a beautiful shetland pony like this one to my front door in Arizona.

Or maybe not...and that's okay. As long as you find something fun in this blog, something that will brighten your day, make you laugh out loud or even find useful - - I will consider this blog post a success.

1. So, this song right here, on REPEAT baby. It's been getting me through some cray COVID emotional rollercoasters. It's got this epic, I'm-going-to-get-through-this-mofos type of vibe that I'm really digging these days:

2. A work friend lent me this book and yeah, it fucking rocks my world and whisks me away to the sweet lands of South Carolina and ancient streets of Rome, Italy all at the same time and it's SO AMAZING...I am currently 300 pages in and I never want it to end.

3. When I'm down, I like to google THIS and go to images...and my smiling and "awwing" begins. You're welcome.

4. Dave Franco's The Rental movie and since Stephen King recommended it, I had to give it a try and I'm glad I did. The Rental is an intriguing, sexy summertime psychological thriller with Alison Brie, one my favorite actresses (She was GREAT in Netflix Glow!)

5. I added this book to my Amazon cart today. Once I'm done with Beach Music, I'll be sinking my fangs into this gem.

6. This gal turned every Taylor Swift Folklore song into a poster and I dig every single one of them!

7. One of my favorite ways to save money without having to google "promo codes 2020" and copy/paste each code hoping that it makes a little bit of difference in my total price is HONEY! Seriously, one of my fave FREE apps. Neato.

8. Quote of the week that I'm pondering...

"Don't let the fear of the time it will take to accomplish something stand in the way of your doing it. The time will pass anyway; we might just as well put that passing time to the best possible use." - Earl Nightingale

What about you? What are some things that you have found this week? I'd love to hear! Drop a comment below.

This Netflix Show Helped Me Get Through Quarantine

2020-08-22T09:27:00.000-07:00

You know that feeling you get when you're one episode away from finishing an entire show and just want it to last forever? I dreaded watching the last episode of Derek and wanted to keep the marathon going but all good things do come to an end. But on the flipside, the impact it leaves behind can last forever. That's what makes a show...or a movie...or a book oh so incredibly GOOD!! How long you think about it after it ends...and that's what these two shows did for me in these quiet past few months staying home.

Derek

At first, it looked like a quirky dry comedy show that takes place in a nursing home but man oh man, there's SO many delicious layers to this show. Starring Ricky Gervais and his cast of familiar friends and faces, Derek offers awkward, gut wrenching humor along with serious life themes. Even months after watching this show, my family and I continue to shout random lines but also remember some of the heavier, more life wisdom that this show offers. Here's a list of things I really enjoyed:

My husband has started to randomly shout out "Sign of the Twine!" around the house and I'll even catch myself singing "baby monkey...baby monkey" and think, what the hell am I singing? Oh right, right...just some good ol' Derek.

What have you been watching these days? Any favorites that's been helping you get through quarantine?

Black's Beach San Diego and Random Bill Murray Thoughts

2020-08-18T14:12:00.005-07:00

Here is a picture that I took overlooking Black's Beach in San Diego, CA. I was up late one night and randomly stumbled upon this Youtube video that showed a pretty challenging trail to hike down to San Diego's nudist beach.

So I went. I climbed it. I sweated bullets and I saw things that made me blush.

Most importantly, this picture of the sunset made me think about these things:

1. It Doesn't Matter

Have you seen the Bill Murray Stories on Netflix? There's a part in this documentary that talks about the Meatballs scene when Bill Murray was screaming "It doesn't matter!!"

Because it really doesn't. Whether you win, or lose, or fail, or succeed - none of it matters because the only thing that matters is living. Everything is beautiful, even the grittiness, the shitty parts and the unexpected - - since we are all alive, that's the only thing that matters - nothing else.

2. Time is Going to Pass Anyway

Just like sunsets and sunrises, it is certain to happen every day. And so will the time. It will pass and pass and pass. And that's okay. Because if you're going through something shitty (ahem - this pandemic craziness of 2020), take comfort that the time will pass. Worried about not having enough time to pursue your dreams? Well, time is going to pass anyway so either do it or don't, it's up to you. Nothing is forever and that's okay. Make it worthwhile.

3. San Diego Has Bomb Food

Every single meal I had while visiting San Diego was incredible. From the fresh sushi rolls to the expertly crafted octopus tacos from the Marisco food truck. The food is amazing. Especially San Diego food. I think I will write a blog that will share all of my favorites.

Friends, I hope you are doing well! I've truly missed you and can't wait to become more active on this blog. It's been too long.

Another Monday in the Books

2020-06-16T07:00:00.001-07:00

Happy Tuesday! Doesn't it feel so GREAT to know that we have Monday behind us now? That the week is already moving along with one day closer to the weekend?

I think most people would describe me as a positive and optimistic person. For the most part, I agree. But I don't super love Mondays. So, why do I feel bad typing that out? I HATE MONDAYS. Ugh.

A part of me is like, 'Cathy! You are alive, you should love ALL DAYS including Monday. Stop being a brat.'

But man, I really do love the weekends. And when Sunday around 4pm creeps up, those Sunday Scaries really get the best of me...my heart starts beating faster, I think about all my upcoming calendar appointments, the favors/requests I have to return throughout the week starting on Monday and the "professionalism" outfit I need to put on, inside and out....well, technically just inside because (insert slow drumroll) we can wear jeans everyday now (GASP!..followed by eyeroll)

To me, Monday represents a thief. A slow and conniving thief. It slowly snatches your weekend away until you're left with nothing but a suit and briefcase and ready to service others. I mean, that's cool and all but can't I just have ANOTHER day to binge watch Dead to Me or ANOTHER night to order in my Harry Potter shaved ice from the local ice cream dude? Please. No? Sigh...okay, let's do this then.

Between Sunday and Monday, I feel like I go through this metamorphosis. Like from Ursula to Vanessa in Little Mermaid. I better find clothes that actually hide certain parts of my body and comb my hair so it goes in one direction, walk upright and make eye contact with people. The prepping - - it's very important. And most importantly, keep my real thoughts stashed away in a little shell necklace or whatever Vanessa had.

But you know, once I actually get to my office - - I'm greeted by some of the nicest people. They're so chipper, so delightful...so grateful. They ask about how my weekend was and I return the favor by asking them about theirs, and I learn some new things...like the lady who wrote Big Little Lies (I guess that lady writes a lot of great books that I'll need to check out) and then someone from my work got a big 150 ft tarp from Home Depot and did a giant slip n' slide to celebrate his kid's birthday (very creative and sounds like SO MUCH WORK!).

I guess what I'm saying is...every time I work myself up on Sunday night about how awful Monday is going to be ...it honestly never is that awful after all.

Am I just a brat?

Am I ungrateful?

Either way, it's another Monday checked off so I can work for the weekend and then hopefully by next Sunday, I reread this blog post to remind me that Monday isn't as evil as my mind makes it to be. 🙃

Well, Shit...

2020-06-11T10:38:00.002-07:00

There is nothing more intimidating than looking at a blank, very white, very bare white screen - staring back at you, judging you, mocking you...saying things like, 'Well look who we have here! We never thought you'd write in your little blog again!' (Edit - there are PLENTY of more intimidating things in life than simply a blank, very white, very bare white screen staring back at you)

Late last night, I decided to look up "Cathy Trails" and after hours of reminiscing old travel memories and reading old blogs, I thought 'What the heck, let's give this another go'. I mean, isn't that what life is all about? The 'What the hecks', 'Well, shit', 'Why the fuck not?' mentality?

I'm so sorry for abandoning you, friend. Is anyone even out there reading this? If not, that's okay - I understand. I'm the one that just left without a trace for 6 years - - 6 YEARS! Gaaahhh, that's just not right on so many levels.

What have you been up to in the last 6 years? Have you traveled to any new places? Met some fresh faces? Made new friends that are sweet and kind to you? Overcome some huge obstacles? Experienced some awkward life stuff?

I know I have. And I'm ready to share my 'well, shit' moments with you if you'll have me again.

Breakfast Sandwich

2014-04-11T09:08:00.001-07:00

My darling,

I hope that homemade sandwich was delicious and started your Friday off right. When you left for work this morning, this particular song came to mind and wanted to share it with you. You're the love of my life and will always be my booboo :)

Always,

Boobunbon

The only 25 Tips you'll ever need to Transform your Waistline (links, vids, bikini photos, oh my!)

2013-05-19T11:09:00.000-07:00

Shall we start with, what I shall deem...the "perfect abs"? Okay okay, maybe not perfect because I know there's no such thing but if you ask me what type of belly I would like to have on me..

Gina Carano, ex MMA fighter, current kick ass role model, and going to be in the upcoming Fast and Furious 6 flick.

Boom. As I'm sure you've heard, abs are made in the kitchen meaning, eat right and your desired abs will show through but it's not always the easiest task especially if you're a foodie like me.

Need some quick pointers on how to eat and how to exercise to get YOUR best belly?

15 Pointers on How to Eat for a Slimmer Waistline

Eat fresh.

Make sure your plates are full of color.

Even if you can't pronounce any of the ingredients, don't eat it.

Never skip breakfast.

Eat three meals and 1 snack. Or however many meals and snacks you'd like as long as you're not going over your calorie intake.

Try not to eat past 8pm.

Eliminate alcohol.

Drink water and tea.

No soda and no diet, low-fat, sugar-free, enriched anything.

If it didn't come from a mother, it doesn't belong in your belly.

Eat more greens than anything else. I like to drink green smoothies to get the proper amount of veggies...and if you don't want to chew all day, it's a great alternative and saves time.

Drink even more water on training days.

Embrace the 80/20 rule. Eat 80% great, and 20% not so great. Ex: 80% of my meals are lean protein, good carbs, no processed sugars, etc but that 20% is for that half of that red velvet cupcake your co-worker is giving you...or one of those mini Snickers nuggets (gets me every time! Gah!)

If you have to eat something not-so-stellar like a cupcake, pancakes, or anything that is a refined carbohydrate (white flours), I pump that in the morning so I have the rest of the day to burn it. Yup yup.

Eat for your metabolic type so you can accelerate your metabolism (aka the hormones that control how you absorb food).

"...the same foods that keep you looking trim and beautiful could make someone else gain weight and look puffy or tired." - (Source: Dr Oz on Metabolic Types)

10 Pointers on How to Exercise for a Sexier Midsection

Incorporate HIIT in your exercise routine to TORCH those calories during and AFTER you're done working out. What is HIIT? Here is Wikipedia's definition right here. How I define it? 30 seconds of doing an exercise balls to the wall style and 10 seconds of rest then multiply that by 4 which can look like this:

30 seconds of however many burpees you can do
10 seconds of rest
30 seconds of however many pushups you can do
10 seconds of rest
30 seconds of however many mountain climbers you can do
10 seconds of rest
30 seconds of however many butt kicks you can do
10 seconds of rest

***Note: Please check with your doctor before doing this because HIIT requires you to work at your maximum heart rate for 30 seconds.

Going for the V-taper look (hourglass figure aka larger shoulders, slimmer waist, larger hips)? Avoid weighted side bends or overworking your obliques with weights (side abdominal muscles) because that may build muscle and create a bulkier waistline.

It's all about the Isometric Ab workouts. What the heck is that? Here's an article explaining why isometric ab exercises are better for a slimmer waist.

Unlike most other muscle groups in your body that need rest days in between, the abdominal muscles can be worked pretty much everyday. Not sure what ab workouts are all out there? Here's a great starter I found from Pinterest:

Ditch long periods of low-intensity cardio (resistance 2-3 on the elliptical for an hour or walking for 40 minutes on the same speed the whole time). Unless, of course, HIIT is something your doctor does not allow you or if you have heart problems, by all means do what's physically best for your body. But, if you CAN do HIIT - you actually burn MORE calories even if you are spending LESS time doing it. It's the intensity levels that help continue burning calories hours after leaving the gym.

*Bottom line: Save time, work harder, lose that rubber time faster.

Track your progress! And no, I do NOT mean a scale. Actually, go ahead and donate that scale to your nearest Goodwill because it won't do anything but discourage you. Muscles weigh more than fat so when you're making progress, you're almost bound to weight a little heavier! Track your measurements every two weeks to a month and/or take pictures. Not sure how to measure your body? Here is an article on how to properly track them by Nerd Fitness.

Confuse your body every two weeks. If you do 10 pushups every single day for the next two weeks, your body's going to be like...

Source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/kimsinvt/7137029695/

Switch it up! Every two weeks, at least. Same evidence for your brain - if you take the same route to work every single day, your brain activity levels aren't as active because you're on autopilot. However, notice how your body reacts when there is a detour on the road which forces your brain to work harder and think more critically for the next best route.

Get into the habit of contracting your stomach muscles, anytime, anywhere. No one has to know... ;)

Don't have time to do abdominal exercises. BULL! I won't take that. Watching a movie on the couch? Do some planks while you're watching it. Waiting for the laundry to dry so you can fold? Knock out some sit ups or bicycle crunches. Working late hours again at the office? Try these ab exercises at your desk.

I'm assuming the type of workouts Gina does paired with conscious eating habits amp it up as well. Curious to see how Gina puts time in the gym?

Boom. Her personal trainer's name is Satan. Yup. I think that says it all right there.

Who's your fitness role model? Your go-to motivational person?

I came across this photo:

Of me. And an old friend. At least 6+ years ago. And wondered..How the heck did I maintain a flat stomach without working out at all?

One word. Metabolism. Sigh. It's okay. I'm fine, really. This picture is actually a blessing because it further motivates me to work hard to "master my metabolism" as my fave fitness guru Jillian Michaels would say. So then I came across this recent photo of me poolside:

Oh whoops! Did I say poolside? What I meant to say was funny basset hound meme time. Gosh, I hope there's someone out there...anyone...that can relate to this. If you know me at all, basset hounds are #1. Period.

Okay. Back to the recent poolside photo:

Compared to 6+ years ago, my hair's gotten way shorter, my bikini is a different color, and (although you can't tell in this picture) my body has changed quite a bit. I'm happy with the changes because I'm much healthier. And that's what I firmly believe what it all comes down to - - your longevity, vibrance, and quality lifestyle rather than obtaining the perfect body which isn't logical.

There's no such thing as the perfect body.

There's only the best version of you and that's as perfect as it gets.

Question: What's a random photo that is almost exactly a year ago from today?

Here's mine:

Yes, that's me holding a homemade strawberry shortcake birthday cake for my boyfriend, appearing to be levitating off the ground. I think this is as random as it gets. My brother wanted to mess around on Photoshop and I was the subject volunteer.

Homework for you: Go find a photo that is dated exactly a year ago today. What is it? How much have things changed since that photo?

Deep Thoughts: What do you consider a perfect body? Do you believe there is an ideal body out there? If so, how is it ideal to you and why?

Currently.

2013-05-02T00:35:00.001-07:00

One of our very first pictures taken at a friend's wedding almost 2 years ago :)

Thinking About: How difficult it is to get back into the swing of blogging after taking a month-long break from it. I didn't plan for it but after reflecting back on this past April, I'm glad I did. It gave me time to re-prioritize some things in my life and invest my energy toward what matters to me most. The most common topics I seem to be mulling over these days consist of the following (in no particular order):

Fitness and the power of transforming one's body through proper weight lifting routines
The cultural upbringing from Asian immigrant parents and how that effects their children's career paths (doctor/lawyer/accountant versus a creative-based career)
Why some people seem to think it's okay to be two-faced and not have an ounce of guilt/shame. Where's the human decency or better yet, the courage to be yourself?
Some fun secretive surprises I have up my sleeve for my honey this month

Feeling: Motivated but tired at the same time. As I was re-measuring myself and comparing the numbers to last month, the progression I have accomplished has motivated me to work out that much harder and more consistently. Tired because I'm a night owl, have the tendency to ignore the clock on purpose so I can fully unwind, read my book, read a bunch of fitness model interviews in regards to their nutrition and workout plans, go on Pinterest to feed my brain with art/illustration pins, and then oh crap - - I've got to wake up in 5 hours...hmm...

Watching: Just watched (most of) Hunger Games last night (finally). Checked out a few episodes of Hemlock Grove on Netflix (a unique sci-fi type involving wolves, vampires, and a splash of suspenseful drama). Recently went to the movie theaters for Oblivion, the latest Tom Cruise movie and was impressed with the unexpected plot twists as well as the computer graphics. Oh, and if you're in the mood to get spooked hardcore, go check out Evil Dead, the latest one in theaters - - a grueling mix of exorcism, bloody gore, and camera angles that will make you nervous from beginning to end.

Reading: The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg. If you're looking for a good read while learning how to truly change the way you live your life - this is the book for you. Did you know that habits inhabit 80% of our day? The more you understand how to effectively create or break habits, the more effective you will be at living the life that you want.

Looking forward to: Our family weekend getaway to the beach very soon! Just imagining how the sand is going to feel against the bottom of my feet while having the California sun kiss the tops of my feet - - my heart is already starting to race. I've been doing a lot of bikini hunting and it's almost time to seriously amp up my nutrition and workout routine.

Making me happy: thinking about how happy my love will be when he discovers some of my upcoming surprises, Iron Man 3 happy hour with some old co-workers this weekend, meme generators, glute exercises, playing and acting silly with my sweety and baby girl, Nick's Italian restaurant in Scottsdale, homemade protein style burgers, and last but not least, visiting my family on Sundays to catch up while hanging out with a cool basset hound.

What's new with you? How's your first half of 2013 going so far? Thank you Danielle from Sometimes Sweet for the original inspiration behind these fun "currently" posts!

Something to think about...

2013-04-04T00:21:00.000-07:00

Found on notetoself

When someone tells me to "be realistic", it makes me wonder if they are:

a) being pessimistic.
b) don't believe in you.
c) don't have faith.
d) would rather be comfortable than take a chance and make a change.

Thoughts?

5 Things I'm Currently loving

2013-03-26T07:00:00.000-07:00

I am loving:

1. When things work itself out so perfectly sometimes. See that top right photo above? That was taken at the Little Mermaid Jr. play and you know what? The play, every single showing, was sold out. Called the box office, requested to be placed on every single waiting list and voila ~ guess who got two front row tickets to the play! Thank you Universe for having my back.

2. Listening to fitness/nutrition podcasts on my way to work and back home from work. Finally - a way to make the most out of my time during one of the most unpleasant activities; driving in traffic. I love Jillian Michael's podcast, fit girl, and nutrition diva.

3. Coming home from work, enjoying healthy meals with my loves while sharing stories from each other's day.

4. The fact that I've finally gotten into a good "groove" or "routine" with working out consistently. I think those podcasts play a big role...and having a workout buddy...and most of all, seeing results (as tiny as they are right now) are soo motivating!

5. Seeing my creativity levels flourish the more I learn in web design class. Can you believe we only actually use 10-12% of our brain? It makes me wonder how insanely creative we can get if we used more than that...Perhaps the Egyptians that built the pyramids used more than 12?

What are 5 things in your life you've been loving lately? Rather than focus on the things that don't go right, let's redirect our energy towards the things that DO go well.

What you think is the reality you live in.

Want the Truth?

2013-03-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

Pinterest via Joy

Are you unintentionally being racist?

2013-03-12T07:00:00.000-07:00

On left, Cathy, On right, Connie Chung

Someone told me the other day that I looked like Connie Chung, a woman that is approximately 30 years older than me, and has a totally different face shape too. I think the only two traits we share are short dark hair and are Asian. Oh, did I say someone?

What I meant to say was four people total.

It's kind of like saying Chris Brown looks like Dennis Rodman because they are both African American and have short blonde hair.

Exhibit B.

Have you ever received a comment that you disagreed with? I'm sure the person didn't mean to generalize me like that but I couldn't help but wonder if I really do look like Connie Chung because I actually look like her - - or is it solely based on those two traits (hair length/color + race).

In that case, would Taylor Swift look like Britney Spears? Would Tom Cruise look like Robert Downey Jr.? Does Rihanna look like Oprah?

Yeah, I didn't think so. :P

-Cathy

hello sunday + 5 recent observations

2013-03-10T10:17:00.003-07:00

Well, hey there! I feel like it's been so long since I've posted an update and feel like I have so much to catch you up on. A part of me is still holding onto whatever is left of Winter (I live in Arizona so I attempt to get the most value out of purchasing scarves, winter coats, boots since winter is usually short) .

With the exception of this past Thursday because there was...

...

HAIL! Weird. Not normal here.

What has everyone been up to? Are you anxious for Spring to come and do some Easter egg hunting/spring cleaning/St. Patrick's Day celebratin'? Or are you still in winter mode?

And what have I been up to? Loving life, honestly. It's Sunday, the sun is shining, my green tea is lovely, and once I finish up sharing my thoughts with you I have a yummy half of a chicken sandwich from Bandera. Life is good and I can't complain, I won't complain. I got an A in my first ever web design class and moving right into my second class and working my little tail off everywhere. My theme song for the week is right here.

Some Recent Observations/Thoughts

1. Why are women so vindictive towards one another?

Scenario A: Of course, I don't believe that every woman on this planet is like this but I always seem to observe the same thing over and over. The other day, I read a FB update that involved a woman (let's call her Betty) calling another woman (let's call her Anne) a bitch just because Betty felt much older than Anne.

Scenario B: When Betty sees another woman that looks better than her, she immediately deems Anne a bitch and may even make up excuses to not give Anne credit for working hard on her physique. Example: 'Look at that skinny bitch. She must starve herself and takes diet pills to look like that." I don't remember the last time I overhead a man say, "Look at that asshole, looking all ripped up in his Gucci shirt. He must take steroids." Wait...I don't think I've EVER heard guys talk like that before!

Sigh. I want to see women have a tighter sense of community and support. I know it's not impossible because men have had it for ages now. For now, all I can do is encourage community-building between women on a small scale. Something is better than nothing.

2. No, you can't expect a fad diet or weight loss surgery to keep the weight off forever because you never understood the concept of eating right paired with regular exercise.

3. Artificial sweeteners are gross. Fake. So are a lot of foods that are in the middle aisles of the grocery store.

4. Oh, you want to be an astronaut? A college professor? Graphic Designer or CFO? Work for it. Hard. Just don't give up if you really want something bad. Persist and results will come.

5. Failing to plan is planning to fail.

Thanks for hearing me out and I hope life has been treating you all wonderfully. Have a relaxing weekend friends!

-Cathy

Ana from Blogmilk and her path to success

2013-03-07T06:00:00.000-07:00

This post is about a woman.

A woman that is successful.

A strong person.

And someone who I consider to be one of my graphic/web design role models.

Her name is Ana.

This post is about Ana, the creator of Blog Milk and quite frankly, a bad ass.

How did your interest get started in graphic design?

I always knew I wanted to study something related to arts, and Graphic Design just hit the right spot with me. I wanted to be a Children's Book illustrator and spent most of my free time writing stories and coming up with illustrations, but soon realized I loved design more and decided to take the leap to freelance.

Did you always want to be in this field?

Yes, I know it may sound boring but I was one of those kids in High School who knew exactly what they wanted to do and I took courses even through High School... that's how much I loved the idea of doing this for a living.

Tell me about a time you felt discouraged about your current career and how you overcame it.

There are always hard times and roadblocks, especially when you think you are burned out from the creative standpoint, but whenever I hit one of those it seems that just keeping myself immersed in this field and allowing myself time to live and get inspired outside my working hours helps.

Your blog layout is breathtaking and so are all of your templates. Where do you find inspiration?

Thank you so much for your kind comment :) I have to admit most of the work I do for others (custom designs) comes from trends and my deep obsession with functionality and minimalism - but when working on my own personal brands, I always do what I think is beautiful and represents who I am and what I stand for.

Name one book that has recently inspired you.

I read many books on Design, but one outside of the field that has inspired me recently is "It May Cause Miracles"

Describe your workstation.

I currently don't have a specific space as I'm in a transition period... but white, black, chalkboard and white furniture is my go-to style.

In your opinion, what is the secret to success?

Hard work and believing in yourself. Also, I guess it really depends on peoples' personal definition of success. To me being successful is being able to do what I love every single day and being able to create things for others that represent them and knowing I rely only on my abilities and ideas.

Who is your biggest influence and/or inspiration on your designs?

It is not someone but something - minimalism. Whether I'm creating something vintage, modern or classic, I'm always inspired by clean lines and shapes.

Any advice for aspiring designers?

My one piece of advice is that you never compare yourself to others and never wish to be like someone else so much so that you become like them. The one thing that will keep you growing is to create a style of your own. That's how you'll be able to develop it and change it to give yourself a name and style that will make you stand out form the rest.

The ultimate way to predict your future..

2013-03-04T07:00:00.000-07:00

Pinterest via Hai

This past weekend: Chicago.

2013-02-28T07:00:00.000-07:00

Here's what this past weekend looked like in Chicago, Illinois (my first time!!!)

This last picture showcases what I'd look like if I was trying to be tough. Do you think I can pull off the 'tough gal' look?

A little update

2013-02-27T07:00:00.000-07:00

1. I went to Chicago, Illinois for the first time ever this past weekend and had so much fun...it made it SO hard to get back into the swing of things. Every time I come back from traveling anywhere, it always feels as if it was just a hazy dream. Do you guys ever feel like that?

2. Is it just me or does it feel like the older we get, the faster time flies by? I remember the four years I spent in high school felt like it lasted a lifetime compared to the four years I spent in college...This observation has been my bittersweet reminder to appreciate everything that is going on right now. This moment is the most important.

3. Here are my goals I want to accomplish by the end of this week: a) Post an inspirational interview this Friday for the first of the month, b) Complete a minimum of four workouts, and c) Sketch one drawing to get those creative juices flowing.

It's been a little bit since I last posted an update on here and it feels so nice to do so. But enough about me, what about you? How are those 2013 goals coming along?

Have a great week!

-Cathy