Crazy loveable

Finland's Christmas Traditions

2018-12-13T07:03:00.001-08:00

Although Christmas in Finland starts on the First Advert, which falls on the first Sunday of December, most people bring in the season on Saint Lucia Day on December 13 or as early as December 6, which is Finland’s Independence Day. Saint Lucia was a 3rd century martyr who used a candle lit wreath as a light source in order to fill her hands with as much food as she could carry for Christians who were in hiding. Although she would later be killed by Romans because of her religious beliefs, she is celebrated to this day. On Saint Lucia Day there would be many festivities including a portrayal of the martyr by a chosen girl who wears white and wears a wreath of candle in honour of the saint.
In Finland, most of the Christmas traditions are carried out on Christmas Eve. These include going to Saunas, visiting cemeteries to remember lost ones and going to mass for Catholics. Visiting Saunas are often believed to be just as important as Christmas dinner. They to be cleaned, decorated with candles and some families freeze or dry birch branches to bring to the Sauna on Christmas Eve. There is also a tradition of having porridge in which an almond is placed. Whoever receives the almond is considered the luckiest in attendance and has to sing a song. Christmas Gifts are usually exchanged on Christmas Eve as well.

The cutting down of the tree is very popular and many families go to the forest with Hot Chocolate to cut down the trees themselves. Christmas Dinner is also served on Christmas Eve, traditionally it includes oven baked ham, beetroot salad, homemade beer and Glogi.

The traditions /ideas associated with Santa Claus is also different as it believed that Santa or ‘Joulupukki’ (literally translates to Yule Goat or Christmas Goat) lives in Finland. The original story of Joulupukki story is also based on a mean goat and comes from pagan festivities that celebrate Thor, the god of Lightening. Though decorations in the form of a goat is quite popular, the Santa of now, does not fly but is pulled by reindeers as he knocks on doors looking for good children to give gifts. This typically happens after dinner on Christmas Eve. Gifts are only left under the tree if Joulupukki is unable to come on his own. Reindeer food in Finland is usually put out to help Santa’s reindeer find their way to your house.
Christmas Day itself is seen as a day of reflection where people usually relax at home or visit family or friends and celebrations usually end on January 6.

There is a lot more about Christmas in Finland and the festivals associated with it but the best way to find out about it would be to go out and experience it yourself.

Emperior Valley Zoo Visit

2018-04-03T12:57:00.001-07:00

After a very quiet Easter, I was having a conversation and realised that neither of us had been to the zoo in some time. Cue the impromptu trip with some friends to the Emperor Valley Zoo. Now the cost to enter the zoo was 30 dollars for adults and 15 for children. After entry although they give you a receipt the security doesn't like to let anyone leave for any reasons. So if you leave anything in your car or have to leave the compound for any reasons you will have problems.
The day itself was pretty good. The animals entertaining and there was so much to see that it was almost like taking a hiking trip. The zoo itself had gone under a number of renovations for the better, however although it was a big day in the year for zoo visitors some of the exhibits we're closed or still under constructions.
Positives
-getting to touch some of the animals that the zoo keepers brought out like the snake
-lots more bathrooms and seating areas
-stories from zoo keepers about the aminals
-the animals we're pretty interesting and some put on a bit of a show for all the onlookers.
Negatives
-the smell some exhibits smelled horrible and made me wonder how often they we're cleaned
-pricey food and drinks which weren't at all tasty
-some animals didn't look well taken care of but I am not sure about how they should be managed so I dont want to jump to conclusion to much with this one.
-the cafeteria wasn't stocked enough to meet the crowd and ran out of food. Also there was an incident involving my brother where they said he didn't pay for something which he did. The security didn't help at all with the situation. This alone could have ruined the day especially since looking at the camera could have solved the entire issue. He didn't get his money back or the item he paid for in the end either . It left a bad taste in everyone's mouth in a day that was otherwise pretty good. So if you go to the zoo avoid the cafeteria and bring your own stuff. Save yourself some money and time.

Korean UCC Competition

2018-01-02T08:20:00.002-08:00

The Korean Embassy in Trinidad and Tobago has always been welcoming body to the nationals who are interested in their language and their culture. Since I joined their official language classes I have learnt so much but I have also made so many amazing friends.

In 2017 they have made efforts to strengthen the ties between Trinidad and Tobago and Korea by having a Korea Week. The week would include movie nights, concert by a Korean Orchestra group and a series of competitions, including a speech contest and a UCC contest.

Yours truly participated in the UCC competition with the help and support of my brother and my boyfriend. With their help I was able to place third with my entry entitled; Kpop Karaoke Party. It was quite a silly entry but it took a lot of work to put together. Plus I did the singing for all the parts (horribly too heh).

There were lots of amazing entries and I was just proud to be part of them. The entrants who came first and second really deserved it. All of the contestants well produced the contents they sent in. I really wondered why they aren't producing their own YouTube content. I would totally watch it. The video is my entry. Tell me what you think.

I am adding a picture of my prize and trophy to this post and you can check out the Korean embassy Facebook page for the rest of the entries if you are curious.

June Bucket List 2017

2017-06-05T07:26:00.000-07:00

1) Make five new dishes.

2) Lose four pounds

3) Read a mystery book.

4) Learn a kpop dance

5) Write a short letter or paragraph in Chinese

6) Write a short letter paragraph in Korean

7) Take a trip on the water taxi

8) Read an adventure book

9) Read three books

10) Learn a new song in Korean

11) Write a short story

12) Draw three things

13) Write a poem in another language

14) Have a conversation in another language

15) Get a well-paying job or just a job

16) Find a new computer game to play

17) Go to boardwalk

18) Complete monthly sets

19) Watch a Korean drama

20) Learn a song in Chinese

21) Learn two new songs on Guitar

Book Review: The Fat Man, A Tale of North Pole Noir

2017-01-02T08:11:00.000-08:00

The Fat Man a tale of the North Pole Noir is a interesting little tale that twists many of the stories, songs and tall tales we have grown to know about Christmas into its own original spin. Written by Ken Harmon, it features not only Santa himself but enters you into a world of his elves and their surroundings. It also adds a bit of mystery into creativity into what could have been quite a tired tale. It has been officially summarized:
"Fired from his longtime job as captain of the Coal Patrol, two-foot-three inch 1,300-year-old elf Gumdrop Coal is angry. He's one of Santa's original elves, inspired by the fat man's vision to bring joy to children on that one special day each year. But somewhere along the way things went sour for Gumdrop. Maybe it was delivering one too many lumps of coal for the Naughty List. Maybe it's the conspiracy against Christmas that he's starting to sense down every chimney. Either way, North Pole disillusionment is nothing new: Some elves brood with a bottle of nog, trying to forget their own wish list. Some get better. Some get bitter. Gumdrop Coal wants revenge. Justice is the only thing he knows, and so he decides to give a serious wakeup call to parents who can't keep their vile offspring from landing on the Naughty List. But when one parent winds up dead, his eye shot out with a Red Ryder Carbine-Action Two-Hundred-Shot Range Model BB gun, Gumdrop Coal must learn who framed him and why. Along the way he'll escape the life-sucking plants of the Mistletoe Forrest, battle the infamous Tannenbomb Giant, and survive a close encounter with twelve very angry drummers and their violent friends. The horrible truth lurking behind the gingerbread doors of Kringle Town could spell the end of Christmas-and of the fat man himself. Holly Jolly!"

Personally there were a lot of things that I found to be quite interesting about this book and of course somethings could have been better explained.

Good

1) I really liked the idea of the main character in this story, Gumdrop Coal. He was in no way perfect. His flaws showed too, especially since the author decided to show Gumdrop's inner turmoil with not only what was going on but with fighting with the beliefs that he was taught from young and the things that he learnt though his own experiences.

2) The way the author choose to incorporate different elements of Christmas. I'm not to give too much away but I will just say he had a very realistic point of view of the magic of it all.

3) I really liked the originality of the story itself. Mysteries are my weaknesses but one of the best parts of this was how the main mystery was used to not only tell Gumdrop's story but also to build on the people around him.

4) Looking at something as black and white is too simple. There was a little child who appeared in this story for a moment who stuck with me.

5) I really liked how the author also incorporated the Who's from Whoville. it that chapter it turned just like a Dr. Seuss book and everything rhymed. That was really fun to read.

6) The descriptions in the book was very detailed which added too its story in so many ways. You could visualize being there without the illustrations that where included in the book.

Bad

1) I didn't really like Santa in this. I felt like his character left more to be desired. Some of the best portrayal of St. Nick to me occurs when you add a little mystery as too who he is. Part of the Magic of Santa lays in the fact that he is not unaware of how cruel the world is but accepts this and tries to change it for the better. He makes the good of the world stronger by spreading love. This Santa turned a blind eye to the bad. In fact he choose to give out toys to even the bad kids and when things went wrong he started to cry and .....Yeah this is not the version of Santa that I would want to remember.

2) The Treatment of the Misfit toys. From the moment they he went to the island where all the toys that weren't properly built went I had a problem. I totally understood and sympathized with them. The idea that they were cast aside and weren't considered to be good enough because they were different bothered me. I didn't like that idea at all. In fact throughout the story carried the theme that the town where Santa lived was the ideal place to be. Everywhere else was described with disdained.

3) One of my favorite parts of the story was also one of the most poorly explained. This contains a big spoiler. When Gumdrop was on the roof and realized that the way he was going about everything was part of the problem a little child appeared to show him the error of his ways. Again I really liked this part but it was so poorly explained, who was that kid? There are other parts with characters who I wished were better explained, which would have made me like them more. Especially for characters who held strong ties with the main plot of the story, for eg, Rosebud Jubilee and Zsa Zsa and Tiny Tim.

4) The Ending. The ending itself wasn't so bad but the way that everything was wrapped up in the end left much to be desired. It felt like quite a jumble and it wasn't done very smoothly. I did understand what they were trying to do but I think it wasn't properly executed and that took away from what could have been a more heartfelt message.

5) There were other things that bothered me and seemed to conflict the idea of story yet again. It wasn't things that I could let slide either.

Favorite Scene
The trip to Whovile.

Favorite Excerpts.....
"You don't pout, you don't cry. don't give up, give out until you're empty. That way you can be filled up when something good as Santa Claus comes to town."

"Because you get more done with mercy," the kid said, "See Gumdrop, when all you see is the bad, it is only natural to want to set things right, to make something just. But if you do that, what use then is the Child? We need the Child because none of us are worthy, none of us are really Nice, so there is his mercy. To need His mercy-and to get it-is the greatest gift we've ever been given. His mercy, His love is what makes things right, not justice. Love." (P.S. the child he is talking about is not Santa)

Review: Sau Tao Sichuan Noodles

2016-08-31T21:17:00.002-07:00

So after a trip to a wholesale Asian store, I found a little noodle pack that I had never seen before. Sau Tao Sichuan Noodles is very interesting. It costs more than the cheap ramen, which can cost from around two dollars and up (I paid fourteen dollars for it) but it is made to feed two people.
It is the first ramen that I have seen made for two but its kinda cute when I think about it. Anyway I bought the beef flavor and actually made it like soup (usually I just drain out the water and eat the noodles part after cooking it) and I actually really liked it. The noodles tasted nice so did the liquid part. One serving was indeed a lot though and it did manage to full me up.
The ramen is available in other flavors that you can try like chicken and wonton soup.
Honestly what sold me on the product before I bought it was the way it was packaged. Everything was just so neat and I love the way the tied up the noodles.
I would recommend people try it and judge for themselves. I think I would like to try the wonton soup flavor next.
Have you tried it before? What do you think?

August Bucket List 2016

2016-08-07T18:12:00.000-07:00

I would like to dedicate this bucket list to my education. I genuinely like studying and learning new things so I thought it may be beneficial to spend the time leading up to the new school semester to getting my brain back into full study mode.
1)Learn a new German or Korean word or phrase a day.
2)Go to the Korean restaurant
3)Dedicate 5 minutes each day to studying either German or Korean or both.
4) Have one hour of translation a week.
5) Send any outstanding letters to penpals.
6) Decide between doing Japanese and Chinese already.
7) Go three places that I've never been to before.
8) Have a week of sketches and draw/sketch anything I like.
9) Do and complete a month long exercise challenge.
10) Look up and prepare upcoming semester subjects/classes.
11) Be spontaneous.
12) Visit/spend time with someone I haven't seen in a long time.
13)Bake something.
14) Spend a day with my brothers/carry them somewhere.
15) Create a story using Scratch Programming.
16) Spend a day being completely honest about how I feel
17) Go watch a movie in cinema.
18) Make an Asian Dish.
19) Play guitar once a week
20) Read a book
21) Do a review of something

July Bucket List 2016

2016-07-05T15:53:00.001-07:00

Hey Guys so June bucket list was a failure. I got lots done but not enough to consider it a success. So hopefully this month's bucket list will be better. If you are doing a bucket list as well, we got to do this together. Whatever you have on your bucket list lets get it down. It feels good being about to cross off the things that you achieved.
Lets start the bucket list for this week.
1) Make an Asian Dish
2) Translate a Passage from English to Korean.
3) Translate a Passage from German to English.
4) Draw a kpop idol
5) Read at least 4 books.
6) Learn two new dances.
7) Translate a Korean song.
8) Learn a full length Korean song
9) Put a design on a t-shirt
10) Submit at least two entries into TalkTalk Korea Competition
11) Get into a different type of Music (you guys can help by sending recommendations for this one)
12) Start a random conversation with someone
13) Do a review of a show or movie that I watched
14) Blog about surgeries
15) Watch an animated movie. (haven't done this in a while)
16) Ride a horse
17 Write a review for a book that I've read
18) Write a poem in German
19) Watch Show me the money from season three to the current one.
20) Watch A silent Movie
21) Download and try a new computer game
22) Build a house of cards and take a picture of it.
23) Write a fanfiction for a kpop group and post it. lol
24) Have a Korean Meal
25) Create something using Scratch Programmer
I cant wait to get started! Guys tell me how your list goes.
P.S. The lame picture is totally mine.

2nd Biennial Red Cross Youth in Concert

2016-06-13T16:44:00.001-07:00

On a typical Sunday, one of my cousins informed me that she had tickets to the Red Cross Youth in Concert and asked if I would like to attend. I would only have a half hour to get ready though because the venue, Southern Academy of the Performing Arts (SAPA) is very far from home. It was really late notice but I didn't mind going to support the little kids who were showing off their talents to raise funds. A long Car ride later and we finally reach our destiny, a few minutes late but there.

What I liked:
1) We have so many amazing talented kids in Trinidad and Tobago. As a citizen I am extremely proud.
2) The talents varied from dancers, singers, and musicians to monologues and speech bands among others.
3) Some of these little kids came out to represent and they did so well.
4) All the talents...some of them blew me away. The drummers and Tassa players made me want to get up and dance. The pan players were all entertaining. Sometimes I cant stand pan but I have to admit that I am proud that its an instrument that I can be proud to say is Trinbagonian.
4) The singers were all so good especially a little boy who sang Children are our Future by Whitney Huston hit all those high notes perfectly.
5) They even had refreshments on sale to help sponsor their camp.
6) Trinidad and Tobago were both represented by different schools and lots of kids were involved.

What I thought should have been better:
1) I didn't like that they the speech band said a thing that leaned to one political party over another. I wasn't sure if that was appropriate for a little kids show. Whichever adult who wrote that into their performance should know better than to let their own political thoughts into that. Keep the kids away from political opinions and politics on the whole.
2) SAPA seats in that theater were not very comfortable but maybe that is a ploy to keep people awake during slow performances???

Generally I think it was a great eye opening experience to the amazing kids that we have in Trinidad and Tobago. Often you here and see about all the bad things that happen here, its the easiest thing to point out. Teens fighting and promoting violence and sometimes it can feel like our society is going down the drain but when you see kids doing such positive things it gives you faith. We need to show support to the young ones in our society who are trying to make a difference. Support them and be proud. Lets allow the good moments with our kids to out weigh the bad. Ciao for now.

June Bucket List 2016 with Update

2016-06-10T12:01:00.001-07:00

Hey Guys...So I am really really scared to do a bucket list for this summer. Mainly because I don't want write one and then not do anything on the list.
I haven't done a bucket list in a bit so I thought it would be the perfect time to post one up.
For this list, I'm going to write 21 things that I want to achieve for this month. I know the month has already started but that doesn't matter. I would call this bucket list a success if I achieve at least 10 of those things. Wish me luck guys.

1) Learn a complete song in Korean, by reading the lyrics in Hangul. - Started learning BTS Save Me and Baepsae but didnt finish....

2) Translate a complete poem from Hangul to English - I actually completed this one

3) Go to Tobago (no more commenting on this) - I actually finally went to Tobago twice. By boat and plane

4) Do a handstand

5) Read at least 3 books

6) Go to at least 3 new places - I went to so many new places lol. Which is also surprising

7) Learn a new skill on the guitar

8) Learn to play a Korean song on the guitar - I did learn how to play BTS' Save Me on guitar but I dont know if I should count it because I didnt learn the words

9) Try a new dance - EOEO by Uniq and also Ice Cream Cake by Red Velvet

10) Learn a German song on the guitar

11) Do not speak for an entire day (I feel like this would get my brothers so pissed lol)

12) Do a review on something

13) Blog about an event that I went to or would like to attend. - Did this

14) Make a YouTube video

15) Try a new recipe - Also did this but I didnt like how it turned out. Everyone is eating it though. I however was very disappointed. Made soft pretzels.

16) Blog about the surgeries

17) Try a new product - I did some weird Green Tea drink. I didnt like it when it was warm but when I let it get cold it was nice.

18) Blog about the new product

19) Get a vacation Job.

20) Introduce Kpop to someone new

21) Make two new friends. - I believe I did this. Also surprisingly lol

Do you have a bucket list? If not try writing it, draw a line through each item you complete. Goodbye and have fun!!

Current Obsession: GOT7

2016-05-12T21:07:00.001-07:00

Hello, I'm back after a very long hiatus. Well not really a hiatus but I had lots going on. Sorry, I am back and with one kidney less. I plan on blogging about that but not right now.....Today is another current obsession day and today's current obsession is....GOT7. I really like GOT7 from their music to them as individuals. The first time I saw them was their video for the song A. At the time I didn't really pay much attention to them at the time but after watching Real GOT7 and that was it from there.
The seven member boy group made up of leader and vocalist Jaebum, vocalist Jr or Jinyoung, Youngjae, Yugyeom and rappers Mark(Taiwanese American), Jackson (Chinese) and BamBam (Thai). Each brings a different feel to the group. You need to listen to this group sing acoustic, true vocals. Pure talent. If I had to use one word to describe each member I would use Smooth for Jeabum, Sassy for Jinyoung, Cool for Youngjae, Cute for Yugyeom, Markson for Mark (lol), Playful for Jackson and Cheeky for BamBam.
Listen to this acoustic version of A:

There is lots of things I really like about this band that goes past their talent. They seem like genuinely nice and fun people to be around.
They do have a hand in writing their own songs which you know gives their songs a more honest feel. Even if you dont like their music. You should watch their Real Got7 seasons, its really funny and interesting.
Also I dont know if I should make a separate post for the amazing GOT7 fanfiction I read. LOL Markson is the truth and JJ Project (previous group made up of Jaebum and Junior) is right next to them. My favorite GOT7 song has to be either I like you:

and Just Right:

However their current promotion songs for Fly:

is really really good. My suggestions for Got7 songs besides of this is Stop it , Confession Song (ITS SO CUTE) and If you do.
I honestly think I haven't done this band justice but just check them out.

Must See Kpop Dance Practice Videos – Female Version

2015-12-26T09:58:00.001-08:00

What makes a practice dance video interesting? For me it’s the style and flare of the dance, if its fun, holds my interest and the dancers are on point it’s even better. For you it may be something completely different. This list comprises of five kpop girl group dance practices videos that I believe are so amazing everyone should take a look at least once or maybe twice.

1) Wonder Girls – “Like This.”

This dance looks like so much fun and each member is so on point. It is very fast pace and after watching I kind of want to earn this dance. This song is quite catchy as well and the more I listen to it the more I like it.

2) CLC – “Pepe”

Talk about being on point. Not only was this group fun to watch but I felt like they killed it. Plus the cutesy camera picture part made me laugh, the “Oh Cha!” part is my favourite though. Tell me what you think.

3) EXID-“Up and Down”

Thanks to BTS’ Jhope, Jimin and Jungkook along with some other members of boy groups constantly doing this dance, I felt like I knew some of the choreography and the song way before I actually watched this practice video. When I did watch it however I wasn’t disappointed. These girls do not disappoint. This dance looks fun, this song is fun and each member slayed. So worth a watch.

4) Twice – “Like Ooh Ahh”

There is something about this song and dance that makes me feel like a teenager again. I want to dance along with them in this practice video, or just watch them, I’m not sure. I actually didn’t realise how girlie this dance is but its just cute. Usually I cant deal with the girl groups trying to be so cutesy but this is a fun mix of both. Hope to see more of them in the future. P.S. how do they all dance on time with so many members.

5) The Ark-“The Light”

This dance seems very upbeat though the song itself is more on the mellow side. Its nice though, nice to look at but doesn’t seem like an easy dance to do. That’s good! I love it when girls kill it in a dance.
This is my list but there were many other bands with good dances that I didn’t like the camera angles or there were other things that distracted from the dance. This list was not very easy to make as there are lots of great kpop girl groups out there. Recommend some videos that you think are are a must see and I will give it a watch. Have fun and happy holidays.
(Images and videos are not mine)

December Bucket List

2015-12-12T08:14:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone, I know I haven’t updated in a very long time but lots of things happened and I wanted and needed to focus on those things. Especially school. Now, my exams are almost over and I wanted to make a new bucket list. One that reflects the wonders of the season though I know we are well into December already but it’s not going to stop me from still trying to achieve as much on my bucket list as I can.
1) Go to San Fernando.
2) Send all my outside letters and gifts.
3) Go to Tobago. (I write this one ever month and it was a little sad before but now its just pitiful that I still have yet to go.)
4) Go to five different places that I’ve never been to or haven’t been to in a long while.
5) Bake cookies
6) Donate gifts to school Christmas Charity drive or food items.
7) Read at least three books.
8) Get all my Trinidad Christmas shopping done.
9) Take a bunch of pictures.
10) Finish all my exams.
11) Surprise myself.
12) Agree to something/do something I usually wouldn’t do.
13) Make a black/rum/fruit cake.
14) Make someone else happy.
15) Make something with chocolate.
16) Catch up on a series I’ve been neglecting (walking dead, devious maids, flash)
17) Write a new short story.
18) Update blog with at least 3 new entries
19) Write a Christmas blog post.
20) Write a post documenting one of bucket list adventures.
21) Write a five interesting girl group dances post.
22) Make December special (including Christmas and my birthday)
If I complete ten of this I’d be very happy. If I can complete all of it I would be so proud. Someone suggested that I should post updates of my bucket list stating how much of it I ended up completing. I’m going to do that, so I guess you guys will know if I end up succeeding or not. Any who Ta ta for now and hopefully I will update you guys soon. Ciao!

August Bucket List

2015-08-29T20:22:00.000-07:00

1)Write at least 4 blog posts.
2)Sign up for German class and school.
3)Go to Trincity
4)Gain Abs like Bruce Lee or just Abs (lol)
5)Find out schedule for Korean classes.
6)Bake either banana bread or muffins.
7)Draw some people (at least zwei (2)).
8)Make my last day of work awesome and memorable.
9)Write a new Fanfiction.
10)Write 3 essays for Introduction to Political Philosophy.
11)Wear BTS Jacket to work.
12)Take pictures of work and co-workers before leaving.
13)Get/ order new phone.
14)Buy new clothes for school.
15)Get tests done.
16)Decorate Lenny (new laptop with stickers).
17)Get a new school Bag already.
18)Do something silly but fun.
19)Play Parang strum without making a mistake.
20)Talk to a stranger.

Kpop Meets Black Women (tumblr) Review

2015-08-09T09:00:00.002-07:00

It’s not very easy being an international Kpop fan - especially if you are a person of colour. The reason for this, I am honestly not sure. I wonder if it is because Kpop exists outside of the stereotyped idea of what persons of colour are supposed to like. For some time now I’ve noticed that it’s especially worse when you're black. One such site that explores the intersection between Kpop fans and black people - specifically black women - is Kpop Meets Black Women.
Now I’ve checked out this site a few times and there are lots of things here that you find on a typical fan website, regardless of what or who said website is dedicated too. With that said I have noticed that this site gets loads of negative attention for being what it is. That is why I have decided to review it, like I would anything else. It took me a while to put together because I have some strong opinions on this particular website and the amount of hate it receives on a regular basis. With that being said, I hope that I managed to portray some of the good and bad about this website, from my point of view.
According to the moderators, the site is about: “The men of Kpop/Korean music interactions with Black Women. Fan Accounts, & stuff…. & more stuff…etc.” It goes on to say [which is the primary reason that sites like this is important], “To show that they care about the Black Fan Girls too & appreciate us!”

The good

1) Kpop meets black women is a great site because it shows not only idols interactions with people of colour (which is not something we see on a regular basis) but it also shows that some of these people are willing to understand the history of the music that they make. Some people believe that Kpop groups do not know where the history of the music comes from but posts showing these celebs talking these black heroes show that these idols are not oblivious as some may think.

2) Although the main idea of the website is geared towards black women it is not only for this group. They highlight issues and interactions with idols of all women of colour.

3) Fan interactions show direct interaction with idols and can be lots of fun to read. It gives you a chance to experience what it would be like to meet some of these idols even if you don’t ever get the chance to meet them.

4) Seems like a very friendly community. Although I have yet to comment on the site I have read many of the topics and questions asked and the moderators are very friendly towards visitors. Even salty haters like this one;

“Ugh, Asian men should never be with black women. Its too disgusting. Asian men are too perfect.”

And Kpop meets black women response;

“We don’t have to tell you how beautiful and wonderful black women are. They constantly prove it simply by existing. Continue being salty.”

5) It fills in a much needed gap. There aren’t many websites dedicated to multiracial interactions at this level and it’s interesting to say the least.

6) It points out the random black people moments. This is something I do unintentionally as well because it’s not very often you see a person of colour in kpop anything and its cool when they point it out. Kind of makes you see certain videos differently.

7) Takes note of Idols music choices and also the inspiration from where their songs come from (at least for the idols who write their own music). For eg. I didn’t know that Rap Monster (leader and main rapper from the group BTS) got his inspiration for 'Do you' (single on his mixtape) from India Arie’s song of the same name.

8) It is an AMBW fan girl dream page.

9) It relays the idea to kpop fans that their idols would love them just the way they are BECAUSE women of colour are beautiful (all people are beautiful regardless of the colour of their skin).

10) Cool background music. I discovered some nice new music and got to listen to some favorites while reading and not just Kpop either

The Bad

1) The Haters. Like this person, “Yeah that site is tragique! They could make a blog like this one that celebrates kpop but is also an encouraging, safe & smart place for young black girls to be instead they are helping feed delusional, harmful fetish fantasies and making these girls feel like validation from a man/idol means you're attractive. Instead of saying 'damn right that idol was checking you out/likes bw because we are beautiful' they are saying 'omg he didn't openly vomit when he saw you! he listens to beyonce!!! that means he loves black women!!!'” Have you been on this site? Totally not what it’s about.

2) Some of the stuff they talk about are a bit farfetched, but so what? We all act that way when we like something or someone and hope that they would notice us. It is a fan website, you are going to read and see things that will make you feel the 2nd and 3rd hand embarrassment, making hide your head in shame but most fan pages are like that anyway.

3) Sometimes they point out idols that they think would date Persons of colour because of the way said idol acts. Sometimes this rubs me the wrong way but I don’t really see it as a bad thing just adds to the farfetched point I made earlier. (Not always though as sometimes they have valid reasons for why they think an idol would date a person of colour).

4) Honestly I believe the race of a person should not matter BUT it can be a preference and whether we want to admit it or not MOST of us have a preference when it comes to those we like. For example, I will read any book that interests me but when it comes to mystery books I will read it even if the read up doesn’t sound like something I would like too much. Get what I mean?

5) Not highlighting the negative meetings between Kpop idols and black fans. Generally I think this website focuses on the positive because the negatives are pointed out many places, however those interactions still matter.

General Thoughts

While doing research for this article saw a lot of misuse of the word ‘fetish’. Kpop has opened the doors for Asians (both male and female) to be seen as sexy and talented for more than just martial arts. So it really is no surprise that people on the outside of Asia are becoming romantically interested in them and for some, dating Asians might simply be a preference. It is the same way as dating people that are only of your race may also be a preference.
The word fetish gets thrown around lots when talking about black women and kpop. I am not really sure if you can have a fetish for a person. Body parts, inanimate object yes but a person maybe not. You can be obsessed but that is a different story all together.

People who make comments like this;
“…This shit is embarrassing. Real talk. And now there is a tumblr dedicated to Asian fetishism and we got black Kpop fans up in there, going wild and acting a fool. The worst part is that everyone is watching.. They're outside and looking through window, curious about what the black folks in the fandom are doing and then they see that foolishness out in the open for everybody to see…
And before folks take this the wrong way.. I know there is always that one among them, I am not saying.its wrong to be attracted to Asians. I am complaining about racial fetishism and folks dating Asians only because of Kpop. Dating someone because they seem like a cute accessory is fucked up. The end.
Man, this is sad. Ladies and Gentlemen of the BKF, WHO ACTUALLY ENGAGE IN THIS MESS please love yourselves. Invite Jesus into your life, set yourself free. Seeking validation for your blackness from Kpop idols OR ANYONE FOR THAT MATTER is sad. Very, very sad.”

Comments like this make me very sad about the world that but I totally agree with what this person replied and said;
“Why can't black girls just be themselves and do stupid and silly things like every other race of woman instead of having to constantly be concerned about presenting herself properly as if she's representative of the entire black community?”

Anyway the real question is; would this blog get as much hate if it was a blog about black women and their interactions with black celebrities? Probably not, because black women wanting black men is considered to be the norm. What I like most and what lots of the people against this website don’t seem to ever notice is that this website often helps people with self esteem issues. Someone commented this:
“I use to feel like shit about my dark brown skin and living in a world where it's White people and skin are beautiful and Black people and darker skin isn't, I've even had a family member tell me not to go for acting because I'm Black and I don't have white skin, I even use to buy skin bleach and wanted to get my skin bleached by a Dr, but your blog made me feel so much better about myself, the advice you give others and hearing others accounts on Kpop idols, I love my skin now! thank u so much!”

Kpop meets black women response:
“Thank You!! I’m so happy you feel better!! dark skin is sexy ok! There’s a lot of handsome men out there who loves our skin, I’ve seen a lot of beautiful, hot, interracial couples out there! and never listen to the ignorant people, they will say anything to stop you from your dreams and there are successful Black Actresses out there and they’re amazing! go for it and don’t give up! ^_^ love ya!”
In the end this website basically wants to spread goodness and there is nothing wrong with that. It does add lots of needed positivity in the black kpop fan community and hopefully is here to stay. Good luck to them and hope to see many more websites like this in the future.

Love yourself the way you are no matter what!!!!

P.S. the quotes are not mine and you should check out the website for yourself and see what you think.

July 2015 Bucket List

2015-07-01T16:54:00.000-07:00

1) Learn one song on the accordion.
2) Learn a full length dance.
3) Learn the tabs or the tab section for a song.
4) Write four blog posts.
5) Make 2 new friends.
6) Draw the scene outside my window at work.
7) Read at least 5 books.
8) Start a conversation with/talk to a stranger.
9) Give in fully to an obsession.
10) Make two new dishes.
11) Draw 3 pictures of people that I like.
12) Go somewhere new.
13) Lift myself up using my hands for at least 2 minutes.
14) Buy something that I’ve always wanted.
15) Be honest.
16) Have a mini guitar concert.
17) Write or finish a story.
18) Budget Paycheck.
19) Buy some new clothes.
20) Spend an entire day doing something for someone else.

11 Great Quotes made to inspire

2015-06-22T15:29:00.001-07:00

When I first started my internship there was something that really bugged me about my little corner cubicle. It wasn’t my desktop computer that looked a bit lonely where it was placed in the center my strangely curved desk. Nor was it the company phone on which I had just learnt how to transfer calls. The thing that was bothering me subconsciously was how blank and bland everything seemed. It all looked empty.
Usually I’m all for the simple things especially since I can sometimes be easily distracted but I didn’t like how I felt when I looked at my desk. It felt as if by the end of the day if I wasn’t there it seemed as if like no one worked in that spot.
What was missing and what I wanted to do is add something to my area so that my presence would be felt even without me physically being there. I knew that whatever I choose would have to be something that also inspired others just as much as it could inspire me. That’s how I ended settled on putting up quotes that made me feel something. My blog is my personal place but it’s also a place where we can interact and grow together. That is why I’ve decided to post the quotes here. Hopefully you’ll find the quote that melts your heart.

1) “I learned that people will forget about what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel”. ~Maya Angelou

2) “When you are inspired by some great purpose, some extraordinary project, all your thoughts break their bounds. Your mind transends limitations, your consciousness expands in every direction and you find yourself in a new, great and wonderful world. Dormant forces, faculties and talents become alive, and you discover yourself to be a greater person by far than you ever dreamed yourself to be.” ~Patanjali

3) “Limitations live only in our minds. But if we could use our imaginations, our possibilities become limitless.” ~Jamie Paolinetti

4) “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” ~Steve Jobs

5) “It’s not whether you get knocked down; it’s whether you can get back up.” ~Vince Lombardi

6) “The thing to do it seems to me, is to prepare yourself so you can be a rainbow in somebodies else’s a cloud. Somebody who may not look like you. May not call god the same name you call god-if they call god at all. I may not dances your dances or speak your language. But be a blessing to somebody.” ~Maya Angelou

New ones

7) “It had long since come to my attention that people of accomplishment rarely sat back and let things happen to them. They went out and happened to things.” ~Leonardo da Vinci

8) “I hope that in this year to come, you make mistakes. Because if you are making mistakes, then you are making new things, trying new things, learning, living, pushing yourself, changing yourself, changing your world. You’re doing things you’ve never done before and more importantly, you’re doing something. ” ~Neil Gaiman

9) “Strength does not come from winning. Your struggles develop your strengths. When you go through hardships and decide not to surrender, that is strength.” ~Arnold Schwarzenegger

10) “He who pities woman depreciates her. He who attributes to her the evils of society oppresses her. He who thinks her goodness is of his goodness and her evil of his evil is shameless in his pretensions. But he who accepts her as God made her does her justice.” ~Kahlil Gibran

11) “Did I offer peace today? Did I bring a smile to someone’s face? Did I say words of healing? Did I let go of my anger and resentment? Did I love? These are the real questions. I must trust that the little bit of love that I sow now will bear many fruits, here in this world and the life to come.” ~Henri Nouwen

While doing some research I found five new quotes that I added to both my cubicle wall and this post. If you click the names of the owners of these quotes you’ll learn a little more about them.
I hope these help bring out something great from within you, if none of them are quite right for you. Tell me about your favorite quote. Till next time. Ta!

Must See Kpop Dance Practice Videos –Male Version

2015-06-19T23:27:00.001-07:00

The Kpop world is filled with many great bands that are within their own right amazing dancers. Watching the music videos is one thing but when you get to see those dances without all the lights, glamour and cut scenes is when you really get a chance to appreciate them. When its just the music and them dancing without distractions is when the magic happens and you really get to experience their talent.
I have watched a few dance practices from bands that have really inspired me to try to learn those dances myself. So I have decided to list out some of those wonderful dances for you guys to judge for yourself. Now this list is going to be limited because there are many dance practices that I have never seen so if I have excluded a band that you think deserves some recognition for their amazing dancing abilities let me know. Also the list is not in any particular order either.
1) History- Just Might Die (blindfold dance practice).

You can tell when someone has practiced a dance lots when they can literally do it blindfolded, with four other blindfolded people next to them. I can tell that this dance is done with a bit of hesitation. There seems to be more of a focus on getting through the moves than doing them with the usual flair that I am used to them dancing with. This caution is most likely because of the loss of a sense. I mean they are blindfolded after all and are probably trying their best not to accidentally hit the other members. That being said, the dance is still quite awesome and amazing to watch. You can see how they usually do the dance without holding back here which is just as hella good and more. One of my favorite parts has to be when they do that kind of Bi Rain Hip Song dance part, also the bungee jump dance part is just nice to watch. I totally want to try that. On a side note History has multi versions of this dance where you can watch the individual members do it. So pick your favorite members and go watch them work it.

2) BTS-Boy in Lov

Now some of you may know that I have some mad love for BTS War of Hormones dance practice and I must admit to seeing a few dance practices with that song. However after seeing the ‘Boy in Luv’ dance practice I am at a loss for words. Damn that dance was so bad ass! The song itself is very fast paced and therefore the dance would be expected to be somewhat like that and it doesn’t disappoint. Not only is it very well choreographed BUT the delivery of it seems flawless –at least to me. One my favorite part is the beginning when Jungkook does a move and only the members on his left follow, then other side follows. I like that there are moments when aren’t doing the same thing and then suddenly everyone falls into place and is doing the steps. It is very well thought out, very well executed and just a thrill to watch.

3) Bi Rain-La Song

Like with everything else, Bi Rain doesn’t let being the only solo artist on this list stop him. The reason this dance practice works is because of is a huge fun factor involved. Simply put, the dance seems like it’s fun, the dancers look like they are having the time of their lives doing it and Rain makes it worth your while to watch. It’s difficult to watch this dance and not crack a smile. The happiness in this video is contagious. Videos like this show the difference between Artists and Performers. Not all artists can entertain or knows how to keep the crowd excited but I truly believe that Rain is an entertainer and this is proof of that. It’s one thing to get a crowd pumped up but your dancers? Now that is something. Give it a watch and see what you think.

4) Big Bang – Bang Bang Bang

Not only is this a fun dance but its also all kinds of crazy...in a good way. Now even if you don’t like this song or like Big Bang please still watch this video, if only for T.O.P. It is very difficult to describe what he is doing in this video. Basically there is everyone else’s version of the dance and then there is T.O.P’s. His focus is 90% on being cool and 10% on actually doing the dance but somehow he pulls it off! Plus they all killed in their solo performances. This dance practice was a bit like a flash mob with the amount of people in this video.
I have a complaint though, at some points you couldn’t see all the members because the camera was way too close! Seriously they needed to zoom out! especially in a video that had so many people. Really, that was a shitload of back up dancers! I have to mention this as well; it was very difficult to locate Taeyang in this, even when he was dancing in front. I’m not sure if it was because he was wearing a shirt or what but it was like trying to find Waldo.

5) Cross Gene-Amazing Bad Lady

Last but certainly not least on this list is Cross Gene’s Amazing Bad Lady. This video was the first I have seen of this band. I honestly didn’t know anything about this dance until a friend of mine sent me a link to this video. I never thought I would be saying this BUT they highlight their crotch a bit too much for me in this dance. At the same time they were so in time when they did it that I really can’t fault them too much. Now like Rain’s La Song dance practice this video will make you smile maybe even chuckle but not for the same reasons. This video is more on the sexual side, with some tension (homoerotic?) among-st the members. I just feel like there are lots of emotions expressed in this practice and I don’t know how to feel when I watch it but damn those dudes are so on point and so deserve a spot on this list just for that so give it a watch, it was definitely very entertaining.

Now when I looked up these videos I realized that there are many amazing Kpop artists that can dance their asses off or are just really amazing to watch, and it was really very difficult to decide who to add to this list and who to exclude. So I will be doing a part 2 to this list and a part 3 if it needed be. Plus I’m sure that I missed many great dance tutorials. Drop me a few suggestions and maybe some of those videos will end up on the next list. I really want to do a girl group version as well but I need your help because of my lack of knowledge in the girl group department so as I said before suggestions are very welcomed.
That was today’s list. Hope you like it, let me know if you agree or disagree with any of the videos on the list and let me know why. Look forward to part 2 coming song (hopefully) and bye bye for now!

June Bucket List

2015-05-28T15:52:00.000-07:00

1) Eat from two new places that I never had before
2) Learn a full length dance
3) Get a job
4) Write 5 new blog posts
5) Do a review of a local store or an interview for blog
6) Acquire a new hobby
7) Make 5 new friends
8) Draw at least 2 BTS members
9) Learn a classical finger picking song
10) Learn the full tab for a song
11) Go to a few museums
12) Go to the Boardwalk
13) Take a bus to somewhere in Trinidad (like San Fernando hills or something like that)
14) Go to Tobago
15) Read at least 5 books
16) Do something amazing for someone else
17) Do or go somewhere special with my brothers
18) Write five new stories
19) Take the water taxi
20) Make 2 Caribbean dishes or Pastries (Basically food stuff)

Lets see how much I achieve XD

Current Obsession: BTS

2015-03-16T10:56:00.002-07:00

From their style, sound and swagger BTS really bring something different to the Kpop scene. Their sound is a mix of hip hop, alternative rock, pop and R&B. Each member has their own unique vibe and voice that sets them apart from each other and adds to why they work so well together as a group.
BTS or Bangtan Boys is a seven member korean Hip Hop group. Its members line are made up of rappers Rap Monster (Leader), Suga and JHope, and singers; Jimin, Jin, V and Jungkook (the youngest). This band only has a few years under their belt so far but if they keep it up I think that they could be here for a very long time. There is something that feels very unfinished about this them, something very raw and I like that.
Writing their own lyrics and often producing some of their own songs gives their music a personal touch. Often it feels like whatever they are singing about is something that has really affected them or something that they have had experience with. Especially in their pre debut songs like Tears of School.
Many of their songs like Can you turn off your phone and 'No more Dream' cover topics that are not very typical in the music industry but ring very true in today's society.
BTS Cyphers deserves a current obsession review by themselves. I cant tell you how much I love these songs and rappers voices on these tracks are just amazing. You just have to hear them yourself, particularly Cypher part 2 Triptych and Cypher part 3 Killer.
For those who may not know, each album has a Cypher which feature the main rapper line; 'Rap Monster', 'Suga' and 'JHope'. These tracks introduce a new side to the group that is not very well known. Its very hardcore rap and a little gritty but hella good.
Now every member of this group is talented as hell and the rapper line is strong. Each one has their own unique style and flow and when they rap it doesn't feel repetitive or as if you are hearing the same person every time. The singers complete the BTS line up with with their notable ranges, pitch and sweet voices. Seriously watch Your My by the vocal line and you'll see what I mean.
If I could define each member with one word this is how it would go; Suga ~ Swagger or Coolness, V ~ Soulful, Jimin ~ Sexy, Jin ~ Dangerous, JHope ~ Awesome, Jungkook ~ (Jail bait, LOL no) Golden and last but definitely not least Rap Monster ~ Smooth.
BTS is one of the few groups give off the impression that they are having fun on stage when performing. They seem to like what they do and it shows.
Anyone who is interested in reality TV should check out their show American Hustle life. It shows the group interacting with some very famous old school American Rappers and learning about the culture of Hip Hop. I really like how they were given such a rare opportunity to get an inside view into the type of Genre that they are interested in. The show has lots of English as well for those of you that are not to fond of subtitles. I mean you still have reading to do but not as much.
If you are looking for something new or something different check them out. I promise you wont regret.
Favorite Songs from them : War of Hormone (Hormone War), Second Grade, Rise of Bangtan, Boy in luv, Cyphers and Danger (remix ver.) etc.
P.S. Everyone's waredrobe in War of Hormone was just perfectly suited to their personality. Also the dance for that song was really good too. Those guys can dance.
Pics and vids are not mine... Enjoy!

March Bucket List

2015-03-08T22:14:00.001-07:00

Hey people. How has it been on your side. Great? Not so great? Not sure? Well I am putting out a new post and I hope this cheers you or or inspire you even a little bit.
So my February bucket list was okay. I honestly didnt do as I could. I just had so many options for some of the things that it left me too much choice. I like my bucket list to be straight to the point and more reasonable.
For my March bucket list I decided to make it more doable. At least try to and if things work out I'll let you know if I worked hard enough at March's bucket list or not. Wish me luck!
March Bucket List
1) Get A+ on all midterms and projects
2) Do all projects and assignments on time
3) Be prepared for all tutorials
4) Learn 2 German songs
5) Do at least five blog posts
6) Dedicate time each week for either guitar or cuatro or both
7) Don’t over think things. Just do what I want.
8) Make a new friend
9) Exercise at least once every week
10) Go somewhere or do something that I’ve never done before

I hope you guys liked my update and expect another review or two coming up soon enough. I already wrote one of them but I just have to type it up. The other one I havent written it out BUT I will! Just have some faith in me! =)
As usual feel free to make suggestions about things you would like to see. Maybe a review for a movie or a band you want me to get into. I'm always open and willing to please. Good day! Ta!

Love Sick (the Series and Novel)

2015-02-17T19:28:00.000-08:00

Noh needs to somehow come up with the money for the drums for his school club. Phun (who already has a girlfriend) needs someone to pretend to be his boyfriend so his sister (who is really into boy love) will convince his father not to make him go out with his friend’s daughter. Realizing that they could help each other, Noh and Phun make a deal that spiral into a series of events that bring the two boys closer together. The plot goes much deeper than that though and lots of time is spent in the novel developing the characters. We also learn more about the people who the main characters interact with on a daily basis.
Love Sick the Series is a 2014 Thai series that is based on the quite popular online Thai novel written by INDRYTIMES. The novel appropriately named; ‘Love Sick: The Chaotic Lives of Blue Shorts Guys’, follows the story of two high school boys who eventually fall in love.
The series takes a step away from the novel adding additional characters and plotlines to the story, some that compliment and others that take away from the original novel itself. Both the series and novel are being translated into English by Kudalakorn with the permission of the original author.

The Series
The Good
1) The Wonderful Author of this amazing novel works alongside the film crew on the show. This hopefully will make sure that the story remains true to itself in essence. No matter what they do to it.
2) Some of the cast are new to the acting world but they do not let that affect them as they work hard to stay true to the characters they portray, while making them their own.
3) It is good BL (no more explanation needed).
4) It is addicting, once you get past the first episode you want to see more.
5) The side plot as well as the main storyline dealt with a lot of issues that can affect teens. For example; the Swim team and rivalry, peer pressures as well as problems that can stem from gossiping.
6) The second season is coming out soon that promises to be even sweeter than the first.
The Bad
1) The First Episode- let’s just say it was kind of confusing and I think they wanted to go in another direction here but decided not to. When I watched it I almost didn’t want to see anymore but I had episode two there ready to watch and that is the only reason that I moved on and watched more of it. It seemed like they wanted to make the series more of a focus on one of the girls (Jeed) but it didn’t work out as planned. When I watched the behind the scenes episode I realized that they knew how bad it was and expected it to be cancelled. Thankfully from the second episode it gets better.
2) Some of the excluded parts of the novel should be included because they give essential information about the main characters. A good example of this is Phun. Phun in the series seems to have pushed more for him and Noh to be together but in the series Noh does a lot more that helps the relationship grow into something else. It can seem very much one sided where it shouldn’t sometimes.
3) There are some side plots are just feel like fillers to me. I wish they didn’t exist and when I re-watch episodes I skip those scenes. Can someone explain to me why the weird scammer man had to be included??? Is it supposed to be a source of comic relief because it is not working. Did anyone laugh at those scenes?? I hope they do not bring that plot back. This brings me to my next point.
4) Some side characters that deserve to get storylines and from the book I can tell that their story would be interesting, do not. For example Noh’s best friend Om should have a storyline because he is a very very important person in Noh’s life. Plus there are things that are going on with him that affects the main plot. The other guys from the music club particularly deserve more airtime particularly Per, Knott (?), Micky, Film (not in the music club) Earn, Pete, Fi and Aim. There is room for these plots to be added in, just take out the useless side plots and there you go.
5) Sometimes the focus can be too much on side plots that do not add to the main storyline. At the end of the day the story should be able Noh and Phun. If the side plot does not help or hinder them, remove it.

The Novel
The Good
1) This story is refreshing and feels new. That is what I like most about it and what makes me come back for more.
2) Like all books that spun series, it shows us aspects of the characters that the series does not.
3) It does a good job of explaining the story and focuses more on the main pairing.
4) Its characters are flawed. Why is this good? Well, this makes the story more realistic as it is supposed to be told through the eyes of a 17 year old boy.
5) Special Chapters give us insight into things that we were not aware of and also changes perspectives as the ones I’ve read so far are told from different points of view apart from the main character. These chapters are few and far in between but they provide depth for the main storyline.
6) The online community where the English translations are at Kudalakorn is made up of some really amazing people who make it worth your while to read their insightful spoiler free comments. Seriously, it is one of the best websites I’ve had the privilege of being on. I feel like there is a certain level of maturity there and we all work together well. I look forward to reading and contributing to comments as much as the novel.
The Bad
1) There is only one book with only 65 chapters and the chapters can sometimes be very short.
2) Some parts can be slow to coming up to the parts that we really want to hear about. As I said it’s narrated by a 17 year old boy so he’s going to tell it how he likes. Not how we will want to read it.
3) The translations are not completed BUT Kudalakorn is working hard and posts translations as often as possible however if you can’t deal with waiting for new chapters to come, out don’t start reading it yet. Not a lot more chapters to go though (sadly).
I can’t really think of much bad honestly. This novel and series are really worth it. I am so happy that I happened upon it and if anyone can recommend me any other series or novel along these lines then I will definitely read and review.
I give the series a 3.5/5 and the novel a 4/5.

P.S. Kudalakorn also does translations for other series and also keeps you up to date with all the Thai things worth checking out. Her website is well worth a peek or two so go click the link to see what you’re missing. If it wasn’t for her this gem wouldn’t have been able to receive the amazing international response that it did. Plus I really appreciate her for Translating the novel like she did otherwise I’d have never have read it. Also her translations are used for the original DVD for the Love Sick series.
Pictures are not mine, they belonged to whomever created them. I merely borrowed. Ciao!

February Bucket List

2015-02-09T06:16:00.000-08:00

A long time ago I wrote a post about my bucket list to complete before I die. It was so short and I dont know lacking but that was then and this is now. Sooo I wrote a new bucket list.
For this year I want to write a new bucket list every month. Instead of it being things I'd like to do before I die, its more of a things I'd like to do before the month ends. So I've finished my list for this month and I'll post it here for you guys to see. I'm marking off the things that I have done so far and I will have an update next month and let you know how much I get through.
February Bucket List
1) Re invent myself
2) Try 7 new things
3) Say yes to 5 things that I wouldn’t usually
4) Update blog with at least 10 entries
5) Finish all Projects on time
6) Lose 5 pounds (current weight 138.8 pounds as of Jan 30th 2015)
7) Send at least 2 letters to bands or people that I like
8) Learn two new songs on the Guitar
9) Practice Cuatro for at least 1 hour a week
10) Write a short story in German
11) Learn a new Korean song
12) Learn two new kpop dances
13) Send dance video and video singing Kpop song to Anni
14) Be completely honest for about a week.

For me the list is like an achievement list and you feel good when you can cross things off the list. It really feels like you accomplished something. It also how I push myself to try and experience new things. Especially since I am usually always in my head.
So tell me what you think. Try writing a bucket list for yourself this month or next month and see how it makes you feel. You never know what you are holding yourself back from by not trying. Tata and bye for now kids, Cheers!!

BTS SEX SCANDAL???

2015-01-28T07:57:00.000-08:00

So I may be late to this because this happened last year but I just discovered this picture.

So Apparently Jin from BTS was showing a tutorial or something like that and fans saw in the background a condom and freaked.....OMG I don't know where to start with this but its so ridiculous that I had to say something about it. As a result of fans(??) freaking out that their idols possibly having sex Big Hit Entertainment-the company behind the band- released a statement saying that it was given to them in a fan gift.
FIRSTLY who cares if they are having sex or not. These people deserve to have a private life too!! Hey if anything at least it looks like they are being safe about it.
Secondly you guys know how crazy fans can get especially KPOP fans so I wouldn't be surprised if a fan did send it. Plus fans probably have sent much worse things. That fan probably sent it and said something like, "Wear this when we meet." Or some other weird creepy thing like that. People if you wouldn't give it to somebody you know don't give things like this to someone you don't. Although creepy people will always be creepy so I guess I may be talking to deaf ears here.
THIRDLY and most importantly WHO IN THE HELL ZOOMED IN ON THAT PICTURE SO MUCH THAT THEY SAW THE CONDOM IN THE BACKGROUND AND RECOGNIZED THE BRAND AND THE SIZE???!!!!! To me that is the freakiest thing about this entire story. How long would you seriously have to be staring at that picture to see that?
Guys if you really like someone enough to call them your idol do you really need to make their life difficult by nitpicking at every little thing you see. They don't need this. Just show them your support, laugh with them when funny stuff happens, help them through difficult times. Hell criticize them for the things that they openly do that you may not agree with but let them have their own lives. Some of these people barely have a personal life anyway so let them have whatever bit of personal life that they can. They'll probably appreciate you more for it and maybe they'll think that they have good respectable fans which are the best type of fans to have.
P.S. So no one is going to talk about the fact that it was a king sized condom? No? Alright, good day people! Tschuss!!!!
as usual the picture is not mine

My Favorite things: Block B

2015-01-24T15:20:00.001-08:00

Greetings all you great people who are reading this on this wondrous day. How are you guys? Great?
Today for my blog post I would like to start a section I want to call my favorite things. Here I would tell you about the things that have caught my attention and that I think that you guys to make note of. You can also tell me what you think about them as well and make suggestions for the things that you think I can check out. I’m also going to start doing more reviews and such. Recommend videos and websites and stuff like that that you want me to review. These days I am especially into Kpop so you know those are especially welcomed.
Block B is a seven member fully male group from Korea. Their sound and look changes as they sample music from different genres of music and make it their own. The band is made up of Rappers; Zico (leader), Park Kyung and P.O and Singers and Dancers; Ukwon, Jaehyo B-bomb and Taeil.
The band has had their share of mishaps throughout the years but have become and even stronger group because of it. Part of it has to do with how unique and versatile their style is and the fact that they are always searching for new ways to reinvent themselves. Not to mention that their dances are very catchy and simple to pick up especially the Gorilla dance. That was awesome and fun. I confess that I can do a lot of Block B dances. Heh.
I won’t go into too much history or details about the band because there are many amazing websites dedicated to giving information about the band, their back stories and individual characteristics. I will however tell you about my favorite things about them.
Lyrics can strengthen a song’s likability and Block B’s lyrics especially for their older songs are so meaningful. Just check out the lyrics to Block B’s ‘Mental Breaker’ which talks about being a confusing relationship and how it feels or even ‘Jackpot’ which kind of like a never give up song. Look it yourself and you’ll see what I mean.
Block B is a band that is very into what they do and their music shows it. Zico often writes and produces the songs with the help of the other members. Taeil’s voice is amazingly powerful, Zico, P.o. and Park Kyung’s rap style is very different from each other’s and it shows. You can identify each member on the tracks even if you don’t really know the band. When B-bomb starts dancing and putting his all into it- no words can describe. Ukwon and Jaehyo bring their own flavor to the band as well. What I like most about this band is that their songs are full of soul. As it is now, they are the only band that I have all the albums for and there are many songs on the albums themselves that are noteworthy. They were also my first Kpop band so they will always have a place in my heart to rest.
If you are now entering the Kpop scenes I do recommend them but if they are not your cup of tea, don’t be afraid to check out different bands. It took me a while to find other bands that I liked and each band tends to offer something different. It may just take a while to find a sound that is to your liking.
So what Kpop band started it for you? What did you like about them? Do you still listen to them?
Favorite Block B songs: Romantik, Very Good, Nalina, Mental Breaker, Nice Day, H.E.R. among many others…

Copywrite for images goes to whomever it belongs and that is not me. I merely borrowed them....