"You are realistic, and others relate to you." I embrace the word Asian American. I like my cultural background, although it's taken years to embrace the duality of it. But we're not all alike. I can't tell you how many times I've been confused with someone else because we look "like twins"--and this still happens with my kids. (In fact, I heard a comment today!) Anyway, Asian Americans are a huge group comprising of people from over 48 distinct places. We're not all the usual "model … [Read more...]
Real Asian Faces
June 6, 2016 Leave a Comment
"A problem clearly stated is a problem half solved." I'm sure you've heard of #oscarssowhite. We need diversity, folks. Media should be at the forefront of actually representing what our population looks like. Unfortunately, they're not. Which is why I'm so grateful for posts like HomeMadeMimi's "Correcting Yellowface." It's one artist's method of fighting back in a clever way. Go ahead and enjoy her pics! … [Read more...]
Foodie Friday: Japanese Curry
June 3, 2016 4 Comments
Japanese curry: stew-like curry with meat and vegetables I heart Japanese curry. There's something about the savory flavor mixed with a sweetness that gets to me. It's also not too spicy, so even a hotness wimp like me can handle it. The best curry I ate was probably the homemade version that someone ladled out to me in Little Tokyo. However, I'm also a big fan of the Curry House chain. I do make J-curry at home using those pre-packaged blocks (usually the House Foods brand) from the … [Read more...]
New Office, New Look
December 7, 2015 5 Comments
"Don't let statistics do a number on you." For those of you who don't know, I've been writing for years at my kitchen table. Finally, I've upgraded to my own office (slash guest room)! Knowing that I have an Asian-themed decor, my dad gave me this artwork. Gorgeous, huh? The main character in it is: patience. Patience is key to a writer's life. It always takes longer than you anticipate to produce and write something, or to edit and publish a piece. Fun photo: After two books, I finally … [Read more...]
Buddha Board
November 9, 2015 6 Comments
"The strengths in your character will bring you serenity." I got this present from my brother one year. I'm not sure if he meant that I needed to relax more... Anyway, the Buddha Board is this rectangular slate that you can "draw" on with a brush. However, it uses only water to make images. And, according to the description, it's supposed to "leave you with a clean slate and a clear mind" while the artwork evaporates. (I don't know about that, but it's a lot of fun!) I love the fact … [Read more...]
Foodie Friday: Bean Curd Skin
May 15, 2015 3 Comments
Bean curd skin: wrapper made from soybean After boiling soybean milk, you can lift the surface skin and turn it into a wrapper. These are also sold in dried sheets in Asian supermarkets. The store versions need to be reconstituted in water. Bean curd skin can be used to wrap up vegetarian goodies, like black mushrooms, carrots, and onions. The skin can also serve as a vegetarian meat substitute because of its chewy texture. Fun fact: Bean curd wrappers are gluten-free. … [Read more...]
Ethnic Baby Dolls
December 30, 2013 2 Comments
"A mouse can see only an inch." -Chinese proverb A newborn can see up to 12 inches. The New Year reminds me of beginnings...and babies. This may also be because I know a number of new and expecting moms. It's been interesting to see the development of baby dolls over time. I swear that several years ago, I didn't see any Asian dolls at the store. In fact, I had to order one online (thank you, Corolle). Well, there were some Ni Hao Kai-lan ones, but I had wanted a soft baby doll back … [Read more...]
A Twist on Traditions
December 23, 2013 Leave a Comment
"A tree has its roots, a stream its source." -Chinese proverb Everything has origins. We love family traditions because they're a source of comfort, rituals that have been passed down from one generation to the next. I'm here to offer a twist on some annual traditions: Instead of hot cocoa this year, try teh tarik (milk tea): Looking for a quick way to wrap presents? What about a take-out box? One year, I found this and other beautiful designs at Target: Get a free calendar for next … [Read more...]
Wanted: SAF
December 2, 2013 8 Comments
"It does not matter if the cat is black or white so long as it catches rats." -Chinese proverb A cat is a cat is a cat. But does the same hold true for women? Not according to a recent study based on the Facebook app, Are You Interested. Apparently, most men are drawn to Asian women for dating relationships. I wonder if this is due to: Exoticism: People still think of Asian females as exotic. Even women do--check out Katy Perry's geisha get-up. Diversity in Media: Perhaps this is a … [Read more...]
Asian-Inspired Costumes
October 21, 2013 7 Comments
"A man is judged by his clothes, a horse by its saddle." - Chinese proverb We examine people based on their outward appearance. In fact, it's been said that you have seven seconds to make a good first impression. Shakespeare, himself, said that "the apparel oft proclaims the man" (Hamlet: Act 1, Scene 3). Autumn brings a bit of relief because we can be creative in our attire. Yes, it's that time of the year when the wind nips at our cheeks, the leaves burst into color, and pumpkin spice … [Read more...]
