Guess who’s back, back again!
It feels like forever since I last wrote a blog post. And somehow, at the same time, it feels like I just wrote one yesterday. I mean, wasn’t it just the first day of summer? Where did the time go?!
Anyway, as you can probably tell from the title, my summer has been nothing but good to me. Sure, there were a few bad days here and there, but all in all, it’s been a real good one.
So, let’s catch up! Here are some of the things I’ve been up to this summer.
1. I went to 3 EDM music festivals
Not 1 (like I thought I would). Not 2. But 3 festivals… including 2 out-of-town ones!
It’s funny how something you think you’d never like can end up being something you love. I used to think I’d absolutely hate EDM, but after getting into it over the past year or so, I found myself looking forward to the next rave every time one ended (post-festival depression, much?).
And bonus: This summer, I got to meet one of my favourite DJs after her set, and I somehow even won a VIP upgrade! But that’s a story for another blog post.
For now, let’s just say: I guess it pays to give things a chance!
A little feeling-myself-moment at FVDED in the Park
2. I’ve been baking more
I’ve always loved baking since I was a little kid, and really got into it during COVID (I mean, who didn’t!). But as life got busier, I slowly stopped making as much time for it.
Earlier this summer, I started watching more cooking and baking shows, and after binge-watching all the seasons of The Great Canadian Baking Show, I got inspired to start baking more again.
So over the summer, I’ve been having fun experimenting with Asian-inspired flavours and finding ways to bring my Filipino roots into my baking. Maybe I’ll have to host a little home café this fall…
Chocolate ube whoopie pies from 108 Cookies by Kat Lieu
3. I hosted a supper club with my friends
As everyone gets older and our schedules get busier, it can be hard to get everyone together. So this summer, my friends and I started a little supper club!
We pick a theme or cuisine and everyone comes over for a potluck dinner. It’s been so fun seeing what everyone makes, and having everyone together to catch up.
And of course, I love any excuse to get crafty with the tablescaping and decorations. Now we just have to figure out when we’re doing the next one!
Decorative, handmade paper stars and garlands
4. I tried Pilates for the first time
…and I LOVED it!
I’ve been trying to find a way to move my body regularly without doing anything too intense, and this feels perfect. Reformer Pilates is really relaxing, and mat Pilates definitely give me more of a full-body workout.
And funny story: the first time I went, I didn’t have grip socks, so I showed up in my iSaute ones. But don’t worry, I’ve since upgraded to much cuter ones!
Studio Joie in downtown Montreal
5. I started filming more content
I’ve always loved taking photos and making videos, but was always worried about what people would think, or whether what I was making was “good enough.”
This summer, I finally started filming and posting more, and I’m having so much fun with it!
I even got to collaborate with some of my favourite brands, like Leonidas, one of my favourite Belgian chocolate brands!
Filming of Leonidas collaboration Reel
6. I ate ice cream practically every day
This one sounds a little silly. But if you know me, you know I’m OBSESSED with ice cream.
I’ll eat it any time of year, even when it’s -20°C outside, but especially when the weather is hot. I’ll also almost always have a pint or two in my freezer.
This summer, I made my mission to try different local ice cream spots around the city every week, and even checked some out when I was traveling. There’s something pretty great about walking around on a hot day with one (or 4 – no one’s judging here) scoops of ice cream in hand!
Taro ice cream from Ca Lem
7. I think I finally found my style
Or at least, a style I’m really into now.
My style has changed a lot over the years, and who knows, it might change again. But one thing I’ve learned this summer is to embrace colour.
I’ve always loved whimsical, colourful things like stickers, pretty boxes, fun pyjamas, and home decor. But I was always a little more scared to wear them.
Lately, I’ve learned to just, wear more of what I like. Polka dots, bright colours, fun prints, multi-coloured beaded necklaces… you name it! And needless to say: I’m really enjoying it!
Green summer dress, thrifted from Shwap Club
8. I spent a lot of time outdoors
Now normally, I would NOT like that.
I’m not exactly an outdoorsy girl. I can handle a very baby hike at most, and I’ll take the big city any day. But while I was in BC this summer, I ended up going on quite a few walks, and spending some time on the beach.
And honestly, I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it. There was something really relaxing about being outside, taking in the views, and just walking around without anywhere to be.
Maybe there really is something to stopping and smelling the roses every once in a while (literally!).
Lillooet, British Columbia
Now, if you’ve read this far, remember to try something new every once in a while, or even give something another chance. You just never know what you might end up enjoying.
So, what have you been up to this summer? Let me know in the comments!
