Lately, I’ve been sitting with a feeling that doesn’t ask to be solved quickly.

It’s not loud grief.
Not heartbreak.
Not anger, exactly.

It’s more like discovering a small crack in a glass you’ve been drinking from every day. The glass still holds water. It hasn’t shattered. But once you’ve seen the crack, you can’t unsee it. You notice how you hold it differently now. A little more carefully. A little more consciously.

At the same time, my brain has been busy in the background. One of those seasons where there’s always something running in your head, even when you’re trying to rest. There’s an exam coming up. The kind that demands focus, discipline, and trust in the work you’ve already done. The pressure doesn’t always show up as stress. Sometimes it shows up as restlessness. Or overthinking. Or being awake when you should be asleep.

I’ve been learning that healing doesn’t always look dramatic. Sometimes it looks like noticing when your mind starts replaying old scenes and choosing not to engage with them. Sometimes it looks like admitting you’re tired of carrying something by yourself. Sometimes it looks like stopping mid spiral and letting the moment pass.

I think a lot of us grow up believing clarity comes all at once. That forgiveness is a switch. That trust is either there or it isn’t. But real life doesn’t work like that. It moves slower. It doubles back. It asks for patience.

There are days when I feel grounded and present. And there are days when an old memory surfaces without warning. Not because I want to go backward. But because the body remembers things the mind has already reasoned through.

I’m learning to meet those moments with curiosity instead of self criticism.

What are you reacting to right now?
What do you actually need?
Is this about today, or something older?

There’s strength in letting things stay unresolved for a while. In allowing understanding to form without forcing it. In choosing not to interrogate every feeling. In reminding myself that showing up, whether for relationships, for growth, or for an exam I’ve been preparing for quietly in the background, still counts as progress.

I don’t think the goal is to eliminate doubt entirely. I think the goal is learning how to respond when it appears. To stay honest. To stay kind. To stay anchored in what’s real now, not what once felt confusing.

So if you’re in a season where you’re rebuilding something without announcements or explanations, I see you. If you’re doing the internal work that no one else notices, it still matters.

Some things don’t need to be rushed into clarity.
Some things just need time to settle.

And maybe that’s enough for today.

Seventeen years ago, I started this blog not knowing exactly where it would take me. I just knew I needed a space to express myself, to feel seen, to connect. Back then, it was a little corner of the internet where I could be honest. Now, it’s become something much bigger. A witness to my growth, my heartbreaks, my little victories, and my many evolutions.

And just recently, I did something I’ve never done before. I had my first aerial show in Los Angeles. It was emotional, exhilarating, and deeply personal. For someone who’s always had their head in the clouds, being suspended midair in front of an audience was a surreal reflection of all the inner work I’ve been doing.

That night meant so much to me. Not just because it was my first show here, but because it came at a time when I was rebuilding parts of myself. A lot has shifted in my life lately. I’ve been learning to let go, to trust, to take up space. And to fly, both onstage and in my own story.

To everyone who came to the show, thank you. Your presence meant more than I can express. And to those who couldn’t make it but sent messages, encouragement, or love from afar, I felt you with me. I carried that support on stage.

Seventeen years of writing. Of living. Of becoming.

Here’s to staying soft, staying bold, and staying in flight even when the ground feels safer.

Thank you for being part of my journey.

Full video here.

And then, there are people who arrive quietly. Not to fix things. Not to stay forever. Just to sit beside you in the noise. Like a song that doesn’t demand to be heard but fills the space in just the right way.

Our story isn’t one for labels or headlines. It lives in the quiet corners. The unspoken ease. The knowing glances. It’s like finding shade on a hot day. You don’t need to ask for it, but you’re grateful it’s there.

He showed up after a long Monday. I was unraveling at the seams, and I told him I was. He came, not to solve anything, but just to be near. I didn’t realize how much I needed the comfort of a simple presence. We talked, shared quiet laughs, and let the closeness fill the space.

This connection isn’t built on promises or plans. It’s present. Honest. It breathes without asking for more. There’s something healing about that. About being with someone who doesn’t try to possess your time or your heart, but still holds space for you when you need it most.

I don’t know what chapter this is. Maybe it’s a poem tucked in between two big plot points. Maybe it’s a pause. Maybe it’s just what it is. Soft, fleeting, and real.

But for now, I’m thankful for a place to rest my heart. Even if just for a while.

Not all stories are meant to be novels; some are short, tender poems that stay with us anyway.

It’s kinda like tending to a garden that was never really yours. You water it, talk to the leaves, maybe even name a flower or two. And just when you start imagining how it might all grow… you realize. Oh. Right. This wasn’t mine to begin with.

I used to think being chosen was the ultimate goal. Like, once someone picked me, it would mean I’m finally enough. But maybe being chosen isn’t really about how lovable or amazing you are. Maybe it’s more about timing. Readiness. Two people wanting the same thing at the same time. And honestly? That part’s not always in our control.

Sometimes someone shows up and lights this little fire inside you. And for a second, it feels like a story is about to begin. But not all sparks turn into stars. And not every connection turns into us.

So what do you do when things don’t turn out the way you hoped?

You take a breath. You hold space for the feelings. You remind yourself that nothing real is ever wasted. Not the words, not the laughter, not even the quiet pauses.

You keep blooming anyway.

Because the story isn’t over. You’re still here, still growing, still full of heart. And maybe the next page brings someone who sees you clearly and chooses to stay. Not because they have to, but because they just do.

“The flower doesn’t dream of the bee. It blossoms, and the bee comes.” – Mark Nepo

That’s one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned: life flows best when I stop resisting and start listening to my instincts, my desires, and the quiet nudges that push me toward growth. And through this, a few truths have become clear:

The best decisions come from what feels right, not what’s expected
There’s so much pressure to follow a timeline, whether it’s career, relationships, or life milestones. But I’ve realized that the most fulfilling choices are the ones that come from within – not from societal expectations, not from fear, but from a place of genuine alignment. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. And if it does? That’s reason enough to trust it.

Joy comes from presence, not just outcomes
It’s easy to get caught up in chasing the next thing – a goal, a person, a milestone. But I’ve found that real joy isn’t just in achieving something; it’s in experiencing life fully, as it happens. Whether that’s deep conversations, creative bursts of inspiration, or moments of pure excitement, I want to savor it all without needing it to “mean” something bigger.

You can’t rush clarity, but it comes when you’re ready
Some answers only reveal themselves over time. Some paths don’t make sense until you’ve walked them. Looking back, I see how every decision, even the difficult ones, led me to where I am now. And while I don’t have everything figured out, I trust that as long as I keep choosing what feels right, I’ll end up exactly where I’m meant to be.

Loving life starts with loving yourself first
The most important relationship we’ll ever have is the one with ourselves. Everything else – connections, opportunities, and experiences, flows better when we treat ourselves with the love, patience, and trust we often give so freely to others. The more I embrace who I am, the more life meets me with the same energy in return.

So here’s to living life by what feels right. To trusting the process, embracing uncertainty, and knowing that even the detours are part of the path. Because looking back, I see now, every twist, every challenge, every unexpected shift was always leading me home to myself.

Lately, I’ve been feeling the urge to write again. Maybe it’s the season. Maybe it’s because I missed writing a Valentine’s post, something I used to do almost religiously. I would rewatch Vicky Cristina Barcelona, finding myself resonating with different characters at different points in my life. Cristina, chasing passion. Vicky, seeking stability. Maria Elena, embracing chaos. Each stage, a reflection of my own journey.

But this year, Crazy, Stupid, Love feels like the movie I want to return to.

The Beauty in the Mess

There’s something about this film that hits differently as you get older. It’s not just about romance; it’s about love in its rawest, messiest form. The heartbreak, the self-discovery, the unexpected connections – all wrapped up in humor, charm, and that unforgettable Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone chemistry.

I think we all have that moment where we feel like Steve Carell’s character, Cal – a little lost, blindsided by life, trying to navigate heartbreak while rediscovering who we are. And then there’s Jacob, played by Ryan Gosling, who seems to have it all together until love flips his world upside down.

And then there’s Hannah.

Emma Stone has this magic of playing characters that are unordinary. A little quirky, a little offbeat, but always endearing. I’ve always related to that – never quite fitting into a mold, embracing my own version of unconventional. And in Crazy, Stupid, Love, she plays Hannah. My name. All the more reason I find myself drawn to her character. She’s smart, confident, and doesn’t fall for Jacob’s usual smooth moves. She makes him work for it. And in the end, she’s the one who turns his world around.

A New Valentine’s Tradition?

Maybe Crazy, Stupid, Love should be my yearly Valentine’s watch. A reminder that love isn’t always what we expect. That heartbreak doesn’t mean the end. That even in our most broken moments, we can find humor, growth, and, dare I say, hope.

So here I am, writing again. Using this space as an outlet, just like I always have. If you haven’t rewatched Crazy, Stupid, Love in a while, maybe it’s time. Maybe we’ll all find a little something new in it every year.

What’s your go-to Valentine’s movie?

When I’m not posting updates, it usually means I’m out and about, chasing new goals. Isn’t that what life is all about? The constant pursuit of growth and discovery. Since we last connected, my world has transformed in incredible ways: a new home, a new country, a new continent, a new school, a new job, and new acquaintances.

My perspective on life has evolved, too. If you remember, Donald Trump once referred to Taylor Swift as a “childless catlady.” Well, in some ways, I find myself embracing that label, too. I used to be hyper-focused on my personal goals, but I began to feel that there was more to life than just self-improvement.

So, I decided to make a change. I packed my bags and started anew. There’s always room for a fresh start, right? This time around, I’ve shifted my focus to volunteering and immersing myself in diverse cultures and communities. I can honestly say that life has never been more peaceful. When you redirect your attention from yourself to how you can contribute to the world, it’s amazing how fulfilling life can become.

I know, my thoughts might seem deep for the middle of the night, but this reflective state always sparks inspiration. It’s in these quiet moments that I realize the joy of being part of something bigger than myself. It’s about creating, contributing, and making a difference.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that life is a continuous journey of reinvention. By stepping outside our comfort zones and focusing on the impact we can make, we open ourselves up to endless possibilities. So, whether you’re in the midst of your own midnight musings or simply navigating through daily life, remember that every new beginning holds the promise of growth and discovery.

Here’s to embracing change, finding peace in new experiences, and contributing to something greater than ourselves. After all, that’s the true game of life.

The Key Player: Omega-3 vs. Omega-6 Fatty Acids

The study reveals that increasing your intake of omega-3 fatty acids while reducing omega-6s can dramatically impact your migraines. These fatty acids play crucial roles in your body’s inflammatory processes, and an imbalance can trigger migraine attacks. So, how do you achieve this balance?

Dr. Berry outlines four key steps:

1. Ditch the Linoleic Acid-Rich Oils: Bid farewell to safflower, grapeseed, sunflower, and other vegetable oils high in linoleic acid (an omega-6). These oils promote inflammation and contribute to migraines.

Swap them for healthier fats like butter, beef tallow, and bacon grease. I also use extra virgin olive oil and coconut oil.

This is also the main reason why we should avoid fast food – they cook food in these vegetable oils that are so damaging to our bodies. 2. Sugar Detox: Added sugars and high-sugar fruits (like mangoes and grapes) spike your insulin levels, disrupting hormone balance and potentially triggering migraines. Cut back on these culprits and opt for low-glycemic fruits and vegetables.

Sugar is the main ingredient of inflammation.

Inflammation and sugar co-exist. I can talk more about this but even the main reason for heart attacks is not mainly because of clogged arteries more so, the cause of arteries being clogged is because of inflammation caused by sugar. 3. Go Grain-Free: Grains like wheat, rice, and oats can also elevate insulin levels. Eliminate them from your diet to keep your hormones in check and potentially reduce migraines. 4. Ditch the Low-Fat Dairy: Milk and other low-fat dairy products contain high amounts of lactose (milk sugar), which raises insulin levels.

Stick to full-fat dairy or consider eliminating dairy altogether.

Where to get Omega-3?

Omega-3 fatty acids are important for overall health and brain function, and they can also be beneficial for reducing inflammation and potentially mitigating migraine symptoms. Here are some excellent sources of omega-3s, categorized by food type: Fatty Fish:

• Wild-caught salmon: The king of omega-3s, a 3.5-ounce serving packs about 1.5 grams of DHA and 0.5 grams of EPA.
• Mackerel: Another oily fish powerhouse, providing around 1.3 grams of DHA and 0.6 grams of EPA per 3.5-ounce serving.
• Herring: A smaller, budget-friendly option with 1.2 grams of DHA and 0.5 grams of EPA per 3.5-ounce serving.
• Sardines: Tiny but mighty, sardines deliver 0.9 grams of DHA and 0.4 grams of EPA per 3.5-ounce serving.
• Tuna: Opt for wild-caught tuna as it generally has higher omega-3 content than farmed varieties. A 3.5-ounce serving provides around 0.5 grams of DHA and 0.3 grams of EPA.

Plant-Based Sources:

• Chia seeds: A nutritional powerhouse, chia seeds boast 5 grams of omega-3s (mostly ALA) per tablespoon.
• Flaxseeds: Another great source of ALA, flaxseeds offer 4.5 grams of omega-3s per tablespoon. Grind them before consuming for better absorption.
• Walnuts: These delicious nuts provide 2.6 grams of ALA per cup.
• Soybeans: Edamame (immature soybeans) and tofu are good sources of plant-based omega-3s, with about 0.5 grams of ALA per half cup of edamame.
• Algae oil: A concentrated source of DHA and EPA, algae oil supplements can be a good option for vegetarians and vegans.

Other Sources:

• Eggs: While not as high as fatty fish, eggs offer a good amount of DHA and EPA, especially if enriched with omega-3s.
• Fortified foods: Some dairy products, such as milk and yogurt, are fortified with DHA and EPA. Read labels carefully to choose options with added omega-3s.

Tips for Increasing Omega-3 Intake:

• Incorporate a variety of omega-3-rich foods into your diet throughout the week.
• Add chia seeds or flaxseeds to smoothies, yogurt, or oatmeal.
• Snack on walnuts or almonds.
• Grill or bake fatty fish instead of frying for optimal omega-3 retention.
• Consider supplementation if you have difficulty meeting your omega-3 needs through diet alone.

Do I eliminate all sugar? Not necessarily. I eat fruits, vegetables, and dairy that have some sugar but I try not to have added sugars and I try to stay away from very refined sugars, which I notice would cause the start of a bad migraine. Changing your diet takes time and commitment. Experiment and find what works best for you. Watch Dr. Berry’s video explaining this in depth.     Sources: National Library of Medicine – Molecular mechanisms of omega-3 fatty acids in the migraine headache Harvard Health – The sweet danger of sugar National Library of Medicine -Inflammation, glucose, and vascular cell damage: the role of the pentose phosphate pathway  

During my two weeks on Bumble BFF, I matched with a few individuals who shared some of my interests. One was an avid ballet enthusiast, but our conversations never quite progressed to the point of scheduling a dance class together. Another match expressed a desire to visit Universal Studios, but financial constraints seemed to hinder our plans. While I suggested alternative budget-friendly activities, I couldn’t shake off the feeling that she was expecting me to cover her expenses.

Then there was the one who was more interested in building her Instagram profile than in genuine friendship. While I understand the appeal of social media, I’ve grown weary of its superficiality and the pressure to constantly curate one’s online presence.

After a series of these experiences, I decided to uninstall Bumble BFF. While I appreciate the technological advancements that connect us in various ways, I’ve come to realize that virtual interactions often fall short of fostering authentic connections.

I yearned for the warmth and camaraderie of a real community, so I ventured beyond the digital realm and joined a hiking group. This decision proved to be a turning point. Surrounded by like-minded individuals who shared a passion for the outdoors, I felt a sense of belonging that was missing from my Bumble BFF encounters.

I also stepped out of my comfort zone and attended an art party hosted by someone I barely knew. Despite my initial apprehension, I followed my intuition and found myself surrounded by genuine and creative individuals who shared my artistic interests.

These experiences reaffirmed my belief that genuine connections are forged through shared experiences and mutual interests, not through carefully crafted profiles and fleeting conversations on apps.

So, I’ve decided to bid farewell to Bumble BFF and dating apps altogether. I’ve come to realize that the illusion of endless options often leads to desensitization and hinders the formation of meaningful connections. While I’ve met many people online and successfully built a community and esports team as a Twitch and PUBG partner, I’m not suggesting that technology is inherently evil. Productive ventures and genuine friendships can still flourish through it, and I deeply value the connections I’ve made.

However, I’ve become cautious about dispersing my energy to individuals who may not align with my vibe. I’ve consciously chosen to protect my energy and avoid diluting it any further. It’s a decision aimed at nurturing genuine connections and preserving the quality of my interactions.

My current goal is to cultivate self-sufficiency and embrace the possibility of living a fulfilling life on my own. While society often dictates a path toward marriage and parenthood, I’m embracing the idea that my path may lie in advocating for personal fulfillment and contributing to society through other avenues, such as volunteering or charity work.

To my future self, I offer this advice:

1. Embrace the power of real-world interactions. Step outside your comfort zone and engage in activities that align with your interests. You’ll find that genuine connections often blossom in unexpected places.

2. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things. You never know what you might discover about yourself and the people around you.

3. Trust your intuition. It’s your guiding light, leading you towards authentic connections and fulfilling experiences.

4. Embrace your uniqueness and don’t conform to societal expectations. Your path may be different, and that’s okay.

5. Cultivate self-love and self-acceptance. These are the foundations for building meaningful relationships with others.

Remember, the journey to finding genuine connections is not always linear or easy. But by embracing your true self, pursuing your passions, and stepping out of your comfort zone, you’ll discover that the world is brimming with opportunities to form deep and meaningful friendships.

The California housing market has been on a roller coaster ride in recent years. After experiencing a boom in 2020 and 2021, the market began to cool down in 2023. This was due to a number of factors, including rising interest rates, inflation, and a decline in stock prices.

In the second quarter of 2023, the median home price in California was $830,620, down from $880,000 in the first quarter. Home sales also declined by 14.2% year-over-year.

The slowdown in the housing market is presenting some challenges for both buyers and sellers. For buyers, the biggest challenge is affordability. With rising interest rates and home prices, it is becoming more difficult for buyers to qualify for a mortgage and afford a down payment.

For sellers, the biggest challenge is inventory. There is still a shortage of homes for sale in California, which is giving buyers the upper hand in negotiations. Sellers may need to be prepared to price their homes competitively and offer concessions to buyers in order to sell their homes quickly.

Challenges Buyers and Sellers Are Facing Right Now

Here is a summary of the challenges that buyers and sellers are facing in the California housing market in 2023:

Buyers:

• Affordability: Rising interest rates and home prices are making it more difficult for buyers to qualify for a mortgage and afford a down payment.
• Low inventory: There is a shortage of homes for sale in California, which is giving buyers the upper hand in negotiations.
• Competition: The California housing market is still competitive, even with the recent slowdown. Buyers need to be prepared to act quickly when they find a home that they love.

Sellers:

• Pricing: Sellers need to price their homes competitively in order to attract buyers.
• Concessions: Sellers may need to offer concessions to buyers, such as paying for closing costs or offering a home warranty.
• Marketing: Sellers need to market their homes effectively in order to reach a wide pool of potential buyers.

Tips for Buyers and Sellers

Here are some tips on how to buy a home in California in 2023 affordably:

Buyers:

• Get pre-approved for a mortgage before you start shopping for a home. This will give you an idea of how much money you can borrow and what your monthly payments will be.
• Work with a qualified real estate agent who can help you find the right home for your needs and budget.
• Be prepared to act quickly when you find a home that you love. The California housing market is competitive, so you need to be ready to make an offer right away.
• Be flexible on your budget and criteria. You may need to compromise on some things in order to find a home that you can afford.

And here are tips on how to sell your home in California quickly in 2023

Sellers:

• Price your home competitively. Get a comparative market analysis (CMA) from a real estate agent to determine what similar homes in your area are selling for.
• Be prepared to offer concessions to buyers. Buyers are more likely to make an offer on your home if you are willing to pay for closing costs or offer a home warranty.
• Market your home effectively. List your home on multiple real estate websites and hire a professional photographer to take photos of your home.
• By following these tips, buyers and sellers can increase their chances of success in the California housing market.

The California housing market is complex and ever-changing, but it is also a very exciting market to be in. With the right knowledge and preparation, buyers and sellers can succeed in this market.

If you are thinking about buying or selling a home in California, I encourage you to do your research and work with a qualified real estate agent. With the right team on your side, you can achieve your real estate goals. Renting could be an alternative too.  If you live in Los Angeles, California, or in the area, you can check out apartmentguide.com.

I hope this information has been helpful. Please let me know if you have any questions.

Sources:

• California Association of Realtors, “2023 California Housing Market Forecast“
• National Association of Realtors, “Existing-Home Sales Fall in July for Sixth Straight Month”
• Redfin, “California Housing Market Forecast 2023“
• Zillow, “California Home Prices Fall for First Time in Two Years“