I can’t believe 2018 is almost over! It was a truly memorable year, a year of firsts. First book published, first launch party in NYC, first international school visit, first time I had to decline a speaking engagement (in Paris of all places!) simply because I couldn’t make the time…the list goes on. I have to remind myself to be grateful for and reflect on the journey, rather than constantly looking forward to the next thing and the next thing.
A beautiful lemon chiffon cake for a party we held at my house for The Turtle Ship. You can also see the edge of a second cake (chocolate dobash) — so dangerously good.
I don’t normally make resolutions for the new year, but I think this upcoming year, I’m going to try to be much more mindful. More mindful of how I spend my time, more mindful of how I treat others, more mindful of what I consume.
One thing that has surprised me on this mindfulness journey is that I’m becoming less of a meat eater. I grew up eating Korean BBQ, so you can imagine how ingrained meat was in my diet. But I’m finding lately that I crave fish and seafood more than red meat. And I think this is a good change for my health and for the planet. The change is partially due to the fact that I befriended a friend’s pet pig, who is so smart and sweet and lovable. It’s also mainly due to Sherwin’s influence. He’s opened my eyes to the lovely soul of animals, who love so deeply and feel so much — we humans often underestimate animals simply because they don’t speak our language. After writing those previous sentences, I’m embarrassed to admit I still can’t resist a good burger, but I find that nowadays, I reflect on the life that was sacrificed for food. Is that morbid and/or hippy-dippy? Okay, enough of the soapbox!
Speaking of seafood, if you visit Kaua’i, eat at Trucking Delicious in Hanalei. When we were on the island last week, I went there THREE DAYS IN A ROW for the Garlic Shrimp plate lunch. SO GOOD! The Banana Macnut Cupcake (listed below the main menu) was absolutely divine — they add a dollop of light banana whipped cream on top, and the cupcake has a banana cream center. YUM.
I’d like to wish everyone a wonderful end to 2018, and a truly fantastic 2019. Happy holidays — stay safe and warm! And to all my fellow writers, artists and creators out there, may 2019 bring lots of inspiration and great projects!
Oh by the way, I have an exciting publishing announcement to make in 2019…stay tuned!!
Sherwin wore his festive sweatshirt to send Christmas and holiday cheer to everyone! Isn’t he so cute?? Sometimes I just want to tackle him…and I do 🙂
Sherwin in his festive red sweatshirt 🙂 The artwork in the background is one of Colleen‘s original collages from The Turtle Ship. Sherwin is mainly concerned about the treat I’m holding by the camera.
