Tragedy in our Nation

I can't help but think about how after being swept into a crazy pandemic, our barely recovering nation is faced with another tragedy. In the last couple of days, there are all sorts of riots going on in order to seek justice and recognition for the unfairly deaths of African Americans in our communities. Many people see the news and it continues to add onto their already anxious, angry, sad, and fearful thoughts. I don't believe that no one is unaffected by this in some sort of way. Everyone has a thought, opinion, or feeling about what's going on even if they can't put it into words. With all the chaos happening there is an absolute continuous need to cry out to God.

I'm praying for our nation, our family, and our friends. With all the emotions being stirred in me and those around me, I am reminded that this is not our permanent home. The things of this world such as hate, fear, and suffering belong to the enemy. I’m thankful that an eternity in Heaven is to be with our Holy Father. He is everything we desire and need when we seek for peace, comfort, and understanding.

During this time, continue to pray. Believe that our prayers are moving mountains bigger than we can physically see. Although chaos may continue and change may not come in the way or speed that we want it to, God is making a way for something greater than we can understand at the moment. It’s always in the moments of confusion and hurt that He is setting everything up for His glory.

We may ask, how can God be glorified by all this chaos? God is revealing how the nature of our sin and the desire to do what we want instead of following His desires for us can lead to tragedy. God is revealing how much we desperately need Him. He is revealing how He is our ultimate savior from the hands of the enemy. He is revealing Himself more than anything right now.

Some of us may not know how to feel or react to what is happening, but I know there is much compassion and love as we hurt with, relate with, and speak up for one another. In the midst of everything, I want to encourage you to continue to trust in the goodness of God. If it’s hard to believe in anything else, hold on to His character. He is a God of justice, hope, faithfulness, mercy, grace, compassion, and love. As we continue to give everything up to God we will surly see His hand everything.

Day 30 - Healthier Choices

Chu and I are making healthier life choices and we're starting with what we eat. It's only the beginning, but our minds are already struggling. We know it's going to be a long road, but we're challenging ourselves to do what we think our bodies can't handle. During this time, we don't want to only work on our bodies, but on our marriage as well. We hope that we'll continue to nurture our relationship while keeping each other accountable on the hard days and celebrating with each other on the successful days. We hope that at the end of this we'll shed the weight we desire, grow to have discipline, and a better understanding on how to push and encourage one another. If you think of us, pray for us because our flesh is so weak. We feel like this is something that might just flop, but we want to really honor this challenge for the sake of a healthier lifestyle and a stronger mindset. Trying to start off positive. WE CAN DO IT!

Day 29 - Weekend Trip to P.C.B.

Took a weekend trip with the Yang fam to Panama City Beach. It was a short, but much needed little getaway. I love that we live close enough to go to the beach whenever there is a free weekend.

Adding more polaroids to my collection. The lighting was so perfect!

Saw a merman relaxing on the beach! I told Chu that we should invest in a beach umbrella and sand toys now. I totally want to build a sand castle next time.

I caught my first ocean fish! I love it when I experience something for the first time, it shows how I am still growing and learning. I hope that I'll be able to have many more "first" moments. Also, peep Chu's finger, haha.

These are some of our must have snacks and drinks for the road. I usually don't let Chu eat anything spicy because it doesn't sit well with his stomach, so I get to enjoy all the spicy chips to myself.

For some reason, we only drink the Strawberry Melon Brisk on road trips. It became our road trip drink.

Day 28 - Before & After

Today's challenge was actually supposed to be a couple days ago, but I wanted to wait until I had time to get all of the things I needed. I did two small changes in our room, but I feel like it made such a difference! I love decorating our space!

For my first little project, I wanted to give Chu a space of his own. I used up all the space on our bookshelf and took over our bins so he didn't have a place for his stuff. He doesn't have much because he's not a hoarder like me, but his desk was getting a little cramped. He was also using part of our dresser too. I took this shelf where I placed my shoes and turned it into a nice little storage place for him.

Before

After

My second project was redecorating our dresser. This was on my to-do list for forever, so I'm glad that I finally got it done. The reality of the "before" picture is so real though lol. That small little corner was where Chu had some of his stuff. It's also a mess because we have some wall decor and our unity board from our wedding just sitting around. I have no idea where to put those yet. I wanted to put Chu's storage shelf next to the dresser, but we'll see. I'm still thinking about it.

Before

After

I got most of my decoration and storage stuff from TJ Max/Homegoods. I love and am super obsessed with that place. I got my mirror awhile back, but it's huge and I got it for such a great price at Ross. I love it when I find great deals!

This is definitely not it for our room transformation though. I have some more changes that will be coming so stay posted!

Day 27 - First/Current Car

This baby is Prince.  He's my first/current car and I have my parents to thank for that. I remember telling them that if they let me go to school in NY that I wouldn't ask for a car, but I ended up asking for one anyways. It was time for student teaching and finding transportation back and forth was going to be difficult. I felt terrible that I was going against my words, but I wasn't really picky and just wanted a decent car to get me around. My parents definitely spoiled me and got me the best car that they could and paid for it in full [insert crying emoji]. Prince was with me in NY, CO, and now GA. I love my many memories with him that consisted of road trips, conversations, and service. My parents officially put him under my name after I got married. He has been super reliable and Chu and I hope to keep him for as long as we can.

Day 26 - 10 Dislikes and 10 Likes

Dislikes

1. Unsatisfied cravings - I dislike it when I'm craving Chick-Fil-A, but it's Sunday. Worst feeling ever.

2. Corn and peas - I'm not a vegetable person to begin with, but for some reason those are specific veggies that I can't bring myself to eat.

3. Cleaning freshly killed fish, chicken, and etc. It's just not my thing. I'd rather go buy it from the store, but I've definitely been pushed out of my comfort zone being a nyab (daughter-in-law). So thankful for the grace of my in-laws.

4. Confrontation - This gives me major anxiety, but I also believe that it is very necessary sometimes.

5. Gory movies - Blood, pain, and torture is not my thing, but I make an exception for zombie movies, ha.

6. Alarms - More like, waking up before my alarm goes off. It makes me so sad.

7. Insects - They're just so gross. I hate having to be the adult when the kids get scared because I'm scared too. I once asked a kid to kill a spider though lol.

8. Laundry - I feel like this is one of the most tedious task and the process is sooo long. It just feels like an all day event. I started using safer products to wash my clothes so it makes it a little more exciting, but it's still not my favorite house chore.

9. Being tickled - I'm ticklish and I hate being tickled. My friends from college use to tease or force me to do things by tickling me. Chu does the same thing. It's literally my weakness.

10. Food Coma - More like laying down when my stomach is too full. I know some people like to take naps after a food coma, but I just can't. It feels too uncomfortable so I have to sit up or stand for 15-30 minutes or so.


Likes

1. Walking and talking - I could do this for hours.

2. Spicy Food/snacks - I could eat spicy food for every meal, every day.

3. Crafting - I love creating things and exploring all the different kinds of crafting hobbies.

4. Manicures - Doing my nails is something so small, but it makes me feel so put together. I even like to cut Chu's nails too.

5. Road trips - I think they're so fun because of the conversations, music, and snacks. The anticipation of getting to your destination is so thrilling too. I like traveling in general.

6. Theatre shows - Going to live shows/musicals are so fun and being apart of the audience is also always a great experience.

7. Giving - Making/buying things for people makes me so happy.

8. Mail - I love receiving packages/letters/cards in the mail. It's so exciting. I think it's so sweet that someone would take the time to think of me and send me something.

9. Christmas - It's my favorite holiday and time of the year! Around this time I also like watching Hallmark Christmas movies. I know! They're so cheesy, but I love snuggling in bed and watching their countdown till Christmas movies.

10. Lists - Making lists make me feel organized and prepared. It also helps because my memory is horrible. Most of my lists are written in my planner which is almost always with me.

Day 25 - Fishing Trip

First crappie ever! I've only gone trout fishing before so this was a lot of fun! Sadly, it was the only fish of the day.

Crappies were totally not biting so Chu decided to mess around and catch bluegills instead.

Our parents were shopping, but when our dad found out we were going fishing he said they would meet us there. So hard core! 

There wasn't a lot of action, but it was a nice little trip. GA lakes are so pretty, but definitely infested with bugs.

Day 24 - 5 weird things I like

1. Pretend fighting with one of my best friends in Hmong. Those conversations always crack me up and it's definitely not something I can do with just anyone lol.

2. Touching Chu's ear when we're in the car. So weird, but comforting at the same time, ha!

3. I like to eat my kapia (rice noodle soup) plain without any additional seasonings and only with a sprinkle of cilantro and green onions. Every time we eat kapia everyone is busy adding their condiments, but not me! I just love the taste of the original broth.

4. When I get mosquito bites, I like making an "X" on the bite with my nails when it gets itchy. It's been a habit since I was a kid, but even as an adult it's still so satisfying.

5. I like giving my family and friends nicknames for their caller ID on my phone. It's usually something sentimental or funny. I feel like it makes it so much sweeter and more interesting when I check to see who is calling. For example, one of my brother's ID is "Twin" because people always say we look alike. FB even tags my pictures as him. It's hilarious.

Day 23 - Back in the classroom!

Hey guys, today marks my first week of going back to work! I am currently a Pre-K teacher at a childcare center. I have always had a passion for education and I hope to one day be a teacher with my own class, but in the last three years I've played some different roles in the lives of children. All of those roles have definitely stretched me professionally and personally in so many ways though.

My current age group consists of 3 and 4 year olds and it has been one of the most challenging classes for me thus far. I haven't had much experience with them in the past, but I have been blown away by these little humans. This age group has been so fun to work with because they are so curious and entertaining, but they can also be a handful at the same time.

On many occasions, I've gone home frustrated and defeated, but I love it too because every morning the kids would say, "Miss Emily's here," while running to give me a hug like nothing happened the day before. When you're in a classroom filled with students who have different personalities, needs, and coping mechanisms (or lack of) the day can easily be overshadowed by the negative things that happen, but honestly, there are many good and amazing things being done in both the students and me as well. Sadly, not all of the kids are back yet, which is understandable, but I do miss them. Praying everyone is healthy and staying safe. 

Right now I'm also in a different classroom which isn't convenient, but I'm managing. I hope that I can go back to my old one soon.

Old Classroom

Temporary Classroom

Day 22 - Recent Shopping Haul

Sephora spring sale haul! 

My skin is on the dryer side of the spectrum so I'm always on the look out to find hydrating and effective products to use. A lot of these purchases were recommendations from friends and a trusted youtube channel that I watch, Beauty Within. 

Check them out if you haven't yet. The two co-hosts are extremely relatable and so knowledgable. It's a very educational channel that helps you understand why certain things are helpful and useful for your skin. They also talk about low and high end products so there are many budget friendly products to try as well.

+ The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser - It's a really light cleanser that keeps my skin hydrated. I definitely have to double cleanse when I wear make-up though. I originally bought the 1.7 fl. oz. cleanser, but it didn't last as long so I upgraded to the 5.07 fl. oz. 

+ The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% - Niacinamide reduces the appearance of skin blemishes and congestion. It's suppose to help reduce oiliness as well. I actually bought this for Chu to try out, but I'll probably use it once in a while too.

+ The Ordinary AHA 30% BHA 2% Peeling Solution - I needed a new exfoliator and thought I would give this a try. The color and application is interesting. I feel like I use a lot of product when applying it, but good thing we're only supposed to exfoliate once a week.

+ Laneige Water Bank Moisture Cream - Smells amazing! Last time I was using the Intensive version so I hope that this one will work well for me. The Intensive cream was a lot thicker, but I think I like the consistency of this one more. It also came with a super cute applicator. We'll see.

+ e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer - I needed a new primer and saw that this was the dupe for Tatcha's Silk Canvas. Most reviews said it was even more hydrating than the Tatcha primer so I'm excited to try it out. I hope I'll like it so that I can save some money.

Day 21 - Outfit of the Day

Just got home for work. I changed out of my navy blue polo and jeans into . . .  

+ White tee - Lately I've been pretty obsessed with them.

+ Adidas Athletic Pants - Totally not doing anything athletic today, but I did want something comfy and warm because it's cold in the basement.

+ Slippers

+ Messy bun - my go-to hair style since quarantine. It's so quick and easy.

Day 20 - What's in my purse

This is my MK bag that Chu got for me during our first Christmas together as a married couple. It's such a classic black bag, very spacious, and has lots of sentimental value to me. I started using this bag again because I'm finally going back to work. I was traveling very light the past 2 months, but now I need to use this bag to carry all of my essentials.

+ My MK wristlet came free with the purse, but it's so useful. I'll use that on days where I just need to make a quick errand run.

+ Glasses case to keep my glasses safe. I need my glasses to help me drive.

+ I always carry my planner with me. I love it because I can keep track of my weekly goals and water intake. It's the perfect size for this season of my life because I haven't been too much of a busy bee.

+ My essentials bag has all of my oils, rollers, and thieves necessities. My newest addition is Seasonal Support. As much as I hate to admit it, I think I'm starting to have some allergy symptoms.

+ Gum! I'm obsessed and love the spearmint flavor!

I also did a "What's in my bag" for my smaller MK purse. Check it out on my Instagram highlight, About Ems. 

Day 19 - Piercings or Tattoos

I don’t find myself to be either a piercings or a tattoos person. When I was younger I used to want double piercings, but now I don’t care too much for it. Even though I think the dainty floral tattoos are cute I don’t think it’s enough to push myself to ink my body, ha! If I had to choose between one it would definitely be piercings though.

Happy Mother's Day

Happy Mother's Day to my two moms whom I love and have much gratitude, respect, and admiration towards.

Day 18 - What's in my make-up bag

Yay! I love "What's in my Bag" things!

Skin/Face

+ Etude House Sunprise Must Daily- Sunscreen is a necessity before I put on make-up.

+ Tatcha The Silk Canvas Primer - This is the first primer I used and I've totally hit pan. I love the smell and how it makes my face so smooth before applying my foundation or concealer.

+ e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer - I heard lots of great reviews about how this was a dupe for the Tatcha primer so I bought it to try it out.

+ Maybelline Fit Me Concealer - Love this concealer. I've been using this for as long as I know. Most days I just use concealer now.

+ Innisfree Cushion - I love how it's lightweight and easy to apply. I'm thinking about trying something else though so we'll see.

Eyes

+ Tartelette In Bloom Palette - I've always been about neutral eye-shadow.

+ e.l.f. Eyebrow Kit - Easy to blend and apply when I'm lazy or in a rush.

+ Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow - When I take my time doing my brows.

+ Loreal Voluminous False Fiber Lashes in very black - My holy grail mascara. No matter how many mascaras I've tried I always end up going back to this one.

Face

+ Physicians Formula x Weylie Butter Collection Palette - I'm late to the blush game, but lately I've been obsessed with blush! I love this palette and mostly just wanted to support Weylie.  

My Quarantine Essentials

My quarantine days are coming to an end as I'll be headed back to work next week. I've enjoyed my long break and I believe I used my time to the fullest, but now I'm refreshed and ready to head back to work. These were some of my top essentials that I enjoyed during my time of quarantine.

+ Oil Diffuser

I loved being able to diffuse my oils and making different blends depending on my physical or emotional needs of that day.

+ Slippers

I basically wore my slippers all day every day. They were so comfy.

+ Mason Jar with a straw

I realized that this was the only way I would drink water. For some reason having a straw helps so much. My mason jar was always by my side.

+ Chromebook

When we moved to GA my Chromebook wouldn't connect to our internet, but during quarantine it did! It was great timing because I was using Chu's laptop, but it started having battery issues right before quarantine. I'm so amazed how everything worked out.

+ My Bible and Bullet Journal

I had lots of time to be in the word and to make some fun bullet journal spreads.

+ Leggings

I was in lounge wear almost everyday and I definitely gravitated more towards leggings with a comfy/over-sized top.

Day 17 - Throwback Photos

Going down memory lane, but it's not in chronological order.

When we went on our first girl's getaway. Felt like such big girls, ha.

Enjoying the sunset in WI during our young adults road trip in 2013.

When Chu and I first started dating he asked me, "Why do you always have a bag of chips with you?" My answer, "It's part of who I am." This is my proof.

First time at King Spa. It was life changing and now I'm addicted.

Big Bang's Alive Galaxy Tour in 2012. Most hype concert ever!

My first zip line experience. I'm always on the lookout for good zip lining courses now.

Bobbing for oranges in ice cold water. One of the craziest challenges I've done. 

Running man events with the youth, just as funny as the show.

Experiencing my first natural disaster, Hurricane Sandy. Craaazzy times.

Skyping the little bros when I was in college. We were so young.

Playing in our first tournament! We got 3rd place out of 3 teams lol

OMG! When Kayden was 5 years old. Look at that cute smile!

I think this photo is beyond sweet. Love my dad.

Hanging Lake is one of my favorite hikes, but I had never hiked it in the snow until this one day. Hiking in the snow was scary because we didn't have the right shoes and our hands were getting numb, but definitely made it much more adventurous.

Y'all, student teaching was my absolute favorite thing!