Thanks to Crazy Rich Asians, there have been a lot of talks surrounding representation and inclusion lately. I enjoyed the movie, and I admit, I've spent a lil' too much time on Youtube and reading articles about the movie. This whole 'representation' thing could be a publicity gimmick, but it is indeed quite an achievement to have an all-Asian cast in a Hollywood movie speaking fluent English in various accents. Imagine seeing an all-Caucasian cast in a Bollywood movie speaking Hindi, that would be quite a 'representation' too huh!? ​

I don't usually go to the movies (can't even remember the last time I went to a movie theater), but Crazy Rich Asians was one that I've been wanting to watch since I saw the trailer few months back. I've always enjoyed rom-com so this one is right up my alley. Coincidentally, the movie was released around our birthdays so the opening weekend was a perfect timing for a movie date. 

I didn't read the book and went into the movie theater with zero expectations. No doubt there was a lot of hype about it, but we both really enjoyed the movie. The director, Jon Chu definitely did a great job incorporating a lot of unique aspects about that part of the world in the movie - the food, heritage, culture, language, architecture, scenery, etc. 
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This time a year ago, I published this blog/website and was looking forward to embark on our Round-the-World trip. Here's a quick recap of what I've 'accomplished' on this blog/website in the past year:

Browsing through my 30 Before 30 list, I won't deny that I have been incredibly fortunate to have had all these wonderful experiences. Some may say I'm just lucky or that I'm rich to be able to do all these. No I'm not rich, and yes luck played a part, but luck didn't just fall from the sky. I've also put in a lot of hard work and seized many opportunities along the way to build up these experiences and to get to where I am today.  Most importantly, I didn't squander my 'luck'.

As the saying goes, "Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity" - Seneca. I value working hard to create your own luck and I don't believe in sheer dumb luck (unless I win a lottery one day).

When we are young and able-bodied, we tend to go through life as if we are immortal, and death is a 'taboo' topic. However, the following 'Note before I die' written by 26 years-young Holly serves as a good reminder for us make the most of every second we have to live a better life, because we never know if tomorrow or tragedy will come first. Her note also reminds me of a quote from the book "Tuesdays with Morrie" by Mitch Albom - Once you learn how to die, you learn how to live. Don't get me wrong, I'm not trying to jinx anyone here. The point is, when you acknowledge that life is finite and each day is a gift, you learn to truly appreciate everything you have around you.

​Scroll on to read the rest of her life advice....