As summer’s sweaty grip loosens and the air starts to hum with a crisp, golden vibe, Asia—oh, glorious Asia—gears up for its fall fiesta. Autumn in this part of the world is like nature’s grand encore, a dazzling show of colors, flavors, and festivals that make you want to twirl through the streets with a […]
A Whimsical Whirl Through Asia’s Autumnal Charm: Taiwan and Beyond Read More »
The Legend and History of the Dragon Boat Festival The Dragon Boat Festival, known as Duanwu Jie (端午節) in Mandarin, is one of the most significant traditional holidays in Chinese culture. Celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, this festival has a rich history dating back over 2,000 years. The most well-known
The 2025 Dragon Boat Festival in Taiwan: A Celebration of Tradition and Culture Read More »
Our bus dropped us off at the bottom of the hill, accompanied by a cheerful “Goodbye” and “Enjoy your visit” from the bus driver. The dense morning fog was beginning to lift, and as it did, we were able to see the famous stone lions that have steadfastly guarded the entrance to the National Palace
Stone Lions, Morning Fog, and a Museum Full of Wonders Read More »
“If you are a poet, you will see clearly that there is a cloud floating in this sheet of paper. Without the cloud, there can be no rain; without water, the trees cannot grow, and without trees, you cannot make paper. The existence of this page is dependent upon the existence of a cloud. Paper
Dusty Shelves, Hidden Gems, and Endless Adventures Read More »
Spring in New England brings both promise and mess. A lone robin’s arrival lifted winter’s gloom, sparking lively discussions about the changing season. But with warmth came mud season—a thick, clinging sludge covering everything. Yet, even through the muck, beauty emerged. A hike past Kipling’s Naulakha, with Mt. Monadnock in the distance, revealed spring’s quiet unfolding—sunlight, a crow’s call, and the wind’s whisper. Messy yet glorious, much like life itself.
Spring’s Arrival in New England : Robins, Mud, and Renewal Read More »
“Beneath the sky’s soft glow Cherry Blossoms, like snow Tell a tale in silence true Of nature’s gift ever new.” (Author unknown) The arrival of spring in Japan is heralded by the exquisite bloom of the ‘sakura,’ or cherry blossom. These delicate flowers paint the landscape in shades of pink and white, transforming
Savoring the Joy of Sakura : Welcoming New Beginnings in 2025 Read More »
This year, Taiwan’s public Lunar New Year holiday lasts from January 26th to February 3rd. It will also be the ”Year of the Snake”, which is the 6th animal from the Chinese Zodiac. It represents wisdom, dexterity and charm, and symbolizes the improvement of luck and the arrival of success.
Snake Charmer’s Delight: Happy Lunar New Year! Read More »
As the first day of 2025 unfolds, I find myself reflecting on the role beauty plays in our lives. It’s not just about aesthetics; beauty shapes how we feel, think, and connect with the world. Whether it’s the intricate design of a building, the elegance of a perfectly taught dancer, or the simple joy of
2025 : Why We Need More Beautiful Things in the World Read More »
Rediscovering The Muppet Christmas Carol has been a heartwarming experience that beautifully captures the spirit of Christmas. This 1992 film, featuring Michael Caine as Ebenezer Scrooge, reminds us that Christmas is about love and connection rather than materialism. Key scenes, like Scrooge’s transformation through the Ghost of Christmas Past and the warmth of the Cratchit
Rediscovering the Spirit of Christmas in The Muppet Christmas Carol Read More »
October in Taipei brings cooler days perfect for outdoor moments. A friendly Ubike worker offers help and smiles, a building attendant keeps his space tidy, and locals gather for the community bus—small gestures reflecting the beauty of ordinary days.
Ordinary Days – Ordinary People Read More »
