Get into the Halloween spirit with creative food ideas and themed costumes showcased in this post, complete with DIY floating candles and mummy potatoes!
Life Posts
- Halloween 2016
- Third Baby Shower at Work
My third baby shower was a surprise Asian-themed event at work, complete with handmade fortune cookies and sweet gifts. Despite resigning to focus on motherhood, I'm grateful for the love and support of my team.
- Brunch Baby Shower in Texas
Flying home during my second trimester was a special experience, filled with love, food, and games with family and friends.
- Baby Shower in the Bay Area
My friends and family surprised me with not one, but three baby showers during my pregnancy, and I couldn't be more grateful for their love and support. Planning everything myself was overwhelming, but letting others take over resulted in a beautiful and memorable celebration for my baby girl.
- DIY Gender Reveal Poppers
Planning a gender reveal? Check out this blog post where one mom shares how she DIYed gender reveal poppers to surprise her parents with the news.
- Gender Reveal (Popper Style)
Get ready for the gender reveal of this blogger's baby, as they share their excitement and plans for the big announcement with family and friends. Plus, a sneak peek into their ultrasound experience and early gender prediction!
- Maternity Session
The author shares her experience of being pregnant with her sweet little girl, Nora Rae, and how she and her husband took their own maternity photos on a budget. She reminisces about enjoying her pregnancy and the perks that came with it, encouraging other expecting mamas to cherish the experience.
- Thankful for...
Reflect on this past year and count my blessings this Thanksgiving, from my loving family and supportive friends to the job I enjoy and the faith that gets me through each day. And, surprise - we're going to be parents!
- Meet My Little Ella!
Meet Miss Ella, the new Havanese puppy who stole our hearts! After careful research and a thorough vetting process, we found the perfect furry companion who is hypoallergenic and a perfect fit for apartment living.
- Vacay in Oahu
MG and I recently took our first trip together to Oahu, Hawaii, where I attempted to convert him into a beach lover. We stayed at the Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel and enjoyed beach hopping as our favorite activity.
- Dubai Trip!
Discover the grandeur of Dubai through shopping, skiing at Ski Dubai, visiting the Burj Khalifa, and more on this 5-day trip full of extravagance and luxury. Check out these photos to see why Dubai should be on your travel bucket list!
- Mid-December Recap
December is flying by with holiday adventures and feasts! From all-you-can-eat Brazilian BBQ to homemade crab cakes, this blogger is gearing up for a busy Christmas season filled with family, fun, and even a cabin rental in Tahoe.
- Annual Tree Chop
The Lam-Luu annual tree chop weekend brought new furry friend Casey into the mix, making the tradition even more festive and fun. Decorating with memories and post-holiday sale finds, the house is now filled with Christmas spirit and charm.
- OCC Packing Day
Get ready for Operation Christmas Child! Join Living Stones Christian Church in packing shoeboxes filled with gifts for children around the world through Samaritan's Purse. It's a simple way to share the love of Jesus during the holiday season.
- GQ Chubalee
Chubs is feeling the cold in the Bay Area, but Auntie Holly got him a Christmas shirt to keep him warm and stylish! Jay shares Chubs' adorable reaction and asks readers to share cute things their cats do.
- Life You Want Weekend Tour in San Jose
Experience the inspirational and motivating energy of Oprah and her team at the Life You Want Weekend Tour, where they encourage individuals to make positive changes in their lives and pursue their dreams.
- Halloween Potluck
A Halloween Potluck filled with creative and spooky dishes - from pumpkin fried in salty egg yolk to red bean paste desserts, this blog post has all the festive food ideas you need for next year's celebration!
- Hong Kong with the Lams
Discover the unexpected beauty and excitement of Hong Kong in this blog post, from exploring the city at night to tasting traditional Cantonese cuisine and even witnessing a peaceful protest.
- Tokyo, Japan
Experience the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, from the chaotic Shibuya Crossing to the unique dining experience of a conveyor belt sushi restaurant. Don't miss the heartwarming story of Hachiko and the feline paradise of a cat cafe in Shinjuku.
- Hokkaido
Embark on a virtual journey through Hokkaido in northern Japan, from picturesque towns like Otaru to cultural experiences with the Ainu people and relaxing hot springs adventures. Get ready for a major photo dump as we explore this beautiful region!
- Packing Light: Fall Edition
Get ready for a whirlwind trip through Japan and Hong Kong with a delicious focus on sashimi and sushi. Follow along on Instagram for all the travel and foodie adventures!
- Prepping for Japan
Prepping for our Japan trip - getting shots, snacks, haircuts, and a new Microsoft Surface for the journey ahead!
- Pampering Myself
Nail art can be a fun way to spend some time on yourself, like this navy and metallic silver design perfect for the Fall/Winter season. Follow these simple steps for a chic and quick-drying manicure.
- Progressive Dinner Activity
Host a Progressive Dinner for your fellowship group and enjoy appetizers, main courses, and desserts at different homes. Get to know everyone better while indulging in delicious food and good company.
- The Past 5 Days (According to my iPhone)
From delicious roasted chicken to shopping at Madewell, this blog post covers five days of fun adventures with friends and family, including dining at Koi Palace and Purple Kow.
- SF Day Date
Discover the hidden gems of a stay-cation in San Francisco, from fresh mochi in Japantown to a delicious lunch date in the Financial District. Enjoy the simple pleasures of exploring your own city with a loved one.
- Disneyland California Adventures
Experience the magic of Disneyland as an adult, from appreciating the little details to indulging in superfluous foods and toys. The highlight of the day? Walking through Carsland and watching Lightning McQueen switch with Mater.
- Disneyland Half Marathon
Running a half marathon at Disneyland was a blast, despite the early wake-up call and the risk of being cut off due to pace. With fun costumes and character photos along the way, it was a memorable experience that I'll never forget!
- Prepping for the Half
Join me on my journey as I prepare for my first half marathon at Disneyland, complete with Disney character costumes. Wish me luck!
- Sophie's Cake Smash
Join me as I capture adorable moments with little Sophie on her first birthday, including a unique cake smash session that didn't go quite as planned. Let's dive into the pictures and explore the beauty of family love in these intimate settings.
- Lululemon Superpowers
Splurging on Lululemon gear turned out to be worth it for this blogger, as she found the perfect sports bra and capris for her upcoming half marathon, while her partner discovered comfortable compression shorts.
- My New Faves
Discover the blogger's snack hoarding habits, including their recent finds of Wasabi Ginger Lay's chips and Cookie Butter Ice Cream from Trader Joe's - both of which they love so much they're actually eating the entire thing!
- Relaxation Saturday
Enjoying a weekend of relaxation, reading, and training for a half marathon - all while reflecting on gratitude and blessings. This blog post shares personal content and updates on a slower-paced approach to blogging.
- Camping in Big Sur!
From inland to coastal camping, this blogger experienced the stark differences in temperature, bugs, and scenery. Despite the challenges of making reservations, the beautiful views and relaxing beach days in Big Sur made it all worth it.
- Happy One Year!
Celebrate one year of blogging with a look back at some favorite DIY projects, recipes, and travel adventures. Cheers to many more years of creativity and inspiration!
- Hottest Camping Weekend Ever!
A scorching hot camping trip to Henry Coe State Park involved dodging bees, deconstructed spam musubis for dinner, and a disappointing "frog lake" swimming spot, making for a memorable weekend adventure.
- Camping Prep
Join me on my camping adventure at Henry Coe State Park with my fellowship group! From shopping for groceries to planning delicious meals, I'm ready for a weekend away from technology and surrounded by nature.
- A Trip to Monterey Bay Aquarium
Experience the wonders of the Monterey Bay Aquarium through a fun agency field trip, with highlights such as the Tentacles exhibit, jellyfish, sea otters, and more. Check out the pictures and plan your own visit for a dose of nature's beauty and inspiration!
- Chinese Herbal Medicine
Struggling with acne? Learn from my experience and make sure to get the right lotion for your skin type to avoid breakouts.
- Anniversary in Yosemite!
Took a spontaneous road trip to Yosemite, hiked to waterfalls, and snapped adorable anniversary pics in a Japanese photo booth - all in one weekend!
- Venue Shopping!
Choosing a wedding venue can be overwhelming, but considering your guest list, flexibility with dates, and style preferences will help narrow down the options for a smooth process. Don't forget to consider lighting for photography to ensure your special day is captured beautifully.
- 2 Year Wedding Anniversary
Celebrating two years of marriage with Mingus, we've learned that marriage is about complimenting each other, inspiring each other, and making time to just talk about everything under the sun. Plus, antler wedding bands add a unique touch to your special day!
- The Most Important...
Find the perfect wedding dress that makes you feel beautiful by exploring different styles and fabrics that suit your taste and personality, regardless of traditional expectations.
- Wedding Invite Process
Planning a wedding? Start with the dreaded wedding invitation process and use the 80/20 rule to estimate your guest count for budget and venue planning. Don't overlook the importance of save-the-dates and invites to get your guests excited!
- Wedding time!
Get ready for wedding season with a 5-week blog theme dedicated to weddings, including tips for smooth planning, DIY decor ideas, and more. Find inspiration and advice for your big day!
- Paris & London
From falling in love with Paris to embracing London, this blog post details a change of heart during a European trip. Enjoying delicious food, exploring famous museums, and experiencing the charm of both cities make for a memorable adventure.
- Spain & Ireland
Exploring Barcelona and Dublin in one post, this blogger shares their honest opinion of Barcelona, including the delicious food at La Boqueria and the shopping near Plaça de Catalunya.
- Venezia
Experience the beauty of Venice through the eyes of a traveler who was left breathless by the stunning scenery and unique charm of the city, from gondola rides to iconic landmarks.
- Firenze
Discover the charm of Florence, a relaxing city perfect for slow travel and delicious gelato. From hidden pasta gems to famous sandwich shops, this city has something for everyone.
- Roma, Italia
Join me as I take you through my Eurotrip adventures, starting with Rome! From exploring the Colosseum to enjoying local cuisine, I'll share tips and must-see sights from each city we visited.
- Ciao!
Embarking on a summer adventure in Europe, starting in Austin and then Italy, but feeling torn about leaving behind my beloved teddy bear, Chubs. Hoping to bring back memories and pictures to share soon! Ciao!
- Eurotrip!
Get ready for a summer European adventure with tips on how to pack light and stylish for multiple destinations. Stick with a color scheme, mix and match pieces, and accessorize to easily transition from day to night!
- Housewife to Two Jobs
Working part-time at Chemistry Club and interior decorating a dental office, this blogger is back in the game and loving every minute of it! Plus, new bling, cat-sitting adventures, and upcoming travel plans make for an exciting week ahead.
- Saturday Fun and Sunday Relaxation
From brunch dates to boat parties and VIP bottle service, follow along as I take you through a weekend filled with fun, friends, and good food in Oakland and San Francisco!
- Holly-day
Celebrating my friend Holly's bridal shower and bachelorette party was the highlight of my weekend! From a "Love is Sweet" themed shower to a donut tree centerpiece, it was a night to remember (or not, wink wink).
- Easter and Poshmark
Weekend filled with Easter services and shopping at Kohl's and JCPenney, followed by a musical and Easter Baptism. Ended the weekend with homemade Korean noodle soup and Captain America: The Winter Soldier. Also active on Poshmark trying to sell clothes and received 3 Host Picks!
- Easter (To Me)
Discover what Easter truly means to me - a personal journey of faith, love, and finding calm in the midst of life's challenges.
- Hiking With Doggies!
A fun-filled camping trip to Bootjack Campgrounds at Mount Tamalpais State Park in Marin County included hiking to Cataract Falls, cooking tri-tip kabobs over the campfire, and enjoying the great outdoors with friends and pets.
- Pets & Grilling (read title carefully)
My weekend was filled with pets and grilling - a Siberian kitty playdate, dog-sitting, and finally using the new grill for a mini party with friends. But the real highlight? Cuddling with my furry friends in bed.
- Lazy Weekend
Weekend recap: sleeping in, farmer's market, True Detective, dinner at a friend's house, needle felting with cat fur, and finishing off with The Walking Dead and Harry Potter. Exciting and eventful!
- Weekend Round Up
A weekend filled with fun in the sun at a friend's pool party and celebrating birthdays with loved ones. Check out the adorable birthday boys and a funny video of Chubs playing in sleeping bags!
- MG turns 36!
MG celebrated his 36th birthday with a camping trip at Bootjack Campgrounds in Marin County, enjoying scenic hikes, delicious food, and cozy campfire chats with family.
- Kara's Cupcakes
Indulge in the sweet goodness of Kara's Cupcakes in the Bay Area, where locally sourced ingredients and dream-chasing founder make for the perfect treat to satisfy any craving.
- Spontaneous Napa Trip
A spontaneous trip to Napa Valley filled with macarons, wine tastings, and good company made for a perfect weekend escape.
- LA LA Weekend
Experience the perfect LA weekend filled with sun, shopping, food, and memories at the airport with your loved one.
- Day Date in the Bay
Explore the beauty of Sausalito, a charming city across from San Francisco with million-dollar homes, stunning views, and delicious seafood at Fish restaurant.
- Yacht Partay!
Spent the weekend on a yacht in Sausalito, enjoying a birthday bash with friends, homemade brunch, and exploring San Francisco. Finished off with delicious Peruvian food and gourmet ice cream in Hayes Valley.
- Happy Love Day!
Don't let Valentine's Day be just another consumer-driven holiday. Show the people you love that you care with meaningful gestures like setting up monthly date nights, even with a busy schedule.
- LAN-ing
Join me at my latest LAN party with MG, where we indulged in grilled cheese sandwiches, fancy veggies, and the ultimate highlight of the night - homemade spam musubi! Plus, we battled it out in Borderlands 2, a first-person shooter game that kept us on the edge of our seats.
- Gong Hay Fat Choy!
Celebrate Chinese New Year with red envelopes, cleaning rituals, and lucky groceries to ensure happiness and prosperity in the year of the horse!
- New running shoes!
Discover how a trip to The Running Revolution in Campbell transformed a running hater into a three-mile conqueror, all thanks to finding the perfect pair of Asics Nimbus 15 shoes.
- Chubalee's first bath!
MG and I gave Chubs his first bath in the sink and it went surprisingly well! He was calm and didn't scratch us at all. Now he smells fresh and loves being clean! So cute!
- Animal Kingdom 2014
Experiencing Disney withdrawals after a magical trip to Animal Kingdom in Orlando. From safari rides to meeting characters from Up, the adventure was unforgettable!
- Hollywood Studios 2014
From running 3 miles to saving money on theme park food, this blogger shares their adventures from Hollywood Studios in Disney World.
- Epcot & Downtown Disney
Exploring Epcot at Disney World, including the intense Mission: Space ride, brings back memories and new experiences for MG and friends.
- Universal Studios 2014
Vacation withdrawals hitting hard after a trip to Universal Studios without The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Cold weather didn't stop the fun on roller coasters and enjoying Lard Lad Donuts!
- Walt Disney World Half Marathon
Celebrating her birthday in Orlando, the blogger supported her sister and her boyfriend in the Walt Disney World Half Marathon. After watching them run, she's now considering training for a half marathon herself and enjoyed the incredible experience of being a spectator at the event.
- 26: Officially Late 20's
Celebrating a magical birthday at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter with butter beer, wand shopping, and a feast at the Three Broomsticks - the perfect way to ring in a new year!
- Weekend in Austin
A weekend in Austin filled with food, margaritas, and nerding out at Dragon's Lair - a must-visit for burger lovers and comic enthusiasts alike!
- Year End 2013
From losing a loved one and quitting a job to building a house in Mexico and overcoming illness, this past year has been a rollercoaster of emotions and experiences. But through it all, I've found joy in DIY projects, adopting a pet, and cherishing the little moments that make a house a home.
- H-Town Food
Exploring Houston's food scene was an adventure - from Torchy's Tacos to Cloud 10 Creamery and Crave cupcakes, each stop offered delicious treats and unique experiences. Don't miss out on Shipley donuts and Backstreet Cafe for a memorable brunch!
- Merry Christmas!
Celebrate the holiday season with joy and love at City Hall in Sugar Land. Thank you for being a part of this journey with us. Merry Christmas!
- Family time
Embarking on a DIY project to renovate my parent's outdated bathroom during the holidays has turned into a bigger challenge than expected, but the learning experience is worth it.
- The Best Christmas Yet!
Heading to Texas this week to visit family and friends, sadly leaving my pup behind. Celebrated Christmas early with friends and got the best present - a KitchenAid mixer! What should I make first?
- Pre-Christmas
Early Christmas celebrations included gift opening, tree chopping, church White Elephant party, and gingerbread cookie decorating with friends and family - making memories and enjoying the holiday season to the fullest!
- Advent Conspiracy & Fair Trade
Celebrate the true meaning of Christmas by focusing on the birth of Jesus and giving fair trade gifts that make a positive impact on the world. Check out a fair trade gift guide and download stickers to remind yourself to shop thoughtfully this holiday season.
- In November...
Avoid the weekend crowds at Costco, stay productive with crafts and hiking, and enjoy the little moments with your cuddly pet - here's a peek at November through my iPhone lens!
- Fast Food Buffet
A fun and indulgent day of fast food splurging in the Bay Area, from Sonic to McDonald's to Wendy's, with no judgement allowed!
- Dainty Beaded Necklace (WINNER)
Congratulations to Jordanna and Christine for winning the beaded necklace giveaway! Check your email for shipping instructions, and for everyone else, follow this easy tutorial to make your own dainty jewelry piece. Love, Jay.
- OCC
Spread the holiday cheer by packing shoeboxes with gifts for children in need through Operation Christmas Child, a program by Samaritan's Purse. Get creative by personalizing each box with a handwritten letter and a family photo, and don't forget to add some handmade cards for an extra special touch.
- Fisherman Jay
Experience deep sea fishing on the Tigerfish charter boat in the Bay Area, where the captain and deckhands make the trip enjoyable despite rough seas and seasickness.
- Halloween Potluck 2013
Get a taste of the Halloween Potluck hosted by the Lams with Ectoplasm Pasta, Monster Balls, and Cheesecake Brownies - all served with a side of spooky fun!
- Happy Halloween!
Get inspired for your Halloween celebration with this creative themed food and drink ideas, including ribs, guts jam, sausage fingers, and brain-shaped mashed potatoes. Love, Jay & Chubs.
- Annual Pumpkin Carving Party
Embracing the Fall/Winter season with pumpkin carving parties and roasted pumpkin seeds - a great way to kick off the holidays and start new traditions with loved ones.
- Canada, eh?
Experience a mini family reunion in Vancouver with stunning scenery, delicious food, and vibrant Fall colors. Check out all the fun activities and sights to see in this beautiful city!
- Sushiland in Hayward
Sushiland in Hayward is a hidden gem with delicious and affordable sushi options, making it the perfect spot for a Friday date night. With dishes like the flavorful udon and succulent Salmon Kama, it's no wonder this place has become a regular dining spot for the author.
- Weekend Fashion Show With My SORELs
Exciting news! Enter the SOREL Instagram contest for a chance to win a free pair of boots like this lucky winner did with their DIY Midi Rings photo. Check out the gorgeous Fall styles and get ready to #GetYourBootsDirty!
- Tea Ceremony & Shopping Trip
Indulging in delicious food at Cheesecake Factory, experiencing a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, and enjoying some weekend shopping - this blog post highlights a weekend filled with food, culture, and fun!
- It's All In The Details
Attending Joe and Rachel's outdoor wedding in California, I marveled at the garden theme, romantic backdrop, and unique details like sprayed gold flowers and ice cream sandwiches dipped in dark chocolate. Plus, cat-sitting three adorable feline friends - a cat lady's dream come true!
- Flaming Cake & Revamped Goodies
This weekend was all about rest, DIY projects, and indulging in a delicious cake. From painting a storage unit to revamping a thrifted bench, there's plenty of inspiration to be found in this blog post.
- Healthier Living
o check out these food documentaries and consider adding more fruits and veggies to your diet for a healthier lifestyle.
- From Roots to Fruits
At a church retreat themed "From Roots to Fruits," the focus on Evangelism led to a personal revelation about accepting Jesus as a Savior. The weekend filled with worship, spa nights, and deep conversations brought a new perspective on life's challenges and reliance on faith.
- Chubs Overload: His Story & The Adoption
Join me on my journey of adopting Chubs, a special needs cat, and how it changed my perception of adoption and love.
- Camping at Mt. Diablo
Camping at Mt. Diablo near Danville was a hot and fly-filled adventure, but still a great way to relax and disconnect from the city. Make sure to check out the Ultimate Checklist of Campervan Essentials for a more enjoyable camping experience!
- Nerd Party & Antiques
Spending a 3-day weekend with the husband planning a LAN party and the wife exploring a charming town, Danville. Lots of fun and bonding experiences for everyone!
- A Few Funnies
Marriage isn't as hard as people say - it's all about attitude and giving unconditionally. Find out how one couple keeps the romance alive with humor and little gestures.
- Hiking at Dry Creek
Weekends are for relaxation and sleep - not just adventure-packed activities! Check out how this blogger spent a low-key weekend with beauty sleep, family time, and a refreshing hike in the misty morning.
- Thrifting Finds!
Patience is key to thrifting success - take your time and explore every aisle for hidden gems. Check out the Alameda Point Antiques Faire for unique finds, but be prepared for higher price tags. Happy hunting!
- Rafting Weekend
A weekend full of fun and adventure, including lazy river rafting and a shopping spree. Check out the gang's hilarious photos and memorable moments!
- Alaffia Skin Care
Discover the moisturizing benefits of Alaffia's Shea Butter, perfect for glowing skin. Plus, by purchasing this Fair Trade product, you're supporting community empowerment projects in Togo.
- Narnia, Pizza, and Dinner at Dave's
A weekend filled with fun activities with friends, from a Narnia musical to a pizza-making luncheon and a dinner party, all captured in pictures.
- Live Simply. Buy Ethically.
Supporting Fair Trade is a simple way to make a positive impact on the world by helping producers in developing countries work their way out of poverty. Trade As One offers a subscription model that delivers a variety of Fair Trade products to your door, making it easy to support this important movement.
- Weekend Picnic
College roommates reunite for a picnic party at Concannon Vineyard, enjoying great food, wine, and laughs. Free wine tasting turns into a purchase of recommended Cabernet Sauvignon, making for a memorable day with friends.
- My sweet friend, Jeremiah
Sometimes all it takes is a small gesture of encouragement from a friend to reignite your passion and motivation. This blog post shares a personal story of how a simple cup from a friend helped kickstart a blogger's journey back to productivity and enthusiasm.
- And so it begins...
Embark on a journey with Jay as she dives into the world of blogging, sharing DIY projects, travel adventures, delicious recipes, and the antics of her beloved cat. Cheers to new beginnings!