I Want to Be a Cloud: Reaffirming the Meaning of Life for Kids

Reading I Want to Be a Cloud by Nichole P. felt like I was being hugged by a white, fluffy cloud. I am a PWD with a Psychosocial disorder, so this book was just what I needed. The holidays were tough, and the upcoming Chinese New Year and Valentine’s Day celebrations already feel like an uphill battle. This book reminded me of the simple joys that make life worth living.

The tough days will pass us by, but our will to live will keep us afloat. I appreciate that this book is both in English and Filipino. Children these days struggle with speaking the vernacular, and I really believe that bilingual books will give them a better grasp of both languages. A book about dealing with difficult emotions teaches children that it is okay to feel down. It is in the breaks that we take that reaffirm the meaning of life for us. And when I read this book during a break in between my busy week, I was able to remember the things that make life fun and exciting.

The illustrations by Reu gave the book a cuddly and comforting feel. The story by Nichole P. is not just for children. Even as an adult in my 30s, I was able to feel better after reading this book. I hope that Nichole writes more books about handling difficult situations and emotions in the future. She has the potential to become a prolific author in both English and Filipino for children.

I hope that people will learn to take breaks every once in a while in order to remember that life has ups and downs. We just need to wait things out in order for the ups to be upon us once more, and for the downs to be resolved. 

I Want to Be a Cloud by Nichole P. is now available!

Ayn Needs to Practice: Teaching Kids About Perseverance

Reading Ayn Needs to Practice by Kailey Ayn Tan felt like a throwback to my childhood. I used to take classical flute and voice lessons, which took a lot of time from me. I needed to practice everyday, especially when my recitals were just around the corner. I remember motivating myself with the latest VHS rentals from Video City once I survived my recitals. This tactic has worked for me, and the reward system was similarly employed in the book.

The protagonist is relatable and her ordeal feels familiar to many children. Even if I no longer play the flute that much and sing regularly, I still feel disciplined enough to observe my daily routine of exercise and writing. It seems that the discipline that I have gained from practicing music is already ingrained in my system, albeit in other aspects of my life. I believe that this book will teach kids the value of perseverance and hard work. Children need books like Ayn Needs to Practice in order to normalize preparation. Sometimes, seeing yourself in a book is all that it takes to motivate you. And this book is going to help children who find themselves too lazy to practice their musical instruments. This can also be applied to other fields that require practice, such as sports and mental training. Children need to learn the value of hard work, and the rewards that come with being persistent.

I would like to commend the author for her efforts to motivate children who are in a similar situation that she is in. She has also done an excellent job with the book’s illustrations. I hope that she will write more books about her own life experiences so that she can help and inspire children to read and reach for the stars.

Ayn Needs to Practice by Kailey Ayn Tan is now available!

The Forlorn Rice Cooker: Teaching Kids About Purpose

Reading The Forlorn Rice Cooker by Nina Daza Puyat felt like I was listening to a story by one of my relatives in LA. My relatives in California have rich imaginations, and this is right up their alley. And they do have rice cookers which take up pride of place in their respective kitchens. This story was not just entertaining, but also relatable to someone who spent half of her life going back and forth between the US and the Philippines. There is nothing more Filipino than a family rice cooker and some good old fried rice. And for many families, the rice cooker has already become synonymous with nourishment and sustenance.

I have become a Nina Daza Puyat fan with her first book, Ang Alamat ng Lumpiang Shanghai. This author is a fellow Knoller and a true creative. She is proud of her culinary ancestry by including recipes in her children’s books. I think that she is doing the right thing by writing books for children. We need to influence the next generation by enriching their imaginations and using everyday objects such as the rice cooker in order to teach valuable lessons.

I appreciate how this book teaches children about purpose. Sure, some gadgets such as the frying pan can do amazing things. But the rice cooker, with its sturdy built and dependable character, is the only one that can whip up everyone’s trust staple, which is white rice. Purpose is something that is found in the character of the individual. One does not need to be flashy or ornate. It just has to fulfill its purpose in order to become useful. And kids these days need to remember that purpose is already found in them, and not by being visible on social media or wearing expensive clothes.

The Forlorn Rice Cooker by Nina Daza Puyat is now available!

Gimo Jr. and the Aswang Clan: A Teen Flick in Book Form

Reading Gimo Jr. and the Aswang Clan by Andrew Jalbuena Pasaporte felt like I was watching a movie. It was hard to believe that I was reading a work in narrative form because the prose was vividly written. I enjoyed this trippy ride, and I could definitely relate to the characters in the book.

Like Danny, Eddie, and Mary, I grew up having a rich imagination. Having lucid dreams was a staple in my life. It was fascinating to read something which resonated with me. I felt like I was chasing after an unfulfilled wish to encounter an imaginary world with characters from another dimension. To have these aswang characters converse with seemingly ordinary children gave the book a natural flow. The dialogue felt real and the author seemed to understand how teenagers speak and think. It was one of the best young adult books I have read from a Filipino author.

We all crave for an otherworldly adventure. This book was satisfying to read because I felt like I was going through the journey with Danny, Eddie, and Mary. And as someone who battled acne in my growing up years, I know that carrying skincare products with me wherever I go is not a big deal. In fact, it is a must. Kudos to the author for understanding teenage nuances like that.

It is not my first aswang novel, but it was refreshing to read a local YA book on the subject which was written well. I was thoroughly impressed. I only wish that there were more illustrations in the novel. Also, I hope that the author will come up with a sequel soon. It could be from Mary’s point of view. I bet that would be a riot.

Gimo Jr. and the Aswang Clan by Andrew Jalbuena Pasaporte is now available!

Love for Living Animals: A Love Letter to God’s Creation

Love for Living Animals: Stories of Animals that are in Critical Danger of Extinction by Mona Sabalones Gonzalez was a love letter to God’s creation. Since this book specializes in endangered animals, it was bittersweet to read their plight and their stories. It felt like a race against time. I felt helpless because I could not do anything to help them, but reading about them felt like I was contributing to their well-being and overall health.

The author has given me a comprehensive background on endangered animals, some of which I have never even heard of. I enjoyed the book because it felt like the documentaries from National Geographic which I have enjoyed watching as a child- only in book form. The photographs by Elizabeth Barrett renewed my fascination with wildlife in their natural habitat. After reading the book, I wanted all of them to have a fighting chance for life. 

We need more books that shed light on the animals who are in critical danger of extinction. Sure, some skeptics will say that extinction is a function of evolution, but I disagree. Sometimes, we humans forget that we do not own the Earth. Rather, the Earth only accommodates us. We are mere passersby on this planet. So, we should not hasten the extinction of animals who are helpless in the face of progress and development. After all, can we really call our modern world as progressive if innocent creatures are the collateral for development? Maybe books such as this one can help us rethink our priorities and see the planet as the only home that we have.

Love for Living Animals is the wake up call for everyone to protect animals who are nearing extinction. It appeals to our humanity to help living creatures have a fighting chance for survival. It is now available!

Right the Wrong: A Verbose Novel

Right the Wrong by Adriano Nava Jr is a verbose novel. It was also a virtual trip to Adelaide, South Australia. I have previously worked in an Australian company, and reading the novel felt like a field trip to the land of my former employers. The accompanying pictures provided context to the novel, which taught lessons on life such as learning and owning up to our mistakes. Part of growing up is being accountable for your mistakes, and this novel shows that no matter where you live in the world, you still have to pay the consequences of your actions. 

I admire the author’s moral standpoint when it comes to this novel. I could see that this was dedicated to his granddaughter, and I believe that this book is a moralistic novel for the little girl. The photos provided by the author in the book reflected his love for travel. I can see that he has done his research in the scope of the novel’s settings. It could have been helpful though if the author listened to how actual teenagers in the area talked, and how people there behaved. There were parts of the book wherein the dialogue felt unnatural, but it was saved by the flow of the story. Overall, it was still a readable novel.

I hope that the author also provided a soundtrack to the book, given that this is targeted to the younger generation. A Spotify playlist could have given the readers an added layer to their experience. It could also give the book a more contemporary feel.

We need more books that teach the younger generation to become accountable for their actions. Right the Wrong does that, and it is recommended for young adult readers and above.

Right the Wrong by Adriano Nava Jr is now available!

My Life Plan: A Roadmap to Success

My Life Plan: A Personal Strategic Plan by Peter D. Henson is a planner girl’s dream. I am the type of person who still uses a paper planner. In fact, I am using two paper planners for 2024. This book has resonated with me because of its workbook component. I took some time off my phone and computer to just sit back and complete the exercises. The results surprised me.

The book is similar to the workbooks I have encountered during my past life in the corporate world. It is no surprise that the author has already climbed the corporate ladder and has written this book to help those outside his workplace. I enjoyed the activities because they had detailed instructions. While some of them could not be applied to my personal life, there were still activities that were ideal for me. I have a lifelong illness which requires special care, but this book has reminded me that while not everything applies to me, I can still apply myself in order to create my own life plan. 

As I was writing my name on the book’s front cover, I realized that the initial confusion I had regarding the author’s identity was intentional. While the author intended to make his planning strategies and corporate experience known, he did not want to make himself the star of his own book. He wanted the reader to become the protagonist of his book, which I believe is an act of generosity.

My Life Plan is a roadmap for success, especially if the reader completes the exercises and uses the habit trackers for the year. It can be read anytime of the year, and it is suitable for all ages. For people like me with unconventional family backgrounds and health issues, some parts of the book might be triggering. A disclaimer in the beginning of the book for those with traumas and chronic illnesses would have been helpful.

The book is a plan for success, but in reality, life is about the journey and not the destination. Thus, this book can become a guide when the journey becomes too tough, and the destination becomes blurry.

My Life Plan: A Personal Strategic Plan by Peter D. Henson is now available!

K-POP GROUP, CRAVITY RELEASE THEIR 7TH MINI ALBUM, EVERSHINE

STREAM THE MINI ALBUM ON ALL PLATFORMS HERE

WATCH THE VIDEO FOR “LOVE OR DIE” HERE

DOWNLOAD HIGH-RES PRESS PHOTOS HERE

[CREDIT: STARSHIP ENTERTAINMENT]

FOLLOW CRAVITY ON SOCIALS:

INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | COMPANY TWITTER |YOUTUBE | SPOTIFY

[Los Angeles, CA] - Filled with the bright energy of youth, K-Pop group CRAVITY return with their 7th mini album, EVERSHINE. This mini album encapsulates the passionate love of youth, marking another chapter in CRAVITY's explosive growth. In the quiet of nightfall, the beauty of the afterglow is revealed, reminding us that even in darkness, there's a promise of a brighter sunrise. Following their successful first world tour, KCON LA performance, and official debut in Japan, CRAVITYshowcases a more distinct color than ever before, pouring out raw emotions in their latest musical offering. Named by Grammy.com as a “K-Pop Boy Group To Watch,” 2024 is poised to be their best year yet.

Focus track “Love or Die,” epitomizes CRAVITY’ssignature energetic vibe with its fast-paced drum and bass rhythm. As the song's mood intensifies, listeners can feel the strong determination of “I’d rather die than live without love,” showcasing the members' heightened confidence and dedication to their love.  The accompanying music video intensifies the members' journey for love. It shows that despite all the setbacks we may experience throughout the different moments of youth, we become stronger through the process and become able to face future challenges. After experiencing love, persisting through trials and overcoming different emotions and pain, we can welcome a new sun. EVERSHINE is the vivid story of CRAVITY’s present and future.

Each track on EVERSHINE offers a unique experience, from the pop-infused “C’est La Vie” to the psychedelic rock sounds of “Worst Thriller,” to the bright vocals of “Cherry Blossom.” Focus track “Love or Die,” which members Serim and Allen participated in writing, is complemented by a perfect blend of various genres like rock and EDM; capturing the explosive youth and the most passionate moments of life's brightest era. “Mr.”, a heavy EDM track fit for a festival or club, not only has Serimand Allen as co-writers on it, but also WJSN’s very own EXY. “Over & Over,” a track not only co-written by Allen, but also produced, closes out the album with its fresh guitar and heavy bass, expressing the heartfelt desire to go back to the past in order to hold onto a precious relationship.

MORE INFO:

The members of CRAVITY have shown immense growth since their debut album, released April 14th, 2020. Even with a debut in the middle of a pandemic, SEASON1.[HIDEOUT: REMEMBER WHO WE ARE] caused a wave of intrigue and excitement here in the states, with mentions in PAPER Magazine, Access, iHeart, J-14,MTV News, Earmilk, Teen Vogue, and Rolling Stone who referred to their title track as “An anthemic track from the K-pop rookies that combines 808-style riffs with the melodic sensibilities of early-2000s boybands (extended dance break included).”

“Though the group is still up-and-coming and developing their sound, they have begun to refine their artistry and make their mark on the industry. Their work on “Gas Pedal” proves just that, and more.” - MTV

Since their debut, CRAVITY have marked their relentless movement, sweeping rookie of the year awards at various music awards ceremonies in Korea. CRAVITY received the name “Super Rookie,” due to the success of their debut album, which hit No. 1 on the U.S. @iTunes Top K-Pop Albums chart, making them the first #Kpop rookie group to debut in 2020 to earn this achievement. Additionally, the group made a splash on social media shortly after their first album, debuting at No. 12 on Billboard's Social 50chart; making them the fifth-fastest South Korean group to enter Social 50. As we progress through the years, their success within the industry continues to thrive, with Variety naming them an “Up-and-Coming Group to Know” in 2022, and Forbes recognizing them as “ones to watch."

The inspiration behind the name, CRAVITY, came to fruition through the combination of “Creativity” and “Gravity,” and has been Starship Entertainment's new boy band for the first time in five years since Monsta X. Consisting of nine members, [Serim, Allen, Jungmo, Woobin, Wonjin, Minhee, Hyeongjun, Taeyoung, and Seongmin], CRAVITY, which is also an acronym for “Center of Gravity,” is meant to attract/gravitate listeners into their unique universe, by pulling them in with their creativity, charm, and pure talent.

Source: Blackstar

K-POP GROUP, CRAVITY RELEASE THEIR 7TH MINI ALBUM, EVERSHINE

STREAM THE MINI ALBUM ON ALL PLATFORMS HERE

WATCH THE VIDEO FOR “LOVE OR DIE” HERE

DOWNLOAD HIGH-RES PRESS PHOTOS HERE

[CREDIT: STARSHIP ENTERTAINMENT]

FOLLOW CRAVITY ON SOCIALS:

INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | COMPANY TWITTER |YOUTUBE | SPOTIFY

[Los Angeles, CA] - Filled with the bright energy of youth, K-Pop group CRAVITY return with their 7th mini album, EVERSHINE. This mini album encapsulates the passionate love of youth, marking another chapter in CRAVITY's explosive growth. In the quiet of nightfall, the beauty of the afterglow is revealed, reminding us that even in darkness, there's a promise of a brighter sunrise. Following their successful first world tour, KCON LA performance, and official debut in Japan, CRAVITYshowcases a more distinct color than ever before, pouring out raw emotions in their latest musical offering. Named by Grammy.com as a “K-Pop Boy Group To Watch,” 2024 is poised to be their best year yet.

Focus track “Love or Die,” epitomizes CRAVITY’ssignature energetic vibe with its fast-paced drum and bass rhythm. As the song's mood intensifies, listeners can feel the strong determination of “I’d rather die than live without love,” showcasing the members' heightened confidence and dedication to their love.  The accompanying music video intensifies the members' journey for love. It shows that despite all the setbacks we may experience throughout the different moments of youth, we become stronger through the process and become able to face future challenges. After experiencing love, persisting through trials and overcoming different emotions and pain, we can welcome a new sun. EVERSHINE is the vivid story of CRAVITY’s present and future.

Each track on EVERSHINE offers a unique experience, from the pop-infused “C’est La Vie” to the psychedelic rock sounds of “Worst Thriller,” to the bright vocals of “Cherry Blossom.” Focus track “Love or Die,” which members Serim and Allen participated in writing, is complemented by a perfect blend of various genres like rock and EDM; capturing the explosive youth and the most passionate moments of life's brightest era. “Mr.”, a heavy EDM track fit for a festival or club, not only has Serimand Allen as co-writers on it, but also WJSN’s very own EXY. “Over & Over,” a track not only co-written by Allen, but also produced, closes out the album with its fresh guitar and heavy bass, expressing the heartfelt desire to go back to the past in order to hold onto a precious relationship.

MORE INFO:

The members of CRAVITY have shown immense growth since their debut album, released April 14th, 2020. Even with a debut in the middle of a pandemic, SEASON1.[HIDEOUT: REMEMBER WHO WE ARE] caused a wave of intrigue and excitement here in the states, with mentions in PAPER Magazine, Access, iHeart, J-14,MTV News, Earmilk, Teen Vogue, and Rolling Stone who referred to their title track as “An anthemic track from the K-pop rookies that combines 808-style riffs with the melodic sensibilities of early-2000s boybands (extended dance break included).”

“Though the group is still up-and-coming and developing their sound, they have begun to refine their artistry and make their mark on the industry. Their work on “Gas Pedal” proves just that, and more.” - MTV

Since their debut, CRAVITY have marked their relentless movement, sweeping rookie of the year awards at various music awards ceremonies in Korea. CRAVITY received the name “Super Rookie,” due to the success of their debut album, which hit No. 1 on the U.S. @iTunes Top K-Pop Albums chart, making them the first #Kpop rookie group to debut in 2020 to earn this achievement. Additionally, the group made a splash on social media shortly after their first album, debuting at No. 12 on Billboard's Social 50chart; making them the fifth-fastest South Korean group to enter Social 50. As we progress through the years, their success within the industry continues to thrive, with Variety naming them an “Up-and-Coming Group to Know” in 2022, and Forbes recognizing them as “ones to watch."

The inspiration behind the name, CRAVITY, came to fruition through the combination of “Creativity” and “Gravity,” and has been Starship Entertainment's new boy band for the first time in five years since Monsta X. Consisting of nine members, [Serim, Allen, Jungmo, Woobin, Wonjin, Minhee, Hyeongjun, Taeyoung, and Seongmin], CRAVITY, which is also an acronym for “Center of Gravity,” is meant to attract/gravitate listeners into their unique universe, by pulling them in with their creativity, charm, and pure talent.

Source: Blackstar

Mabrém Calendula Foot Cream from Shopee

This is such a good product especially since I do a lot of walking! Buy @mabrem.ph foot cream here: https://shope.ee/1qE7N3yn0M 🍃 #shopeesambassador #shopaholicsam

My Catholic Faith: A Relatable Book

My Catholic Faith by Melchor Q.C. Sadang was a crash course in Theology. I must admit that I learned more about my faith from this book than in all the religion classes that I have taken in school. I was surprised that a religious book could be so readable. It was helpful in highlighting the cornerstones of our faith, such as Christ’s institution of the Church, the Eucharist, and the Blessed Virgin Mary. It was also useful in teaching me new information, such as the importance of having a moral life. 

It is the perfect book for all Catholics who are peer pressured to join other Christian denominations. I write this with the understanding that there is nothing wrong in converting to other religions, but before doing so, it is important for Catholics to study their faith in a deeper manner. It is not enough to convert simply because most people nowadays belong to a Christian church. Sure, it is valid to be dissatisfied with the Catholic Church, but it is still possible to remain faithful to its teachings through proper understanding of its doctrine. This book is also recommended to those who are Catholic but did not have religion classes in school. 

What sets this book apart from other Catholic works I have read in the past is that it calls the faithful to lead a moral life. It emphasizes the importance of using one’s free will in order to become a good person. When one makes better choices every day in accordance with the Magisterium, one can become a better Catholic. We need good Catholics in order to show the world that we are more than the faith that we follow. We also show our faith through the goodness of our hearts.

My Catholic Faith by Melchor Q.C. Sadang is now available!

My Farewell Slam Book: Preparation Made Fun

My Farewell Slam Book by Marissa Sanchez is a celebration of preparation. I was admittedly happy to read this book because I am a PWD. My health condition means that I am closer to death than most people, and I want to be prepared for that. Plus, I also witnessed my late father battle through a terminal illness in the span of only a few months. I saw firsthand how my father ensured that his own affairs were in order before he passed away. So, I gladly answered some parts of the slam book already, and I must say that it was a fun process.

I think that Filipinos should finally start the conversation of death preparedness without the taboo. This book was written by a veteran Filipino actress, who has already made a name for herself in the industry. I particularly appreciate her performance in Safe Skies Archer. Her sensitivity towards the characters that she portrays is evident in her slam book. She did not take anything for granted, including how you want your eulogy to be. Meanwhile, her sense of humor translates into the book itself with its vibrant layout and graphics. She really grew up during the height of slam books, when they were ring bound, colorfully presented, and filled with witty yet practical questions. My favorite part was the Dreams, Fears, and Regrets chapter. I had a lot to write there, and I even had to attach another page for that. I am sure that her readers will also have a lot to share in this part of the slam book.

As the author stated in her Preface, she wrote this book in order to be even more prepared for her “graceful exit here on earth”. After answering the slam book, I feel that I have already prepared for my own graceful exit. While I hope that it is not yet soon, it pays to be prepared for the inevitable moment of my own demise. I would like to thank Ms. Marissa Sanchez for helping me bring closure to my own unresolved issues and to look forward to death without dread and disgust.

My Farewell Slam Book is now available!

A Maze to Grace: A Heartfelt Journey

A Maze to Grace: A Journey of the Heart by M.C. D. Rial was a helpful read in the midst of my personal crisis. I was battling a problem in my life when this book was presented to me, and I was initially hesitant to delve deeper into it because I was already exhausted. An insomniac night led me to read this in one sitting, and it did not disappoint.

I did not find the answers to my questions. It did not provide me with specific solutions to my personal problems. But I knew that I felt a sense of peace after reading the book. In the chapter Three Years of Public Ministry Equals Eternal Victory, it was emphasized that Jesus made deliberate and purposeful actions in his preaching. He fulfilled his mission on Earth after leading an ordinary life outside of the public eye. What touched me the most was that Jesus was also fulfilling His own personal mission, similar to what I am currently doing. I am now experiencing difficulties, but I am still doing my duty in the roles that God has placed me in. I realized that Jesus was able to execute his mission and was still able to show unwavering love. He faced persecution, yet he still forgave and performed miracles. My key takeaway from this chapter is that I do not need to become a martyr in my situation, but I should move forward with love in my heart. I should never lose faith and feel that I am alone.

After reading the book, I felt that it was difficult to be a good person in our challenging world, but it is still possible to become one. We just need to make the right choices and never lose faith. It is our responsibility to renew our faith because it will help us to be hopeful for a future in Heaven. Our challenges are sacrifices which will test our faith, but we must not lose hope. Our faith must endure and we should strive to do everything for the glory of God.

A Maze to Grace: A Journey of the Heart by M.C. D. Rial is now available!

Accidental Entrepreneur: A Book of Opportunities

I read Accidental Entrepreneur by Joynivee Chua as a roadmap to success. As a former entrepreneur, I am no longer keen on putting up another small business. I am now focusing on my writing and other job opportunities as I take care of my health. But I was pleasantly surprised because Accidental Entrepreneur spoke to me despite my hesitation to read about business. Indeed, it was a book filled with guideposts which can also be used in the journey called life.

My favorite part of the book was about entrepreneurial mindset. I believe that everyone needs to have this. We all need to thrive in these challenging times, and having the right mindset will propel us forward. Taking the initiative to help ourselves, being curious, and embracing failure may sound like basic knowledge, but it is worth reminding people to nurture these skills. It was a wake up call for me because even if I have already moved on to other pursuits, I can still use the mindset that entrepreneurship has taught me.

Another part of the book which I truly appreciate was the author’s emphasis on community. The right people can help you as you are starting up. The right people can help you build your business. The right community will support you as you adapt to changing times. Unlike other business books that I have read in the past, the focus on community is what sets this one apart. And I believe that with this focus, this book can resonate with more readers who are still hesitant to set up their own business.

I only wish that the author is more active online. She has the potential to help more people by continuing the conversation both online and offline. Her approachable writing style and common sense technique are ripe for possible teaching opportunities. I hope she can write more books and translate her message of community to having an actual one, even just online.

Accidental Entrepreneur is now available!

Living Without: A Celebration of Minimalism

I read Living Without by Romulae Gadaoni Jr. during the first month of 2024. It was a time of new beginnings, and it was fortuitous that this was the book that I had in my hands. I started reading it while I was stuck in traffic, thinking that it was a leisurely read. Little did I know that it was packed with deep but digestible nuggets of wisdom on minimalist principles.

I have already read quite a number of books on minimalism. While I did a lot of general cleaning and closet purges, I must admit that the impact of these books were short-lived. What sets Living Without is its holistic approach to minimalism. Unlike the other books which focused more on letting go of things that no longer spark joy, Living Without presents the reader with a picture of contentment. It is a mindset shift which focuses on being thankful for what is in front of you. It is a celebration of simplicity and saving money. It is a journey made with small steps. The approach that the author gives the reader is a marathon rather than a sprint. Inner peace and contentment with having a smaller space, fewer material belongings, and affirming your wholeness sound better than simply throwing things away and buying more. 

Of course, it is difficult to maintain a minimalist lifestyle in today’s fast-paced world. This is the reason why the author includes financial tips on developing better spending habits which are relatable and practical. My favorite is making your own coffee at home. This may sound like a no-brainer, but spending hundreds of pesos for one cup of coffee has been draining my savings of late. This is a timely reminder that homemade coffee does the same job of waking you up while allowing you to use that money for more important things.

It was a treat to read Living Without, and I highly recommend this book to everyone!

Smartwatch from Shopee

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TECNO Expands AI Horizons with Dynamic 1, its Innovative Debut Robotic Dog

Step into the future with TECNO's latest AI-enhanced innovation, the Dynamic 1 robotic dog, set to be unveiled at MWC Barcelona 2024.

Barcelona, February 26, 2024 – Innovative technology brand TECNO will debut its first AI-enhanced robotic dog, TECNO Dynamic 1, at MWC Barcelona 2024. The advanced robot embodies TECNO’s “Stop At Nothing” approach to innovating the technologies of tomorrow, with capabilities that can enhance everyday experiences. From smart home entertainment to assistance, education, and training, its intelligent, user-friendly functionalities make Dynamic 1 the perfect pet-like companion of the future.

Innovative Biomorphic Engineering Enriches Human-Machine Interaction

Dynamic 1 is TECNO's latest exploration of the diverse possibilities of human-machine interaction. Merging cutting-edge artificial intelligence with a lifelike design inspired by the German Shepherd, Dynamic 1 achieves both high aesthetic appeal and functional precision. Powerful torque output (45 N.m/kg) and a sophisticated cooling system in the knee joints enable the robot to mirror a dog's natural movements, such as climbing stairs, bowing and handshaking.

Dynamic 1 is equipped with an innovative headlight system that both illuminates its path and serves as an indicator for interaction. Furthermore, four microphones and advanced AI-driven voice recognition algorithms ensure outstanding voice control responsiveness and even more intuitive interaction.

AI HyperSense Technology Allows Dynamic Mobility

Dynamic 1 features an AI HyperSense Fusion System, ensuring that each movement is as stable as it is spirited. The robot integrates an Intel® RealSense™ D430 depth camera, dual optical sensors, and infrared sensors for comprehensive obstacle detection and safe navigation. At the core of its agility and resilience is an 8-core high-performance ARM CPU, enabling dynamic stability, rapid post-fall recovery, and speeds of up to 3.7m/s.  Meanwhile, 64GB onboard storage and the latest WI-FI 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 further facilitate seamless and robust performance.

Varied Control Interfaces and Outstanding Endurance

Dynamic 1 offers users flexibility with a variety of options for controlling its functions, including via smartphone app, remote control, and voice command. With a 15000mAh battery, the robot is capable of up to 90 minutes of use, while its modular design allows for quick battery exchanges and simultaneous charging, minimizing downtime. A range of safety features give users peace of mind, protecting against common electrical issues.

In unveiling Dynamic 1, TECNO is showcasing its strength and imagination in the field of advanced robotics and artificial intelligence. TECNO is committed to pursuing the development of cutting-edge technology for consumers.

TECNO welcomes all visitors to experience Dynamic 1 firsthand at MWC Barcelona 2024. The innovative device, along with the industry's first combined AR glasses and Windows gaming handheld set, innovative concept materials, leading smartphones and AloT devices, will be on show at TECNO’s show stand, located at 6B11, Hall 6, Fira Gran Via.

Source: TECNO

LUNADIRA STUNS WITH DEBUT ALBUM 'i'll be alright, right?'

LISTEN HERE

Photo Credit: Amani Azlin

Singapore – Malaysian singer-songwriter Lunadira releases herhighly-anticipated debut album 'i'll be alright, right?'via TONGTONG Asia. The slow, scintillating reveal of thealbum's first four singles ("OVERTHINKING" & "GOSLOW", title track "i'll be alright, right?", and "cryingover nothing (wah wah)") offered a sneak peek into the artist's labyrinthine emotions, navigating the tumultuous waters of life, love, and self-discovery. Fans can listen to the album here: symphony.to/lunadira/ibar-album

Renowned for her saccharine vocals and lyrical brilliance, Lunadira tells stories that unfold like delicate flower petals,blending vulnerability, joy, and introspection. In 'i'll be

alright, right?' she bears a weariness with a thin veil of hope, streaked with familiar melancholia that’s heavy to feel but so easy to bop to. Balancing on this tightrope exemplifies how deft she has become as an artist since her salad days. From R’n’B to garage and grunge, she shapeshifts through a spectrum of genres and moods that constitute the pop of our times – eclectic and moving; fun and sultry.

She explains, "'i'll be alright, right?' as an album is a returning to one's self. It is not a celebration but an observation of the uncertainty of life and dealing with that ungracefully, and accepting thatthere is grace in uncertainty." Collaborating with longtime musical partner Reddi Rocket on the project, Lunadiraexplores new musical territories, emphasising authenticity over conventionality in their production process.

Having retreated into a creative cocoon after the release of herlast project 'Tangerine' in 2020, Lunadira has been re-discovering her sonic identity on the journey of completing her new album, honing in on and refining her craft – ever-evolving and boundless – to reflect her lived experiences in its truest form through her songwriting and sound.

The release of 'i'll be alright, right?' follows her recently-announced debut appearance at Joyland Bali 2024, where she will be playing alongside artists including JamesBlake, Kings of Convenience, and The Walters.

Lunadira - "i'll be alright, right?" (Official MusicVideo)

MORE ABOUT LUNADIRA

Growing up in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia with music on the radio and MTV shaping a young Nadira, the enigmatic songstress had her start like many of her peers, posting earnest covers on the Internet until the first original track "Forever’s Not OurThing" lifted her from anonymity.

Following a slew of annual lovelorn laments, Lunadira’scollaborative EP with Reddi Rocket 'Tangerine' was released in 2020 to considerable fanfare, with the buoyant lead single "Hoodie" becoming an instant favorite, effectively expanding her reach of listeners.

The wide-eyed sweetness that oozed from 'Tangerine' has been sharpened by a personal reckoning that occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic. She emerged from it a woman still grappling with existential ponderings along with a heightenedawareness of herself and her main mode of catharsis—songwriting.

In her debut album 'i’ll be alright, right?', Lunadiraboldly confesses a sense of being unmoored, and thus endearsherself to fans – like the rest of us, she doesn’t have all the answers. Through her introspection, we see the parts of ourselves that also struggle; just like her, we want to know whether we’ll be alright.

Tastemakers around the world have taken notice of the risingartist as she has taken on the mantle as the first-ever Malaysian artist to perform on the COLORS stage. This landmark achievement has opened doors to further opportunities abroad, including invitations to perform at 2023's South By Southwest (SXSW) in both Austin and Sydney. Lunadira has shared the stage with global artists like Sabrina Carpenter, NxWorries, and Daniel Caesar, and is looking forward to what 2024 willbring, kicking off with her performance at Joyland Bali 2024.

'i'll be alright, right?' Tracklisting:

1. forever's not my thing

2. OVERTHINKING

3. GO SLOW

4. i'll be alright, right?

5. BITTER

6. I HATE IT HERE

7. BIRTHDAY

8. WISH U WERE DEAD

9. crying over nothing (wah wah)

Stream 'i'll be alright, right?' here:symphony.to/lunadira/ibar-album

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For more information: Secret Signals | TONGTONG Asia Follow Lunadira:Instagram | YouTube | TikTok

Source: Secret Signals

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