Author Archives: Kamryn Hamagami-Postill

Raincouver Activities

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In a city that never stops raining it’s a good idea to have a list of things to do while it pours outside. And while yes, a rainy cozy day is good here and there, in a city where it practically never stops raining from September to May, you can’t always just stay inside. As a born and raised Vancouverite I’ve mastered rainy day itineraries. 

shower-rain-night

Cabin fever is real and staying inside all day can take a serious toll on your mental health whether you realize it or not. Although we had a pretty lucky January with some amazing sunny streaks, my weather app is showing straight rain and clouds for the next 2 weeks … nice. But don’t get too alarmed. Spring is right around the corner if you do some of my favourite rainy day activities before you know it the sun will be shining and it’s back to picnics and days at the beach. 

The Vancouver Aquarium:

This is a childhood classic for me! Some of my best memories growing up spending a rainy Sunday at the aquarium with my dad. And even though 15 some odd years have passed since those days the aquarium still hits every single time. And ya, there definitely is some sea life that you have to go outside to see but it’s so worth it! Grab lunch or a coffee and take a friend and walk around and explore the aquarium. The gift shop is pretty awesome too. 

Vancouver Art Gallery 

How many times have you driven past the art gallery on your way in or out of town and always wondered what kinds of exhibits are going on inside. I mean for me personally if I’m being honest the last time I visited was a school field trip in grade 5, I just added this on to my list for rainy day activities cause it really is the perfect thing to do. 

Closet Clean Out

Yup, I know, ugh.. How long have you been putting this one off for? I mean a spring clean is good right? How many unmatched socks do you have? Or just clothes thrown in a pile of stuffed in your dresser? And really, do you actually need every single one of those graphic tees? I may be outing myself out here, but my closet is a disaster. And if you’re going to spend the day inside, why not make it a productive one? Better yet, head down and donate some clothes or if you have some stuff in good shape, list it on Facebook Marketplace, then you can even make some extra cash! 

Deep Clean 

Whether it’s your car, your bathroom, your room, or heck maybe even your whole house, nothing feels better than just getting it done. All the nooks and crannies, vacuuming, dusting high to low, there’s just never time to do it all. But what about that rainy Saturday coming up? Get it done in the am then the pm is all yours for some quality rainy day rest and relaxation. 

Science World

Science World just hits differently in the rain. I mean the dome shape with the rain coming down, ah so nice. And again, how many times have you driven past just wondering what’s going on inside? Probably quite a bit so why not check it out! 

Science World

Fly Over Canada 

I love Fly Over Canada. Well I love all rides actually. But Fly Over Canada is just awesome. In this economy who’s getting away anyway? The price of a round trip flight costs an arm and a leg so why not skip the cost and go all around Canada in one day? It’s also located in a great area too, so grab a bite to eat, walk around, take in the views, and visit all around the country in just one day.

Seawall

Who said the rain had to stop ya from having outdoor fun? The Seawall, Stanley Park or West Van, is my absolute number one favourite walk to do in the city, and I honestly like doing it in the rain. Put on that raincoat, grab a friend and a warm coffee, and get those steps in! You’ll feel accomplished cause you did a little bit of workout but also fresh air heals. Maybe your mindset is stuck in a dark rainy cloud just like the one outside, but that’s nothing a little jaunt on the Seawall can’t fix! Every time I walk it, rain or shine, I’m reminded just how lucky Vancourites are to live in such a beautiful city and it makes my $8 latte in my hand feel just a bit more worth it. 

Hikes

The best part about a forest hike on a rainy day is that trees stop some of the rain from coming down on you so you actually won’t get as wet as just walking out in the open on the streets. I love to do the Cleveland Dam or Lynn Canyon because the water is always rushing so fast with the rain. If you want a bit more of a challenge, Grouse Mountain or Quarry Rock can still be great rainy-day hikes—just be prepared for a bit of mud and some slippery sections and the views at the top are totally worth it. If you’re feeling extra crazy head down the BCMC when you do the Grouse Grind, you won’t have to pay for a lift ticket down and it’s an extra workout. 

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Cafes and Coffee Shops

Of course, not every rainy day calls for an outdoor adventure. Some days, you just want to be somewhere warm, dry, and full of good food or entertainment. Vancouver has no shortage of cozy cafes. My personal favourites to escape a storm are Crema in West Vancouver, Pure Bread in Kits, and Nemesis in Gastown. 

Ramen 

Ramen + a rainy day = pure joy. There’s nothing like a bowl of ramen to warm your rainy day up. Ramen Danbo and Kinton Ramen are my go to’s. I’m never one to crave ramen on the regular but when the rain starts pouring it’s something I always need to get into my system. Go with some friends or order it in on and watch some movies on your couch, either way, it’s the perfect rainy day meal in my opinion. 

Honestly, rainy days are the perfect days to become a tourist in your own city. Life gets busy, work piles up and all those things that you’ve been wanting to do just get pushed off. If you let the rain stop you from making plans, you’ll end up missing out on so much of what makes Vancouver special. Instead of avoiding it, learning to work with it or, even enjoy it, can completely change the way you experience the city. So, invest in good rain gear, find your favourite rainy day spots, and embrace the cozy charm of Vancouver in the rain. After all, when the sun does eventually come out, it makes you appreciate those blue-sky days even more. 

Life In Your 20s

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Just wait for your 20s. They will be the best years of your life. Really mom? Cause right now all I feel is a whole lotta stress and confusion. Your 20s are often painted as the best years of your life—full of freedom, self-discovery, and endless possibilities. But the reality? It’s often a confusing, chaotic, and overwhelming decade where you’re expected to be living your best life, but also having it all together. It’s like you’re being told to have all this fun but at the same time you feel so guilty for it? I don’t know about you but so far, my 20s have been … rough. One minute, you’re excited about your future, and the next, you’re drowning in student debt, questioning your career path, and wondering if you should just pack a bag and move to Bali. If you’re feeling lost, you’re not alone. Today alone I’ve complicated moving 5 times, quitting my job, and had a meltdown over what to make for dinner. Rough. 

Harvard University

For most in their early 20s you’re probably attending college, university, or trade school, there’s a constant pressure to figure out your career path and make the right decisions. But what happens when you’re halfway through your degree and realize you don’t even like your major? Yup. This happened to me. Rough. I mean I wasn’t halfway through but I was really getting close to it and then I dropped out. Just dropped everything, packed my bags, moved home, said bye bye to my psychology degree and started from scratch? Do I regret this? From time to time, I mean love what I do now but to put it all in perspective that’s a lot of time and money just wasted but hey your 20s are all about those drastic changes right?

Then the time will come (soon for me) where you’re just kicked out into the real world. Scary. After graduation, you’re thrown into the deep end of the workforce, and suddenly, the real world isn’t as glamorous as it seemed. Finding a job that aligns with your degree (and actually pays well) is harder than expected, and many end up in entry-level positions that barely cover rent. And every single job out there you need to have experience. Well how can you get experience if you can’t land a job. It’s a vicious cycle. The reality is, most people don’t land their dream job right away. Instead, they take whatever job they can to pay the bills. The service industry, retail, and freelancing become survival jobs while trying to build experience in a chosen field. The phrase “entry-level job with 3-5 years of experience required” starts to feel like a cruel joke. 

It’s a funny age right now. I’m 21 and I know people who are travelling Australia and Europe with nothing planned past this week, and some friends who are settled down and married with kids. It’s exhausting keeping up, it all feels so weird. I hate growing up. There’s nothing more appealing than the idea of escaping reality and traveling the world in your 20s. Like spending your day at the beach. Sign me up. But then that guilt comes in. Am I doing life wrong? Should I be saving my money? Should I be in school to get a job? It just feels like you can never be right in your 20s no matter what. Seeing others travel the world can make you feel like you’re wasting your youth stuck in a 9-to-5 job. The idea of quitting everything and traveling full-time is tempting, but it’s not always the right thing to do, you don’t want to break the bank. Some make it work by teaching English abroad, working remote jobs, or picking up gigs along the way, while others wait until they land a “big job” and have more financial freedom. But how do you know what you’re doing is right? Are you making the right decision? Who knows! I mean the one nice thing about life right now is I’m seeing a lot more work from home jobs popping up on my Linkedin feed. That gives me a bit of relief. Could it be possible to have the best of both worlds? 

Backpack

Your 20s are a rollercoaster when it comes to relationships. Friendships shift, people move away, and romantic relationships become more complex. It’s a time of this so-called “self-discovery”, and as you grow, so do your relationships. It’s hard those people you thought were going to be your friends for life might have moved off to college and forgot about you or mauve that person who you thought was going to be your high school sweetheart moved across the world. Rough. Gone are the days when friendships were built solely on proximity. After college, people move for jobs, relationships, or just a fresh start, making it harder to maintain close friendships. Suddenly, you find yourself scheduling FaceTime calls instead of spontaneous hangouts. Making new friends in your 20s is hard. I feel like half the people just are content being just mutuals while the other half already has a group that’s super cliquey. 

Don’t even get me started with the dating scene of your 20s.  Some people find “the one” early, while others spend years navigating the wild world of dating apps, situationships, and long-distance relationships. The pressure to settle down can be intense, but the reality is that everyone moves at their own pace. It’s okay to take time to figure out what you want in a partner and to make mistakes along the way. But it can be super hard when it feels like the clock is ticking, everyone has someone, and you’re still spending your Friday nights at your parents house. These are just such messy years where anything goes yet at the same time you feel like you have to mould in with what everyone else is doing. 

One of the biggest struggles of your 20s is the constant comparison game. Social media makes it seem like everyone else is thriving—getting promotions, traveling, getting engaged—while you’re just trying to remember to pay your internet bill on time. The truth? Most people are just as lost as you, they’re just better at hiding it. This makes me feel better. I mean social media is always fabricated and it’s hard to decipher what and what not to believe but at the end of the day everyone has their own struggles going on and are just trying to figure it out just like you. 

Don’t beat yourself up too hard about life in your 20s. It’s just rough. Everyone has their own path and at the end of the day it;s not like those movies or shows we grew up watching as kids, times have changed and that’s okay. So if you’re like me, and feel as if your 20s that are supposed to be “the greatest time of your life” are turning out just rough and messy, it will get better and at least you aren’t peaking now – that just means the best times of your life are still to come. 

The Social Media Paradox

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Social media is pretty much unavoidable nowadays. It’s become a part of your everyday life. You can search just about anything, watch anything anytime instantly, run a business, market a business, post, like, comment, share, communicate, and even more on social media. It’s completely taken over life now, but the question always arises – has it been taken too far? What do you think? Do you just wish it would go away sometimes? Maybe that TikTok ban would’ve been a good thing. Social media has fully changed the way we interact, communicate, and take in information. It’s just an integral part of modern life influencing everything from politics and business to personal relationships and even how you see yourself. But with all the benefits we can see from social media – it’s a paradox because it can be awful. It’s a space we love to visit and can’t seem to get off of, but it can make us feel miserable. 

social-media-blocks

Here’s why I’m a fan of social media. It’s instant connectivity. One of my best friends lives in Germany, if social media wasn’t a thing, it would take weeks to get in contact with her. Now we just send instagram posts back and forth to each other and comment on each others TikToks. It’s so easy. It’s an instant gratification and keeps us caught up with one another no matter how close or far we may be. I even got my grandma on Instagram and now she can keep up with all her grandkids on socials and even find some new recipes to try. 

Instagram!

Social media can also create a sense of belonging. Different online communities like makeup influencers and even wilderness camping videos can make you feel a part of someone’s life, like you actually know them. From online chat rooms to live videos, it’s a place where people can just make friends, be happy, and share in some common interests. 

The internet is also a great source of entertainment. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram are designed to provide endless streams of short, digestible content, 30 second videos are less that show what we want to see. I mean I’ve been guilty of scrolling on TikTok for hours alone in my room literal;y laughing out loud at some of the videos I see, however at the end of the day, that never makes me feel good about myself. This constant stream of never ending entertainment not only distracts us from the monotony of daily life but also provides us with brief moments of laughter and connection. It’s a weird type of escapism. You are able to tune out of daily life but that enthralled with the chaos of other people’s life. It’s weird, it’s addicting, it’s now the norm. 

One thing I notice the most is social media is a great place for self expression. There’s different areas of the internet where everyone is accepted for everything. You can be free to create and post whatever. Whether it’s posting Day In The Life videos or Get Ready With Me’s, or even live streaming you playing video games, you can just be you on social media and you will be able to get followers that share the same interests. Sounds all sunshine and rainbows right? 

SnapChat

But here are my main problems with social media. It can be a place of bullying and lead to many insecurities and bad habits. 

Social media can be an addiction. A lot of people just have their phone glued to their hand with insane screen times of up to 10 hours a day. And it’s a bad cycle too, one that leads a lot of people to a feeling of guilt and regret, there goes your whole day to just watching someone else live theirs. 

One of the most frustrating aspects of social media is the pressure it creates to present a “perfect” life. It’s super important to remember social media is a highlight reel. People pick and choose what they want to show. So that Day In The Life of that perfect influencer you may have seen is likely not accurate. It’s a constant battle of comparing yourself. Wishing you were like the people on your screen when in reality those people perfectly curate their posts, editing, filters, and only sharing what they want. It can become super messy. The constant exposure to perfection can be mentally exhausting. Comparing yourself is one of the worst things you can do to your esteem and unfortunately, social media does an excellent job of forcing us to compare. 

So much time and energy can get wasted on social media doom scrolling. This is probably one of the most anxiety inducing things out there in the world right now. It’s the habit of endlessly scrolling through negative posts on social media. Deep diving into the latest problems and issues when in reality probably more than half of it is fabricated. It’s tough and it’s hard to change and break that habit. 

Even though you probably know what it does to your brain, it’s just something you can’t let go. t’s a paradox: we love it for the connection, entertainment, and validation it offers, yet we hate it for the anxiety, pressure, and disconnection it also causes. But again it can be so complicated because of all the good that has come out of it. What do you think? Has social media gotten out of control? Or is it doing a good job keeping the world closely connected? 

The Secret Life Of A Server

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“Your job seems so easy, all you have to do is just write down orders, how hard can it be” ha ha, very funny. Yup, you’re totally right Karen, I’ll I do in a shift is just write down orders and bring the food out to your table. NOT. Working as a server is one of those jobs that everyone thinks they understand—until they actually do it. It seems simple: take orders, bring food, collect tips.

Restaurant

But once you get into the action, it’s wild. Serving is a skill, and like all skills practice makes perfect. But do I think anyone will ever be perfect at serving? No, because there will never be a perfect customer. Ok, I may have over shot that one, there can be perfect customers but it is so so so rare these days. Behind the (fake) smiles and niceness us servers give off is a whole world of chaos.  From dealing with impossible customers to mastering the art of balancing ten different tasks at once, the life of a server is far more complex than most people realize. So next time you’re going to complain about me forgetting your side of ketchup, you might think twice before giving me such a hard time. 

Waitress

Serving is basically mastering the art of multitasking. And studies show multitasking is kinda impossible. I mean you’ll never be able to give 100% of your attention to two things at the same time, things have to get prioritized (like your 10th side of ketchup or a slice of lemon for your water). And trust me I know good service is hitting all those marks but sometimes it can literally just be impossible. Imagine being in the middle of taking an order when another table waves you down for the bill, the kitchen yells that a plate is ready, and a new group walks in expecting immediate attention. Servers live in a constant state of multitasking. In this chaotic state where it feels like a million people are needing my attention I can’t remember if table 10 needed a refill or if table 14 needed the bill, it’s sink or swim, I’m just trying to survive. And in a job where your tips practically make up the majority of your income you want to make sure you’re doing it right. It’s also just bad when you go out to eat and the service sucks. I don’t want to be the one who takes the fault of ruining your birthday dinner or date night, sometimes it’s just one of those days. 

One of the best (and worst) parts of serving is dealing with customers. I’ve had the chance to meet some pretty great people. (one of which I actually gave a job application to while serving and now they are one of my work besties). It’s also fun for me to read the room and get the grasp of the vibe of the table. Serving a 19th birthday? Let’s sound a round of shots over. Celebrating a 60th anniversary, I’ll probably be putting your dessert on the house. But with all these celebrations, sometimes people come in that have been going through it. I served a group of people that were just grabbing a bite to eat after a funeral last week and it was hard, they got emotional and opened up to me. So I really do get to meet such a big variety of people from all walks of life and as a self proclaimed social butterfly, I love it. But then there’s those people that literally make you want to just quit on the spot, through your apron down and just walk out, and unfortunately that happens way too often. I’m also a pretty sensitive person so if you tell me you don’t like the food, I’m taking it to heart and holding back tears. There are some who treat you like their personal butler, snap their fingers, or talk to you like you’re beneath them. It’s honestly super hard to deal with. I know I’m a “server” but I shouldn’t be treated so poorly. Some people are just plain rude. Asking me how hard it is to just take down an order when 9/10 times it’s the kitchen misreading the bill, but us servers get the grunt of it all.  And let’s not forget the “campers”—the people who linger for hours after paying, holding up a table that could have seated two more rounds of customers. Some customers come up with requests that make you question reality, or dishes that aren’t on the menu. The most annoying part is when I’m super busy and have a 100 things to do and a table waves their arms at me ready to order so I go over anddddd they aren’t ready. At all. “What do you have for starters” then I go “oh well here is our starters on the menu” *they glance at it once* “hmmm do you have nachos?” nope we don’t and if you read the menu maybe you’d know that. Those are the times I just want to get up and walk away, but that would be considered rude, so I just bite my tongue, smile and nod. 

1515 Restaurant

Unlike other jobs where pay checks are consistent, servers rely on tips. And let’s be real—some customers just don’t tip well (or at all). It’s a gamble every night. You could provide flawless service, make jokes, keep drinks filled, and still walk away with a 5% tip. I also 100% get that sometimes all that’s in the budget is the food, and that’s completely okay to me, I get it this economy is insane right now. But what I don’t get is being completely rude, not tipping, and letting me know that you aren’t going to tip. Like okay? Just keep that to yourself. On the flip side, some customers are surprisingly generous, leaving a 30% tip for no reason other than being kind. You never know what you’re going to get, which makes every shift a financial mystery. Gambling is kinda fun right? Ya, I think so, but not when it’s a gamble on being able to fill up your gas tank all the way. But that’s just the name of the game, I signed up for this so I can’t be one to complain. 

Despite the stress, there are some amazing perks to being a server. First, the money can be surprisingly good, especially in busy restaurants or high-end spots. You might leave a shift with a stack of cash that rivals a desk job’s pay check. The culture and camaraderie of my fellow servers is great too. We all just get it. It’s fun. Sometimes it’s just like being paid to chat it up with friends and strangers. 

So ya, serving is not as easy as it looks, obviously I’m not a heart surgeon performing a 24 hour surgery, but ya it can be tough. So, if you’ve ever thought about being a server, just know: it’s tough, it’s unpredictable, but it’s also one of the most rewarding jobs out there and a great part time gig to pick up while in school. And if you’re a server, I salute you, you got it. 

 

Vancouver Bar Scene

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I don’t know if it’s just me, but I keep seeing people say Vancouver’s nightlife is awful.. My social media is flooded with complaints—bars and clubs are dead, the dancing is awkward, and the crowd is either too stiff or too cliquey. Whether it’s TikTok rants or Instagram comments, the consensus seems to be that going out in Vancouver just isn’t fun as other cities. But is it really that bad, or are people just exaggerating? Maybe the city’s nightlife scene is just different from what people expect. 

Downtown

One thing I will say, from an insider’s perspective, Vancouver doesn’t really have anything to it. Like think about it, Whistler has skiing and the whole Apres scene, Calgary is all fun country bars and the Stampede, Toronto is all Drake, and Vancouver has ….. The rain? I mean correct me if I’m wrong but as someone who has grown up in Vancouver I just can’t say we got a lot going on besides our beautiful scenery. 

I also strongly agree that the group you’re with can make or break your night. The right people can turn even the most mediocre boring bar into a party, while the wrong vibe can make the best club feel dull. If you’re out with a fun, energetic group who are ready to dance, laugh, and make the most of the night, you’re almost guaranteed to have a great time. A solid girls’ night is always a win—fun energy, inside jokes, and a “we’re making this fun no matter what” mindset can turn any night into a memorable one. It can even just be me and my best friend, and we will make a simple duo into a party. 

Not to sound like a huge complainer but I do have a couple of complaints that are for the most part, completely out of my control that I think adds to the dull Vancouver nightlife. 

  • The Rain

I mean they don’t call it Raincouver for nothing.  Nothing sucks more than putting on a good outfit, doing your hair, maybe putting a little makeup on and then stepping outside and looking like a drenched rat. I mean yes, I know rain jackets and umbrellas are a thing but it’s just a struggle. The jacket ruins the outfit and then the umbrella is just annoying to carry around the bar. I mean if there’s a coat check then it can be somewhat okay but if there’s not do you really want to be carrying around your puffer coat and a sopping wet umbrella? I didn’t think so. 

  • The Money

It’s impossible to not spend at least over $50 on a night out and that is being very very budget friendly. The pre-drinks, the ubers there and back, the insane cover fees, and of course, the overpriced beer. It’s gotten way out of hand, it’s straight robbery. Like really? $25 just to step foot in a bar that’s half-empty with weak music and no vibe? No thanks, I’ll pass. And don’t even get me started on drinks—$12 for a watered-down vodka soda? At that point, I might as well stay home and throw my own party. Certainly would save me from waking up with a huge dent in my wallet accompanied with a pounding headache from cheap vodka shots. 

  • The People

To be quite frank, I think people have just gotten plain rude. What happened to a simple, excuse me?  Instead of a polite tap on the shoulder or a quick “sorry,” I’m just getting shoved out of the way like I don’t exist! I get your in the moment, probably drunk and not thinking right, but c’mon, just a little bit of human decency would be nice right? Whether it’s at the bar, on the dance floor, or even just walking through a crowded space, people seem more impatient and self-absorbed than ever. It’s like common courtesy has been replaced with this entitled, every-person-for-themselves attitude. A night out is supposed to be fun, but when you’re constantly getting elbowed aside with zero acknowledgment, it definitely kills the vibe.

So, although Vancouver’s nightlife has its fair share of disappointments, there are still a few spots that never let me down. Here’s my go-to list of places that actually bring the energy and make a night out worth it.

The Roxy

I know, I know, I might already be scaring you with this one but hear me out. 2 words. Country Sundays. How could you not want that fun? The music is a live band, the bartenders are great, and the people are there for just straight good times. It’s also more of a casual vibe, no need to put on a collared shirt or a dress, jeans and a tee shirt do just fine. This place is a generational hit. I mean even my parents have some crazy stories from their Roxy days so it’s funny to fill them in on my nights at this classic joint. My best friend’s parents even met in the Roxy so if you’re having no luck on the dating apps, take this as your sign to hit up the Roxy. But seriously, I’ve never had a night go south there, it’s one of those places that just makes you want to dance. 

The Blarney Stone

An Irish bar? Enough said. Sign me up. I mean really how could you go wrong with an Irish bar. Nothing like throwing back pints of Guinness with “Shipping Up To Boston” blasting in your ears right? This place has great live music too. I know usually bars and clubs have DJs but in my opinion, live music rocks compared to corny mash ups and house beats. Located in the heart of Gastown if you’re looking for a place to get your night right, Blarney has got you covered. 

The Blarney Stone

The Yale

I’m a sucker for country music and beer. And The Yale hits both of those marks so that’s why it lands at the number 3 spot for me. The cover fee is a bit steep but honestly, I’ve never regretted paying it. Bring out your cowboy boots and hat for this one, and brush up on your line dancing and you will fit right in. But if country music isn’t your thing, then I’d skip this one because it’s literally just country music all night.

The Granville Warehouse

Throwing in a bar for good measure, the Warehouse is the place you want to be if you’re looking to throw some drinks back with friends over conversation and good music, this is more of a sit down place you can order food at too. And the best part, cheapest drinks and food you will find in the city. I think you can grab a beer for like $5. I don’t know anywhere else downtown Vancouver where you can do that! 

At the end of the day, Vancouver’s nightlife might not be perfect, but with the right places, the right people, and the right mindset, you can still make a great night out of it—just don’t expect it to come cheap or without a few annoyances along the way. But either way, if you hit up one of these spots at least you can guarantee that your on the right path for having a good night. 

 

The Ultimate Family Day Weekend

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Ahhhhh the weekend. The thing we count down from Sunday night for, the thing that’s usually stress free and fun, the thing that lets you just live your life without having to go to work at school. But I’m sure you’ve had it happen from time to time. You clock out of work on Friday or you walk out of classes and come to the harsh realization that you don’t have any plans for the weekend. You were so caught up in whatever the work week threw at you that you forgot to plan out the thing you’ve been looking forward to for the past week! Trust me I know this feeling all too well and to be quite frank this is the worst weekend that could happen to you. I mean we got Valentine’s day today, then of course the classic Saturday Sunday duo and then yup it’s a long weekend so you got Family day Monday too, it’s a big weekend. Yikes, don’t have anything planned? Well, don’t dress out yet, you’re in luck cause I’ve got your weekend planned out from today all the way to Monday. And as a weekend expert myself I think I’ve crafted the perfect way to long weekend. The first tip is to not burn yourself out too quickly. And what I really mean is not party too hard tonight so you’re hungover in bed and ruin the whole weekend (we save that for Sunday). But let’s keep it simple and go through this day to day.

Roses

So obviously today is Valentine’s day, I mean it’s pretty obvious my social media feeds have been flooded with couple posts and there’s been Valentine’s themed things all over the grocery store. But there’s 3 main ways I think you can celebrate valentines. 

  1. Have a friends night – if you and your friends are all single, celebrate that together. Maybe you guys want to head out for happy hour or stay at home and have a movie marathon, either works in my opinion.
  2. In a relationship? Go out for dinner. I mean it is Valentine’s so take out your partner for a yummy dinner and celebrate the day.
  3. Hate Valentine’s? Well then you’re in the same boat as me, and I’m in a relationship! My plans for the night are staying in with my boyfriend and making some nice steaks. To me, Valentine’s is just a hallmark money grab holiday. 

At the end of the day, whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s or not, my advice is to take Friday easy. After all, it’s a marathon, not a sprint. 

For me, the perfect long weekend Saturday is all about getting outside, taking it easy, re-setting, happy hour and all of that good stuff. But the only downfall this weekend is the forecast is showing rain for tomorrow. Usually I’d say Saturday’s are the perfect day for a hike in the North Shore mountains, or maybe a walk on the seawall, and then head to a patio for a Saturday day happy hour drinks, but with the looks of this weather, maybe you just want to skip right to the happy hour part. But I do have some good indoor Saturday activity ideas so you don’t just let the day go to waste. 

  1. The Invictus Games – an international adaptive sporting event for wounded, injured, and sick service personnel and veterans, founded by Prince Harry in 2014. And the cool thing is, the games are in Vancouver this year. Saturday you can catch a sitting Volleyball game in the heart of downtown Vancouver! 
  2. I’m all about taking in the winter sports while you still can before spring comes and I think the perfect way to do that is going ice skating. Robson Ice Skating rink is still open and guess what? It’s covered. So no need to rain check this idea! And if you want to continue the skating team, head to your favourite sports bar after the rink and tune into the Four Nations to see our Canadian boys face off to our friends down south. Puck drop is at 8pm and if you’re a Canucks fan this could be your opportunity to finally cheer for Connor McDavid instead of cheering against him (as an Oilers fan I’m not sure how to feel about this). 

Robson Square Ice Rink

Then it brings us to Sunday. Me and Sunday have a love hate relationship, but on a long weekend, Sunday is for sure in my good books. So how do you handle a Sunday that’s technically like a Saturday, i’ll tell you. Hopefully you followed my advice with the whole. It’s not a marathon, it’s a spring thing cause Sunday is the day where we are close to the finish line and we need to drive it home fast, so this is how it’s gonna look.

  1. Brunch. Brunch it up. Bottomless mimosas, caesars, eggs, bacon, the whole 9 yards. Do brunch right. Fill up, get boozy, and get the day started off right. 
  2. I don’t know about you, but a couple mid morning mimosas make me want to nap, and that’s perfectly fine, it was a long week you deserve it, but just know you gotta be up and going at 5.
  3. So then 5 rolls around, get your friends over, order a pizza, and get the party started. This is the pre for my favourite long weekend Sunday activity which is….. Drumroll please…. The Roxy!! I Mean how could it not be? The Roxy + Country music = Country Sundays, and let me tell you, it’s an absolute blast. And the vibes are great. Everybody has the day off since it’s a stat so it’s straight good vibes and tequila shots, what could be better than that?

Uh oh…. Monday rolls around. You might have a headache, you’re probably tired but the weekend doesn’t stop here. I think the best cure for a hangover is fresh air (and a ceaser) so maybe you walk to breakfast? I mean the possibilities are endless. Prefer something cozy? A movie marathon, board games, or baking together are great options. But here’s how my Sunday is going to look. I’m going to get up, force myself on a walk, grab a coffee and a bite to eat, walk home, clean my room, and then just movie it up. I mean ya, it’s family day, maybe I’ll see if my family wants to get in on my Harry Potter binge watching but it was literally a long weekend, your tired, you got a big week ahead, just lean into the Sunday vibes on a Monday and get yourself ready for the week.

I hope I was able to give you some ideas on how to get your long weekend to be the most perfect weekend you could ask for. You worked hard so now it’s time to reward yourself with a great weekend, leave your problems still Tuesday! So whether you’re spending your weekend with your partner, your family, your friends, or maybe doing it solo, cheers to a great one, you earned it. 

 

Vancouver’s Best Restaurants

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Are you ever in that position where you’re hungry but you can’t just decide on what you want to eat? In my opinion, there is nothing better in life than a good meal. I don’t eat to live, I live to eat. Vancouver is a foodie’s paradise. From hole-in-the-wall hidden gems to fine dining, this city has it all. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, a comforting bowl of ramen, or even a quick bite to eat from a food truck, there’s always something you can find that will satisfy those cravings any time of the day. Being born and raised in Vancouver, I’ve got to eat at quite a lot of places in and around the city, and I think I’ve concocted quite the list of my favourites from food trucks, fine dining, and casual eats, to Mexican, Italian, and Japanese. Whether you’re a local looking for your next go-to restaurant or a visitor hoping to get a true taste of Vancouver, this guide has you covered. Let’s be honest—one of the hardest decisions in life is figuring out where to eat (especially when your hangry). So next time you’re stuck in a debate over what sounds good, just pull up this list and thank me later.

Vancouver

I wasn’t kidding when I said this list is going to be extensive so I’ll break it down real simple for you so next time your in a rush or your girlfriend is super hangry and she pulls the classic “I don’t care where we eat, you pick” line (which I am certainly guilty of), you’ll be ready to go no matter the circumstance. Let’s start out with my favourite type of food:

Italian.

When it comes to comfort food, nothing hits quite like Italian. Whether you’re craving a classic plate of spaghetti, a perfectly charred pizza, or a yummy vodka sauce pasta, Vancouver has no shortage of incredible spots serving up the best of Italy. Here are my top picks for Italian food in the city, from casual go to’s, to higher end eats. 

  • Nook

I work near Nook in North Vancouver, and after a long day on the clock nothing hits better than sitting at the Nook bar with friends debriefing the day over an Aperol Spritz and a cheese pizza. The atmosphere is great and the food is always top notch. There’s also locations downtown and around Kits as well! 

  • Pepino’s

Two words to deceive this one. Classic. Italian. Pepino’s is definitely on the high end of my list, but if you’re looking to have the experience and are willing to spend the money, this place is 100% worth it. I’ve only been once 2 years ago and I still think of the vodka pasta every day. The room is cozy, the food is authentic, and the service is great. 5 stars from me. Perfect for girls night, date night, maybe even a first date. 

  • Anton’s Pasta Bar 

Big family style portions, well paired wine, and relatively well priced food. This place has got it all. It’s not my first choice when going out for Italian but when I’m looking for a hearty filling meal.

  • Jo’s Italian Deli 

Need a quick grab and go lunch? Jo’s Italian Deli has got you covered. Great prices and delicious food is what you can expect from this joint. You can also dine in as well. So if you’re looking for some casual, well priced, quick Italian, check this place out. 

  • Bosa Foods Pasta Tuesday 

I decided to add this place because their Pasta Tuesday deals rocks. I used to work right across from the Bosa Foods and on Tuesdays, they always could expect me to show up for a deal. I mean c’mon, a pasta meal with a drink, meatball, and a slice of garlic bread for $15! Sign me up! You can also call your order ahead of time for easy pick up. But just a tip, it does get busy so make sure you get there close to lunch or call ahead. 

Italian food

Mexican.

If you’re craving bold flavours, fresh ingredients, and the perfect balance of spice and zest, Mexican food is the way to go. From authentic tacos and street-style elotes to sizzling fajitas and flavourful birria, Vancouver has some incredible spots to satisfy your cravings. Nothing calls my name more like a taco Tuesday.

  • Tacofino

A Vancouver island Tofino classic that has expanded to the mainland. Nothing hit better than getting tossed around in the waves surfing, then crushing tacos to fill up after a long day, was a childhood classic for me so I bet you can imagine how pumped I was when they made it to the mainland. I’ll keep it simple, craving tacos, go here, 10/10 delicious, hits every single time. 

  • Tequila Cocina 

This place is so fun. They’ve got a great variety of Mexican eats, delicious drinks, and a super fun atmosphere. There’s a location near me in North Vancouver and a location downtown on Granville street, and I have to say the Granville location rocks. Whether you’re starting your night dinner and drinks, need a mid night pick me up, or heading for some post bar tacos, they’ve got everything to satisfy all those Friday and Saturday night cravings.

tacos

Sushi

In my opinion, Vancouver has the best sushi in North America. I mean c’mon, we are right next to the Pacific after all. Nothing beats the fresh seafood that comes right from your backyard! But it’s not just about the ingredients. Vancouver’s sushi scene is a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. You’ve got everything from high-end experiences to hole in the wall joints serving up sushi so good it ruins all other sushi for you.

  • Hamei Sushi

Hamei sushi in North Vancouver is the perfect hole in the wall joint I look for, delicious rolls, Donburi bowls, and on top of that a great selection of the best Japanese beer for good prices. The sushi is so fresh and it comes out so fast. Hamei is my go to spot when I’m feeling lazy and just want to order something in. 

  • Miku Sushi

Out of all the places I’ve listed so far this one definitely takes the cake for the “fanciest” dining experience and the one where you can expect to spend the most $$. I went once for a work event and oh my. This sushi was insane. From classic tuna avocado rolls to fun seared salmon box sushi style everything blew me away. The room is insanely beautiful too and sits right on the water with gorgeous views facing the North Shore mountains.  

Sushi

 Whether you’re indulging in a fine dining experience, grabbing a quick bite from a food truck, or discovering a new hidden gem, there’s no shortage of incredible places to eat in and around Vancouver. Vancouver has truly got it all, so next time you’re looking for a place to make a reso for date night, planning a first date, or maybe just want to order something in, try one of these places and I can guarantee you won’t be disappointed. 

Dissecting Lyrics: Taylor Swift Edition

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Taylor Swift has certainly gotten a lot more media coverage in the past couple years, from releasing and re-releasing albums, to touring her iconic Eras Tour, and dating Kansas City Chiefs tight end, Travis Kelce. I mean this girl is everywhere. Even if you aren’t a fan I can bet you’ve seen her somewhere. Whether it was presenting an award at the Grammy’s or on your TV on Sunday night football, she’s everywhere. But I think we can all agree it’s safe to say that Taylor Swift gets her fair share of hate. “All her songs are breakup songs” “all her songs are about her exes” . Sounds familiar right? Well, I’m here to enlighten the haters and share that Taylor Swift is more than just a country turned pop singer who sings about her breakups and past situationships and show that lyrics go a lot deeper than just “shake it off”. Obviously music is all subjective but in my opinion, Taylor Swift is a lyrical genius. “All her music sounds the same” Well sure you could say the albums have the same vibe, but you cannot tell me 1989 sounds anything like Folklore. 

One thing I’ve learned to appreciate about music in the past couple years is dissecting the lyrics. In all honesty, music used to just be about the beat and rhythm to me. If I liked it, I’d just listen to it and not really hear the lyrics, now (especially with Swift) I read the lyrics and dissect the meaning. It’s fun, sometimes it’s hidden, sometimes it’s just a blatant meaning. I’ve chosen some of the lyrics that prove Taylor Swift is far beyond the pop breakup anthem artists that she is known for. So what are my credits for being able to give you this information. 1. I’m a hardcore Swiftie sitting at the top 1% of Taylor Swift listeners according to my Spotify wrapped and 2. I’m a part of way too many chat groups that dissect Swift’s songs. 

DISCLAIMER: I will use the word presumed because obviously we cannot get into the actual mind of the one and only Taylor Swift, this is just what is presumed.

Starting with her album Folklore (one of my favourite albums) that was a surprise release for fans in the summer of 2020. There’s one song on here that I want to talk about first and that song is seven. This song is presumed to be about childhood innocence and friendships and there is reference about her friend having an abusive father.

“And I’ve been meaning to tell you/ I think your house is haunted/ Your dad is always mad and that must be why”

“And I think you should come live with/ Me and we can be pirates/ Then you won’t have to cry/ Or hide in the closet”

These lyrics reference that Taylor knew what was going on in her childhood friend’s life and at a young age, she just wanted her friend to run away and live with her. 

This song is a perfect example of Taylor being more than just her breakup songs, this song is about the nostalgia of your younger years and how you perceive traumatic events when you are younger. 

I want to touch on a relationship-y type song, however, it isn’t about breakups and getting over your ex, it’s about staying with them when you are pouring more into the relationship than they are, it’s one sided. This song is pretty gut wrenching to me, I’m sure you’ve been in that position once or twice, putting your all into someone just for them to, well, tolerate it. This song is from the album Evermore which is a so-called “sister album” of Folklore. The song I’m dissecting next is, “tolerate it”.

“I wait by the door like I’m just a kid/ Use my best colours for your portrait/ Lay the table with the fancy sh–/ And watch you tolerate it”

These lyrics perfectly portray the feeling of putting all your effort into something, being so excited for that person, and not having those feelings be reciprocated, but you’re just so happy to have a part of them in your life, you stick with them and tolerate their subpar feelings for you.

“I know my love should be celebrated/ But you tolerate it” 

“Now I’m begging for footnotes in the story of your life”

The feeling of knowing that you deserve more but settling for less but still holding on to that person hopeful that they will give you some sort of attention.

Gut wrenching right?

In 2015, Taylor Swift’s mom, Andrea Swift battled a brain tumour. Taylor then released the song “Soon You’ll Get Better” and this song is one of those songs that will hit hard for anyone who has gone or known someone who has battled an illness. 

When someone close to you gets sick there’s a feeling of “what will I do?” at time it feels like a selfish thing to think with that someone close to you going through a lot worse, but Taylor nails this feeling down with the lyrics:

“And I hate to make this all about me/ But who am I supposed to talk to?/ What am I supposed to do/ If there’s no you?/”

“You like the nicer nurses, you make the best of a bad deal”

“Ooh-ah, soon you’ll get better/ Ooh-ah, you’ll get better soon/ ‘Cause you have to/

“Soon You’ll Get Better” is a real tear jerker. 

One thing that we can all agree on is that Taylor does know how to curate the perfect breakup song that encapsulates every little feeling and moment. As an artist she has certainly evolved from the “Blank Space” and “Shake it Off” days. But it’s only right I end on a breakup song, and I’ll be taking one of her newest albums “The Tortured Poets Department”. This song is about someone destroying you during the relationship and being left destroyed after. These lyrics can be interpreted in so many different ways depending on how you look at it personally so I’m just going to share the ones that left me stunned, from the song “The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived.” So yes, it is about a breakup, but it’s about the behind the scenes, the feeling of being gaslit, manipulated, and being used until you’re left with a version of yourself you can’t even recognize.

“Were you sent by someone who wanted me dead?/ Did you sleep with a gun underneath our bed?”

These lyrics to me just show how you can be so blindsided by a person you thought you knew so well. It’s almost like asking the question “what was the motive for all of this?” “was this your plan all along?”

“I would’ve died for your sins/ Instead I just died inside”

The feeling of doing anything for someone just to have them stab you in the back.

Taylor Swift is so much more than just an artist who makes pop beats about her breakups. And while I do have a bit (a lot) of bias as a hardcore fan, I think some of these lyrics just speak for themselves. So what do you think? Have I turned you into more of a Swiftie? 

The Art Of Romantizing Your Life

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*Beep beep beep beep” ughhhhhh, here we go again. It’s the crack of dawn on a Monday morning, the sun isn’t even up yet, and here, once again, you find yourself crawling out of bed, yawning, and about to start another repetitive week. Whether it’s your 9-5 grind at your desk job, or sitting in for yet another week of classes, it’s the same cycle again and again on repeat. Maybe you’ll get a break on the weekend or maybe you’re counting down the days to Spring, or even Summer break, but what’s for sure is, you just want to get through the week. It’s the same routine, snoozing your alarm wishing you could just drift back to sleep then finally getting up and ready, maybe sip on a coffee while you sit in traffic, clock in, clock out, sit in traffic, cook, clean, go to bed, anddddd *beep beep beep beep* before you know it you’re up and starting the same exact day as yesterday. 

But it doesn’t have to be this way. The way you live your life is all about your perspective and attitude. No matter what your personal circumstances are, the way you look at your life and your attitudes towards it affects it more than you know. You are in control of how you feel towards your life and the power is ultimately in your hands to switch it up. It probably sounds harder than it is, but once you get the art of romanticizing your life down, it truly does get better. How does this sound: *beep beep beep beep* you wake up and immediately switch your tired mindset to one that is positive, you’re excited to wake up and start the day, maybe after work you planned a walk with your friends, or maybe you made lunch break plans with a coworker. You blast good music on your way to work and you feel good about yourself. Even if it’s raining you don’t let that get you down cause that just means you can sip on a warm cup of tea and read a book when you get home. Just adding on little extra things to your day and stepping away from the repetitive cycle will do you a whole lotta good. 

And I get it, life is hard, there’s going to be days when your alarm goes off and you wake up on the wrong side of the bed. You’re just going through the motions to get through to the end of the day. But is that really how you want to live? I mean having a job and working Monday through Friday is pretty much unavoidable unless you’re a millionaire. You have to do it. So if you hate it, why not at least try to make it somewhat enjoyable. Romanticize every little part of your life, treat it like you’re at the star of a movie. Because let’s be real, if we’re spending most of our lives working, why not romanticize the hell out of it? The little things aren’t so little when they help you find joy in the ordinary.

As a full time student myself, I understand the weekly dread that a lot of other students may feel when Sunday night creeps out of what feels like nowhere. You know you’re going to have to repeat the same week, feel stressed with classes, maybe you even have a part time job that’s getting you down but it’s all about changing your mindset and perspective. And although it may sound corny, it works to just think positive. You are lucky to be able to go to school, it’s a privilege. And think about it this way, one day you will move on from school, graduate, and get a real job. There’s a lot less flexibility in a real job. No more “my dog ate my homework” or “I tried but I just couldn’t get it done”. It will probably just get a lot harder from here on out so why not start romanticizing your life now to set yourself up for success in the future. 

Mastering the art of romanticizing your life is something that takes time and definitely isn’t linear. But I have been able to nail some things down myself that for sure get me out of that negative mind set to one that is learning to play with a set of cards I’m dealt in a positive and optimistic way. 

  • Get Excited About Your Morning Routine

First of all if you don’t have a good morning routine, create one that you enjoy. Learning to turn your morning into something you enjoy rather than something you dread can change how your whole day can go. For me I love matcha, so getting out of bed knowing that I can start my day with a delicious matcha helps get me up and going. Don’t be shy to make things easier for yourself as well. The mornings are already hard enough as it is, so why not do things in the evening for yourself that you will be thankful you have done for yourself in the morning. I prep my lunch for the day, or maybe even plan what I’m going to have for breakfast so it’s just one less thing for me to think about early in the morning. I find laying out my outfit before bed is also another thing that helps me because then I can roll out of bed and be ready to go. 

  • Get Ready

Like most people, I find it difficult to get up in the morning. I’m just so tired and groggy the last thing I want to do is put on jeans and do my hair. But when I do this, 12 o clock comes and I just feel like a slob. Getting ready for yourself in the morning, whatever that may look like for you, can help you with the flow of your day. For me I’ve realized it’s helpful to opt for jeans and say no to that comfy sweatsuit because I just feel overall more put together and confident. Taking an extra 10 minutes for yourself in the morning will lead to a better 10 hours throughout the day. 

  • Learn To Love Your Commute

Traffic is the worst, but bump your favourite tunes, call a friend you haven’t talked to in awhile, and the time will fly. It’s just all about romanticizing the little things, pretending you’re the main character in your favourite movie and you’re on the way home from your glamorous job blasting your favourite artist. Belt out all the lyrics at the top of your lungs and just enjoy the ride. Think, when you were 16 you were dying to get behind the wheel, now it’s just an everyday thing for you, enjoy it! 

Life is too short to be left upset at the way our lives are turning out. Having a job is inevitable, but the way you handle everything is up to you. Romanticizing every little detail about your life down to what coffee creamer you use or even the fun matching socks you have on will make your day just that much better. Be your own main character and director because the way you look at life is all in your control. 

Type A Vs Type B (Or Type C?)

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Yesterday my friends asked me if I was more type A or type B. I honestly didn’t really have an answer “is there a type C?”. I mean I think I’m a pretty good mix. And does it even really matter to know what you are? Ever met someone who always has a to-do list, hates being late, and gets a little too competitive during board games? Or maybe you know someone who’s so laid-back and seems to just have no sense of urgency? Well I’m for sure a bit of both.

planner

For starters my sense of urgency is insane. Have somewhere to be? No time to sit down and chat, it’s go go go. Being late is not an option, so throw that jacket on, slip on your shoes, and get in the car. If you’re not 5 minutes early, that’s considered late in my books. But on the other hand, I can contain my stress levels pretty well, putting things into perspective with a little planning (which I guess is type A) usually does the trick for me to get me back on track. 

I think I’ve figured out my type to be type A on the weekdays and type B on the weekends. Once Saturday and Sunday roll around, my room is looking a bit messier, I’m less productive, and more content just to be. But on the weekdays, I’m a different breed. Up bright and early, following a to do schedule down to the minute, and planning out every meal.

I think a balance is good. A little bit of both to get you going and then just to be able to relax is a good thing. But why is it a good thing to know what type you are? Well I guess you could live without it but I’m a strong believer that understanding your personality type is just good for your life. Knowing when to take a break and let loose or when to lock in just helps me balance fun and work. I kinda live by the “work hard, play hard” mentality. And I think that’s a lifestyle more and more people are picking up and living by. To me it’s the only way to do it. Put in the work so that you can still enjoy all of life’s fun moments, the perfect balance. 

planner

So what type of person do you think you are? An up and go go getter, or someone who has no problem stopping and smelling the roses? At the end of the day, neither type is “better.” The key is to recognize your tendencies and find a balance that works for you.