Author Archives: Kelsey Wong

JUNOfest This Weekend!

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Are you looking for an awesome event to attend this weekend? Well, you’re in luck! JUNOfest is taking over Vancouver this Friday and Saturday (March 28 & 29). With over 100 artists, you can see Canadian musicians and JUNO nominees performing live at more than 10 venues! These venues include: The Hollywood Theatre, The Fox Cabaret and The Cobalt. This event is so special because it allows fans the opportunity to see multiple artists in one weekend at smaller, more intimate venues. And since the venues are all close by, you can pop over between them to catch your favourites on stage. 

This the perfect event for those who are super into Canadian artists and those wanting to discover more local Canadian artists. Let’s get into some of the artists set to perform:

1. Jamie Fine

Jamie is an Ottawa-born singer/songwriter. She inspires audiences to explore emotions we all feel but often struggle to express. As a 4-time Juno nominee, her music has over 100 million streams. Her big hit single If Anything’s Left reached Platinum status in Canada and Double-Platinum in South Africa. You can see Jamie on March 28 at The Fox Cabaret from 8:40pm – 9:40pm! 

2. Abigail Lapell

Abigail is a Toronto based songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. She has received three Canadian Folk Music Awards (English Songwriter of the Year in 2023 and 2020 and Contemporary Album of the Year in 2017). Lapell has hit number one on Canadian folk radio and has reached a staggering 48 million plus streams across digital music platforms. She is also nominated for a Juno this year! You can catch Abigail on March 28 at Anza Club from 7:30pm – 8:00pm!

3. Hey Ocean!

Hey Ocean! is an indie alternative rock and synthpop band who formed in 2004 right here in Vancouver, BC. They’re known for their super energetic live shows and blend of indie rock, folk and jazz influences. After a three-year hiatus, they have returned with a new evolution of their sound. To many, they are a quintessential West Coast band. You can see Hey Ocean! perform on March 29 at The Hollywood Theatre from 8:30pm – 9:30pm!

What a great opportunity to see these artists and many more live! You can secure your tickets at http://www.junofest.ca/. It’s sure to be a great time! And, hey, you might even find your new favourite artist in the process. This all leads up to The Juno Awards on March 30th at Rogers Arena hosted by Michael Buble. You can still get tickets at https://junoawards.ca/.

I’m wishing you a fun-filled Juno Week full of great music!

Where Have All the Third Spaces Gone?

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Third spaces are crucial to our social well-being, but they have become increasingly difficult to find. What are third places you may ask? Third places are locations that facilitate social interaction and productivity-free conversation outside of the office and home. A place where public relaxation is encouraged and you encounter “regulars” and the potential for new connections. It’s where you can hang out and just be, where nothing is expected of you and you can just relax.

Third places are vital to our well-being, but so few of us have them. A place to escape the mundanity of the 9 to 5 slog of commuting, working, comuting – rinse and repeat. When was the last time you spent an afternoon at the local library or at the neighbourhood bowling alley? These third spaces, places for connection, relaxation and rejuvenation, are integral to our well-being and the fabric of our communities.

Fostering Social Connections and Community

One of the most powerful roles of third spaces is their ability to foster social connections. It’s places where people from varying backgrounds can meet, converse and build relations. Third spaces provide opportunities for people to interact with others beyond their immediate social circles. Whether it’s meeting a stranger at a coffee shop or chatting with someone at a local park, these interactions can help bridge social divides, making them vital to fostering community cohesion. In our day-to-day busy lives, it can be difficult to find time or space for meaningful interactions. Third spaces offer a relaxed environment for conversation that might not happen in structured settings like work or at home.

Coffee shop

When You Just Can’t Seem to Fall Asleep

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Have you had your fair share of sleepless nights? You toss and turn, you count the imaginary sheep and you still can’t fall asleep. It’s frustrating and sometimes it can feel like a never-ending zero-win battle with yourself. Whether these nights are rare or a habitual occurrence for you, I’ve gathered some great tips and tricks to help you get some shut eye when you need it the most.

1. Create a Relaxing Environment

Start by dimming your lights. Bright lights can disrupt your body’s natural sleep cycle, so try lowering the lights or use a dim lamp. Aim for a cool temperature, a cooler temperature around 15–20°C is optimal for sleeping. If you’re feeling a little warm, try using a fan or cracking open the window. Do your best to eliminate noise. If there’s lots of noise, try earplugs or playing calm sounds like white noise or nature sounds to help you relax.

2. Limit Screen Time Before Bed

I know this one’s difficult. It’s definitely difficult for me. But, do your best to turn off your electronics. The blue light emitted by phones, tablets and computers interferes with your body’s production of melatonin, the hormone that helps regulate your sleep. Best practice is to avoid screens at least 30 to 60 minute before bed. In the evenings, if you must use your phone or computer, consider using night mode to reduce blue light exposure.

lazy bugger

 

Festive Fun: Must-See Christmas Events This Season

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It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas… well maybe not outside. But the holiday season is just around the corner and there’s lots of festive events happening around the Lower Mainland to get you in the holiday spirit.

VanDusen Festival of Lights (November 29 to January 5)

The VanDusen Festival of Lights is a popular annual holiday event held at the VanDusen Botanical Garden. It transforms the beautiful garden into a dazzling winter wonderland with over a million lights illuminating the pathways, trees and landscapes. The garden is transformed with intricate light displays, including twinkling trees and colourful pathways. There are also unique themed installations like a sparking tunnel of lights and a maze of LED-lit plants. Visitors can enjoy a warm and festive atmosphere complete with holiday music, hot chocolate and other festive treats. This year’s new feature includes a display themed like the Great Bear Rainforest complete with an interactive attraction exploring the fascinating fungal world of mycelium. The entire garden is decked out in Christmas cheer, there’ll be holiday photo opportunities waiting for you around every corner.

https://twitter.com/VanDusenGdn/status/1851308083731185779

The Art of Thrifting

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I have a back and forth relationship with thrifting. Throughout some periods of my life, I would frequent thrift shops pretty regularly. And other periods of my life, I would rarely go to the thrift shop. When I’m in the mood for the hunt and excited to look through racks and racks of items, thrifting can be so exciting and enjoyable. But when you exit the store empty handed, it can feel like wasted time. Nonetheless, recently thrifting has transitioned from being a niche hobby to a mainstream cultural phenomenon.

What perhaps was once seen as a means of shopping in a less expensive manner has evolved into a full, multifaceted shopping experience that draws people of all ages. Whether you’re on the hunt for vintage furniture, unique fashion pieces or simply enjoy the thrill of the hunt, thrifting provides a compelling mix of excitement, sustainability and personal expression.

Here’s one of my favourite playlists to listen to while thrifting, play it to get into a thrifting mood while reading the rest of the article.

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2pbisRd95iC7epW9BtBpVH?si=a83d5edfdf8a4e11

The Thrill of the Hunt

One of the main reasons shoppers find thrifting so exciting is the thrill of the hunt. Unlike retail shopping, where you often enter a store knowing exactly what you’re looking for, thrifting adds a sense of discovery. You never quite know what you’ll be able to find and that uncertainty can be part of the fun. The motions of sifting through racks of clothing, scouring shelves for unique homeware or digging through boxes of vintage jewelry taps into our natural curiosity and allure for surprises.

Entering a thrift store is like entering a treasure trove of hidden gems and for many the process of searching for the items is as enjoyable as finding them. This sense of unpredictability makes each trip to the thrift store feel like an adventure. Maybe you’re on the lookout for a rare designer piece, the perfect denim jacket or simply something that speaks to your personal style. Thrifting offers a sense of excitement that you rarely get from traditional retail shopping.

Thrift Shop

Sustainability & Conscious Consumerism

In a world increasingly concerned with environmental issues, thrifting has become a popular alternative to mass production and fast fashion. Thrift stores allow customers to buy items that already exist, which in turn, helps reduce waste and lowers the demand for new products. When you purchase second hand items, you’re participating in a circular economy that encourages the reuse of materials rather than the extraction of new resources.

Fast fashion has long been criticized for its environmental impact and exploitation of cheap labour. This has led many consumers to consider their shopping habits. Instead of contributing to the production of new items, thrift shoppers are extending the life cycle of items that already exist, reducing both the waste and the environmental footprint of consumerism. Buying secondhand goods often results in lower carbon emissions compared to purchasing new items. The efforts of transportation, manufacturing and packaging associated with new items all contribute to pollution and energy consumption. When purchasing secondhand, you are effectively reducing the demand for these energy-intensive processes.

Beating Seasonal Affective Disorder: Strategies for a Brighter Winter

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Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs at specific times of the year, most commonly during the fall and winter months when daylight hours are shorter. This condition can lead to feelings of sadness, fatigue and lack of motivation affecting daily life and overall well-being. While we experience the grey and overcast days of “Raincouver”, there are effective strategies to manage and overcome the symptoms of SAD.

Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder – What is SAD?

SAD is a form of depression that typically occurs in cycles, with symptoms appearing in the fall and winter and subsiding in the spring and summer. Reduced sunlight can lead to imbalances in serotonin, which plays a crucial role in mood regulation and sleep patterns.

Rainy April

 

 

Are You a Fan of TV and Movie Reboots?

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The entertainment industry has seen a surge in the number of reboots, remakes and revivals of beloved television shows and films as of late. This increase has sparked debates among audiences and fandoms, with some embracing the nostalgia of familiar stories and characters while others criticize the lack of originality in Hollywood. We will explore the phenomenon of reboots, examine their motivations, the impact on the industry and audiences and what the future holds for this trend.

The Nostalgia Factor

One of the primary motives behind the reboot trend is nostalgia. Nostalgia acts as a powerful emotion that connects us to our past, evoking memories of childhood, family and significant moments in our lives. When we see familiar characters on screen or hear iconic theme songs, we’re transported back to the times when we first experienced those stories. This emotional pull can be a significant draw for viewers, making reboots a particularly lucrative venture for studios. Two films that were mainstays of my childhood are Freaky Friday and The Princess Diaries that both have remakes in the making. I know that watching these films will take me right back to when the originals were released.

https://twitter.com/Disney/status/1844785064376258654

 

Kidfluencing: Ethical Qualms & Child Labour Laws

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In recent years, the phenomenon of “kidfluencing” and family vlogging has exploded on social media. Children as young as toddlers have become influential figures in the digital space. Social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram and YouTube have acted as spaces for children to amass large followings, attracting brand partnerships and sponsorships that were once reserved for adult social media influencers. However, as more and more children gain followings, it raises crucial ethical questions surrounding the welfare of these children and the potential exploitation they may face.

The Rise of Kidfluencers

Kidfluencers are children who use social media to share content like toy reviews, fashion hauls and lifestyle vlogs. Two of the most recognizable names in kidfluencing include Ryan Kaji of “Ryan’s World” who’s toy reviews have garnered a multi-millionaire dollar empire and Charli D’Amelio, who started as a dance influencer and has since expanded her brand to include merchandise and partnerships. As the digital landscape evolves, the potential for substantial monetization has attracted parents looking to capitalize on their children’s talents. Although, the motivations behind kidfluencing can be complex. For some families, it’s a source of income. For others, it can be an opportunity to foster entrepreneurial skills. Yet, amidst these motivations lies a very pressing concern. The ethical implications of exposing children to the demands of influencer culture.

Ethical Concerns of Kidfluencing

The quick rise of kidfluencing has garnered a myriad of ethical concerns, particularly in regards to the commodification of childhood. The American Academy of Pediatrics warns of the potential psychological effects of social media on children, including issues related to self-esteem, body image and social pressure. Clearly, kidfluencers are not immune to these psychological challenges. The pressure to maintain a curated, inventive online persona can be overwhelming. This leads to anxiety and stress, which can be multiplied tenfold when children are thrust in the spotlight at a young age.

The distinction between content creation and commercial promotion can often be blurred. Children are not adequately informed about advertising standards, leading to situations where they promote products without understanding the implications. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has guidelines requiring influencers to disclose paid partnerships. But, enforcement can be inconsistent, particularly when it comes to child creators. This poses questions about children being protected to the fullest extent from exploitative practices and whether parents are equipped to navigate this or have their children’s best interests in mind.

Final Thoughts

The intersection of kidfluencing, ethic and child labour presents a complex landscape that necessitates careful navigation. With children carving out spaces in the influencer economy, it is essential to prioritize their well-being and protect them from exploitations. By fostering ethical practices among parents, brands and platforms, there is potential to create a digital environemnt that allows young creators to thrive while safegaurading their rights and mental health. Although, the question of if children should even exist in the world of influencing whatsoever at play.

Must-Watch: New TV Shows to Add to Your Binge List

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We live in a golden age of television and there are so many series to choose from. But sometimes, too many choices can lead to choice paralysis. Have you ever sat down in front of the TV, started scrolling through various streaming platforms for something that peaks your interest and then the next thing you know fifteen minutes have elapsed and you still haven’t chosen anything. To help you with decision fatigue, I’m going to recommend to you a few of my favourite new shows that were released this fall.

1. English Teacher

My first recommendation is called “English Teacher”. In Canada, you can stream the series on Disney Plus. English Teacher is a sitcom created by Brian Jordan Alvarez, who stars as the main character Evan Marquez. The cast also includes Stephanie Koenig, Enrico Colantoni and Sean Patton. The show premiered on September 2, 2024 on FX.

You can watch the trailer here:

2. Shrinking (Season 2)

Watching Season 1 of Shrinking was like a breath of fresh air. The characters are overwhelmingly relatable and feel so grounded. The premise of the show centers on Jimmy laird, a therapist struggling with the loss of his wife. He abandons traditional therapeutic norms, bluntly telling his clients what he truly thinks. The unconventional methods leads to both breakthroughs and chaos in his professional and personal life. After the passing of his wife, he dropped the ball in rasiing his teenage daughter Alice and starts to pick up those pieces.

In Season 2, Jimmy’s road to healing takes a positive approach, but not without a few hiccups along the way. The show beautifully balances humour, emotional depth while exploring themes of loss healing and human connection. I highly recommend watching this series if you haven’t given it a try yet.

Watch the trailer for Season 2:

3. Dancing With the Stars (Season 33)

Alright, so I once though that this show was exclusively followed by older folks, but boy was I wrong. In terms of reality competition shows, I have never watched anything so compelling. It is so easy to get swept into the personal narratives of the contestants. The entertainment value is through the roof! Each week you can expect amazing costumes, fun performances, personal growth from contestants and much more. If you’ve never watched a season of Dancing With the Stars, I would highly recommend watching just one episode to give it a shot. I promise it’s not just for old folks.

Here’s a little taste of what you can expect when you tune in:

I hope these recommendations help get you through our cold and rainy weather this fall season!

Ranking Emily Henry’s 5 Most Recent Novels

Link

Emily Henry has taken the literary world by storm. She has definitively solidified herself as a mainstay author in contemporary romance fiction. When browsing through TikTok creators most recommended lists, it’s rare to find one where her books are completely absent.

Her success stems from her unique ability to blend heartfelt emotions with lighthearted humour, creating a distinctive style that resonates with many readers. Let’s explore a few key factors that contribute to her success:

  • Witty Dialogue: she has a true talent and finesse for engaging, clever dialogue that adds a layer of charm to her stories. The sharp wit not only entertains the reader, but deepens the character relationships, making the narrative overall more enjoyable.
  • Relatable Characters: the protagonist in her novels grapple with real-life issues like career struggles and difficult family dynamics, making them relatable to a wide audience. You can often empathize with her protagonists as they exhibit real-life experiences.
  • Themes of Growth: Henry’s novels explore themes of self-discovery, healing and the complexities of modern relationships. A focus on personal growth in a protagonist resonates with readers that are searching for more than just a typical romance.
  • Emotional Depth: While her novels are meant to be lighthearted and comforting reads, they also dive into deeper emotional territory. Tackling issues like grief, family trauma and the pressure of adulthood. This balance of light and heavy themes makes her stories feel substantial and are easy to sink your teeth into.

Hopefully I have convinced you to try out an Emily Henry novel. To help you pick out your first, I’m going to rank her five most recent titles and give you my personal opinions on each. Caution: my ranking may differ from others.

1. Happy Place

I absolutely loved this novel. The characters come to life and you feel like you’re a fly on the wall. The novels centers on Harriet and Wyn. They were one a perfect couple, but secretly have been broken up for months and have to disclose this information to their circle of friends. Despite their separation, they both agree to attend an annual weeklong vacation with the aforementioned circle of friends at a cherished beach house in Maine. In an attempt to salvage an enjoyable trip, they pretend to still be together. As the week unfolds, Harriet and Wyn are forced to confront their individual struggles and the reasons behind their split.

2. Book Lovers

This was my first Henry read and I completely fell in love with the characters witty repartee. In my opinion, this novel has the best dialogue of all five on this list. The novel centers Nora Stephens, a high-powered, fiercely driven literary agent who thrives in the fast paced world of New York City. While on a month-long getaway to Sunshine Falls with her sister, she repeatedly runs into Charlie Lastra. He’s a brooding and cynical book editor she’s had a rocky professional history with. What starts off as antagonistic banter, slowly evolves into an electric and emotionally complex connection.

3. Funny Story

This is Henry’s most recent novel on this list and it’s a very fun read. The novel follows Daphne Vincent, who finds herself in a small town called Waning Bay after a devastating breakup. She becomes roommates with Miles Nowak, her ex-fiance’s new partner’s ex-boyfriend. Yes, it is quite the situation. The two agree to a fake dating arrangement in order to attend their exes wedding with dignity. However, their playful ruse deepens into genuine affection, forcing them to confront their vulnerabilities and past hurts.

4. People We Meet On Vacation

People We Meet on Vacation is the ultimate “friends to lovers” narrative trope. The story follow Poppy and Alex, polar opposites who have been best friends since college. Every summer, they go on vacation together, until an incident two years prior creates a rift between them. Feeling stuck in life, Poppy convinces Alex to join her for one last summertime trip in an attempt to mend their broken friendship. Throughout the vacation, old tensions and unspoken feelings come to the surface, forcing them to confront their true emotions.

5. Beach Read

All right, so I put Beach Read at the bottom because I bought into the characters the least. And that doesn’t seem to be the case for most Emily Henry fans. The story follow January Andrews, a romance novelist grappling with writer’s block and personal loss. She moves into her late father’s beach house. She finds that her neighbour is Augustus Everett, a cynical literary fiction writer and former college rival. Both struggling with writer’s block, they strike a deal to swap genres. January will attempt literary fiction and Gus will try romance. As they dive into each other’s worlds, the pairs spends more time together and discover surprising truths about life, love and themselves.

And the best news of all! Henry is releasing a new novel April 22, 2025. It’s called Great Big Beautiful Life and I’m so excited to read it.