The past few weeks, I’ve been busy, but not in the usual way. I haven’t been rushing around with meetings or checking off a long list. Instead, I’ve been focusing on slowing down. I’ve realized that it’s difficult to take a moment to be still in this fast-paced world!
Lately I’ve been intentional with my time, choosing to do things that truly bring me joy: lying down with a book, getting lost in stories that whisk me away to distant lands and fantastical adventures, or strumming chords on my ukulele, creating melodies that resonate with my soul. Most especially on weekends and at night when I get home, I cherish these moments of solitude and creativity, as they provide me with a sense of calm and fulfillment. I find that indulging in these simple pleasures not only helps me unwind but also rejuvenates my spirit, allowing me to face the upcoming week with renewed energy and enthusiasm. It’s a conscious decision to invest my time in what matters most to me, nurturing my passions and cultivating a deeper connection to myself and the world around me.
It struck me recently that since finishing graduate school and stepping fully into work life, I haven’t read as much as I used to. Reading used to be my escape, my way of slipping into different lives and places, immersing myself in the vibrant worlds crafted by talented authors. Each book was a journey that transported me far beyond the confines of my reality, allowing me to experience myriad emotions, cultures, and adventures. Now, I’m rediscovering that rhythm again—this time without deadlines, exams, or pressure—just pure enjoyment. I find myself wandering through bookstores, browsing new titles, and feeling that familiar excitement as I select a book, eager to dive into its pages. As I carve out small pockets of time in my busy schedule, I relish the quiet moments spent with a cup of tea and a captivating story, allowing myself to connect with characters and themes that resonate deeply within me. This return to reading is not just a personal indulgence; it feels like a profound rediscovery of a cherished part of myself.
Books on My Nightstand
Before the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu Kawaguchi
Set in a small Tokyo café with a mysterious promise—you can travel back in time, but only until your cup of coffee gets cold—this novel weaves together tender, bittersweet stories of people longing for second chances.
A woman wants to confront the man who left her, a sister longs for a conversation she never had, a wife hopes to receive a letter from her husband with dementia. What emerges isn’t so much about changing the past but cherishing the present, reminding us of the fleeting but precious nature of time.
I’m halfway through this book and so far I’m really liking it. I’ll give a full review next time!
Welcome to the Hyunam-Dong Bookshop by Hwang Bo-reum
This Korean novel transports readers to a quiet neighborhood where a struggling bookshop becomes a haven for those seeking comfort, community, and renewal.
The bookshop owner, grappling with her own uncertainties, builds something that ends up nourishing not only her but also the people who wander through the doors. It’s a story about healing, finding purpose in unexpected places, and the slow magic of ordinary days spent among books.
Learning the Ukulele
When I’m not reading or playing with my kids, I’ve been picking up my ukulele—a hobby I never thought would ground me so much. There’s something soothing about its soft, cheerful sound.
I’ve already learned to play a few songs from my Ukulele teacher:
- 🎶 Huling El Bimbo by Eraserheads – a Filipino classic that carries nostalgia
- 🎶 From the Start by Laufey – gentle and modern
- 🎶 City of Stars from La La Land – dreamy and romantic
Every time I master a new chord progression, it feels like a small victory, a wonderful moment of achievement that boosts my confidence, proof that slowing down doesn’t mean being stagnant but rather indicates a purposeful journey towards deeper understanding and skill. Each chord I learn opens up a new world of musical possibilities, allowing me to explore different genres and express my emotions more authentically. Embracing this slower pace not only enhances my technical abilities but also enriches my creativity, as I take the time to really listen and feel the music, reminding me that growth can be just as rewarding as speed. Someday I might post a video me playing a piece or two. ❤
A New Pace
So yes, I’ve been busy—but in the most mindful way. Busy with books that transport me to different worlds, with music that resonates with my soul, and with simply existing in moments that matter, whether it’s savoring a warm cup of tea while watching the birds outside my window or sharing laughter with my kids and friends over lunch or dinner. Each activity has allowed me to connect deeply with myself and the people around me, enriching my life in ways that feel both fulfilling and necessary.
It feels good to remind myself that productivity isn’t just about output. Sometimes, it’s about learning to savor, to pause, to reconnect with the things that make us feel alive.
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