Why I’m Volunteering to Speak in Public (And Why You Should Too)

English wasn’t my first language—despite being born and raised in the U.S. My family really wanted me to learn their native tongue, so it wasn’t until I hit school that I actually started learning English. I distinctly remember the struggle—there was a lot of crying involved. If you’ve ever tried to learn a new language as an adult, you know what I mean. It’s like trying to untangle a knot that’s been there for years.

If you ever meet me in person, you'll quickly discover that I’m a bit of a potty mouth. Seriously, I have a knack for dropping monosyllabic words in every sentence. I’m talking about the kind of language that would make your grandmother clutch her pearls. No, I’m not proud of it—but it’s who I am. I'm looking at you Gary Vee.

It’s funny, because even my closest friends are completely shocked by how diametrically different my writing is compared to the way I speak. I know, "diametrically different" sounds a bit fancy for someone who drops "f-bombs" like they’re going out of style, but stick with me here. Writing me is like meeting a different version of myself—a version that actually knows how to string together more than three words without sounding like I just stubbed my toe.

In conversation, I tend to keep things short, sweet, and, well… colorful. You won’t catch me waxing poetic about the wonders of the English language mid-chat. Nope, I prefer to keep it casual and direct. If I need to get a point across, I’m gonna say it with all the impact of a wrecking ball—no fluff, no filler.

It’s as if my brain says, “Okay, we’re not speaking to a live audience here, so let’s try to sound…you know… smart.”

I know, I know. It’s a little odd. But hey, I’ve learned to embrace my quirks. I might sound like a sailor in person, but my writing voice is a different animal. Sometimes, it’s nice to have that extra layer of polish, especially when you’re trying to actually communicate a point.

So, while I may not win any awards for my sparkling conversation (unless there’s a category for "Most Likely to Make You Blush"), I like to think my writing makes up for it. After all, who says you can’t be a little bit of both? The best part is, I get to be me in both worlds—whether it’s dropping a joke with friends or writing a blog post that’s polished but still has a touch of realness.

Because of that, I’ve always been much more comfortable with writing than public speaking. Give me a keyboard and a glass of wine, and I’m in my element. I love having the time to let my thoughts marinate and then shape them into something that makes sense (and looks decent). Don’t even get me started on spell check and grammar functions—I sometimes feel like my computer knows more about punctuation than I do. Seriously, I can spend hours tweaking a single sentence just to make sure it flows like smooth peanut butter.

But put me in front of an audience? Different story. Suddenly, my palms turn into waterfalls, my brain turns to mush, and all I can think is, What was I going to say again? And don’t even mention eye contact—while I’m up there, my nerves are doing a full-on salsa dance.

Public speaking, to me, feels like trying to juggle flaming torches while riding a unicycle on a tightrope. Sure, it could go well, but there’s definitely potential for things to go horribly wrong. I much prefer one-on-one chats or small groups where the pressure’s off and I can focus on real connections without the fear a spotlight might make me spontaneously combust.

If we only stick to what we’re comfortable with, we miss out on growth. And you know what? I’m all about growth. That’s why I’ve decided to embrace the discomfort and start volunteering for more public speaking opportunities. Yes, you heard that right—I am stepping up to the mic, ready to make my mark (and hopefully not pass out).

I’ve been inspired by some amazing instructors I work with who seem to have public speaking down. They make it look effortless. Seriously, I’ve watched them hold a room’s attention with just a few words, and nobody’s even checking their phones... much! How do they do it? I need their secret sauce.

What I’ve learned so far is this: public speaking is a skill, just like anything else. And like any skill, it gets better with practice. It’s not about being perfect, it’s about connecting with your audience, engaging them, and making them feel something. Whether you’re speaking to a classroom full of students or a small group of colleagues, it’s not about you—it’s about your ability to communicate and share ideas.

I know—I sound like a motivational speaker right now, don’t I? But seriously, even though it feels uncomfortable, pushing myself to do more public speaking is already paying off. I’m slowly (read: very slowly) building my confidence, and I can now grab the mic without feeling like I’m about to faint. Progress, right?

So, if you’re like me and the thought of speaking in front of a crowd makes your stomach flip, here’s my advice: Just go for it. Volunteer for that next speaking opportunity. Yes, it’s scary at first, but trust me—being a little uncomfortable now will lead to big rewards down the road.

And hey, even if you completely bomb, at least you’ll have some hilarious stories to tell. Because really, what’s life without a little chaos, a little courage, and a whole lot of personal growth?

My Holy Wardrobe: How My Comfy Clothes Sparked a Family Drama (and Why I’m Never Giving Them Up!)

 So, you know that one shirt or pair of sweats you refuse to give up? The one that’s basically held together by memories and a prayer? Yeah, same here. We all have that ride-or-die piece of clothing that’s technically not appropriate for public viewing but feels like a warm hug. Mine just so happened to make a guest appearance in front of Sal’s parents the other day. Spoiler alert: chaos ensued.

Picture this: it’s a casual weekend, and I’m rocking my favorite "air-conditioned" T-shirt with some very well-loved sweats. We’re heading to the swap meet (because hello, thrifting is life), and I’m all about being comfy. I mean, who gets dressed up for a swap meet? That’s like putting on stilettos to go camping—completely unnecessary.

Anyway, while I’m busy digging through vintage treasures and scoring some sweet finds, Sal’s parents are, apparently, taking very detailed notes on my outfit. Fast-forward to today, and I find out they gave Sal a full-on lecture about how he’s "not taking care of his woman." 😂 Yes, you read that right—my slightly holey shirt was his fault.

The best (or worst?) part? They bought me new clothes. Like, actual clothes without built-in ventilation! Sweet, right? Except now Sal has declared war on my comfy wardrobe. He’s threatening to throw out all my “holy” clothes because he’s the one who does laundry. NOOOOO. My sweats! My T-shirt! MY FREEDOM!

So, now I’m here asking: do you guys have those favorite pieces of clothing you just cannot part with, no matter how many judgmental stares you get? Are you Team Comfy at all costs, or Team Sal's Parents, where holes = trash? Let me know in the comments—bonus points if you share a story of your own wardrobe drama!

Knott’s Berry Farm: Food, Fun, and Rides Without Getting Stuck (This Time!)

It’s time for another Knott’s Berry Farm food run! This time, Selene and Austin joined us—we were on a mission: maximum food, minimum regret. With our stomachs prepped and we aimed for a chill day at the park. We were determined to get every penny’s worth of our dining plan.

Double Cheese Burger with Onion Rings

Chili Cheese Dog with French Fries

First stop: Coasters Diner, where we indulged in double cheeseburgers and a chili dog. Were these gourmet creations? Maybe not, but hey, they hit the spot and paired perfectly with the theme park vibe. Then, like the dedicated foodies we are, we ventured to Boardwalk BBQ for their smoked tri-tip, which was so tender and flavorful, especially with the spicy BBQ sauce.

 

Smoked Tri-Tip with Mashed Potatoes and Corn Bread

But hold on—this wasn’t just a food crawl disguised as a theme park visit! This time, we actually hit the rides. That’s right: we rode stuff. And guess what? None of us got stuck, which feels like a solid win in the theme park achievement book.

Now, I’ll admit, I’m all about the thrill rides—bring on the drops, loops, and adrenaline rushes. But for Sal? Let’s just say his idea of “thrill” leans more toward finding the perfect churro than riding a roller coaster. We stuck to some of the slower rides, just for him.

First up was Jaguar, a smooth and surprisingly long coaster that gave us a mini tour of the park—bonus points for being a crowd-pleaser with zero whiplash. 

Jaguar!

Next, we went full old-school with the Calico Mine Ride, which is like stepping into a Wild West fever dream complete with animatronic miners and explosions (because why not?). Finally, we wrapped things up with a spin on Snoopy’s Tenderpaw Twister Coaster, which is every bit as adorable as it sounds. Think tiny drops, gentle turns, and a solid 10/10 on the “fun for all ages” scale.

Calico Mine Ride

Snoppy's Tenderpaw Twister Coaster

Last but not least, Sal wouldn't be Sal without a little bit of shenanigans. Yeah, he tried to break into the Drug Store, and then tried to take the train all for himself. Well, at least he keeps things interesting.

Why Midweek Dinners with Old Friends Are the Real Highlight of Adulting

Sometimes the best part of the week isn’t some fancy plan or wild weekend getaway. Nope, it’s those simple midweek dinners with friends where we swap stories, laugh at the absurdities of life, and unwind from the daily juggling act of work, family, and all-around adulting chaos.

Our friendship started years ago in Thailand, and even though we’re now in the U.S., each chasing different dreams, we’re still there for each other when we can be. It’s like a time capsule we can jump back into, full of shared memories, inside jokes, and a mutual understanding of our past and present lives.

As we get older, friendships naturally evolve. We may not stay in touch every day (or even every month), but who needs a friendship that needs constant babysitting? The beauty of true friendship is that it doesn’t demand 24/7 attention. We get that life is a balancing act, and no one’s keeping score. We all have to do our own thing, and that’s perfectly okay.

So, here’s to those midweek meetups that keep us sane, the friends who’ve been with us through the years, and the moments that remind us that while life may get busier, these small gatherings are worth making time for. Cheers to old friends—here’s to making new memories!

Wilderness Broiler Botched My Dogs! Here’s the Juicy (and Cheesy) Truth About This Theme Park Pitstop

Wildreness Dogs and Drinks

Oh, Wilderness Broiler, you really did me dirty this time! If there’s one thing I love about a theme park, it’s the guilty pleasure of indulging in some over-the-top, “everything-but-the-kitchen-sink” food, and Wilderness Broiler has a menu that promises just that… in theory.

So, here’s what went down: I ordered not one, but two of their big-ticket hot dogs—The Sasquatch and The Old Mill Dog. The Sasquatch is supposed to be an all-beef grilled dog piled high with Calico Chili, shredded cheddar, and crispy onions. It practically screams “Go big or go home,” right? Then there’s The Old Mill Dog, topped with french fries (yes, on the dog), cheese sauce, chipotle mayo, and bacon bits. These are no basic hot dogs; these are supposed to be legendary.

But did they arrive fully loaded and ready for glory? Nope! The Sasquatch showed up without the shredded cheese or the crispy onions, and The Old Mill Dog was missing its chipotle mayo and bacon bits. It’s like ordering a roller coaster ride and getting a merry-go-round instead! Cue the disappointed sigh.

The Sasquatch

The Old Mill Dog

Of course, I flagged it down to the staff, who, thankfully, handled it like pros. They fixed the toppings—no fuss, no attitude—and finally, I got the dogs as advertised. I’ll give them credit for that!

Now, don’t get me wrong, the hot dogs were fine, tasty enough, but if you’re hoping for a truly crave-worthy bite, Wilderness Broiler might not be your top choice. Let’s just say there are other treats in the park that might deliver the magic a little better.

On the bright side, they really do grill the burgers and dogs for you, so you get that nice smokey flavor in the meat.

At least they actually grill your food. 

Unlocking Secrets at Knott's Berry Farm (Literally): A Day of Fun, Curiosity, and Closed Doors

Left to Right: Grace, Amanda, Chris, Susan

Ever wondered what’s behind those mysterious "Private Room" signs at theme parks? Well, after a day at Knott’s Berry Farm with my not-so-mischievous crew—Sal, Amanda, Susan, and my CPA (because accountants need fun too)—we’re here to give you the scoop. Spoiler: It’s not as thrilling as you might hope, but the journey to get there was priceless!

Calico Saloon

Our day started with a leisurely stroll through the park, hitting our step goals and making a beeline for the Calico Saloon for drinks and some vintage vibes. The usual Knott’s stuff, right? Wrong. You see, Amanda and Sal share a unique superpower: they’re both helplessly drawn to closed doors and forbidden zones. If there’s a door with a “Do Not Enter” sign, they’re basically moths to a flame. Usually, this ends up with Sal getting an eye-roll from security, but today, I figured I’d let him and Amanda indulge their curiosity.

The two of them spent the morning testing out every door they could find, hoping one might lead to a secret passage, hidden treasure, or maybe a wild backstage tour. And guess what? Their persistence paid off. Up on the second floor of the saloon, they found the door—a sturdy-looking thing labeled “Private Room.” With a quick look around to make sure no one was watching, they pulled it open and… drumroll...

Behind that mysterious door was another wall. That’s right. All that curiosity, all that sneaking around, and all they discovered was a blank wall staring back at them.

So, if you’re ever tempted to peek behind a “Private Room” sign at Knott’s, save yourself the trouble. Let our misadventure be your warning—it’s just more wall, folks. But hey, at least we can say we “unlocked” one of Knott’s great mysteries, and we walked away with a story. And isn’t that what theme parks are all about?

Anyway, here are some extra pictures from today. 

Just ridin' on the choo choo train.

Sal loves the ladies

I hope they let you have beer in the afterlife.

The Secret Breakfast Burrito at Knott’s Berry Farm: A Morning Mission You Won’t Want to Miss

If you're one of those rare creatures who actually enjoys waking up before noon (I know, it's hard to fathom), here's a tip that’ll make your early mornings worth every second. Imagine this: Knott’s Berry Farm—no crowds, just the peaceful hum of the park waking up. And then, a breakfast burrito that’s basically a hidden gem. I'm talking about the breakfast burrito at Ghost Town Bakery.

Ghost Town Bakery

Now, here's the catch: this burrito isn't exactly on the menu. It's a “while supplies last” kind of deal, which usually lasts about 30 minutes after the gates open. So, if you want in, you’ve gotta be quick. Good news for meal plan holders—this burrito is an eligible item!

I arrived just 15 minutes after opening and was told they had two options left: potato and bacon. That's when I started wondering—what else might they offer if I’d gotten there a bit earlier? Maybe a sausage option? Next time, I’ll find out.

The elusive breakfast Burritos

For the record, I ordered one of each (because I wasn’t about to let fate decide). And let me tell you, when it came to telling them apart, I had to really focus. The bacon one could’ve been a little more bacon-y, if you catch my drift. On its own, it was a bit on the bland side. That’s when the real hero of this burrito stepped in: the fire-roasted salsa. Slightly spicy, full of flavor, and the perfect sidekick to elevate the whole dish. Without it? Meh. With it? Yum.

One is the "potato" one is the "bacon". Can you guess which one is which?

And just a heads-up—while the website said the park opens at 10 a.m., I arrived at 9:45 a.m., and the gates were already wide open. If you want that burrito before it disappears, aim to get there even earlier. Like, way earlier. Set your alarm, roll out of bed, and embark on your very own "Burrito Mission." Your stomach (and your Instagram followers) will thank you.

Knott’s Berry Farm Veteran's Day: Fireworks, Food, and Fun

Is there anything better than fireworks, good food, and great company? Throw in some carbs and a few cocktails, and now we’re talking. So, in honor of Veterans Day, we headed to Knott’s Berry Farm for a night of carbs, camaraderie, and colorful explosions. Here’s the inside scoop on our little patriotic party in the park.

Miner’s Mac & Spuds

Miner's Mac & Spuds

Let’s just say it: everything tastes better when it’s served in a bread bowl. Don’t fight it, we all know it’s true. We kicked things off in Ghost Town at Miner’s Mac & Spuds, and I was all about that chicken pot pie... in a bread bowl. Yes, you read that right. Carbs on carbs—what could go wrong? This savory delight came with a golden puff pastry wedge on top, adding an extra crisp to an already mouth-watering dish.

Chicken Pot Pie in a bread Bowl

Pro tip: don’t eat the whole bread bowl or else you’ll end up in a food coma before the fireworks even start. Pace yourself, folks. There's more fun to be had.

Mrs. Murphy’s Kitchen

Mrs. Murphy's Kitchen

After our carb-fueled feast, we made our way to Mrs. Murphy’s Kitchen for a round of drinks. The espresso martinis are a must—smooth, energizing, and a real steal.

Inside Mrs. Murphy's Kitchen

Pro tip: If you want to maximize that martini, here’s a little insider hack: ask for it without ice! More drink for your dollar? Yes, please.

Veterans Day Fireworks: A Star-Spangled Finale

After all that deliciousness, we made our way to the Boardwalk to stake out a prime spot for the Veterans Day fireworks show. You know those people who arrive an hour early just to claim the perfect view? Yep, that’s me. But honestly, it’s worth it.

Celebrating those who served, surrounded by friends, food, and fireworks—what better way to honor Veterans Day?

Don Don Tei at Mitsuwa Marketplace - Costa Mesa, CA

Ever get to work and realize… you forgot your lunch? Yep, that was me today. But luckily, my coworker and I had a backup plan: we headed straight to Mitsuwa Marketplace for a food court feast. Mitsuwa, if you haven’t been, is like a foodie paradise for all things Japanese, packed with tasty options that beat any sad desk lunch by a mile.

Mitsuwa Marketplace - Costa Mesa, CA

We both zeroed in on Don Don Tei, a little food court gem specializing in Japanese rice bowls, or “donburi” (often just called “don” for short). In Japanese cuisine, a “don” (丼) is a bowl of steaming white rice topped with all kinds of deliciousness—meats, seafood, veggies, or a mix of it all. It’s usually finished off with a savory sauce or seasonings, creating the ultimate comfort food experience in a bowl. A classic don is the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and pure satisfaction.

Spicy Tuna Don

I went for the spicy tuna don—a rice bowl topped with seasoned tuna and a bit of heat to keep things interesting—while my coworker opted for the classic tuna don. If you’re a fan of sushi flavors and hearty meals, these rice bowls are a no-brainer. The spicy tuna had just the right amount of kick without overpowering the fresh taste of the tuna, and the generous portion of rice underneath made it incredibly filling.

Tuna Don

Going out for lunch turned out to be a mini food adventure, and it reminded me that sometimes those forgotten lunches lead to unexpected culinary discoveries. If you’re ever near a Mitsuwa Marketplace (they’re sprinkled around the U.S.), treat yourself to a donburi from Don Don Tei. Trust me, it’s worth stepping away from the office for a bit!

Pro tip: Check out the other food court stalls too! Mitsuwa is a melting pot of delicious Japanese options, so whether you're craving ramen, udon, or something sweet for dessert, there's something for everyone.

Wonton Cravings at Spicy Noodle House: When a “Snack” Becomes a Meal!

I stopped by Spicy Noodle House for a quick bite—just a snack, I told myself. I ordered wontons in spicy chili oil, expecting a light little treat. But surprise! Ten deliciously plump wontons later, my “snack” turned into a full-on meal. Could I have saved some for later? Maybe…but they were just too good to resist! Now here I am, blissfully stuffed and ready to drift into a happy food coma.

For those who haven’t tried Spicy Noodle House, it’s a family-owned, fast-casual gem serving up fresh, made-to-order Asian dishes that pack a punch. So if you're on the hunt for quick, flavorful Asian food that’ll leave you craving more, Spicy Noodle House is definitely worth a visit!

Spicy Noodle House

3314 S. Bristol St.

Santa Ana, CA 92704

Wontons in Spicy Chili Oil

Date Night Cooking - Butter Chicken

November Date Night Cooking is here, and on the menu this month: Butter Chicken! 🍛 Now, I’ll admit—my first attempt at butter chicken was less than impressive. Determined to up my game, I did some serious homework, diving into countless YouTube videos to learn what makes this dish so iconic.

But then… I got sick. With no chance to go shopping for all the ingredients, I had to get creative with what I had on hand. No written recipe this time—I seasoned with feeling (would Uncle Roger be proud? 😆).

The result? Definitely an upgrade! It’s still not perfect, but I’m getting closer to that dreamy, creamy butter chicken flavor. Here’s to improving one tasty date night at a time!

Grace's Butter Chicken

I really think I really think that Georgia and Jose's Butter Chicken looks amazing. 🍛 I’m a bit jealous that they got some samosas to enjoy with their meal. 🥟 I’ll definitely have to remember to get some for next time!that Georgia and Jose's Butter Chicken looks amazing. 🍛 I’m a bit jealous that they got some samosas to enjoy with their meal. 🥟 I’ll definitely have to remember to get some for next time!

Georgia & Jose's Butter Chicken with Samosas

Amanda is still working on her spice tolerance, so her butter chicken is paler than the rest of ours. But don't worry; she's a tough cookie with a black belt. We'll get her there.

Jacob's Butter Chicken

Amanda's Butter Chicken