Monthly Mains: March 2021

Illustration by Len Kurosaki

I'm a big fan of shopping local, supporting small businesses, and giving my money to companies that give back to the community and do good. I also have spent my time in quarantine doing a lot of online shopping and needed something to help me justify all my purchases. And so I bring you Monthly Mains, a series where I’ll highlight three things that have made my life better (and will probably make yours better, too).

Last month I talked about pandemic fatigue, the world burning (literally and figuratively) and a few issues that needed some more attention. And this month, the fatigue remains, the world is still burning and there are a lot of things going on that we need to be talking about. 

I realize these are heavy topics to kick off a blog post that's supposed to be light-hearted and fun. But I can't ignore what's going on in the world, and I think the only way to bring positive change and find solutions is to educate ourselves (and one another) about different issues - no matter how heavy or uncomfortable they make us feel.  

So, just like last month, before I share the three fantastic finds made by incredible local creators, here are two things that deserve more of our attention:

1. Ten years of war in Syria: March 2021 marks the one-year anniversary of COVID-19 shutting down Canada and much of the western world. It also marks 10 years of war in Syria. There are some estimates that the war has cost more than half a million lives, and UNICEF says almost 12,000 children have been killed or injured in the last decade (that's one estimate - others believe the death toll for children is much higher). Despite the ongoing conflict, deteriorating economy, millions of people displaced and hundreds of thousands of lives lost, we rarely hear about the conflict anymore. That needs to change. Here are some resources to learn more about the situation in Syria and how you can help: 

• Syria’s war at 10: Does anyone care?
• Syria's war is 10 years old. It's the only life its children know
• Why has the Syrian war lasted 10 years?
• Syria's civil war started a decade ago. Here's where it stands.
• How does Toronto compare to Aleppo?
• Syria crisis and refugee crisis
• 15 ways you can step up to help Syrian refugees now
• Syrian refugee crisis: Facts, FAQs, and how to help
• UNHCR - Syria emergency
  
  

2. Violence against women: Women have been subject to violence for centuries. But this March, the month in which we celebrate International Women's Day and which is known as Women's History Month, we saw (once again) stories of this violence and the struggles and inequity women experience daily. 

Whether it was news about Sarah Everard following all the precautions but still not being safe walking alone at night, women being hit the hardest during the pandemic, college women's basketball players having a vastly different weight room than their male colleagues, a lack of justice for Breaonna Taylor one year after her murder, or hearing the murders of six women (the majority of whom were Asian) being written off as the murderer "having a bad day", it was a harsh reminder that despite how far we've come, there is still so much further to go when it comes to women's rights. 

Here is more background on each of the stories mentioned above, as well as resources to help women: 

• Sarah Everard case prompts outpouring from women sharing stories of abuse and harassment
• The murder Of Sarah Everard hits home for All women. Here’s why
• Breonna Taylor: What happened on the night of her death?
• Breonna Taylor and the struggle for meaningful police reform
• Women are disproportionately affected by COVID-19, health unit numbers show
  
• Pandemic will ‘Take our women 10 years back’ in the workplace
• 'I assumed they were treating us fairly:' Why can't NCAA get women's basketball right?
• 8 dead in Atlanta spa shootings, with fears of anti-Asian bias
• Officer who cited spa shooting suspect’s ‘bad day’ has history of anti-Asian posts
• 7 tips for men who want to support equality
• How women can support other women at work
• Canadian Women's Foundation - Support Services
  
  

Now that you're slightly more informed about two (of many) important things going on in the world, here are three things that made my March better: 

Illustration by Len Kurosaki

I've admitted to having a candle problem (but I'm not highlighting any candles this month so I think that counts as growth) but it's not the only problem I have. I also really, really like necklaces, and own quite a few. (Not nearly as many necklaces as candles though, so is it really a problem?). Technically they're all my favourite, but this necklace from Calgary-based Tish Jewelry was on high rotation this past month. 

I actually had my eye on this piece for a few months, and was super concerned it would sell out before I was able to grab one. I even reached out to the shop owner, Lateisha, who, along with being super speedy at responding and very kind, assured me there would be one for me when I was done my month and a bit of no spending.

She was right, and I am so glad. The gold chain carries a gold crown, and inside the crown is a small jewel. It's a super cute, delicate piece that's easy to wear on its own or layer with other pieces. At the moment, this piece is no longer available, but Tish offers a variety of versatile pieces. Visit the website to see all the pieces up for grabs.  

Illustration by Len Kurosaki
Inspired by Kiran Rai

The farmers' protests (you can find more information and resources on this in my last post) continue in India and internationally. Since they began in November 2020, 302 protestors have lost their lives (as of March 16, 2021). 

I was looking for a way to support the cause, and Calgary artist KRAI (formed from her name, Kiran Rai), provided one. Kiran used her talent to increase awareness on the issue. She created multiple designs depicting the protestors - some based on images from international protests - and put them on hoodies with 100 per cent of proceeds going towards Khalsa Aid. Buying one not only supported farmers, but also a local, South Asian artist - making it a very easy purchase for me. 

There were a number of different options to choose from, and after narrowing my selections down to two, I finally ended up choosing this one (which is based on this photo) in black and white. The hoodie is high-quality, warm, and very soft. The print on the back not only looks good, but it's also good quality (I know because I've washed the hoodie a few times and it still looks good as new). 

Kiran did two rounds of sales, raising a total of $1715.00 for the cause. But that wasn't the only way her art made an impact. One of her designs was also projected on a building in downtown Calgary during Chinook Blast, an outdoor winter art festival that ran for a few weekends in February.  

These hoodies are currently not available, but Kiran could decide to do another round, so make sure to follow her on Instagram for updates, as well as to support a talented artist. To learn more about the farmers' protests and how to support farmers, visit the Kissan Ekta Collective's website.

Illustration by Len Kurosaki

What's better than the first cup of coffee in the morning? Well, a cup of chai, preferably made by my mom, but you get what I mean. That first hit of caffeine is a great way to kick off the day (and let's be real for some of us it's basically a necessity to make it through the day). There is one thing that makes that first cup better, and that's the cup itself. At least, it is for me when I use one of my swear mugs from Wheelhouse Studio. 

Yes, "one of" does mean that I have multiple mugs from this shop. Four, to be exact. Considering the fact that there are dozens of sassy/passive-aggressive/honest/hilarious options to choose from, I feel four is not that extreme. If I had more room in my cupboards, I would fill the space with more of these mugs. That's how much I love them. 

The witty hand stamped sayings, while a major sell for me, are not the only thing that make these mugs so great. The porcelain, handmade mugs are HUGE. As in, two and a half cups of coffee with room for milk huge. They're also microwave safe, so when I don't manage to finish that two and a half cups of coffee plus milk mix before it gets cold, I can warm it up without fear of ruining the vessel it's in. And if I'm not feeling hot coffee (or chai), these mugs are great for cold drinks too (hello versatility!). 

The swear mugs are one of a few different designs and sizes available to choose from. All of the mugs from Wheelhouse Studio are made to order, so they take a little longer to get to you. Trust me though, the wait is worth it. Pre-orders are currently closed, but you can follow Wheelhouse Studio on Instagram for updates on order dates and to see a full catalogue of the mugs available.  

PS - Not that anyone asked, but the four I have say: 
- Speak moistly to me; 

- What in the actual fuck; 

- Are you fucking kidding me?; and, 

- I pretend coffee helps but I'm still a bitch

Seriously. You may not need four, but you need at least one of these mugs in your life. 

 Side dishes 

Podcast: 

Down the Hill: The Delphi Murders

Quote: 

“Grief, I’ve learned, is really just love. It’s all the love you want to give but cannot. All that unspent love gathers up in the corner of your eyes, the lump in your throat, and in that hollow part of your chest. Grief is just love with no place to go.”

– Unknown

Read: 
The inevitable rise and untimely disappearance of Fawad Khan
– The Juggernaut

Song:
I stand on that – E-40, Joyner Lucas, T.I.

Monthly Mains: February 2021

Illustration by Len Kurosaki

I'm a big fan of shopping local, supporting small businesses, and giving my money to companies that give back to the community and do good. I also have spent my time in quarantine doing a lot of online shopping and needed something to help me justify all my purchases. And so I bring you Monthly Mains, a series where I’ll highlight three things that have made my life better (and will probably make yours better, too).

February is the shortest month of the year, but it's felt extra long. This is probably because of:

a) Pandemic fatigue; 
b) The world continuing to burn (for real though - when are all these figurative fires going to be put out?), and;

c) The first Mercury Retrograde of 2021 (which, as I've said before, is not to be feared) 

 
I've spent the month thinking and reflecting. While I am so excited to highlight the three Monthly Mains for this month, I wanted to share three things that are happening right now that deserve our attention first: 

1. Black History Month:  February is Black History Month, and as this month comes to an end, the inequalities and injustices Black people face daily continue. It's important to continue to educate ourselves on Black issues, celebrate Black success, and support the Black community, all year long. If you're not sure how to start (or continue) doing these things, here is a short list of online resources that can help: 

• Black Lives Matter – Ways you can help
  
• Black Lives Matter – Resources
• Black organizations and anti-racist groups Canadians can support now
• Five resources to better educate yourself on the Black Lives Matter movement 
• Black Lives Matter: How white people can get educated and stay grounded
• 4 anti-racism resources to help you educate yourself

2. Farmers' protests: These protests, the largest global protests in history, began in November 2020 over unfair laws passed in India that hurt farmers' (who are already dealing with many issues) livelihoods. Unfortunately, these protests haven't been covered well in traditional media worldwide, and India's state media is sharing biased and negative coverage of the protests. A lot of the outside world has relied heavily on social media for updates on the situation with farmers in India.

Things changed earlier this month, when Rihanna tweeted about the protests, helping them gain global attention. There are a lot of layers to this, and I think I could talk about each of those layers (including the irony that a Black woman has played a major role in supporting the cause, while many in the South Asian community have not/will not do the same for the Black community...), but for now, here is a list of resources to better understand why the protests are happening and how you can help: 

• The Kissan Ekta Collective  (Great overall resource)
• PBS: Indian farmers converge on Delhi to protest agricultural deregulation
• The Daily Show with Trevor Noah: Indian Farmers’ Protest - If you don’t know, now you know
• The Great Reset: Bill Gates & Farming - WHAT'S GOING ON?
  
• Instagram accounts to follow: @sikhexpo, @standforhumanity, @sikhdad, @kisaani.co
• Donations: Sahaita, Khalsa Aid

3. Increase in anti-Asian racism: Racism is not new, and nor is anti-Asian racism. But anti-Asian racism has increased due to COVID-19. There are several factors that have led to this increase, including the rhetoric used by traditional media and politicians. No matter the cause, the data and anecdotes surrounding anti-Asian racism are alarming. There is more hate being spread online and more people are being attacked due to their race. And no, it's not just an American problem (racism crosses all borders and oceans) - Canada has more anti-Asian racist incident reports per capita than the U.S. In New York, there's been a 1900% increase in anti-Asian hate crimes. To stop the hate from harming more people, we all need to work together. Here are some resources to better understand anti-Asian racism and tips on how to help end it: 

• Blame, bullying and disrespect: Chinese Canadians reveal their experiences with racism during COVID-19
• CTV News: 'Raise your voice': Campaign targets anti-Asian racism heightened amid COVID-19 in Canada
• NBC News: The Covid-19 era's anti-Asian racism isn't new. I learned this the hard way
• Resources for Asian Canadians & allies
• How to be an ally + help Asian Americans fight anti-Asian racism
• Fighting racism in COVID-19 times
• How to support Asian American colleagues amid the recent wave of anti-Asian violence
• 45 ways to donate in support of Asian communities

Now that you're a bit more informed about a few important things going on in the world, here are three things that I've been loving this month: 

Illustration by Len Kurosaki

If you're one of the many people who picked up baking (or started to bake more) in the last year, you'll want to check out Bottled by Blair. This Calgary-based business was started by a woman who took it upon herself to create simple, clean products for everyday use that are good for the consumer, the suppliers, and the planet. This woman - Diane - just so happens to be one of my best friends. That means I can guarantee that you're not only getting a fantastic product, but you're also supporting a business owner who is an absolute gem of a human being. 

My two most purchased products are the vanilla extract and the vanilla-infused organic sugar. Both are excellent and will make whatever you use them in taste fantastic (the hint of vanilla in the sugar is a game changer). But if I'm being honest, it might be the story behind the vanilla that makes these products my favourite.

Diane buys the vanilla pods from IndriVanilla, which pays farmers fair trade prices (read: the farmers' asking price is what is paid for the product, giving the farmers the opportunity to earn a living wage). IndriVanilla also donates a portion of its proceeds to different charities, including the Mastocytosis Society and Mama Baby Haiti.   

Bottled by Blair offers a variety of simple products that you can feel good about buying. Everything comes in glass jars or bottles that can be reused or recycled, the ingredients in the products are clean and sourced properly, and the woman behind the brand wants to ensure everyone has access to high quality, well-made products. 

Check out the full range of items available on Bottled by Blair's website. 

Illustration by Len Kurosaki

Why yes, I DO in fact have many more candles that I can highlight, including this one from Everlasting Candle Co. I purchased this candle set before quarantine and physically went into a store to buy it, which, looking back, feels like such a luxurious thing to have been able to do.

To me, this candle is one of the few things in my home that make me feel like I've got it together (when in reality, I don't). My house is overall a disaster, but this candle makes a very small area of my space look elegant, simple and sleek, all at the same time, and with very little effort on my part.

Unlike your typical wax candle, this one has three sticks that sit inside a clear vase and requires a special mineral oil. The candle is odorless and smokeless, and, thanks to the whole no wax thing, can literally last a lifetime. It burns very well, the flame is consistent on all three sticks, and it gives off a good amount of light. 

The candle is produced by a couple based out of Fraser Valley, B.C., comes in five different colours (my favourite is gold) and can be purchased with (or without) two different styles of vase. The Pristine mineral oil is also available online. So, if you're looking to add a candle to your collection or want to add a touch of elegance to your home, visit Everlasting Candle Co.'s website. 

Illustration by Len Kurosaki

Not going into the office and not being able to meet up with friends has meant I've done a lot of coffee drinking at home. This is probably what's best for my wallet, and it's been fun making my own cold brew, creamers and flavoured syrups (with my Bottled by Blair products, obvi). But sometimes I just want to feel fancy with as little effort as possible, and that's where Two Bears comes in. 

This canned coffee stands out from the traditional chain cans of coffee that you can buy in most stores for a few specific reasons. First, it's produced in Etobicoke, Ontario (just outside of Toronto). Second, it's vegan-friendly, with all the latte options being made with oat milk. 

The company offers a variety of products, including canned cold lattes, non-coffee-based beverages (including an oat milk chai), coffee beans, and more recently, oat milk. My personal favourites are the vanilla and salted caramel frothed lattes and the flash brew hazelnut sea salt coffee (which goes incredibly well with homemade Starbucks copycat vanilla cold foam). 

These cans are a bit on the pricier side, but if you compare what you'd pay for a flavoured oat milk drink at a coffee shop, you're looking at a similar (if not slightly lower) price; but with Two Bears, you're supporting a Canadian company that offers high quality beverages. To see the entire list of products, visit the Two Bears website. 

 Side dishes 

Podcast: 

Paper Ghosts

Quote: 

"The past is the past. The only way to make a better life is from inside the present. To focus on regret does nothing but turn that very present into another thing you will wish you did differently."
– Matt Haig, How to be happy (2)

Read: 

The two hours that nearly destroyed Texas’s electric grid

– Bloomberg Green

Song:
Jungle Mantra - DIVINE, Vince Staples, Pusha T

Monthly Mains: January 2021

Illustration by Len Kurosaki

I'm a big fan of shopping local, supporting small businesses, and giving my money to companies that give back to the community and do good. I also have spent my time in quarantine doing a lot of online shopping and needed something to help me justify all my purchases. And so I bring you Monthly Mains, a series where I’ll highlight three things that have made my life better (and will probably make yours better, too).

I'd like to start off my first post of 2021 by congratulating everyone reading this, because YOU MADE IT. After the last ten or so months of the global pandemic, that IS something to celebrate (while following your local COVID-19 rules and regulations, of course). 

One of the things I'm trying to do this year is to be more intentional about using the things I have in my life (especially candles) rather than adding new products/items to it. Don't worry - with my nine months of quarantine shopping, I've still got lots of material for this series to continue for a long while. 

This month, to go with the theme of the fresh start that comes with a new year (although if I'm being real, 2021 is basically just 2020 extended so far), I want to share some free tools that are accessible to anyone with a cellphone and a WIFI connection. Here are three apps that I have found incredibly useful this month:  

Illustration by Len Kurosaki

This past December, I was sucked into the world of Indian serials. The drama, rage, intensity and over-the-top storylines/scripts/scenarios/everything are surprisingly addictive. Watching the three serials I do has turned into a nightly bonding session with my mom (who I used to make fun of for watching these shows. Serves me right.) and it's also created a very sudden and urgent need for me to be able to read, write and speak Punjabi, Hindi and Urdu flawlessly. Luckily for me, I've been able to get started on making that happen with Hindi lessons on Duolingo. 

Duolingo's goal is to offer personalized, fun, universally accessible language lessons. The app follows a game format - there are levels, you collect gems that can be used to "purchase" perks, you are awarded badges, you get five hearts that are lost with mistakes, etc. The lessons themselves are fairly quick to do, making it easy to get a bit of learning into even some of the busiest days. Depending on the language (Duo offers more than 30), you'll learn letters, common words and popular phrases. There are tests at different points to ensure you're not losing what you've worked so hard to pick up, helpful tips on making the process easier, and even weekly progress reports so you can track your progress.

I've been using Duolingo for years, but not consistently, and more to keep up my French and Spanish. If that's all you want to use this app for - to keep up with a language you know but don't speak all the time, it's a great resource. I was skeptical about being able to learn a new language off of my phone, but so far, it seems to be working for me.  I've only been learning Hindi for about a month now, and while I'm still just figuring out the letters of the alphabet, and am mostly confused in my lessons, I have noticed that I can identify certain characters when I see Hindi words off the app. Of course, I'm practicing daily and trying to use what I'm learning in the real world, which help when learning any language. But I really do believe that the app has been a huge help to me so far, and I can tell I am learning something from it, and that something is sticking. 

If you want to try to learn a new language (or, like I mentioned earlier, practice one you already know but don't use often), download the Duolingo app.

Illustration by Len Kurosaki

Lately, every day seems like a busy news day. There is always something big happening - whether it's locally, nationally, internationally, or a combination of the three. It can be hard to keep up, and even harder to know what has been properly sourced and fact checked and what hasn't. Good journalism (as in well written, properly researched, integrity-filled journalism) is so important, but seems to be getting harder to find with social media and the need for immediate information. Luckily, there are a number of established, trusted news outlets that offer apps, including The New York Times (NYT). 

As a former journalist, I think it is crucial to be informed about what is happening around the world, even if you are not directly impacted by it. I also fully believe in paying for good journalism. I have a few different news subscriptions and believe the cost for each is money well spent. But, if that's not your thing, many of these news apps offer access to great news coverage for free as well. 

In my opinion, the New York Times offers some of the best news coverage. Most of the time (I have to admit that journalism isn't perfect, and even the best news outlets can make mistakes or get facts wrong) the reporting is very in-depth, the stories are incredibly well-written and informative, and there is an excellent balance between hard news and lighter pieces. The app allows you to choose what kinds of stories you want to be notified about, curates content on topics you're interested in, and shares breaking news alerts when they happen. The NYT also offers access to a number of different games (like the daily crossword) and NYT cooking (aka recipes with photos of meals that will make your mouth water) when you need a break from the news. 

I would highly recommend installing a few different news apps on your phone (CBC, BBC, The Athletic, The Washington Post, to name a few), but if you can only choose one - the New York Times is my suggestion (and yes, I would also suggest paying for a subscription so you can access all the news stories, but the amount of good journalism you get without a subscription is still better than no good journalism at all). To learn more about subscription options, or to get an update on the news from around the world, visit the New York Times website. 

Illustration by Len Kurosaki

I like to think I'm pretty okay with my finances. Or, at least I was, until COVID changed life as we know it and I spent nine months quarantine shopping. Along with setting the intention to use what I have and not bring more into my space in the new year, I also told myself that it was time to reel it in on the spending front and start to keep much better track of what my money was going to, and how often. 

There are probably a number of ways to track your spending and budget, but since I am almost never without my phone, an app seemed like the best option for me. I chose Expense Manager for two main reasons: it's super easy to use, and along with a regular list view, it uses a few different kinds of graphs to visually breakdown your spending habits. 

The app allows you to separate spending into a number of different categories (food, household, automobile, etc.) and if what you need isn't there, you can create your own. You can also set spending limits, input recurring costs and income, and set up a debt repayment calendar. 

Overall, this app has a number of features, it's easy to use, and it gives a great overview of how money is being spent and saved. It's a great way to see where I'm overspending and what I have that I'm not using and can cut out. If this sounds like a tool you could use, download it from the App store or on Google Play. 

 Side dishes 

Podcast: 

California Love

Quote: 

"The world is changed by your example, not by your opinion."
– Paulo Coehlo

Read: 
How a 22-year-old L.A. native became Biden’s inauguration poet

– The Los Angeles Times

Song:
Khairiyat - Arijit Singh

Monthly Mains: December 2020

Illustration by Len Kurosaki

I'm a big fan of shopping local, supporting small businesses, and giving my money to companies that give back to the community and do good. I also have spent my time in quarantine doing a lot of online shopping and needed something to help me justify all my purchases. And so I bring you Monthly Mains, a series where I’ll highlight three things that have made my life better (and will probably make yours better, too).

We are so, so, SO close to wrapping up the wild, challenging, eye-opening year that 2020 has been. And while I am part of the majority that is happy to see it end, I also am aware that as we head into 2021, things won't magically change overnight or go "back to normal". We are still going to be in quarantine (at least here in Canada), we are still going to see more stress on our healthcare system, and we are still going to be trying to figure out and adjust to what exactly our "new normal" is. 

As cliché as it sounds, I've been doing a lot of reflecting recently, and I really do realize how fortunate I am and have been this year, despite it not going anything at all as planned. There is a lot that I can change personally, and a lot that I feel the world can do better with, but overall, I have been very lucky in 2020 and am grateful for the people in my life and all the opportunities I've received to learn and grow this year. 

Another thing I've become very, very thankful for is online shopping, which I may have turned to a little too often this year. But it brought me joy and helped me survive nine months of a global pandemic, so it's fine (right?). Here are three things I found online that helped make the last month of 2020 better for me: 

Illustration by Len Kurosaki

All the extra hand washing and sanitizing I've been doing in 2020 has taken a toll on my hands. Luckily, Calgary-based skincare and makeup brand Ellie Bianca created a hand sanitizer spray that's strong enough to kill bacteria and keep your hands clean, but also contains ingredients that help retain much-needed moisture. 

The sanitizer is unscented (although there is a grapefruit scented option available as well) and approved by Health Canada. It contains 62 per cent food grade ethyl alcohol, which is what kills the bacteria, as well as aloe vera leave juice, which helps calm and soften skin rather than leaving it dried out like many other hand sanitizers.  

Besides offering great products (the hand sanitizer is part of a larger line of cruelty-free, all-natural, ethically sourced and environmentally sustainable items), Ellie Bianca also aims to create connections and positive change. A major focus for the company is on female empowerment through business and fair trade. Ellie Bianca  and even offers a scholarship to single mothers looking to to enroll in and graduate from post-secondary programs. 

To order your own hand sanitizer or any other skincare products, or to learn more about how the company gives back to the community, visit Ellie Bianca's website. 

Illustration by Len Kurosaki

I decided to try to take a break from buying candles. It didn't work very well, and along with the fantastic few I picked up from Field Kit (which I would highly recommend), I also grabbed some (as in, all three available scents) cone incense - which ended up being a fantastic decision.  

The cones are super easy to use and don't require any extra or special equipment (unlike more traditional incense sticks). All you need to do is flip the tin's lid, place the cone on top, light it for about 15 seconds, blow it out, and voila: the room will be filled with a pleasant, light scent for at least a few hours. The cone isn't overly large and doesn't give off a lot of actual smoke, which is an added bonus. 

Field Kit is another company that you can feel good about purchasing from, as it gives back to the community in a number of ways. Every Field Kit product sold has an impact, with a certain amount from each good sold being donated to a different community organization. As for the incense cones, 100 per cent of proceeds from each tin sold going to the Calgary Black Empowerment Fund.  

You can find the incense cones, and the full list of wonderfully scented, community supporting products on Field Kit's website. 

Illustration by Len Kurosaki

I don't think I was the only one who needed a sign/reminder/inspiration from the universe to make it through this year. Luckily for me, the universe seemed to answer often enough, including by ensuring this ring popped up on my Instagram feed at one of my low points.   

According to the item description, the STRONG ring is meant to "inspire you to take a few deep breaths, give your amazing self a hug, and remind yourself how STRONG and BEAUTIFUL and LOVED you are!!!!" After buying it a few months ago and wearing it more regularly in December, I can definitely say it reminds me that no matter what challenges come my way, I can handle them. 

Jules Sontag, the artist behind this ring and a number of other beautiful pieces of jewelry, is a true gem herself (pun INTENDED). It's very clear how much thought she puts into all of her pieces, along with the time, effort and care. All of her pieces are made to order, and if you follow her on Instagram, you'll get a small glimpse of the behind the scenes work she puts into each item. On top of her great work, she's also a good human, and continually uses her platform to highlight social issues as well as resources to help resolve them. Basically, like the others on this list, Jules is a Calgary-based small business owner you can feel good about supporting. I know I do. 

To get your own STRONG ring or other piece of handmade jewelry, visit Jules' website. 

 Side dishes 

Podcast: 

Sprawlcast (Carving out space for stories of hope) 

Quote: 

"I am still learning how to go back and reread my own chapters without feeling like I want to set all of my pages on fire."
– E.V. Rogina

Read: 

What DIY couldn't do for me 
– The Walrus

Song:
FOOL'S GOLD - Aries 

Monthly Mains: November 2020

Illustration by Len Kurosaki

I’m a big fan of shopping local, supporting small businesses, and giving my money to companies that give back to the community and do good. I also have spent my time in quarantine doing a lot of online shopping and needed something to help me justify all my purchases. And so I bring you Monthly Mains, a series where I’ll highlight three things that have made my life better (and will probably make yours better, too).

Normally, November isn't a month that stands out for me. This year though, it's been different - and not for many good reasons. The second wave of COVID-19 and the higher case numbers and death count its caused in Alberta have left me feeling more anxious and stressed than normal. 

So, November has been a month focused on self care. For me, that means doing what needs to be done to make sure I'm as healthy as can be, mentally and physically, in the current situation. This includes a lot of mundane things - eating greens, making sure I take my asthma meds when I'm supposed to, asking for help when I need it, etc.

My main act of self care this month (and for many months now) has been consistent therapy. No matter how uncomfortable it can sometimes be, I truly believe speaking with a professional about my mental health - and really just my thoughts and concerns in general - has helped immensely. There are a number of resources online for anyone looking for mental health support - whether COVID-related or not - including information on how to find a psychologist and different services available.  

There is also the "treat yo' self" side of self care, which I happily took part in this month. For me, that was in the form of retail therapy. Here are three things I've purchased that have helped make my November suck a little less:

Illustration by Len Kurosaki

I never thought I would ever be excited about a bar of soap, but then I found Skwiik's Juice bar. Skwiik (pronounced 'squeak') is a Calgary-based skincare company that's focused on ethically-sourced and sustainable products that are good for you and the community. Along with soap, Skwiik offers creams, bath bombs, face masks, and more. As an added bonus, 15 per cent of every online sale goes to the Say Her Name campaign, and the company also openly supports other BLM and BIPOC-focused organizations.

I've liked every Skwiik product I've tried, but this bar is one of the best things I've ever bought for my skin. It's helped my parched, sensitive, scaly skin become soft, smooth and nourished. The bar smells fresh, lathers well, lasts for weeks, leaves me feeling clean without the tightness or dryness some soaps can cause. It also gives my skin moisture without leaving it feeling heavy or greasy. 

If you want to take your skincare game up a level, the Juice bar will definitely help. You can find it, and a number of other great products, on Skwiik's website. 

Illustration by Len Kurosaki

Some people may say the amount of candles I have in my house is excessive. They are correct. I fully admit I have a candle problem, and it is something I am trying to fix. But when Milk Jar Candle Co. comes out with a new candle, I consider it an exception to my "don't buy any more candles" rule. And that's exactly why Aurora ended up in my ever-growing candle collection.

Milk Jar is another Calgary company that supports the community. It gives $1 from every candle sold to a local non-profit that supports children with special needs, and this past summer began working with Gateway Association and Inclusion Alberta to become an inclusive employer. There has also not been a Milk Jar candle scent I haven't liked. So there's that.

Aurora is a blend of teakwood, mahogany and aspen, and when you light it, you can expect the room to be filled with a masculine, woodsy, cologne-like smell. It burns evenly, you get the crackling of the wood wick, and it looks sleek AF in its glass jar with its black wax and clean label. Trust me, you need this candle in your life. Head to Milk Jar's website to get yours. 

Illustration by Len Kurosaki

Sometimes you just need something that tells people what you're thinking without you having to even say anything at all. This bracelet does exactly that.

It took approximately 45 seconds for me to add this to an online cart and hit buy after I first saw it on Ninth and Brick's Instagram page. The piece is by Maureen Elizabeth Designs, which has a number of cheeky and fun bracelets, as well as other great pieces of jewelry, available for purchase. Not only does this bracelet help me share a message I would normally think but not say out loud (at least, not nearly as directly), it also gives to a good cause (common theme with this post, if you didn't notice). All proceeds on this piece are donated to Action Dignity's B.L.A.C.K (Becoming Leaders Acquiring Critical Knowledge) PROJECT, which helps empower Black youth in the community. 

This bracelet sells out quite quickly, but does get restocked. You can find it on Ninth and Brick's online shop. For other hilarious, equally as straightforward pieces of jewelry, visit Maureen Elizabeth Design's website.

 Side dishes 

Podcast: 
Song Exploder (Semisonic - Closing time)

Quote:
"It is a serious thing just to be alive on this fresh morning in the broken world." 

– Mary Oliver, Invitation

Read:

Masks work. Really. We'll show you how.

– The New York Times 

Song: 
Paradise - MEDUZA, Dermot Kennedy

Monthly Mains: October 2020

Illustration by Len Kurosaki

I’m a big fan of shopping local, supporting small businesses, and giving my money to companies that give back to the community and do good. I also have spent my time in quarantine doing a lot of online shopping and needed something to help me justify all my purchases. And so I bring you Monthly Mains, a series where I’ll highlight three things that have made my life better (and will probably make yours better, too).

October is basically the height of fall (in my opinion) – the leaves change colour and begin to drop from tree branches, pumpkin spice lattes are available and being ordered in full force at coffee shops everywhere, and the oversized scarves are around everyone’s necks. If you’re in Calgary, you’ll probably also have asked yourself why Fall only lasts two weeks in this city as you shoveled snow and scraped frost off your windshield at least once within the first week.

Along with experiencing the usual October/Fall routines (especially the last part), this month I was really loving these three things: 

Illustration by Len Kurosaki

I have a candle problem. And that problem became VERY apparent back in April when I found myself looking at (and buying) candles from small businesses across Canada. I’ve accumulated quite a few candles, but it was a more recent purchase that was lit almost all month: The Made of Magick candle by Land of Daughters.

The scent features notes of pumpkin, mahogany and cream, which already screams Fall, but the smell is not overwhelming or fake. Light this candle and the entire room will have the soft, slightly sweet smell that’s reminiscent of walking on a tree-lined path with a latte in your coziest sweater on a crisp Fall afternoon. And since it feels like the majority of the month I’ve spent more time shoveling my driveway than walking on pathways, it’s been a perfect thing to have lit in my living room while I work.

The candle is limited edition, and when I spoke with Paige (the owner of Land of Daughters) she said she wasn’t sure if she'd bring it back once it sold out. Basically what I’m saying is… head over to the Land of Daughters website and grab yours now. 

Illustration by Len Kurosaki

As a born and raised Calgarian, there was always one city I could just never like: Edmonton. But in recent years, Alberta’s capital doesn’t seem nearly as bad as I once believed. I mean, don’t get me wrong; it’s not Calgary. But it’s got great people and great local businesses, including Awake Coffee House.
 
The coffee shop itself is located in the northwest community of Twin Brooks. It’s a modern, sleek space (which it shares with a pharmacy) and offers baked goods, fresh juice, and of course, delicious made-to-order caffeinated drinks.

I enjoyed my experience at the café so much that I bought a bag of the Awake blend. The beans are roasted by B.C.-based Drumroaster Coffee, and the flavour profile includes chocolate, caramel and cherry. It’s been my go-to coffee this month – it’s smooth, sweet, mellow and not bitter – making it very easy to drink early in the morning and throughout the day.

If you’re ever in Edmonton, I would highly recommend stopping by, ordering a drink (and maybe a sweet or savoury waffle) and spending some time looking at the collection of specialty coffees and teas you can take with you and enjoy at home. 

 

Illustration by Len Kurosaki
Inspired by Khalid Albaih

"Style is a way to show who you are without having to speak."
– Rachel Zoe, American fashion designer. 

I'm definitely not a fashion expert, but I am someone who will purchase a piece of clothing or an accessory that shows a little bit of my personality and/or beliefs. That's exactly why I I bought this red sweatshirt: it's a comfy piece of clothing that can be worn daily - but more importantly - it shares an important message that I very strongly believe in.

The original design for this sweatshirt was created in 2016 by artist Khalid Albaih. It shows former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick kneeling with his afro in the shape of a fist. The illustration went viral for its creative use of art to highlight and support all that was happening at the time surrounding Kaepernick, his kneeling during the U.S. national anthem as a form of protest, and the issue he was bringing attention to through his actions: police brutality towards the Black community. 

In 2016, I wasn’t an online shopper, so I didn't end up buying a sweatshirt before they quickly sold out. But I never stopped wanting one, and I would often go back to Albaih's social pages to see if he had decided to put the item up for sale again.  

We are still dealing with the same issues Kaepernick was protesting in 2016, which were not new at that time either. After George Floyd’s murder in June 2020 brought the Black Lives Matter movement into the spotlight around the world, Albaih teamed up with Manhattan-based private arts club ArtX NYC to raise awareness and funds for civil rights issues. The Kaepernick illustration was printed on t-shirts and sweatshirts to be sold – with all profits being split between Know Your Rights Camp legal and Sadagaat-USA. 

This time around, buying the sweatshirt was a no-brainer, and it's been a staple in my October wardrobe. Besides supporting great causes and raising awareness on issues and the inequality that certain groups of people face on a daily basis, it’s also a well-made, good quality piece of clothing.   

It doesn’t appear that the items are still available for sale (there ARE copycat pieces out there - but they don't support the original artist). The good news though, is that more than $2500 US was raised through the collaboration. 

Black lives matter. Today and every day. Head to this webpage to learn more about the movement and find out how you can help. If you're in Canada,  check out this Huffington Post list of local organizations you can support as well. 

 Side dishes 

Podcast:
To Live and Die in LA

Quote: 
“Have you had a kindness shown? Pass it on; twas not given for thee alone, pass it on; let it travel down the years, let it wipe another’s tears, till in heaven the deed appears—pass it on. You can’t light a candle to show others the way, without feeling the warmth of that bright little ray; and you can’t give a rose all the fragrance with dew, without some of its sweetness remaining with you.”
– Henry Burton 

Read:
The Truth About Aaron: My Journey to Understand My Brother
– Jonathan Hernandez

Song:
Sink – Maya B, SAINt JHN