Women's Quarter: Anna May Wong

 "You must not be afraid of trying. Every failure is a step toward success." - A. Wong

Anna May Wong: A Legacy in Light and Shadow

I found this beautiful quarter recently. Here's a bit more about her. In the twilight of Hollywood’s golden age, Anna May Wong forged a path where none existed, becoming the first Chinese-American movie star to step boldly into the spotlight. The daughter of immigrants, she carried with her not just a dream of stardom but the weight of cultural expectations and relentless stereotypes.

There’s a resilience to her story—one of navigating between artistry and injustice. She accepted limitations while subtly rebelling against them, using her roles to express unspoken defiance. Though denied the lead role in The Good Earth—a part given to a white actress—Wong refused to let Hollywood define her worth. Wong was not only a talented actress but also fluent in English, German, and French. This allowed her to perform and find success in European cinema when Hollywood limited her roles. In 1951, she starred in The Gallery of Madame Liu-Tsong, becoming the first Asian-American to lead a U.S. television series, playing a Chinese art dealer who solves crimes.

Wong’s life urges us to reflect: How do we navigate systems that try to limit who we are? She didn’t play by their rules but played within them, twisting expectation into subtle resistance.

Her enduring lesson is not only in representation but in perseverance: When the world doesn’t see your worth, shine brighter—and on your own terms.

 

Our Delightful Autumn Tea Party

A Regency-Inspired Written Account

Today was a most delightful autumn day, with the air temperate and mild in the mid-70s, as some of the women in my family and I assembled upon a screened porch for an exceedingly agreeable tea party. I brought along an autumn-themed tablecloth, my tea set, seating cards adorned with tea-inspired quotes, and delightful prompts to spark conversation. Our gathering took place at a lavender farm, where soft breezes drifted in, bringing with them the fragrance of trees and flowers. In the distance, we heard the gentle coos of doves and caught the curious glances of a few friendly lemurs the owners had rescued. We partook of fine café sandwiches and salads, steaming lavender tea sweetened with honey, refreshing lemonade, and finished with the most exquisite desserts.

Our refreshments were made all the more charming by the Saxony tea set I acquired from a local antique shop. These porcelain treasures, originating in 19th-century Germany, are celebrated for their fine translucence and delicate artistry—qualities that lent a touch of whimsy and elegance most fitting for such an occasion.

Yet the true joy of the afternoon was found in the company we kept and the lively conversation that followed—what modern minds might call spilling the tea. We spoke freely, laughed heartily, and indulged in the small luxury of repose. Each of us left with a token of the gathering—a bamboo spoon for honey and an unbleached, reusable cotton tea bag—little keepsakes that I hope will inspire future tea moments.

After our meal, we enjoyed a leisurely tour of the gardens, still teeming with late blooms, butterflies, and bumblebees, all glowing in the sunshine. As the afternoon drew to a close, we found ourselves in agreement: this gathering may become an autumn tradition! And with spring’s promise of new blooms, we may very well return to the lavender farm to enjoy another tea party in late March next year.

Above all, a great treasure of this experience for me was found in the relaxation our gathering afforded. Our tea party was more than mere refreshment; it was an escape from the trials of daily life—a pause to savor the good company of family and the sweetness of conversation, as every afternoon tea ought to be.

 

Women's Quarter: Celia Cruz "Azucar!"

 

Azúcar: Sweetness, Power, and a Legacy Rooted in Rhythm

In the pulse of Latin music, Celia Cruz’s voice rises—strong, joyous, and unmistakably alive. Known as the "Queen of Salsa," Cruz transformed her love of music into a form of liberation. Every time she shouted “Azúcar!”—sugar—it wasn’t just a playful catchphrase; it was an anthem of joy, defiance, and cultural pride.

Celia’s journey was marked by migration and longing. Leaving Cuba after the revolution, she never returned, making her music a vessel for the home she could no longer reach. Cruz broke new ground as the first woman in salsa to win a Grammy Award in 1989 for her album Ritmo en el Corazón, a collaboration with Ray Barretto.

Cruz’s music is a reminder of what it means to honor your roots while growing into something more. She was never just a performer; she was a force that bridged cultures, languages, and hearts. Even when she sang about love, loss, or resilience, there was an unmistakable sweetness woven into every note—a sweetness that refused to fade, no matter the hardship.

Azúcar’s essence teaches us that joy is a choice—and sometimes, it’s the most radical one we can make. When life throws bitterness your way, find your rhythm and dance through it.

 "I have fulfilled my father’s wish to be a teacher as I educate people through my music." - C. Cruz
 

Heartistry: My Creative Path Through Pride & Prejudice

Introducing Heartistry: My New Annual Planner Inspired by Pride & Prejudice

I’m thrilled to share about my newest creative journal, Heartistry. Spanning from October 2024 to September 2025, Heartistry  is far more than just a planner for me—it’s a space for reflection, creativity, and recording life’s moments. There will be planning and goal-setting but also sketching, journaling, and capturing personal milestones.

My previous planner, Charmwoven, has been a guide for most of the last twelve months as I've roamed through Middle-earth completing activities based on Lord of the Rings. Today, I've stepped into the world of Pride & Prejudice, where each month will focus on a different character from Jane Austen’s beloved novel. It has activities, reflections, and creative prompts. From Elizabeth Bennet’s wit and wisdom to Mr. Darcy’s quiet resolve, I hope this journey will be both inspiring and enriching.

Why Heartistry? The name reflects the mix of heart and artistry that this book will embody. It's my canvas for weaving together daily life, personal growth, and, of course, a little Regency charm.

I can’t wait to get started! The cover is above and below are a few example pages. 

Cover page

Wit & Whimsy pages - showing each month's character and activities

 

 

In general each month has a monthly & weekly spread with flowers and Austen quotes

I have blank pages for journaling and creativity

Small section of "dutch doors"

Some weekly spreads have movies to go along with the holidays. I tried to make them different than last year.

Books and flowers decorations

I put in my bedtime affirmations since they help me relax

I have some spreads with just paper and decorations. Likely will use these for photos

One of many pages returning this year. Scribble Journaling is a favorite activity to relieve stress.

Here are my seasonal "adventure" lists I like to do.

I wanted to have a more organized book tracking system besides Goodreads.

In the Spirit of Rohan: Horses & Bison in Focus

Black & White photo; two horses grazing behind fence

September has been the month I've focused on Rohan from The Lord of the Rings. One activity to match this theme might have been to ride horses, however, I think my horse riding days are over! ha. So instead I found myself inspired to photograph horses in appreciation for the noble steeds of the Rohirrim. These photos were captured as I drove around. Many times I had no choice but to pull over, get out of my car, and try to snap some quick shots from the roadside. One day, there happened to be a location that also allowed me a few fantastic photos of bison. Through my lens, I hope to share an appreciation and glimpse of the connection between these powerful creatures and the landscapes they roam.

I liked the sepia version of this one too!