Cooking at home is the best way to save money. But there’s something I learned not too long ago that is also very important.

As you guys may or may not know, earlier this year my mom was rushed to the hospital because she had a bladder infection (don’t worry. She’s better now). At that time, I was completely worried and devastated. I know we don’t really like each other that much, but I never wish for her to be in pain. Within the past 12 hours of waiting in the emergency room, I realized that all this time of them being so overprotective is to keep me safe and wanting the best. I remembered years ago when my cousin’s mom passed away, he told me “Being overprotective is better than not”, and he learned that the hard way. I learned to cherish every moment with my family. Because tomorrow may not come. Like this year, I want to spend my birthday with my family. The past 2 years, I was on vacation. But this year, I kinda want to have a nice dinner with my family and a really nice cake made from my dad. Sounds small, but all the little things add up. And yes, they can be idiots sometimes, but they’re my idiots.

You guys probably know by now that I love telling stories. Whether it’s something good that happened or something bad and I learned from it, I always love showing people what I do, what I learned and most importantly, what I am. I remembered when I went to a Christmas party with my friends and one of my friends wanted me to teach them how to make my signature soju drinks. I taught them but I also engaged in a conversation. Talking about food, cooking and just life in general. In the end, we didn’t just create multiple stunning and amazing drinks, but a deeper, stronger relationship. Many people always ask me where to start the conversation. I always said “Start with the best part” because the best part brings back memories and memories will last a lifetime.

Looking back all the good times I have with my family, friends and co-workers always warms my heart. It shapes me to what I am today and I truly thank them from the bottom of my heart. So as my last days of me being 22, the only thing I wish for is to have another year of smiles, growth and memories that will last a lifetime.