Hi everyone,
It's been such an amazing 2018 so far. I am blessed, but I have definitely realized that your girl needs some rest! I will be taking a break from organizing major food related events until Winter, and I am using the Spring and Summer for some professional development and school.

Anyway, just going some growing pains right now. My day job is challenging, per usual, so I am also trying to muster up the energy to do very technical work and at the same time do some very creative work. Like I said before: it's hard! It's hard not to get tired or burned out, but we keep pushing here!

Thanks for putting up with my ranting. I feel like I am a student again. Well, technically I am. It's scary, but invigorating at the same time. I love learning and I love being able to put my new knowledge to good use. Feels good, right? It sure does. Until next time.

xoxo,
Jo

I had such an empowering morning on March 31, 2018. A few months ago, Dr. Dawn Mabalon invited me to speak as part of an epic panel at the Association of Asian American Studies Conference in SF which included chefs, educators and entrepreneurs. It really felt like a reunion.

Because we were pressed for time (seriously, we could have talked for another 3 hours), we had to keep our individual talks short and sweet. I talked about how I got into the Filipino food promotion - through writing and social media events. I wish we can have a whole entire day dedicated to Filipino food. In all honesty, it was such an honor to be in the company of these guys. They are heavy hitters and they have inspired me in more ways than one.

I am hoping to expand the discussion at the FANHS Conference this coming July in Chicago. Until then, I am excited to collabo on some projects with some people and organizations this Summer, including Kalayaan 2018 and Pistahan. Hope to see you at those events!
xoxo,
Jo