Strive To Be Better

Just a reminder! Working daily to be stronger and better….HUGS HUGS HUGS! I know I have imperfections and not perfect. Trying to improve myself one step at a time… Losing 35+ pounds was brutal and still continuing is tough as heck… Working hard doesn’t always means there’s a huge return…Unfortunately, appreciation and love may not… Continue reading Strive To Be Better

Art Of The Day: Year Of Thr Dragon

It’s the year of the Dragon!  Happy lunar new year to everyone!  The dragon is such an amazing mythical creature in both eastern and western culture. I believe that it symbolizes prosperity and power.  (On a side note, I do own a bearded dragon!) Do you like dragons?  Follow Chocoviv’s Lifestyle Blog on WordPress.com Instagram:… Continue reading Art Of The Day: Year Of Thr Dragon

Book Review: Once Upon A Christmas Eve

Image Courtesy of Amazon  Summary Julie’s job was to attentive and be on the look for the most available single celebrities in the city. To set them up with her boss, the match making professional was her goal. Her own personal life was on a low point at her job and love life. Her family,… Continue reading Book Review: Once Upon A Christmas Eve

Book Review: The Tall Moose Saves Christmas by Stephanie Vincent

Thank you, Stephanie Vincent, for sending me this super cute book! Summary It’s Christmas! The winter weather was causing a lot of problems for Santa as he was trying to deliver the presents. What can be done? There were so many presents to deliver and time was running out! What could Moose do?  Conclusion  This… Continue reading Book Review: The Tall Moose Saves Christmas by Stephanie Vincent

Vendor Feature: Nail Pretty By Lisa

What a great beauty combination! There is a lash and brow serum, hydrating cuticle oil and serum by Nail Pretty By Lisa. Thank you for the gift! Who is Nail Pretty by Lisa? 1) Why and when did you start your business? In 2019, I started making my own products. My skin was having an allergic… Continue reading Vendor Feature: Nail Pretty By Lisa

Vendor Feature: Emily 3D Print

My Straykids Kpop lightstick finally has a home! Thank you, Emily!  Who is Emily 3D Print? 1) When and why did you start your business? I started in January of 2023. I started because I wanted to make awesome merchandise for the Owl House fans, which eventually led me to making products for other groups!… Continue reading Vendor Feature: Emily 3D Print

Vendor Feature: Meeshes Chili Oil

Introducing Meeshes Chili Oil, made with MCT oil! Thank you for your gift! Who is Meeshes Chili Oil? My love for spice begin as a kids visiting my family in Mexico! After travelling through thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia I fell in love with chili oils and all the beautiful balance of flavours, sweet, salty &… Continue reading Vendor Feature: Meeshes Chili Oil

Vendor Feature: Nilab Saheli, Nutritionist & Personal Trainer

Introducing my new personal trainer! Who is Nilab Salehi? Q1) When and why did you start your business? About five years ago when I finished university, I started working with a personal trainer because I felt a bit lost bout where to begin, couldn’t stay on track and ultimately kept failing to reach my fitness… Continue reading Vendor Feature: Nilab Saheli, Nutritionist & Personal Trainer

Fabfitfun Winter 2023

Check out my newest Winter 2023 Fabfitfun box! 1) Rebecca Minkoff Crossbody Bag  2) dpHUE Exfoliating Scalp Detox 3) thisworks deep sleep overnight cleanser 4) Versed PRESS RESTART GENTLE RETINOL SERUM 5) EKOS CASTANHA HAND CREAM 6) SusieCakes Cake Stand Top 7) SusieCakes Cake Stand Base This was a good box this winter! Follow Chocoviv’s… Continue reading Fabfitfun Winter 2023

Vendor Feature: Life Is Sweet Confections

Confections I love the name, “Life Is Sweet”! What a great way to brighter your day, with sweet confections! Who is Life Is Sweet? 1) Why and when did you start your business? In the last three years I have fallen in love with creating chocolate bonbons. Creating fun flavours, that are all wrapped up… Continue reading Vendor Feature: Life Is Sweet Confections

Vendor Feature: Ganh Vietnamese Restaurant

Ever since this restaurant has opened, they have been adding new dishes to their menu!  Who is Ganh Vietnamese Restaurant?  This restaurant is a family business of brothers and sister. I own a chain of Vietnamese sandwich shops, called Ngon banh mi and Tea. (2228 Kingsway). It has been in business since 2018.  My other… Continue reading Vendor Feature: Ganh Vietnamese Restaurant

Cuban Salsa: Tiempo Versus Contratiempo

Post Salsa Class Pose After a recent class, I asked our dance instructor what was the difference between dancing on tiempo versus contratiempo.  The Difference  Cuban music is rich in rhythms and often employs Tiempo and Contratiempo in a distinctive manner : 1. **Tiempo (Downbeat):** In Cuban music, “tiempo” refers to the main rhythm or… Continue reading Cuban Salsa: Tiempo Versus Contratiempo

Vendor Feature: Otimo Cheese Puffs

I love cheese puffs! Thank you, Otimo for sending us some! Who is Otimo Cheese Puffs? S&B Gluten Free Inc was officially established in 2012 but the business idea and concept were a long time life dream. The first company to make this type of snacks (using the traditional Brazilian recipe) in the West Coast… Continue reading Vendor Feature: Otimo Cheese Puffs

Vendor Feature: Loki’s Spreads

What are you using lately on your morning toast? You need to try Loki’s Spread! I love that they are KETO-FRIENDLY and VEGAN!  Thank you for the gift!  Who is Loki’s Spread?  LOKI’S is a family business. We are a small business it’s just my husband and I! 1) When did you start this business?… Continue reading Vendor Feature: Loki’s Spreads

Book Review: What The Seal Saw

Summary This children’s book was about the adventures of this seal. Beautiful and whimsical drawings that were not overly stimulating to children. The story was written like a poem which helped with practicing rhythm.  This book used dyslexic-friendly font and was a very calming book to the reader. It focused on being empathetic to our… Continue reading Book Review: What The Seal Saw

Movie Review: Shadows

Summary Ching was a famous forensics psychiatrist who was gifted with a special ability. One day, a police detective asked her for some advice in regards to a recent murder/suicide case of a social worker’s family. She became very suspicious of the social worker’s psychiatrist and his involvement…. However, the more she investigated, the more… Continue reading Movie Review: Shadows

Vendor Feature: Merrimade

Thank you Merrimade for these great gifts for humans and furry pets alike!  Who is Merrimade? 我由香港移民過來,擁有13多個手工藝導師證書。 merrimade 創辦了一年,主要是手工香薰蠟燭和香薰石膏,希望做到這些產品不只是用來裝飾,而是有不同用處。 香薰護膚蠟燭的配方是全天然,保濕滋潤,抗炎抗衰老,15分鐘吸收,所有皮膚可用,尤其乾燥的皮膚非常有效。 寵物亦是家庭成員之一,所以也硏製給貓狗可用的護掌膏。尤其狗狗經常外出,幼嫩的肉墊乾燥發炎,天然寵物護掌膏可幫助保濕、滋潤、抗炎。 遲些會舉辦興趣班、工作坊等活動,希望其他人也可以創作自己的手工作品。 Translation: I immigrated from Hong Kong and have more than 13 craft instructor certificates. “merrimade” has been established for a year, selling mainly handmade scented candles and scented plaster. I hope that these… Continue reading Vendor Feature: Merrimade

Book Review: Terror In The Shadows Vol. 1

Summary This is a collection of short horror stories by horror authors, Ron Ripley, A.I. Nasser, David Longhorn and Sara Clancy.  Vol. 1 is the first of the 22 volume series. It is a great way to get to know these supernatural and suspense authors.  The stories may be a bit gruesome at times and… Continue reading Book Review: Terror In The Shadows Vol. 1

Vendor Feature: House of Origins Apothecary

Thank you House of Origins Apothecary for the gift! Who is House Of Origins Apothecary? 1- When and why did you start your business? We started our business around 2015. What began as a passion project turned into a whole wellness community. Maz and I began collaborating through a performance art collective, we were training… Continue reading Vendor Feature: House of Origins Apothecary

Book Review: The Sound Of Murder

Murder Image Courtesy of Amazon Summary After many years of wanting to perform on stage, Ruby finally got the chance to travel and perform as a part of the musical, The Sound of Music! Unfortunately, after she accidentally stumbled upon the murdered body of one of the cast members, the show was stopped.  So, Ruby decided… Continue reading Book Review: The Sound Of Murder

Vendor Feature: Roomco

Thank you, Roomco Lifestyle Shop for these lovely gifts! For more details of the other items, please see my Instagram post!  Who is Roomco? 1)Why and when did you start your business? I started this business because I’ve always believed that even the smallest things in life can bring immense happiness. Witnessing how simple acts… Continue reading Vendor Feature: Roomco

Vendor Feature: Clani Clay Designs

I love floral earrings! Thank you, Clani Clay Designs! https://chocoviv.wordpress.com/2023/08/10/jewelry-earrings-design/ Who is Clani Clay Designs? 👉🏽My name is Lani, and came up with the name cLani from Lani and my wife’s name Claire combined.😄 I live in Vancouver, Canada with my wife, our son Jacob and our poodle, Puppy. Our beagle, Charlie, just recently passed… Continue reading Vendor Feature: Clani Clay Designs

Vendor Feature: Skin Studio MD by Senniyo

Check out my Instagram account to see the full video! Check out my facial!  Who is Skin Studio MD by Senniyo? 1) Why and when did you start your business? I started Skin Studio MD+ because I noticed a disparity between effective skincare solutions and their affordability. I wanted to bridge this gap as I believe that… Continue reading Vendor Feature: Skin Studio MD by Senniyo

Vendor Feature: Alpaca Studio

What a cute name! Meet Alpaca Studio, who makes soaps and personal fragrances…Thank you for my gift! Who is Alpaca Studio? Why and when did you start your business? We started our business out of a shared passion for unique and creative candles, soaps and perfumes. We wanted to bring joy and a sense of… Continue reading Vendor Feature: Alpaca Studio

Vendor Feature: Red Raccoon Coffee

https://chocoviv.wordpress.com/2023/08/01/vendor-feature-red-raccoon-coffee/ Coffee is one item I indulge on almost everyday. Thank you, Red Raccoon for my bag of beans!  Who is Red Raccoon Coffee? 1) When and why did you start your business? Started in 2021. Wanted to bring more people into specialty coffee. 2) What is your background? My background is in food science.… Continue reading Vendor Feature: Red Raccoon Coffee

Vendor Feature: Theory Laser Skincare

This hidden gem of laser skincare was tucked in this little neighborhood. It was the the skincare specialist side of the esthetic lounge, ran by two sisters. What a dynamic pair! Thank you for my lovely facial! (See my Instagram post for more details!) Who is Theory Laser Skincare? 1) Why and when did you… Continue reading Vendor Feature: Theory Laser Skincare

Reblog Feature: Dr. Ho’s Pain Therapy System

https://chocoviv.wordpress.com/2021/11/16/vendor-feature-dr-hos-pain-therapy-system/ Follow Chocoviv’s Lifestyle Blog on WordPress.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chocoviv/ Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/Chocoviv1 TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZSsT5hEo/</</ Affiliate link:https://www.villov.net/?ref=1749896.e2894c</</

Photo Of The Day: Cherry Blossoms

It’s Cherry blossom time! I feel very lucky to be able to see cherry blossoms 🌸 every year on the sidewalks. As a sign of spring and a new beginning… Photo Of The Day: Cherry Blossoms Follow Chocoviv’s Lifestyle Blog on WordPress.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chocoviv/ Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/Chocoviv1 TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZSsT5hEo/</</ Affiliate link:https://www.villov.net/?ref=1749896.e2894c</</

Netflix Documentary: Operation Varsity Blues

Summary This documentary recalled the March 2019 college admissions scandal that came to light as it involved some very wealthy and influential … Netflix Documentary: Operation Varsity Blues Follow Chocoviv’s Lifestyle Blog on WordPress.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chocoviv/ Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/Chocoviv1 TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZSsT5hEo/</</ Affiliate link:https://www.villov.net/?ref=1749896.e2894c</</

Vendor Feature: Bentodent

Thank you Ino Dent Naturals (Bentodent) for sending me these toothpastes to try out! There are three tubes in total. Who Is Ido Dent Naturals? We are… Vendor Feature: Bentodent Follow Chocoviv’s Lifestyle Blog on WordPress.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chocoviv/ Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/Chocoviv1 TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZSsT5hEo/</</ Affiliate link:https://www.villov.net/?ref=1749896.e2894c</</

Art Inspiration: Where To Go

Where to go In this world With the wind Weaving through My silky mane Galloping along The River or Across the plains I can’t decide So I shall Follow… Art Inspiration: Where To Go Follow Chocoviv’s Lifestyle Blog on WordPress.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chocoviv/ Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/Chocoviv1 TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZSsT5hEo/</</ Affiliate link:https://www.villov.net/?ref=1749896.e2894c</</

Movie Review: The Call

Summary Imagine visiting to your old childhood home and while you were living there, the previous inhabitant called you from the past on your house … Movie Review: The Call Follow Chocoviv’s Lifestyle Blog on WordPress.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chocoviv/ Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/Chocoviv1 TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZSsT5hEo/</</ Affiliate link:https://www.villov.net/?ref=1749896.e2894c</</

Book Review: Ikigai (The Japanese Secret To A Long And Happy Life)

Summary According to Wikipedia, “ikigai is a Japanese concept that means “a reason for being”. The word refers to having a direction or purpose in … Book Review: Ikigai (The Japanese Secret To A Long And Happy Life) Follow Chocoviv’s Lifestyle Blog on WordPress.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chocoviv/ Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/Chocoviv1 TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZSsT5hEo/</</ Affiliate link:https://www.villov.net/?ref=1749896.e2894c</</

Art Inspiration: Snorlax Ramen

Anyone else feels like this Snorlax? Not a care in the world Just lie back Relax And toss that mouthful Of delicious ramen And its toppings While … Art Inspiration: Snorlax Ramen Follow Chocoviv’s Lifestyle Blog on WordPress.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chocoviv/ Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/Chocoviv1 TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZSsT5hEo/</</ Affiliate link:https://www.villov.net/?ref=1749896.e2894c</</

Reblog Feature: If I could relive one day it would be…

Today I thought of doing something completely different. I’m curious to know which day you would relive in your life. In the comment section below, …… Reblog Feature: If I could relive one day it would be… Follow Chocoviv’s Lifestyle Blog on WordPress.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chocoviv/ Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/Chocoviv1 TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZSsT5hEo/</</ Affiliate link:https://www.villov.net/?ref=1749896.e2894c</</

Photo Of The Day: Chrysanthemum Bouquet

This last Easter long weekend, our family went to visit the final resting places of our family members and friends. This time I decided to purchase … Photo Of The Day: Chrysanthemum Bouquet Follow Chocoviv’s Lifestyle Blog on WordPress.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chocoviv/ Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/Chocoviv1 TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZSsT5hEo/</</ Affiliate link:https://www.villov.net/?ref=1749896.e2894c</</

Art Inspiration: Mushroom Hut

The sparrow are chirping Outside the windows While I dust off The cobwebs That are hiding Behind the arm chairs And under the bed. This cozy mushroom… Art Inspiration: Mushroom Hut Follow Chocoviv’s Lifestyle Blog on WordPress.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chocoviv/ Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/Chocoviv1 TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZSsT5hEo/</</ Affiliate link:https://www.villov.net/?ref=1749896.e2894c</</

Book Review: Veronika Decides To Die

Summary The title said it all….one day, Veronika decided to die. Her life seemed monotonous and insignificant to the point that a magazine was … Book Review: Veronika Decides To Die Follow Chocoviv’s Lifestyle Blog on WordPress.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chocoviv/ Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/Chocoviv1 TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZSsT5hEo/</</ Affiliate link:https://www.villov.net/?ref=1749896.e2894c</</

Quick Tour of Thailand

In 2007, after visiting Vietnam, our group dropped by Thailand. It was a quick tour around Bangkok mostly, so the most impressive part of this leg of my Asia trip was the Grand Palace. “The Grand Palace (Thai: พระบรมมหาราชวัง Phra Borom Maha Ratcha Wang ) is a complex of buildings at the heart of Bangkok, Thailand. The palace has been… Continue reading Quick Tour of Thailand

Movie Review: BIG (816)

Summary  In this pediatric oncology ward, six families meet and connect with each other. As time passes, each family faces their own struggles, stresses and pockets of happiness.  Conclusion  This movie really moved me to tears and even occasionally, laughter too! Despite their struggles and tragedies, each family eventually learned to become stronger together. BIG,… Continue reading Movie Review: BIG (816)