Year: 2025

...After sharing my first and second Tokyo stationery hauls, I’m back with something different—but just as fun: my Japanese knitting tools haul from Yuzawaya Kamata. If you’re into knitting or crochet, this post might give you some ideas on what to check out on your next trip to Tokyo. Spoiler: Yuzawaya is huge, and I […]

...Using the right Hobonichi Weeks layouts for study made a huge difference in how I stayed organized and consistent with my goals. I relied on them heavily while preparing for the JLPT, but these layouts aren’t just for language exams — they’re flexible enough for any kind of study plan. Whether you’re working through coursework, […]

...Following up on my first post in this Japanese stationery haul series, here’s part two! While the overall series focuses on my stationery shopping experience in Tokyo, this second post highlights Japanese planner accessories I picked up—practical tools and thoughtful finds for binder and journal lovers. Part one included an overview of the best stationery […]

...Tokyo is a dream destination for stationery lovers, and this Japanese stationery haul is packed with discoveries from some of the best stationery stores in Tokyo. From high-end shops in Ginza to hidden gems like 36 Sublo in Kichijoji, each stop in this Tokyo stationery shopping journey offered unique finds and memorable experiences. Whether you’re […]

...Have you ever looked at your vanity and wondered how to organize skincare products so that everything stays tidy yet accessible? I used to struggle with this, constantly shifting bottles around and feeling overwhelmed by all the products I had. In my previous blog post, I covered my decluttering process—removing expired products, items that no […]

...System techo vs. bullet journal (aka Bujo) is a common debate among those looking for a customizable planning system. A bullet journal is a highly flexible system where users create layouts from scratch, allowing for full creative control over planning and organization. In contrast, a system techo is a modular, ring-bound planner system that allows […]

...Recently, I realized my vanity was overflowing with too many skincare products, making skincare decluttering a priority. The excess made it difficult to find what I actually needed, often resulting in frustration while getting ready. Having too many items also meant some of them were getting neglected, buried under newer products or impulse purchases. I […]

...Tried multiple hole punches for ring binders? I did too! With so many options available, choosing the best hole punch for ring binders can be overwhelming. From single-hole punches to adjustable multi-hole models, each type serves a different purpose, and not all of them are created equal. Over the years, I’ve tested various hole punches, […]

...There was a time when I found myself endlessly scrolling through Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts without realizing how much time had passed. I knew I needed to reduce social media time, but I didn’t recognize the issue until I noticed its negative effects. It became an addictive habit, and I often watched videos even […]

...The Hobonichi Weeks planner is a versatile tool that allows users to create customized layouts based on their needs. Whether you are balancing work and personal tasks, managing your time efficiently, tracking habits, or focusing on mental wellness, the right Hobonichi Weeks layout can make a significant difference. Over time, I have experimented with multiple […]

...Continuing my Granny Square Cardigan Journey: If you missed the beginning, check out my first post here. I’ve been working on creating a crochet granny square cardigan, and it’s been quite the journey! From adjusting the granny square cardigan pattern to figuring out how to adjust crochet cardigan size, I’ve learned so much along the […]

...As the world of knitting grows, so do the options for formalizing one’s skills and gaining professional recognition. Two leading knitting certification programs stand out in this field: The Japan Handicraft Instructors Association (JHIA) in Japan and The Knitting Guild Association (TKGA) in the United States. Both programs have distinct approaches to developing knitting expertise, […]

...If you’re feeling overwhelmed by a constant stream of thoughts, tasks, or ideas, the brain dump technique could be the answer you need. This simple yet powerful method is designed to help clear mental clutter, making room for better focus, reduced stress, and improved productivity. In this guide, we’ll explore why brain dumping is beneficial, […]

...Are you a dedicated knitter looking to elevate your skills through a structured program with professional recognition? The Japan Handicraft Instructors Association (JHIA) Knitting Certification, often referred to as the “Vogue Certification” due to its affiliation with Nihon Vogue, is a well-respected knitting certification in Japan. This program offers a clear pathway for knitters to […]

...On December 1st, I took the JLPT N1, marking a significant milestone in my Japanese language learning journey. It was both challenging and enlightening, and I’m excited to share my experiences with you. In this post, I’ll discuss what to expect from the JLPT exam based on my personal experience, along with practical tips to […]

...In the first part of this series, we walked through setting up your Notion reading tracker by creating properties like Title, Author, Status, and more. Now, it’s time to take your tracker to the next level by customizing it with different views. Notion offers a variety of views—Timeline, Gallery, Board, and more—that can help you […]

...Are you looking for a way to stay organized with your reading habits and make sure you’re keeping track of everything you read? A Notion reading tracker can help you organize your books, monitor your reading progress, and even visualize your goals over time. Whether you’re aiming to read more this year, explore new genres, […]

...How do you organize your knitting supplies? Keeping small knitting and crochet tools organized can be a challenge. If you’ve been searching for knitting supplies storage solutions that are practical, portable, and affordable, I’ve found a game-changing option: a compact hair tie container. This container was originally designed for hair accessories. However, it’s perfect for […]

...The Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is scheduled for Sunday, December 1, 2024 (AATJ). With less than a month remaining, it’s crucial to optimize your JLPT study guide to focus on what matters most. In this guide, we’ll walk through effective last-minute JLPT study strategies, including practice exams, targeted reviews, vocabulary drills, and listening techniques. By […]

...Using a To-Do list app can genuinely transform how you manage your daily tasks and projects. Whether you’re balancing work commitments or handling personal errands, these apps give you the tools to organize your day, prioritize what’s important, and boost productivity. In this guide, I’ll share how to use these apps effectively, so you can […]