The Day Before Christmas

Once again, it's Christmas Eve. Another year has come and gone and hopefully, we are wiser, kinder and stronger than the year before. But as we all know, we faced a multitude of challenges in 2016. I've heard on many occasions, from different sources, that this year has sucked. Yes, SUCKED in cap locks. But I've tried to see the positive side of this year.

I truly and genuinely believe that this year was a year of learning and self education. Therefore, we should put all into practice in 2017. A year is never wasted. It is never futile. We must trust in ourselves, in our humanity and existence in this universe. We may never have all the answers, but we will continue to seek them with our heads held high with a slice of humble pie. Yum!

No matter where you are in the world, wishing you best wishes and Happy Holiday season to you, your family and your loved ones. Much love, health and joy. #whyislifeworthliving

Anna

This Will Butler song/music video is so weird. I don't know if I like it or not. But it does make me want to finally take tap dancing lessons. And I definitely need to find a fuchsia lipstick.

Uni, The 'Butter of the Sea'

If I could eat uni everyday, I would be the happiest person in the universe.

Your Name (君の名は / Kimi no Na wa)

Last year I was growing tired of the same old animated films, so I delved into a deep search for new films. Then I came across Makoto Shinkai and his beautiful treasure trove of animated films. I started the journey with The Garden of Words and then 5 Centimeters Per Seconds and now this year, he has a new film Your Name. Shinkai has been called "The New Miyazaki", but I think he has a very different stylistic and storytelling approach with his animation. His stories are more slice of life than fantasy like the majority of Studio Ghibli films, notably Spirited Away and Princess Mononoke.

I'm very moved by how much detail there is to the animation. Each frame is thoughtfully designed, the lighting, colors, camera movement are so well executed. I'm so drawn to these stories and characters. Very grateful to have discovered Makoto Shinkai's work. Can't wait to watch Your Name when it gets distributed in the U.S. in 2017.

Audrey

Audrey Hepburn is the most extraordinary, effervescent, inspiring, beautiful, caring human being in the whole universe. Not only was she a charismatic actress and talent, she was a humanitarian. I have so much admiration for her and her work. She is truly one of my greatest inspirations.