For those who know me, I may be described as an opinionated, strong-willed person. My sister even calls me a “fire-breathing dragon”, aligning with my Chinese zodiac. They’re not wrong – I stand up for what I believe in wholeheartedly, but I have also cultivated a pragmatic mindset throughout my career.
People are multi-faceted and all my experiences have contributed to weaving a very rich tapestry. Below are some fun facts about me!
- Proud Asian American – But I wasn’t always this way. I grew up in a community with little minority representation, so I was constantly bullied. It took a long time for me to embrace my ethnicity and eventually become an advocate for DEI and Cantonese culture. Now, I travel to Hong Kong every few years, continue to watch TVB dramas, and am the Founder of the Cantonese American Association.
- Working Mama – Three years ago, I added the amazing title of “mama” to my identity! Being a mom is one of the toughest roles I’ve ever had to take on, but it has also been the most rewarding. Follow my motherhood journey on Instagram at RaisingBabyBao and my blog Raising Baby Bao.
- Food Obsessed – Years ago during a trip to Asheville, NC, we were eating at a popular breakfast joint. While munching down on some biscuits and gravy, our waiter came to check up on us and started laughing. Turns out, I was doing a happy food dance and didn’t even realize it. I think that sums up how much food means to me – to the point where I subconsciously embarrass myself. Kris Craves is my cherished food blog that shares restaurant reviews, recipes, and even my Foodie Bucket List.
- Some quick hits:
- I have over 20 houseplants and love nurturing them
- Love hiking and the outdoors – I think it’s important to connect with nature on a regular basis
- I have a 13-year-old Yorkie who is the most doting companion
- My husband and I had to push back our planned wedding due to Covid, but didn’t want to wait to start a family, so we had a backyard, Zoom wedding at the height of the pandemic (certainly memorable!)
- 100% a Jersey girl – born and raised in NJ. I tried the NY thing, but after huge roaches, mice, and a bed bug infestation while living in an expensive shoebox, I moved back to NJ within just one year.