Welcome to My Little Corner
A cozy space for thoughts, stories, and good company
Why a blue sky and a van?
Well, funny story—my name is Thanh Vân, which means 'blue sky' in Vietnamese. Sounds poetic, right? But then I moved to the U.S., and suddenly… I became a van. Yep, like the vehicle. So here I am, somewhere between a peaceful sky and a four-wheeled mode of transportation. Honestly, it’s a pretty fitting combination for me—always wandering, always open to new journeys. And that’s me, when I was young.
Okay, But Seriously, what can I do for you?
This blog started as a space to unload my thoughts before they exploded. I didn’t expect anyone to applaud my work—I just needed a place to breathe and be honest.
But if something here speaks to you, I’m grateful you are here.
I believe in a kind world, where we show up with peace and care, even in small, messy ways.
So, thank you for being part of that.
If you’re curious about me or the project I’m growing, check the top left— About and The Ripple Project are hanging out there, waiting like introverts at a party.
And just below, you’ll find my blog posts — thoughts, reflections, and little ripples I’ve sent out into the world.
I’m Fine Alone… But Maybe I’m Ready for Something More
I’ve always been fine on my own.
But lately, a quiet part of me is asking:
“What if you’re ready for something more?”
Photo by cottonbro studio: https://www.pexels.com/photo/persons-hands-with-rainbow-colors-3693901/
When the Mind Needs a Little Rain
A gentle reminder that sitting around staring at rain might be the best thing you do all week.
Photo by vee terzy: https://www.pexels.com/photo/road-between-pine-trees-39811/
Adulting is Weird
When was the last time you made a decision for your soul—not your schedule?
I did. And it terrified me. I used to chase butterflies. Now I chase bank balances. This summer, I’m choosing the forest instead—two weeks off-grid to reconnect with my freedom-loving, animal-caring, slightly-chaotic self. Because maybe the only way to feel stable… is to go a little wild.
Photo by Taryn Elliott: https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-in-white-dress-running-7866286/
Siri, How do I Soft Quit My Life?
I’m learning that love — real, sustainable love — includes rest. And sometimes, the kindest thing I can do is stop forcing myself to keep going.
Small Ripples, Gentle Tides
Tonight, a client emailed me just to say, 'You’re an angel, Van.' And my heart melted—not because of the title (wings would be a hassle, honestly), but because I realized: Today, I helped someone feel a little less alone. And that’s enough.
Photo by Lukas: https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-hand-reaching-body-of-water-296282/
No Tears, Just Tides
No tears today—just customers changing nail colors like it's a game show. But instead of losing my cool, I breathe, repeat my mantra, and ride the waves. Patience isn’t just a virtue; it’s a survival skill in customer service.
Photo by Matt Hardy from Pexels: https://www.pexels.com/photo/wavy-body-of-water-during-golden-hour-1615681/
Sailing out
After years of letting self-doubt steer the ship, I’m finally setting sail—into blogging, into uncertainty, into figuring things out as I go. No fancy titles, no perfect plan, just a desire to share, connect, and remind each other that we’re not alone in this wild journey. Welcome aboard!
Photo by Arnab Barman: https://www.pexels.com/photo/boat-in-the-ocean-1675998/