Exercising Without Actually Hitting the Gym: 4 of the Best Methods

 

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While we go in with the best of intentions with a workout routine, part of the problem is learning to stay motivated so we end up not participating in things that we know are good for us. This is why exercising is not necessarily about the cliched things, such as your treadmills and your free weights, but about giving your body the challenging needs but also ensuring that your mind experiences that challenge as well. The gym is not a path to fitness, and this is why you should figure out the right things for you. Here are some unique and challenging workouts that might be exactly what you need.

Kayaking

A very unique but, ultimately, effective workout. It's a full-body workout that doesn't just demand strength, but also endurance and balance. There's a lot to unpack in order to get into kayaking as a sport, and it can be an exhilarating way to stay active and fit. And while you might wonder, what size kayak skirt do I need?, there's plenty of other things to bear in mind here because kayaking is, for so many, people a way of life. It also offers variety. You can build up your strength gradually rather than feeling the temptation, like most people do in a gym, to go all out too soon, which means that you lose motivation (and gains). Kayaking is gentle on the joints but will give you that strength that will help you, not just now, but in the future when you've got grandkids to pick up.

Dancing

An amazing way to get your heart rate up, improve your coordination, but also boost that core strength that so many mothers lose after having a baby. Dancing is, ultimately, a very fun activity, and this is such an important thing to remember when we're choosing the right type of workout for us. But you have to remember that certain dances will become more intense. Ballet is a very good example because it forces you to hold poses, which ultimately is a form of what they call isometric holds, similar to doing a plank on the floor, albeit in different poses for much longer!

Rock Climbing

If there's one type of exercise that gives you physical and mental stimulation, it's this. Scaling any type of wall or cliff is a lesson in humility. Find yourself a local rock climbing center and see just how far you can get to begin with! But don't be put off by how little you're able to do. Climbing is something that we should all learn how to do, and it's about making sure that we build up gradually. Additionally, climbing is also an amazing problem-solving skill. When you look at how you should be able to solve something 50 feet in the air, all of a sudden, those parental problems pale in comparison!

Martial Arts

Of course, this is something we all benefit from. It's not just about the workout but about the confidence and discipline that comes with knowing that you can defend yourself. This is why something like Brazilian jiu-jitsu is becoming incredibly popular because it's a simple way to defeat an opponent without punching, kicking, and all of that swinging.

4 Ways To Improve & Boost Your Mental Health

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Life can be stressful at times and start to wear you down over time. As part of your self-care routine, it’s important that you also focus on your mental health and well-being.

If you want to feel better overall then there are some actions you can take to help ensure this holds true. There are four ways, in particular, that will allow you to improve and boost your mental health over time. Be willing to give them a try to see if they can help you feel better and be happier.

Take Care of Your Physical Health

Your mental health can impact your physical health and how you feel overall. If you want to improve and boost your mental health then take good care of your physical health. This includes getting enough daily exercise and eating a nutritious diet. Your hearing can also impact your quality of life and communication with others so it’s best to get it checked regularly. It’s possible if you have hearing loss you will be a candidate for hearing aids. You’ll feel happier and more connected when you can hear other people and what’s going on in your environment. Not being able to hear well can negatively impact your mood and mental health.

Remember that If you are feeling completely overwhelmed by life in general this can impact your mental health and by extension your physical health. If necessary you may want to get professional help especially if you find yourself delving into substance abuse. You may need to go to a rehab center before things get too far out of hand.

Practice Deep Breathing Exercises

A lot of times stress can build up and you will start to feel it in your body. One way to calm your mind down is to first calm your body. You can do this by practicing deep breathing exercises and helping to slow the breath. The good news is that you can do these types of exercises in any setting and not just at home if you need to calm your body down. It's an effective way to combat stress and you will notice you can think more clearly when you focus on your breath and proactively slow it down.

Journal & Meditate

Improve and boost your mental health by keeping a journal and writing down a gratitude list. You can also use it to record what is going well in your life and what you like about yourself. Review this list often so that you can keep a positive mindset and outlook. Another action you may want to do is participate in guided meditations. You can do so easily from your phone or stream a video online. Be patient with yourself because meditating can be tricky at first but give it some time and you’ll likely get the hang of it.

Get Enough Sleep

Another way to improve and boost your mental health is to get enough rest and sleep. Go to bed at a decent hour and set up your bedroom for optimal sleep. Invest in comfortable bedding and paint your bedroom a calming color. Consider your bedtime routine as well. Instead of playing on your electronics, think about taking a warm shower, drinking tea, or getting lost in a good book. This will help relax you and ensure that you can fall asleep and stay asleep more easily. Try to stick to a bedtime schedule so that you’re going to bed and waking up around the same time each day as well. 

5 Health Warning Signs To Look Out For When Watching TV

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Watching TV is something that many of us do to unwind. It should not cause a strain on our mind and body - if it does, then it could be a sign that something is wrong. Many health problems can affect our TV watching experience. Below are just some of the warning signs to look out for. 

You’ve been turning the volume up louder and louder

Did you find yourself constantly turning up the volume to hear what people are saying when watching TV shows and movies? Have relatives, friends or neighbors complained about how loud the TV is? This could be a sign you’re experiencing hearing loss. Hearing loss affects pretty much everyone in older age - while also affecting some people earlier in life. A hearing test can determine if your hearing is as sharp as it used to be. Thankfully, there is a simple solution to this - which is to get a hearing aid prescribed. 

You find yourself squinting while watching TV

Is the TV looking a little blurrier these days? Do you have to squint or lean closer to read captions and subtitles? It’s possible that you’re losing your long distance vision. As with hearing loss, this is something that is quite natural as we get older and also easily fixable with glasses or contact lenses. In some instances, blurriness or dull picture quality could be a sign of cataracts. This requires an operation to treat, but is fortunately a very routine option with a high success rate. 

You’re having difficulty following TV programs and movies

Some TV shows and movies can be pretty challenging to follow. But if you’ve noticed that you’re having trouble following most series and movies, it could be a sign that short term memory loss is starting to take hold. This could be a side effect of sleep deprivation, medication or a head injury. Alternatively, it could be the start of dementia. It’s worth talking to a doctor to consider a diagnosis. Many people put off getting dementia diagnosed, because there is no cure, however if caught early it is often possible to drastically slow down the development of dementia.

You can’t stay awake while watching your favourite shows

Many of us occasionally nod off in front of the TV, and this is not a sign of a problem. However, an inability to sit through any TV show without falling asleep could be cause for concern. If you find yourself falling asleep in other situations during the day, it could be a possible sign of narcolepsy. Constant fatigue even after a good night’s sleep which causes you to nap in front of the TV could meanwhile be a sign of sleep apnea. Seeing a doctor could help you find a diagnosis. Of course, if you are not getting enough sleep at night, this could be an obvious cause to address. 

You get headaches while watching TV

The flashing lights of a TV can be a migraine trigger for many people. You can start experiencing migraines at any age - taking regular breaks from the TV could be necessary to prevent future migraines occurring. It’s worth noting that epilepsy can also develop at any age and that some people may not experience seizures at first - headaches and a strange nauseous feeling could be early signs that you have developed epilepsy. 

7 Signs You Need New Tires

 

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Good quality new tires aren’t cheap. However, there are times when it’s a necessity to buy new tires. Damaged or inappropriate tires can put you at risk of a blowout. 

Tire blowouts cause more accidents than people realize - as much as 1 in 15 accidents are believed to be caused by a blowout. At high speeds, a blowout can even be fatal, as it can reduce complete control of the vehicle.

This is why you need to pay attention to your tires and know when to replace them. Below are just a few key instances where you should get new tires.

There are bulges and blisters in your tires

Bulges and blisters can occur in tires when the inner lining is damaged. Going over bumps or debris with overinflated tires is a common cause. Most bulges and blisters cannot be repaired, which means replacement is the only solution.

Bugles and blisters affect the structural integrity of the tire - reducing performance and eventually leading to a blowout. For this reason, you should get them replaced as soon as you notice the damage. Try to avoid driving at speed if you have a bulge, and avoid carrying large loads, as these can increase the risk of a bulge or blister popping. 

The sidewall is cracked

Tires can develop cuts and cracks for many different reasons. Many slow punctures caused by minor cuts can be patched up without having to replace the tire. Large sidewall cracks are more commonly caused by age or UV light exposure, and can not be easily fixed.  In these cases, replacement is necessary.

Even if air is not escaping from a crack, it may suddenly open up while you are driving and lead to an instant blowout. Never ignore a sidewall crack for this reason.

The tread is severely worn

Over time, the tread on a tire gets worn down. Once the tread is severely reduced, it can affect your vehicle’s grip on the road. It can also leave you more susceptible to a blowout. 

Most states in the US require tires to have a minimum legal tread depth of 2/32 of an inch. This can be measured using the penny test. If your tire tread depth does not meet legal standards, you should replace this tire as soon as possible.

Your tires are making an odd noise

A tire replacement could also be necessary if your tires squeal, screech or hum. While such noises can be due to brake problems or wheel misalignment, they are often caused by damage or excessive tread wear.

It’s worth taking your vehicle to a mechanic if you experience any unusual tire noises. They will be able to inspect them for damage and advise you as to whether you need new tires. 

Your tires are very old

It’s recommended that you replace tires every 6 years or every 40,000 miles. Tires should never be used for more than 10 years, as by this point the rubber will be starting to break down - regardless of how often you drive.

Consider the last time you changed your tires. If it was a decade ago, you’ll want to get some fresh tires to avoid any risk of a blowout. For those that own classic cars, make sure to consider the fact that you may need specialist tires. 

You want to take on rougher terrain

Most road cars are fitted with fairly standard road tires. If you want to start driving over rocky surfaces, thick mud or deep snow, it’s advised that you seek out some specialist tires. 

You can find specialist tires such as mud terrain tires online. They will cost you more than standard tires, but could be necessary if you want to maintain grip and reduce damage caused by off-road surfaces. Some cars are fitted with all-terrain tires, which can be used on roads and on many off-road surfaces (there may still be some limitations).

You’re getting involved in motorsports 

If you’re racing a car, you may also want to consider replacing the tires. Regular tires aren’t built to withstand the demands of racing. You’re also likely to find that racing tires such as racing slicks drastically improve performance.

As with off-road tires, you can find racing tires online. Make sure to consider the type of motorsport you are partaking in as different tires may be better suited to certain events. These types of tires can vary in price - some are relatively cheap but are not designed to last as long.

Taking On Your Garden Safely In The Fall

Your garden is supposed to be relaxing, to help you feel at peace and enjoy your own little slice of nature. However, it does require you to take care of it and, sometimes, that’s not always easy. This is especially true in the fall when the weather can start to really act against us. It’s important to mind your safety when you’re out gardening, no matter what the weather is, and here we’re going to look at a few steps you can take to do that.

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Stretch and warm-up

Gardening might not be the most strenuous exercise in the world, but it is physical work. Standing, kneeling, reaching, and all the rest of it is good for your body but, in that cold weather, your muscles can be a little stiffer, as can the connective tissue on your joints. You want to avoid the increased risk of pulling something by taking the time to stretch when you head out there. You might not necessarily need to do your pre-gardening stretches in the summer, but it’s always a good idea to do it regardless, just to help you stay limber and avoid the aches that can come with working outside for so long. It doesn’t take that long to add that little bit of safety.

Don’t forget the sunscreen

You might think that because it’s not quite as hot, you don’t need to worry as much about keeping your skin protected from the sun, but that’s not strictly true. For one, fall can bring its heatwaves, and it feels like they’re sticking around for longer, and getting stronger on top of it. What’s more, you need to protect your skin from the sun no matter what season it is. Even in the winter, UV radiation can do real damage to your skin. To that end, make sure you equip the right sunscreen for your skin type and consider investing in a nice hat and even a pair of shades to make sure that you’re as protected as can be.

Move plants that are likely to get destroyed

If a storm rolls through your garden, you want to make sure that there’s as little as possible for it to lift and throw around. When it comes to your plants, one of the easiest ways is to get containers for them. Lightweight, portable planters allow you to quickly scoop up those plants and move them inside, whether you’re able to dedicate some space in the home by the window to your plants, or you’re able to bring in special lighting that can keep those plants happy and fed with the UV light that they’re going to need.

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Let the pros handle the higher jobs

If you have any particularly tall shrubs or trees, then you are going to need to trim them. Overgrown trees can become a real risk in the fall, when the change in weather, especially windy weather, and storms, is a lot more likely to cause branches to break, fall, and cause either damage or injury. You might be able to handle the lower branches yourself, but it’s probably best just to entrust the task to tree trimmers near you, who bring the equipment and the training to make sure that they’re able to handle those heights safely. What’s more, it’s all too easy for amateurs to trim a little too much off the tree, which can be damaging to its health. Just another reason to let the pros handle it.

Take care of your surfaces

Smoother hard surfaces, be they walkways, driveways, patio pavers, or otherwise, can become something of a risk in the fall. The leaves are coming off the trees and there’s going to be more organic residue in the air, as well as rain in the air. When combined, these can form algae or a film or organic green residue that can cling to the top of these surfaces and can make them a lot slipper, making you more likely to trip or fall. This is a particularly dangerous prospect if you have gardening tools in hand. Take a pressure washer to these surfaces after it rains to make sure that you’re not giving that film the opportunity to form in the first place.

Extra care is required when lifting

No matter what time of year it is, you should always be mindful of how you lift objects, especially heavier objects. You want to engage your legs and your knees, not your back, when lifting, and to stretch beforehand to make sure that your body is ready for that extra stress. In the fall, try to be extra mindful of your surroundings, including any flooring or surfaces you have to move over. If it has been raining recently, then you might want to put on a pair of heavy-duty boots that can help you maintain your footing’s grip, regardless. Or you might just want to wait for better weather to be on the safe side.

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Be mindful of pests

When fall starts to come around, so can the pests. After all, many of them are looking for new places to set up shelter. First of all, be aware of any wildlife in your area, and what you should do if you spot them, especially the larger creatures. You should also look out for the smaller pests that can become a real hassle. Check your clothes and body for ticks every time you finish gardening, and watch out for things like wasps, mosquitoes, fire ants, and fleas. Aside from protective clothing, you might want to keep some insect repellent at hand to make sure that these pests can’t cause any health problems by getting too close.

Reduce the amount of maintenance it needs

If you don’t want to spend as much time working out there in the ever-changing weather, then one of the ways you can do that is to simply reduce how much work you have to do in the garden in the first place. For one, you can look at bringing in more low-maintenance plants, typically plants that are native to the area, that aren’t going to need your attention as much, or you can build shelters that control the light levels over certain beds. A more drastic option would be to install an artificial lawn so that you need never to worry about mowing or watering your grass ever again. This does come with pros and cons to consider, of course.

Store and maintain your tools

Your handy gardening tools make pruning, clipping, and otherwise managing your plants a lot easier. However, they are prone to degrading over time, especially if they’re left out in the elements. Any moisture is going to make them a lot more prone to rusting, which can make them more difficult to use and more dangerous, on top of that. You can help prevent accidents by taking better care of them. Getting a good tool storage box for the home or shed can offer them an extra level of protection. You might want to look at how you can keep them effective and maintained, too, such as by oiling any joints or moving parts on them. Depending on the tools, there are maintenance guides you can find online.

With the advice above, you can make sure that you’re taking care of your garden while being as mindful of your safety as possible. A clean and tidy garden is a great addition to the home, but it’s not worth risking your health for.

Counteract Stress Through Breathing

Almost all of us have either given or received the advice to just breathe when something is stressful, upsetting or painful. Our bodies aren’t designed to be stuck in fight or flight mode for more than a few moments in the face of immediate danger. But stressful situations, anxiety and other unexpected things can set that mode off. 

And a deep breath is exactly what you need to help. 

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How does deep breathing help stress?

Stress causes our body and brain to think we are under attack. You might sweat, you may shake, you may feel light-headed and your heart often races. Many people either hold their breath or breathe too quickly - which feeds into the problem. 

Taking a deep breath engages your parasympathetic nervous system, which counteracts the stress and brings everything back down to normal (for your level). 

Mindful and Meditative

Meditation and deep breathing go hand in hand with beginning us into the present moment and helping us let go of whatever is causing the anxiety. You are forced to focus on your breathing, and that takes your mind away from the issue for a moment, and that also reduces stress levels. 

The more often you practice this, the better you will get at it. 

Is there a right way to breathe deeply? 

For most of us, our bodies will breathe automatically, but when it comes to those deep breaths, that will be something you need to control. What many people don’t realize is that we breathe quite shallow for the rest of the time, which is why one big deep breath can already work wonders. 

Here are some techniques that are often recommended for people who are starting out, and over time, you may like to explore further with places like www.breathinspired.com 

Can anyone do breathwork?

Anyone who can control their breathing to an extent can try breathwork, but it is important that you speak to your doctor if it is something that may have an impact on other areas of your health. Breathwork does need to be done correctly and, in some cases, led by an expert. 

There are a couple of breathwork options that are easier to master, though. 

➤ 478

Many people find this breathing technique helpful when they feel anxious or stressed. By focusing on your breathing, you can take your mind off the source of the stress. Breathing slowly and deeply also helps to calm down your heart rate. 

The 478 method is easy to remember and involves inhaling for 4 seconds, holding for 7 seconds, and slowly exhaling for 8 seconds. 

➤ Whistling Lips

If you want to take your breathing to the next level and feel even more relaxed, try this neat trick. Take a nice deep breath in through your nose, hold it for a second, and then purse your lips like you're about to whistle. 

Exhale slowly through pursed lips and really focus on letting the air flow through them. 

Do this five times, and you'll feel a whole lot calmer - noticeably so after the 3rd breath. 

Breathing is one way to help reduce your stress, but here are some extra tips to help: Savvy Strategies to Reduce Your Stress and Anxiety Levels. 

6 Ways to Add a Relaxing Water Feature to Your Garden

 

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Have you ever taken a moment, closed your eyes, and just listened to the calming sounds of trickling water? Oh boy, it’s like nature's very own spa soundtrack. If you’re looking to turn your garden into your personal oasis (without forking over big bucks for a tropical vacation), we've got the solution: water features!

Why settle for dull when you can have delightful, drip-tacular wonders in your backyard? Here;’s a guide to getting a water feature all of your own to get you started:

1. Pools, Baby!

A good pool design is worth its weight in gold, and it is fair to say that pools are the water feature that everyone wants to have in the garden. Whether it’s a grand, luxurious infinity pool or a compact plunge pool for the corner of your garden, nothing says “ultimate relaxation” quite like your own body of water. Pool floats, cocktail in hand, sun hat on — need we say more? Just make sure you get the design right for your garden and your needs!

2. Fountains of Youth

No, they won’t make you age backward, but a good garden fountain can definitely make your heart feel light. From ornate multi-tiered fountains to simple bubbling boulders, there’s a fountain to fit every aesthetic and budget.

3. Pond-er This

Introducing a pond is like gifting your garden with a touch of Monet’s artistry. Grace it with lilies, koi fish, or even a small bridge. Bask in its peaceful charm as it attracts birds, dragonflies, and perhaps a frog prince or two! You’ll have so much fun watching the wildlife and listening to the gentle drips.

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4. Rain Chains

These are the stylish siblings of downspouts. As rainwater travels down the chain, , it creates a mesmerizing, melodic cascade. Functional and beautiful? Talk about a win-win. It’s also really easy to install, even in a small space, so it’s ideal for tiny yards.

5. Wall of Water

You don't need a ton of space for this one. A water wall can be as expansive or as compact as you want, with water flowing down a textured surface, creating a curtain of coolness.

6. DIY Birdbath

If you’re on a budget or feeling crafty, birdbaths are a fantastic choice. All you need is a shallow dish, some creative flair, and voilà! Not only is it a serene water feature, but it's also an open invitation for feathery friends.

When choosing your watery wonder, consider the maintenance, safety (especially if you have kiddos or pets), and the overall vibe you’re going for. Whether it’s tranquil or tropical, there’s a water feature out there with your name on it.

Before we wrap up this hydrating chat, remember: water isn’t just visually soothing. It cools the air, helps with humidity, and even aids in drowning out pesky noises (like Mr. Johnson’s endlessly barking dog).

So go ahead, take the plunge, and let your garden ripple with relaxation. Dive into tranquility, splash in some fun, and let the calming waters wash away all those stresses. Happy hydrating, folks!

The Forbidden Flower ( 夏花 / Summer Flower): Memorable Lines and Series Review

💗 Episode 1 💗

Highlights:

• He Ren travels to Xiaozhou village to look for Xiao Han. She finally meets him for the second time.
• A woman appears. She came from the upstairs of Xiao Han's home. He Ren is disheartened, thinking that she may be Xiao Han's girlfriend or wife. 

Memorable lines:

He Ran: "There are many kinds of first encounters in this world. Beautiful ones, unforgettable ones, glimpses, but none of them are as good as the one I felt when I first met Xiao Han."

💗 Episode 2 💗

Highlights:

• He Ren goes to Central Lake to look for Xiao Han and finds him there working.
• He Ren finally convinces Xiao Han to be their model for her drawing class. It is the first time Xiao Han addresses He Ren by her name. 

Memorable lines:

He Ren: "I'll help you. You go do your work, I'll stand beside you."

*****

Xiao Han: "See you tomorrow..... (long pause) He Ren."

💗 Episode 3 💗

Highlights:

• Xiao Han leaves for Chuanxi, his hometown.. A "For Rent" sign has been put up in his house in Xiaozhou village . He Ren was saddened when she discovered this. She kept coming back everyday in the hope she'd see Xiao Han. Finally, after several days, she finds Xiao Han back. They go inside the house and He Ren notices a painting mounted on a shabby frame hanging on the wall. Xiao Han said he bought the painting randomly a long time ago. 
• He Ren pushes Xiao Han on to a chair and starts to confess her love for him. 

Memorable lines:

He Ren: "Is this painting important to you?"

Xiao Han: "I bought it randomly a long time ago." 

He Ren: "Do you like African daisy?"

Xiao Han: (silence)

He Ren: "I know the person who painted it. Do you know the meaning behind this flower? Defying the odds to pursue the life you want."

*****

He Ren: "What do you think of me?"

Xiao Han: (meek smile)

He Ren: "You smiled, so it means you are not rejecting. I actually like you a lot. Why don't we start dating?"

He Ren kisses Xiao Han

He Ren: "I missed it. Why don't you do it instead?"

Xiao Han pulls He Ren close

Xiao Han: "Is this your first time?"

He Ren: "No way, are you kidding me?"

Xiao Han: "You're blushing"

He Ren: "I'm not!"

Xiao Han: "Your ears are red"

He Ren:  "Mm-mm-my ears are not red."

Xiao Han: "I found out early on that you get nervous when I touch your ear."

He Ren: "I'm not nervous."

Xiao Han: "I'll send you home."

He Ren: "I'll come back tomorrow. You don't need to send me home today. I'll go back myself."

💗 Episode 4 💗

Highlights: 

• Xiao Han discovers He Ren's real age. 
• He Ren had a bout of dizziness and Xiao Han helped her to get her balance back. He asks if she is having anemia.
• He Ren and Xiao Han get caught in a downpour and they ran home. He Ren asks if she could take a shower in Xiao Han's house. After she was done, Xiao Han went into the bathroom for his turn.

Memorable lines:

He Ren: "What's wrong?"

Xiao Han: "Today I met your student on the road."

He Ren: "So?"

Xiao Han: "They told me their teacher is great. She just graduated and is already teaching there."

He Ren: (silence)

Xiao Han "She said their teacher is only 20 years old. Is that true?"

He Ren: (silence)

Xiao Han: "Why did you lie to me? Just forget about what we said yesterday. That's it."

*****

He Ren: "Are you taking a shower?"

Xiao Han: "Uhm."

He Ren: "Do you need help with clothes?"

Xiao Han: "No. Blow your hair dry."

He Ren: "What about your clothes?" 

Xiao Han: "I will come out and wear them."

He Ren: "Aren't you afraid that I'd take it away?"

(Xiao Han gets out of the shower shirtless)

He Ren stares at his naked chest.

Xiao Han: "Then? What then?"

He Ren: (silence)

Xiao Han: "He Ren, If I say yes to you easily, the person who will get hurt is you."

He Ren: "I'm not afraid. I like you. I just want to be with you."

Xiao Han: "I hope you are not just being impulsive. It's because I need to be responsible as soon as I accept your love. If you are not sure about this, don't come look for me anymore."

💗 Episode 5 💗

Highlights:

• The little girl that He Ren "rescued" was actually Xiao Han's niece. At first she was surprised when the little called Xiao Han "Papa." She asked Xiao Han if he would allow her to teach Quanquan how to draw.
• Quanquan is a little troublemaker who keeps insisting that Han Yu is He Ren's boyfriend. 
• He Ren gets bit by mosquitos while watching Xiao Han work in his greenhouse.
• He Ren gets dizzy and almost fell but Xiao Han was quick to catch her.

Memorable lines:

He Ren: "Why is the mosquito not biting you? It only bites me alone?" 

Xiao Han: "Maybe it prefers people who are not pure."

He Ren: "Which one are you talking about? Is it the mosquito or you?"

Xiao Han: "The mosquito."

He Ren: "What about you?"

Xiao Han: "I didn't bite you."

He Ren: "I'm asking you. Do you like people that are not pure?"

Xiao Han: "This question...(Xiao Han moves close and whispers in her ear) why don't you... take a guess?"

💗 Episode 6 💗

Highlights:

• Han Yu finds Quanquan wandering in the street and takes her home. He meets Xiao Han. He Ren thought she lost Quanquan and went to Xiao Han's house to apologize. To her surprise, she finds Quanquan there.
• Quanquan said it was Han Yu who brought her home. Xiao Han was obviously upset. Quanquan said she misunderstood and that Han Yu is not He Ren's boyfriend. 
• Xiao Han is jealous of Han Yu
• He Ren gets some valuable advice from Man on how to handle a relationship with Xiao Han.
• Han Yu brings He Ren's Letter of Acceptance to a university in Xijing. He Ren does not want to leave.
• He Ren's mother, Qiu Jia Rong hires a professional to take care of their garden. To He Ren's surprise, it was no one else but Xiao Han. 

Memorable lines:

Xiao Han: "What are you hiding? What else are you hiding besides your age? It is time for you to go back." 

He Ren: "Why did you ask me that question? Starting to get curious about me? Why should I tell you? On what basis do you expect me to answer it? Besides, aren't you hiding anything? Your past, your story. The whole Xiaozhou village doesn't know anything about you. Listen, I will only tell my boyfriend my secrets. Are you now trying to..

(Xiao Han grabs He Ren and props her up on the railing)

Xiao Han: "What's on my mind?"

He Ren: "You know exactly what is on your mind." (In He Ren's mind, she thinks Xiao Han is jealous)

He Ren turns her back and leaves.

Xiao Han: ("He Ren, you underestimate me.")

💗 Episode 7 💗

Highlights:

• He Ren finds out that the gardener that her mother hired was no other than Xiao Han.
• She pretends to be the new home tutor that teaches kids to draw.
• Xiao Han is invited to an afternoon tea with Qiu Jia Rong and the Han family. When Qiu Jia Rong mentioned about her daughter's painting "Queen of the Night" Xiao Han looked at her with surprise and disbelief
• He Ren sends a message to Xiao Han inviting him to meet up at Fatty's for a meal. Xiao Han agrees.
• Qiu Jia Rong instructs the nanny to discard the clothes He Ren bought. Xiao Han sees the clothes that the nanny dumped in the garbage are the ones belonging to He Ren.
• He heads home and hurt and confused. He did not show up at Fatty's place. He burned the easel and paint brushes that he made which he was planning to give to He Ren. 
• Qiu Jia Rong gets drunk. She turns her anger on her husband's stuff. She wants the nanny to throw all his stuff away.

Memorable lines:

He Ren: (text message) "I have been waiting. Are you coming?"

Xiao Han: (turns phone off)

💗 Episode 8 💗

Highlights:

• He Ren and her mom get into an argument because He Ren put her father's stuff back where they belong. She gets slapped by her mother. He Ren runs away.
• He Ren goes to Xiao Han's place but finds it locked. She sits on his doorstep, drenched in the rain. 
• Xiao Han appears and takes her in.
  

Memorable lines:

He Ren: "Is the epiphyllum still here?"

Xiao Han: "Uhm"

He Ren: "Has it bloomed?"

Xiao Han: "No"

He Ren: "Xiao Han, lets make a bet, shall we?"

Xiao Han: "Bet on what?"

He Ren: "Let's bet on whether it will blossom tonight."

Xiao Han: "It is almost dawn and the night will soon be over."

He Ren: "Its okay. Just bet on tonight."

Xiao Han: "Bet on what?"

He Ren: "If it blooms, we will be together."

Xiao Han: "If it doesn't, will you give up?"

He Ren: "If the epiphyllum does not bloom tonight, I will give up. I will never come to you again."

Xiao Han: "Okay."

💗 Episode 9 💗

Highlights:

• Zhang Ayi, He Ren's nanny, is desperate in trying to locate He Ren. She approaches Han Yu. Han Yu says he does not know where He Ren is.
• Xiao Han needs to run some errands outside of town. He Ren pleads to take her with him but Xiao Han says no.
• He Ren finds a way for her to go with Xiao Han to the countryside. She asks Fatty to give her Xiao Han's car keys and leads him on to a treasure hunt to find her and the car keys. Both of them eventually travel together to the countryside.

Memorable lines:

He Ren: "Actually, I just want to stay with you for a while."

Xiao Han: (looks at He Ren)

He Ren: "Look, it's a meteor. Make a wish!"

Xiao Han: (Looks up at the sky)

He Ren: "Are you stupid? You believe everything I say. There won't be meteors in this weather."

Xiao Han: "Do you have any wishes?"

He Ren: "My wish is to live longer."

Xiao Han: "All girls nowadays are so rebellious that they talk about life and death so easily."

He Ren: "I'm not a rebel. Actually, I do have a less rebellious wish. Would you like to hear it?

Xiao Han: "Uhm."

He Ren: (teases Xiao Han by gently running her fingers down his arm to his palm.)

Xiao Han: (Leans close enough to kiss He Ren but pulls away)

He Ren: "Xiao Han, you are such a nice person."

Xiao Han: "I'm not a good person. Because I have bad intentions too."

 💗 Episode 10 💗

Highlights:

• He Ren wakes up with a toothache and a fever
• He Ren finally turns her phone on after many days. She sees so many messages from her mother and Zhang Ayi. Her phone rings and it is her mother. She picks up the call and says "Tomorrow."
• He Ren tells her mother she agrees to go to Xijing and that she will study well, on one condition - that her mother will stop checking on her.
• Mr. Han visits Xiao Han in his home. He notices the painting of the African daisy.
• At Han Yu's farewell party, Mr. Han tells He Ren that her mother hired someone to investigate Xiao Han. He Ren pleads Mr. Han to help her and not allow her mother to disturb Xiao Han's life. 

Memorable lines:

He Ren: (Speaking her thoughts) "Toothache and high fever. I have a bad feeling in my heart. I am starting to be afraid. I am afraid that my sickness will relapse. I am afraid that I will be like this goldfish. I can't save it. I can't save myself either. I love Xiao Han. I don't want to leave him. I can't imagine how sad he'll be if he knows I am sick. Perhaps I should leave."

*****

He Ren: "Xiao Han, I'm going home tomorrow."

Xiao Han: "Uhm"

He Ren: "I'll be going to Xijing."

Xiao Han: (silence)

He Ren: "Then I will not be looking for you anymore. You know what I mean, right?"

Xiao Han: (does not say a word)

He Ren: "Remember to miss me."

💗 Episode 11 💗

Highlights:

• He Ren leaves for Xijing
• She meets the Zhang Yuanqi, the president of the art club and becomes her friend.
• Han Yun continues to pester He Ren
• He Ren spends time in Xijiang but shows a gloomy attitude towards her room mates and other people who want to get to know her.
• He Ren agrees to donate some of her paintings to an art charity but her room mate made a mistake and gave the art students a painting that He Ren values so much.

Memorable lines:

Zhang Yuanqi: "What happened yesterday was our mistake. I apologize on their behalf."

He Ren: "Its okay."

Zhang Yuanqi: "A friend at the gallery told me that this painting was picked up on the day of the exhibition. Are you willing to sell it?

He Ren: "No."

Zhang Yuanqi: "If you are up to it, he is willing to pay more."

(He Ren unveils the painting. It is a portrait of Xiao Han in the middle of gerberas/african daisies in Central Lake)

He Ren: "It is priceless in my heart."

Zhang Yuanqi: "Did you paint Xiaozhou village?"

He Ren: "How do you know Xiaozhou village?"

Zhang Yuanqi: "If I am not mistaken, I believe the place in this painting is the garden in Central Lake."

He Ren: "Yes. You got it right. (long silence) His name is Xiao Han."

Zhang Yuanqi: "Why gerberas?"

He Ren: "Because gerberas mean defying the odds and pursuing the life you want. He is telling me to go for what I want in life. Isn't he? (long pause) I will do as you wish.

💗 Episode 12 💗

Highlights:

• He Ren is back in Qiongzhou.
• Zhang Yuanqi tells He Ren that someone will be thinking of her on the Lunar New Year
• He Ren looks for her old phone and turns in on. She receives a text message from Xiao Han greeting her Happy New Year.
• He Ren flies to Chuanxi to be with Xiao Han.

Memorable lines:

He Ren: "Xiao Han, there is no signal in the village. So how come you picked up the phone right away when I called you on Lunar New Year's Eve?"

Xiao Han: "I happened to be strolling at the top of the hill."

He Ren: "You got nothing better to do than to go for a walk in the middle of winter. It can be over 10 degrees below zero at night. And lots of mosquitos here."

Xiao Han: "No mosquitos in winter."

He Ren: "That's not the point. The point is how did you know I would call you? Was it because you texted me?"

Xiao Han: (nods head)

He Ren: "I stopped using that number a long time ago. How long would you have waited here if I hadn't read that message? One hour? One night? One day? Or longer?"

Xiao Han: "I'll be waiting."

He Ren: "Silly."

(Both are quiet)

He Ren: "A meteor! We can really see a meteor here."

Xiao Han: "He Ren, in the future if you have any wishes, just tell me."

He Ren: "I'd like to ask you a question... Why gerberas? Shouldn't you be growing roses?"

Xiao Han: "Its because of the blooming season. Gerberas bloom late. When they bloom, the other flowers fade. "

He Ren: "I know. You are trying to say that..."

Xiao Han: "You are my last woman."

💗 Episode 13 💗

Highlights:

• He Ren asks Tongtong about Xiao Han's past girlfriend.
• He Ren decides to stay with Xiao Han. They then travel back to Xiaozhou village together.
• Mr. Han is travelling in Xiaozhou village when he chances upon He Ren and Xiao Han kissing.
• He Ren rummages through Xiao Han's stuff trying to look for photos of Xiao Han's ex girlfriend. What she finds however is a picture of the epiphyllum flower dated on the same day that they both stayed up waiting for it to bloom. 
• He Ren is back home in Qiongzhou.
• Mr. Han talks with He Ren. He approves of her relationship with Xiao Han.
• Zhang Yuanqi works for Qiu Jia Rong's company.
• Qiu Jia Rong owns a company that makes ready to eat healthy meals. She makes sure that she makes everyone around her believe about maintaining good health and avoiding junk food. However, Zhang Yuanqi discovers her secret - that when anxiety attacks, she stuffs herself with fried chicken and whiskey. He witnesses this when he sees Qiu Jia Rong in the office's utility room.

Memorable lines:

He Ren: "You kept your word."

💗 Episode 14 💗

Highlights:

• He Ren asks Xiao Han if he would agree to be her model. Xiao Han disagrees, so He Ren used his body as her canvas instead. 
• Zhang Yuanqi witnesses Qiu Jia Rong drinking whiskey again in the Utility Room.
• Zhang Yuanqi is smitten by Qiu Jia Rong's beauty even if he knows she is way older than him.
• One instance Qiu Jia Rong discovers Zhang Yuanqi in the utility room. She tells him to keep his mouth shut.
• Qiu Jia Rong gives Zhang Yuanqi a difficult time at work, she is fearful that he will reveal her secret.

Memorable lines:

Qiu Jia Rong: "Who are you? What are you doing here?"

💗 Episode 15 💗

Highlights:

• Zhang Yuanqi is thinking of resigning from his job. His family is arguing about him not being able to hold down a job despite being a university graduate
• He Ren and Xiao Han are driving to somewhere. He Ren does not seem to be well, she fell asleep during the trip and dreamed of being in the hospital. 
• Qin Zao appears. She is the younger sister of Xiao Han's ex girlfriend.
• Xiao Han and He Ren make love in the art studio.

Memorable lines:

He Ren: "How many women have you had before?"

Xiao Han: "Only a few."

💗 Episode 16 💗

Highlights:

• Xiao Han and He Ren are sitting together enjoying sweet moments when Zhang Yuanqi sees them. He Ren introduces Xiao Han to Zhang Yuanqi as her boyfriend.
• Qin Zao and He Ren meet up in a cafe. He Ren wants to know why Qin Zao is back.
• Qiu Jia Rong and Zhang Yuanqi are in the office elevator. They exchange cryptic words, like they were flirting with each other in a subtle way.
• Qin Zao visits the grave of her sister. As she leaves the cemetery, she is met my men in black suits asking her to go with them. She does not resist.
• Xiao Han takes He Ren on a trip to a farm. 

Memorable lines:

Xiao Han: "Look! A Rainbow. You are like a rainbow."

He Ren: "I am glad to have met you."

💗 Episode 17 💗

Highlights:

• Zhang Yuanqi and Qiu Jia Rong are still in the office late at night. They meet at the storeroom. Zhang Yuanqi invites Qiu Jia Rong to watch a movie.
• Xiao Han and He Ren spend the night at the farm.
• He Ren wakes up after having a bad dream about them moving away from each other.
• Qiu Jia Rong and Zhang Yuanqi are falling for each other. They meet up at a garden in Xiaozhou village.
• Qin Zao appears again, this time with her face messed up. She wanted to stay at Xiao Han's but He Ren sent her to Xiaoyeli's hotel instead.
• He Ren borrows one million RMB from Han Yu. She gives the money to Qin Zao so that she would just leave.

Memorable lines:

Xiao Han: "Why are you awake? Why are you not wearing shoes?"

He Ren: "Don't move. Just stay there and don't move."

Xiao Han: (looks at He Ren)

He Ren: (walks towards Xiao Han) "Xiao Han, have I said this to you? I love you. I said, I love you. I love you so much. Although I've never loved anyone like this, now I know. I know I love you. I love you so much. Then...what about you?"

Xiao Han: (nods, gives He Ren a tight hug and tears flow down his face.)

💗 Episode 18 💗

Highlights:

• He Ren arrives home exhausted. She feels weak from the fever she had earlier
• Zhang Ayi calls He Ren informing her that she is leaving to get married.
• Zhang Yuanqi and Mrs. Qiu are falling deeper into each other. 
• Qin Zao takes pictures of the painting hanging on the wall of Xiao Han's house. She calls someone and asks to check on the photo of the painting. Before she leaves, she hands Xiao Han the ATM card that He Ren gave her. She asks Xiao Han to give it back to He Ren.
• Xiao Han goes to He Ren's house that night. He arrives there drenched in the rain.
• Xiao Han spend the night in bed with He Ren. Xiao Han wakes up and finds out that He Ren was burning with fever. He takes her to the hospital. He Ren refuses the blood test. 

Memorable lines:

He Ren: "Xiao Han, I want to sleep for a while. Can you hold me tight?"

Xiao Han: "He Ren, don't scare me."

💗 Episode 19 💗

Highlights:

• Qin Zao goes back to Xiao Han's place and steals the painting but Fatty arrived and she was not able to get the painting.
• He Ren looks for Xiao Han but he's not home. She spends some time with Fatty and they talk about Xiao Han. He Ren drinks alcohol and gets drunk. She heads back to Xiao Han's house and sees Qin Zao inside. 
• He Ren faints and is brought to a hospital.
• Qin Zao was able to steal the painting and brought it to the buyer, who turned out to be Mr. Han. He says the painting is fake and that he will not buy it. Qin Zao returns the painting to Xiao Han's house.
• In the hospital hallway, Qin Zao asks He Ren if Xiao Han knows if she has leukemia. He Ren says no, and that she does not want him to know. 
• Qiu Jia Rong reviews the CCTV footage in her home and discovers a footage of He Ren and Xiao Han together.
• He Ren wanted to leave the hospital to meet Xiao Han but she faints and loses consciousness.

Memorable lines:

Qiu Jia Rong: "I know you're not asleep. Stop pretending. I don't want to say too much. Break up with him"

He Ren: "I love him."

Qiu Jia Rong: "Does he know you're sick? Tell me. Does he know you're sick? Tell me! How long have you been sneaking out of the house? How long are you going to keep this from me? Do you even care about your life after what you've done to your body?"

He Ren: "I really love him."

Qiu Jia Rong: "You love him? Is love more important than life? Is your love more important than life?" 

He Ren: "I don't know mother. I don't know. I don't know if I can live without him."

Qiu Jia Rong: "What about me?"

💗 Episode 20 💗

Highlights:

• He Ren tells her mom that she promises to get treatment in Xijing.
• He Ren sees a doctor in Xijing. Her leucocytes are high so she needs to undergo treatment.
• He Ren rejects Xiao Han's calls. It breaks her heart to do so, but she needs to get well.
• The caretaker answers He Ren's phone. It is Xiao Han.
• Xiao Han moves out of Xiaozhou village. He tells Fatty that Mr. Han will be taking care of the greenhouse.

Memorable lines:

(phone call)

He Ren: "Hello?"

Xiao Han: "Why didn't you answer the phone?

He Ren: (silence)

Xiao Han: "You never wanted to commit to this relationship in the first place, did you? So your identity is fake, and your feelings are fake. Everything is fake. Am I right?"

He Ren: "No."

Xiao Han: "Let's break up."

He Ren: "No... no.."

💗 Episode 21 💗

Highlights:

• He Ren moves back into the campus dorm. Her condition has improved.
• Zhang Yuanqi could not control his emotions any longer. He grabs asks Qiu Jia Rong if she would accept his feelings for her.
• He Ren's dorm mate, Ding Xiaoran said that she found the love of her life - A very handsome man who owns a flower shop.
• Zhang Yuangqi takes Qiu Jia Rong out for a date and then takes her to his house. It did not work well for them.

Memorable lines:

Qiu Jia Rong: "I'm happy. I'm really happy. I feel young again."

💗 Episode 22 💗

Highlights:

• Ding Xiaoran has been stalking this man who she said she fell in love with. However, she said its a shame that she does not know his name. 
• Ding Xiaoran takes pictures of Xiao Han. She shows it to He Ren. He Ren says his name is Xiao Han and asks Ding Xiaoran where this flower shop is.
• Xiao Han and He Ren meet again after a long time. They get into an argument. He Ren leaves the shop crying. She had another of her dizzy spells. She dropped her pill bottle. Xiao Han sees the bottle and picks it up. 
• Xiaoli is at her brother's university to attend his graduation ceremony
• She meets He Ren there. Zhang Yuanqi is surprised that He Ren and Xiaoli know each other.
• Xiaoli speaks to Fatty on the phone telling him to prepare a place for her brother's graduation dinner.

Memorable lines:

He Ren: "Let's talk."

Xiao Han: "Talk about what?"

He Ren: "Why did you come to Xijing?"

Xiao Han: "I have the right to choose which city to live in, right?"

He Ren: "Let me rephrase my question. You know that I'm in Xijing. What are you doing in Xijing?"

Xiao Han: "Its a coincidence."

He Ren: "Xiao Han, do you think I'll believe you?"

Xiao Han: "Did I look for you?"

He Ren: "How long have you been here?"

Xiao Han: "I don't know. It's not important."

He Ren: "You know that I'd look for you, right?"

Xiao Han: "I'll take this encounter as a coincidence. You don't have to be troubled by it."

He Ren: "Ding Xiaoran was working part time in the coffee shop for a reason. Otherwise, she didn't have the excuse to go near the flower shop. Also, she doesn't even like flowers. She's not even a member of the society, but she fought for the graduation ceremony decoration job. She did these all for you. She did that for you. Can't you tell?"

Xiao Han: "Just like what you did last time? You came into my life quietly and you left without saying goodbye. Is that what you are saying? If there is nothing else, please leave."

He Ren: "I don't want to hear your name from another woman's mouth. I know I'm terrible and I'm sorry, but.. but I just don't want to hear your name from another woman's mouth!"

Xiao Han: "Stop fooling around. Go back early."

He Ren: "No."

(Store helper appears and asks if they need assistance)

Xiao Han: "Give her an adhesive bandage. Her hand is hurt."

He Ren: "No. I don't need your concern."

💗 Episode 23 💗

Highlights:

• Xiao Han and He Ren meet again at the graduation dinner of Zhang Yuanqi.
• Ding Xiaoran puts some food on Xiao Han's plate. This annoys He Ren. She manages to make Xiao Han's chopsticks drop to the floor. She holds Xiao Han's hand tightly. Xiao Han asks her to free his hand from her grip. He Ren does not do it
• Xiao Han and He Ren spend the night together. He Ren gets a nosebleed when she wakes up in the morning. She noticed significant hair fall. She leaves without waking up Xiao Han. 
• Xiao Han wakes up and looks for He Ren. He is worried when he finds chunks of He Ren's hair on the bed. 
• He Ren goes back to the dorm. 
• Qiu Jia Rong calls He Ren to asks how she is doing. 
• Xiao Han meets up with Mr. Han. He wants to know about He Ren's health condition
• Xiao Han calls Qiu Jia Rong. He asks her permission to allow him to take care of He Ren.

Memorable lines:

Xiao Han: "I met a girl in the lift. He asked the guy she was with why he gave her chrysanthemum (gerberas). Doesn't everyone give roses? A girl asked a guy the same question on the mountaintop of Chuanxi. He said it is because its blooming time is late. Every other flower has to wither while my favorite flower is blooming. He said, 'You're my last woman.' He said, no matter how many times you want to leave him, its fine. No matter where you go, even though its the end of the world, its fine. He's willing to wait for you to come back. It doesn't matter how long he has to wait. One year. Two years. Three years. Ten years. Its okay."

*****

(phone call)

He Ren: "Hello Ma."

Qiu Jia Rong: "How are lately? Did you take your medicine on time?"

He Ren: "I'm fine. I took my medicine on time. Don't worry."

Qiu Jia Rong: "I'm not worried now. Are you used to staying in the campus?"

He Ren: "I'm used to it. My roommates have so much to talk about. Its lively"

Qiu Jia Rong: "Really? Are you okay with that?"

He Ren: "Yes. When they're gossiping, I'd listen to them. It's interesting.

Qiu Jia Rong: "What are you gossiping about? Share with me."

He Ren: "Do you really want to hear that?"

Qiu Jia Rong: "I've managed to find an expert for you in America. Listening to your gossip would be interesting."

He Ren: "Ma, why have you lost yourself? There shouldn't be just two cancer patients in your life. There should be others."

Qiu Jia Rong: "He Ren, You are all I need."

He Ren: "No way. No way. This is not enough. Ma, you're not just a mother. You're also a woman. You should look for a man who loves you. You should have a life for yourself." 

Qiu Jia Rong: "Okay. I'll listen to you. When you're recovered, I will live my own life. That's it."

He Ren: "Okay. I'm hanging up."

Qiu Jia Rong: "Take care of yourself."

💗 Episode 24 - The Final Episode 💗

Highlights:

• Xiao Han visits He Ren at her dormitory. They go to Xiaozhou village and to many other places.
• Xiao Han takes He Ren to the chapel in garden at Central Lake. He proposes and He Ren agrees to marry him
• He Ren meets up with Han Yu at the airport before she leaves for Chuanxi to marry Xiao Han.
• Xiao Han gives He Ren a lavish, traditional Qiang wedding ceremony. 
• Xiao Han and He Ren travel to the snowy mountainside. He Ren was assuring Xiao Han that she is not leaving. 
• Zhang Yuanqi and Qiu Jia Rong meet again in a restaurant after a long time.

Memorable lines:

Xiao Han: "He Ren, look."

He Ren: "Wow. There are so many stars! It's beautiful."

Xiao Han: "We can hardly see stars in the city. Because there are many neon lighting and street lights at night. Man mad lighting has made the night sky bright. In a certain extent it has covered up the brightness of the dimmer stars."

He Ren: "So, you've brought me here for stargazing?"

Xiao Han: "You haven't seen the brighter ones."

He Ren: "It is bright enough. I am contented to seeing such bright stars."

Xiao Han: "No."

He Ren: "Yes."

Xiao Han: "No." 

He Ren: "Yes."

Xiao Han: (kisses He Ran's hand) "This is it." (Xiao Han puts a ring on He Ren's finger and goes down on one knee) "You are the brightest star." 

He Ren: (smiles sweetly)

Xiao Han: "Dear Miss He Ren, will you marry Mr. Xiao Han? For richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, that you'll hold his hands to live this life with him?" 

He Ren: "I will."

Xiao Han: "Let me give you a wedding."

He Ren: (smiles and nods her head.)

*****

Han Yu: "What's his name?"

He Ren: "Xiao Han."

Han Yu: "Why him?"

He Ren: "There's no why. I just love him. I've decided when I first met him."

Han Yu: "What do I lack in comparison to him? We knew each other since we were young. I've been by your side. We've known each other for more than ten years. And a random guy you found outside has defeated me?"

He Ren: "Han Yu, you don't like me. You don't love me either. Its just because we grew up together and we're just used to being around each other."

Han Yu: "No. I love you. Mine is love." 

He Ren: "Have you heard of this? When you meet someone as bright as a rainbow, everyone else will become clouds. That's love." 

Han Yu: "Is Xiao Han your rainbow?"

He Ren: "No. Xiao Han is my life. I am blessed enough to have met him. Even if I die right now, its worth it. 

Han Yu: "I envy you a lot. Even though you're sick, you have everything. I have nothing. I envy you a lot for being able to meet him."

He Ren: "Okay. I need to go now."

Han Yu: "Can I hold you for one last time?" 

He Ren: (turns her back to leave)

Han Yu: "He Ren, you must live well. I don't want you to die."

He Ren: "Han Yu, you've finally grown up." 

Han Yu: "Shut up. Even if you compliment me, you won't choose me." 

He Ren: "I promise you. I will live well."

*****

He Ren: "I'm not leaving, okay? I am not leaving.

Xiao Han: "Be good."

He Ren: "Xiao Han, If...I'm not coming back, you mustn't look for another woman. You promised me, You said I'm your last woman."

Xiao Han: (nods head)

He Ren: "Will you wait for me?"

Xiao Han: (nods head, holding back tears)

He Ren: "How long will you wait for me?"

Xiao Han: "Until you're back."

He Ren: "If I don't come back, you mustn't cry."

Xiao Han: (looks away and holds back his tears)

He Ren: "Go get a fish by then and give it a nice name."

Xiao Han: "I'll get two. I will wait for you to come back to name them."

*****

He Ren: "Xiao Han. You've done all the things that you've promised me."

Xiao Han: "I haven't told you that I love you yet. I love you so much

He Ren: "I love you too. I've loved you since I first met you."

Xiao Han: "Me too."

He Ren: "Xiao Han, I'm a bit tired. I want to sleep for a while."

Xiao Han: "Let me sleep with you."

💗💗💗💗💗

My review

I am a huge Jerry Yan fan, so I will try my best to be unbiased.

Jerry Yan did a great job in portraying the character of Xiao Han. His character here is so different from the usual rich, spoiled brat he portrayed in his other dramas. I like that he is "evolving" into more mature roles and as always, he never disappoints.

Xu Ruo Han was excellent. She did justice to the character of He Ren. The giddy, girly antics were so cute. Even during times when the plot was supposed to be sad, she was able to let real tears flow. Mark of a good actress!

I love the onscreen chemistry of Jerry Yan and Xu Ruo Han. Honestly, I did not even think about the age gap - in both the drama and in real life. The difference in age is not an issue when it comes to love, right? Some people reacted negatively to this age gap thing. It was the same when Jerry Yan partnered with Shen Yue in the series Count Your Lucky Stars. They also had a 20 year age gap then. 

Another thing that sets this series apart from the other Jerry Yan series I have watched is the musical scoring. Perfect choice of songs to use to enhance the scenes. My favorite of all the songs in this drama is Wo de ni (My You) by Kathy Wang. Beautiful melody! Check out the OST here. 

The cinematography is perfect! I searched online to find out where this was filmed and I learned that most scenes where filmed in Hainan, hence the tropical scenery. Xiao Han's hometown (Chuanxi) was probably filmed in Sichuan, where the Qiang people live. (Feel free to correct me if I am wrong) I read about the Qiang people and there was one interesting fact about them - there is a hearth in the house with a metal tripod over it and that the fire in the hearth is never extinguished. That same thing was in the series. How realistic can you get?

The famous Dao Ming Si line was also used in this series - "If apologies are accepted, why do we need the police?" If I am not mistaken, this line has been present in most of Jerry Yan's dramas. I guess I should expect this line in his future drama series. 

My Questions

I have questions about some scenes in the series. Feel free to leave a comment if you know the answer. 

1. Jerry Yan had different hairstyles in what was supposed to be one day in the story. He'd have straight tousled hair in one scene and short curly hair in the next. Was he in the process of filming an advert or something at the same time this series was being shot?

2. In Episode 18,  Xiao Han appears in He Ren's front door. How did he get in if the gate to He Ren's house is password protected?

3. The painting of African daisies (or Gerberas) in Xiao Han's house. How did he acquire it? In the series he said he bought it a long time ago. Was it a replica or the real thing? In Episode 8, He Ren opened the safe containing her father's paintings. She takes out the painting, the original work of her father, just like the one hanging on the wall in Xiao Han's house. Succeeding episodes would show Qin Zao stealing the painting in Xiao Han's house and attempting to sell it to Mr. Han. Mr. Han's assistant takes the painting to be "authenticated by an expert" and then returns saying Qin Zao only has a replica of the original. Was it at this time that the swap happened?  In the final episode, a man asks Xiao Han if he would be interested in selling the painting. So the original painting was the one that Qin Zao actually returned in Xiao Han's house? In that scene, Mr. Han's assistant was hiding behind some trees watching Qin Zao return the painting. He calls Mr. Han and says, "It is done."

4. Why wasn't Xiao Han wearing the traditional Qiang costume during his wedding to He Ren? 

5. I noticed that there were different terms used for the flower in the paintings. African daisies, Gerberas, Chrysanthemums. Which one is which? I did some research and I found out that Gerberas and African daisies refer to the same flower and are native to South Africa. Chrysanthemums are in the same family (Asteraceae) as Gerberas, but they are native to East Asia. Maybe it is just a lapse in translation. But anyway, one nice thing that came out of my research is that generally, Gerberas symbolize innocence, purity, cheerfulness and loyal love. 

6. The Epiphyllum flower is commonly called "Queen of the Night" because it only blooms at night and wilts before dawn. In Episode 24, why did the epiphyllum bloom during the daytime?

My take on the ending

So now I will discuss about the ending. 

This series has an open ending. It leaves the viewers to interpret for themselves how the story ended. The clues can be found in previous episodes.

Version 1:

At the 28th minute mark in Episode 24, He Ren's hand goes limp and she says, "Xiao Han, I'm a bit tired. I want to sleep for a while," to which Xiao Han's reply was "Let me sleep with you." Both characters where laying on a snow field and it starts snowing heavily. Did both of them die? Maybe yes, maybe not.

Version 2: 

Next scene was supposed to happen one year later. Zhang Yuanqi and Qiu Jia Rong accidentally meet in a restaurant. Qiu Jia Rong was eating fried chicken. She does that when she is stressed. When Zhang Yuanqi asked when she got back, she said, "I came back last week." Why did she not say "we" instead of "I" if she came back with He Ren? But she seemed happy to have met Zhang Yuanqi again. She asks Zhang Yuanqi if what he said in the studio still count. Zhang Yuanqi said, "I've been waiting for you." If you remember in episode 23,  He Ren told her mom to find a man who loves her so she can be a woman again? And Qiu Jia Rong said, "Okay. I'll listen to you. When you're recovered, I will live my own life. That's it."  Was He Ren's treatment in the United States successful? Maybe yes, maybe not. 

Version 3:

At the 37th minute mark of Episode 24, the epiphyllum bloomed. If you would recall, in Episode 8, He Ren and Xiao Han made a bet, that if the epiphyllum bloomed, they'd be together. The following morning, Xiao Han leaves the house to work in the garden in Central Lake. All the gerberas are in bloom. He Ren's voice calls his name and the credits roll. But keep on watching because at the 42nd minute mark, Xiao Han turns around to see who called his name and it was He Ren walking towards him. Is it a dream? Just like the lyrics in one of the songs in the series, "Are you just a fantasy or a reality?"  Is He Ren alive? Is she back? Maybe yes, maybe not.

I am leaning towards the Version 3 ending. The clues are there. He Ren is healed and she is back in Xiao Han's arms.

I watched this series on WeTV. Click here if you want to watch it too. There are other platforms where you can watch it too, but I prefer WeTV because it gives you the opportunity to watch it in hi def.

My Rating 

On a scale of 0 to 5 stars, I give this series a..... (I can't help it! 😍)

Hungry for more Jerry Yan? Check these out:

1. Loving, Never Forgetting (series review)

2. My Best Ex-Boyfriend (series review)

3. Meteor Garden Season 3 (5 Part Fan Fiction Series)