hwa & meen - Just Us...

Anniversary Staycation @ Siloso Beach Resort

2012-01-23T19:15:00.001+08:00

30th December 2011 saw us celebrating our 5th wedding anniversary. Time certainly zooms pass us, and this anniversary will be the last where we celebrate as "just us". Next year this time, Beanie will join in the celebration... as the labour of our love :)

Dying to go overseas, I booked ourselves into Siloso Beach Resort @ Sentosa. (Well... going across that bridge is still considered overseas right? ) I will do a short review of the resort in a while, but just let me recount the day's happenings first.

Celebrations started on 29th December. We got up bright & early, and headed to the sonographer's for my week 20 fetal anomaly scan. I was a little nervous as I have not seen Beanie for over a month, so am not sure if everything's alright. My worries were unfounded, and this early morning visit brought us the best anniversary present we could ask for.... that was the gender of Beanie. We are expecting a Dragon Boy! Yay! This wonderful news....coupled with Dr F's report that all is well with my pregnancy changed what we had planned for the rest of the day.

After checking into the resort, instead of basking @ the pool before dinner, we trooped out to Vivocity for a happy movie. Movie was an excuse to be out @ civilisation so I can pop into MotherCare and Spring Maternity and Toys R Us to make a mental list of things I want to get for little Dragon Boy. That pretty much sumed up our pre-anniversary celebrations.

The pool eventually found a place in our schedule the next morning....and all we could talk about was little Dragon Boy.

Well.... while i often lament at how much I wanted a kid all these years, I think the five years being married without one has brought Hwa and I even closer.... and it seems we are more loving than we had been 5 years ago. IMaybe it's because we only had each other. And, because of that.... it has made us appreciate this pregnancy so much more.... and all I want to say this year is Thank You Lord for the most wonderful gift,.... the best we ever had so far.

Now... for my humble review of Siloso Beach resort:

As you enter it's premises, you will be greeted with the lush greenery that's promised on their website. I fell in love with the place instantly as it brings us into another space, completely away from the concrete jungle we are so tired of.

Their landscape pool was also to die for. Apparently, the pool contains natural spring water that's harvested from the hill's reserves. It is a surprise to me... Singapore has spring water?! If I had all day, I would be lounging by the pool... taking dips the whole time. They even have water slides by the pool that caters to kiddos. When beanie comes along... this will be one of the short getaway destinations on our list.

Lush greenery and pretty lanscaped pool

However, before that, I think the management needs to think about upgrading / renovating their rooms. It does seem pretty run down with wet patches on their ceiling, and no mobile network in the rooms. Their small and pathetic TV also seems outdated.

water patches on the ceiling.

super mini TV

What: Siloso Beach Resort

Where: Sentosa

Web: http://www.silosobeachresort.com/

Random daily thoughts - 180112

2012-01-18T14:25:00.000+08:00

My horoscope says the year of the dragon is bad for my career, and this bad fortune will follow me wherever I go...

Meaning changing a job will not make things any better. Advice is to lie low and stick it out a little. Hmmm......... *ponder*.

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Happy 2012!

2012-01-04T20:57:00.001+08:00

Happy New Year everyone!!!!!

The last few days of 2011 ended with a blast!

Albeit falling sick on new year's day, and the first day back at work was smooth which is good.. so let's hope 2012 will be a fabulous year!

Anyway... having the flu when pregnant is not good at all. Despite given flu medicine, the doctor actually said if I can tahan,,... best not to take any medicine.

I took the flu pill on the first night .... and i think beanie concussed immediately becoz the usually "active @ night" baby actually had no movement for a good 12hrs... which got me rather worried. So... i decided to not to take any medication for the next few days no matter how horrible I felt. So... after 4 days... I am still nursing my flu! sigh....

Still... i believe 2012 will be fantastic!!!!!!!!!!!!

Restless & mini mid-term panic

2011-12-28T19:22:00.001+08:00

Christmas is over. Am now waiting for arrival of the New Year, so i can get my life back.

Since finding out I am pregnant, I feel that things haven't been quite the same, mainly due to the lull work period, and of course the frequent fatigue Beanie's causing me. All these have somewhat made me a sloth..doing close to nothing most of the time. Worst is, I am halfway through my pregnancy, and unlike many mummies, I have done nothing to prepare for Beanie's arrival. Not sure if I am a cool mum (pun intended) or just simply nonchalant...taking a "come what may" attitude!

Work wise, I feel something unpleasant is brewing. Morale in the office have been all time low, and it is really not hleping when i feel i could do so much more but not given the opportunity to do so. Fallen from grace once again? Maybe. Hence, the quiet wish that the New Year will bring spirits back on track.

Anyway, since I am on leave till the New Year, I took a teeny weeny step by making a list of things I need to get for Beanie....and...panic is slowly but surely setting in.

Firstly, i think i have no space at home!! I can't touch my brother-in-law's room....which means Beanie's playpen + storage needs will have to go into my already very small room! Urgh!

Secondly, i need to reorganise mine and hwa's wardrobes to make space for Beanie... but... mum-in-law says i cannot do anything to the room until my 8th month! Seriously.... by the time I am 8 months pregnant, I will be darn huge! I don't think I will have any spare energy to pack lor! $%^&#

And, this is only the beginning....

Also, I will be going for my 20th week anomaly scan tomorrow.... while I am exciting see Beanie again after a month, I am actually also worried of what the outcome may be. Crossing fingers.... praying hard all will be well.

Random daily thots - 271211

2011-12-27T10:02:00.000+08:00

OMG... It's only 10am and I am already trying hard to keep myself awake @ work! Darn insomnia!

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Random Daily Thots 191211

2011-12-19T19:46:00.000+08:00

All I want for Christmas is a short tip outta town...
Praying really hard for it although chances of it happening seems pretty slim.
[Dear Husband...hope you get the hint.]

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Random Daily Thots - 141211

2011-12-14T19:20:00.000+08:00

It amazes me how many people snatch seats from preggy moms and pretends to not look @ anyone at all until it is their stop.
I ran into 3 today. They were literally rushing for that seat with me. I lost all 3 times.

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My Belly @ 18 weeks...

2011-12-11T21:26:00.001+08:00

For those who have been asking.... here's my tummy @ 18 weeks! Ermm... i seriously think it is quite huge for someone who is 4 mths pregnant. Don't mind the scratches.... i am having pregnancy rashes. :(

** Disclaimer: This is post having a McChicken, half a double fish fillet and a large fries!

Search for the right BB Cream

2011-12-09T21:58:00.001+08:00

While I have raved about how I love Korean beauty products, the sad truth is most of them are not suitable for my ultra sensitive skin. They are usually too rich... or are more suitable for ladies with almost flawless skin. I usually end up with one too many pimples or like I have soaked my face in a basin of oil! Tough luck I guess!

But but but.... that has not stopped me from trying to look for that purrrfect BB Cream. BB Creams are supposed to have skin-regenrating properties, and provides coverage for blemishes or slight imperfections on your skin. Now with BB Creams getting more popular locally with brands outside of Korea developing their own.... why not start experimenting again!?

So many choices.... how to chooose......??

That's when direct mailers worked! Months back, I received Ettusais' monthly members' update... and the picture below got me interested in their BB Mineral Cream. :) Cute right?

Ettusais BB Mineral Cream comes in 3 different shades (10, 20 and 30), at $38 for a tube of 40g. Being of a darker complexion, I bought shade 30. Texture of the cream is smooth and not oily like some others I have tried. It smoothes on easily, and gives my skin a matt finish, which I love. More importantly, it managed to cover most of my freakles and acne scars. My skintobne also became less blotchy. For someone who never walks out of the house with at least foundation on, I have actually gone out a few times with just the cream on. When I use the BB cream with my regular powder foudation, it keeps the shine away for longer periods during the day. Best of all is... I have been using this for more than a month, and have not had any breakouts so far.

My personal tube of Ettusais BB Cream

I guess...I will try Ettusais' BB Mineral Powder next.

My rating? This deserves 8/10.

What: Ettusais BB Mineral Cream

Web: www.ettusais.sg | www.facebook.com/ettusaissingapore

Random daily thots 291111

2011-11-29T21:38:00.001+08:00

Darn! I forgot to ask Dr F for a copy printout of my scan today!!!

Beanie's doing well....a week ahead of its time... meaning my EDD is pushed forward a week earlier. There goes my hope for Beanie to have the same birthday as me. Oh well!

Oh...and for those waiting for Beanie's gender... wait patiently for another month ok?!

Random daily thots 241111

2011-11-24T15:51:00.001+08:00

Tired of doing other people's work...and letting them get the glory.

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Things I miss being "un-pregnant"

2011-11-20T10:14:00.001+08:00

Not feeling nauseated & not puking. I sometimes don't even dare to eat for fear of regurgitating.

Eat what i want when i want to. With the neverending list of things i CANNOT eat coupled with the frequenting vomitting, food isn't something i enjoy very much now.

Able to rebond, perm and colour my hair. I spot a lion's mane with grey hair multiplying .... yet there is nothing I can do. :(

Able to stay awake and alert for most of the day. Now, i feel sleepy most of the day and many times would wish I could crawl under my desk and get some shut eye.

Running. Great cure for fatigue. Can't do any of that now.

Strudding around in my heels. A different pair everyday.

Wearing the clothes i want to. Don't have many choices these days.

Popping a panadol when i get headaches.

.....that's all for now. Not a lot... but they are enough to make me feel dull all day.

Random daily thots - 181111

2011-11-18T13:48:00.001+08:00

I don't make a very good travel blogger. My frequent half completed entries of my holidays is a testimony to that. Oh well...

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Did you say Prawn noodles for Dinner?

2011-11-17T21:25:00.001+08:00

After being married for almost 5 years, i have stopped hoping that Hwa will take me out to some posh restuarant for romantic dinners on special occasions.

On his birthday ytd... i offered to take him out for a good dinner. At least at some decent restuarant.

And, he asked to have prawn noodles @ some hawker place instead. What can i say?

Good thing I had Beanie as an excuse to feed ourselves with some indo-thai fair @ Bambu.

That's my hubby.....one who never fail to make me laugh nonetheless.

Happy 32nd burfday my love!

Random daily thots - 171111

2011-11-17T13:19:00.001+08:00

Browsing through the selves of a video store brings me back to my idyllic days in Perth.

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Backdated Post: 9 weeks and counting

2011-11-03T20:59:00.001+08:00

This post will probably not be published until I am past my 1st trimester. But... i figured i needed to start a journal of this journey somehow else I will soon forget these little moments... so here we go...!

Yes! Our first attempt at SO-IUI was a success... not with some hiccups along the way though.

At my second scan during the process... it seemed like follies were not growing and that made my heart stop for a moment. And, maybe at that point, the expectations on the success of the cycle dropped. To be honest, I wasn't even hopeful that the first cycle would turn out this good especially after reading what some other couples have shared on various forums.

Hwa and i were both hoping for the best, yet were also prepared for the worst. That mentality really helped us a lot along the journey till today.

At day 11 of the 2 weeks wait (2WW), I thought why not pee on the stick and see what turns out. The line was faint, and refusing to believe it is a positive, i went out to Guardian the next day and got 4 more sticks. I peed on 2 each day for the next two days.... the line did not disappear! Normal mummies would go "Yay" and call their gynae almost immediately. But...for me.... i think I was just being extra cautious to not be overtly hopeful. :)

As we entered Dr F's office, we saw his face filled with expectation on the news we were about to deliver. When we nodded and said it was positive... we can't help smiling at how he threw his hands in the air ... triumpant! It momentarily felt weird to have someone else feel more excited about this news than the parents themselves.

While the process seemed tedious...at the end of the day, I was glad we did it...and it turned out well.

The next step of the process is obviously to go through the pregnancy itself, which I definitely have my fair share of stories.

At week 6, I had almost no symptoms which is actually no surprise to anyone. I thought, "Cool! Am I one of those lucky peops who go through pregnancy with no symptoms at all? Woohoo! I am not complaining! Serious!"

But, one cannot assume all is well too soon in the journey. Before I knew it, I am running to the toilet in the middle of my sleep...which never happened before. I empty my bladder just before bedtime just like how i do before baby...but now it seems to not work and sleep keeps getting interrupted. This went on for a good 2 to 3 weeks..... in the middle of which I started having serious bloating! I look lika I am 5 mths @ just 8 weeks! Look at that tummy! At this point, I cannot imagine how I would look like at 5 mths! Hahahahaha!

Anyway... just to add, I was pretty pleased that I have yet to spot any Morning Sickness(MS). But... once again...when you think it is not going to happen.....it really does!

Contrary to what it sounds, MS DO NOT happen only in the morning! Mine comes throughout the day...when I am hungry, when I am on the train, when i just finish my meal, when I just finished a glass of water... practically anytime...and it gets worse by the day!

Oooooh.....oohhhhhh! I forgot to mention,,,when I, on many occasions could finish an entire TW /HK drama in a sitting throughout the night.... I now cannot seem to even get pass one episode without conking off midway. I am probably one lucky mummy to have sampled most forms of pregnancy symptoms!

Little Beanie is not making Mummy's life easy this early in the journey....but...Mummy loves Beanie all the same.

Taiwan Holiday 2011 (Part2) - Day 2 & 3

2011-08-28T10:22:00.001+08:00

[Finally found some time to put my taiwan photos together.... ]

Day 2: Jiufen > Wulai > Taichung (Feng Chia Night Market)

I found Jiufen really rustic and is a place with a rich history, and loved the view from the top! Enjoyed the last time I was there with Hwa, and visiting Jiufen this time was like reminiscing my last trip :)

Great view...

Yummy treats at Jiufen.

Jiufen, bustling with activity

After Jiufen, we proceeded to Wulai... another rustic old town, rather similiar to Jiufen...

Finally ending the day @ Taichung's famous Fengjia Night Market. Did not take much pics as we were busy shopping & eating. :) , tho...just jad to upload the picture below of the Japanese inspired "Xiong Zhang Bao"...aka... Bear's Paw Bun... kekekeke!

Day 3: Sun Moon Lake > Kaoshiung

View of Sun Moon Lake from Wenwu Temple.

At the ferry jetty waiting for our Sun Moon Lake cruise... the guy on the right can really sing! Sounded so much like Wu Bai.

On our 15 min cruise around Sun Moon Lake.

Stay tuned for day 3 to day 7... :)

I survived...

2011-08-21T22:45:00.001+08:00

With no luck on the oral medication, we started on SO-IUI this cycle. For the uninitiated, SO-IUI is a combination of 2 types of treatments for infertility.

In gist, I had to start off jabbing myself in the tummy for a good 7 days with Puregon, then follow-up with a visit to Dr F to check if my follies are properly stimulated and growing well... followed by another 3 days of jabs (AGAIN!!) and finally have Hwa's little troops launched in to meet my follies.

Boy... i cannot believe I made it sound so simple. But, it really is! Although I have to admit waking up each morning to poke that needle was a little bit of a chore. Using the pen for the jabs was almost painless... but there were days I had to use the syringe and those really sting. Good thing I have a blob of fats around my waistline to make the jabs slightly more bearable.

Anyway... I have survived 10 days of jabs. 5 on the syringe and 5 on the pen. Now, I am just waiting for Dr F to give me the go ahead for insemination.

Oh... and for this lucky cycle.... I've got 3 follies growing quite well... and I have affectionately called them Paige, Tyler and Megan :) I can only now hope for them to grow to an appropriate size... and pray for the best.

Grow follies grow!! Wish me luck!

Puregon Pen

Puregon with syringe

Highlights - Taiwan Holiday 2011 (Part 1) - Day 1

2011-08-09T23:13:00.001+08:00

Despite my grouses from the previous blog post, I did enjoy the sights and sounds of Taiwan. immersely.

We took the 7 Days group tour package with Namho Travel, and I would say I am quite pleased with their flexibility and their speed to respond when we have to change our flight at the very last miniute.

As with other package tours, there is a minimum number of pax the agency needs to meet before they will confirm the tour, and that would be 10 for this particular package. At 2 weeks prior to departure, there was still only 4 of us. However, Namho was flexible enough to allow us to still go on the tour, but with the driver and guide being the same person. Well... that's of course cool with us... as it will then seem more like a private tour! :)

Apparently, we heard from the family that joined our tour at a week before departure that they had originally booked their tour with Hong Thai. But since Hong Thai was not able to meet the minimum number of 10 pax for the tour, they cancelled it. Blessing in disguise for us actually since Hong Thai was my first choice when we were shortlisting agencies for this trip. :) So, great job Namho!

Day 1:

Due to "I don't know what" reason, all China Airline planes were not able to fly on the initial day of our trip. Oh well... i guess it is a blessing in disguise since we managed to get the next flight out to Taipei on Singapore Airlines albeit that means arriving in Taipei much later than expected. That said, we did not manage to cover much since we only landed about 6pm.

We only visited Taipei 101 before heading to Raohe Night Market for dinner.

I was hoping to hop over to Wu Fen Pu while @ Raohe... but it was way to warm and there was so many nice food to try... so... i guess shopping for my own stuff took a backseat today. :)

More updates to come!

not quite rested

2011-08-07T13:04:00.001+08:00

Back after being away for a week to Taiwan, on what was a most awaited holiday, I cannot be sure i have rested and am ready for work.

In fact, i found the trip exhausting, so much so, the 2 days that I've been back, I found myself constantly wanting to sleep.

No. it is not the having to travel all over taiwan that's making me tired. In fact, the traveling has made me fall in love with the country. Every part of taiwan have their own unique flavour, own unique foods and cuisine. If I had the luxury of time, I would definitely want to spend a bit more time at each part of Taiwan especially Hualien, Chih Peng, Tai Chung and Kao Shiung.

Interestingly, I have discovered something(s) about myself and the people around me....and it is probably all these thinking that sucked away some of my energy. More importantly, I think it is the constant need to ensure both mothers are happy during the trip that made me even more weary.

This is the fourth annual obligation trip we took with our mothers. Every time, as we conclude each trip, I tell myself never again will I do it the following year. Somehow, before long, we will find ourselves planning the next obligation trip. This time, I seriously swear it will be the last time. Having both mothers with us for 7 whole days, seeing their grouchy faces, and not being able to figure out why really makes me frustrated.

As part of the trip, we were brought to a Pi Shiu centre where a fengshui master there did an overview of our lives based on our name and birthdate. Whatever the master said made a lot of sense... and the one thing that struck me was the fact that I am a person that tend to always make people's lives easier @ the expense of my own. Gosh... i guess there is quite a lot of truth in that as I look back on my life.

Whatever it is... I don't know anymore how to make other people happy. All I want is just for myself to be happy.

time to breathe

2011-07-27T23:37:00.001+08:00

After more than a month of late nights, stress, panic, mega sian-ness, [stubborn and non-growing follicles]..... I can finally throw work away and go on my trip!

Just to have constantly remind myself that the world will not collapse if I am not around!

Just have to tell myself that this is ONLY a job!

Land of Night Markets..... Here I come!!!!

Tough week

2011-07-15T15:05:00.000+08:00

Want to slow down and smell the roses only to find myself in a speedboat that's at full speed with the destination hardly in sight. Turns and detours in the huge ocean is making me sea sick.

When will the week end.... In fact, when will I see my destination...

Another cryptic entry by ME.

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Absolutely mood-less

2011-06-27T10:01:00.001+08:00

I am absolutely mood-less. Must be the weather. Physically in
office... But mind's wandering.

--
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Yummy coconut tart from honglim...

2011-06-05T14:36:00.000+08:00

It's been such a long time my friend...
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urban retreat - BKK Getaway 2011

2011-06-05T13:49:00.001+08:00

A trip to the land of smiles will never be complete without a visit to the spa.

I used to frequent Baan Dalah MindBody Spa @ the Sukhumvit Soi 8 for their foot massage. This spa is lovely, convenient for where i stayed and reasonably priced. But for this trip, i wanted to try some place more lush. Googled before the trip and found a couple... and settled for Urban Retreat as it's the cheapest of the lot.

There are 3 outlets in central Bangkok, all of which are along the BTS Sukhumvit line. I chose the newest outlet, right at the doorstep of Asoke BTS station, made a reservation via their online form, and was quite impressed at how quickly they responded to confirm my booking. All these in a matter of 2 hours. :)

True to their name, upon walking through the doors behind their counter, it felt like you have just entered a retreat away from urban bangkok. You will be brought through what seems like a maze with multiple doors .... kinda like a sense of mystery as well!

SImple and clean design. All equipment & beds are neatly tucked in some corner/room. I did not see any beds or massage chairs @ any common areas.

Hwa and I opted for the oriental package which is a combo of foot massage, head & shoulder massage and thai massage with herbal balls. Great stuff!

Urban Retreat's Shop front. It is actually this huge and quite colonial looking building.

Us... waiting to be entertained! :)

What: Urban Retreat Spa

Where: This one is the Asoke Branch. For directions click here.

Tel. : +66(0)2204 2008-9

Web: http://www.urbanretreatspa.net/

sawasdee hotel @ sukhumvit soi 8 - BKK getaway 2011

2011-05-30T23:56:00.001+08:00

This was a very impromptu trip as Hubz wanted to get out of the stifling environment here, at the same time to celebrate my birthday. Yet, we did not want to spend too much. Hence, we decided take a risk to stay @ a budget hotel. Sawasdee Hotel @ Sukhumvit Soi 8 is part of the Sawasdee Hotels group which has quite a number of hotels across bangkok and pattaya. They are also the sister to the Woraburi hotel group... another popular group in Thailand.

I admit i was a little apprehensive with this choice of hotel especially when the pictures on the web of some of their older properties were seriously not appealing at all. Simply not up to standard. And.. all i can picture is sleaze. The only reason i agreed to this is coz the hotel @ Sukhumvit Soi 8 just opened in oct last year... and so far, had good reviews on tripadvisor. Moreover, soi is quite convenient for us since staying @ Citadines Soi 8 during our last trip.

Guess my apprehension was unfounded as this quaint little hotel is very well kept... and was more more cozy than dingy.

The staff were all very helpful, although most cannot really speak english well. We had a hard time trying to get them to book a taxi for us on departure.

The rooms while a wee bit tiny... is very very clean. While a budget hotel... it feels like any 3 to 4 star hotels. What's best for a net freak like me... they have free wifi in all rooms... and the signal was pretty decent.

Of course... there are areas such as the super thin walls, the (really ) minimal brekkie and the distance from the main road that can be better.... yet... with the price of about S$50 per night... what else can we ask for.

The hotel nestles diagonally across the soi from Citadines. While it takes about 10 min to walk to the main road where Nana BTS station is... the hotel compensates by having complimentary tuk tuk shuttle to the BTS station.

Well... i doubt I will stay here again the next time, but would still recommend it to anyone who is looking for a cheap & good accommodation along the sukhumvit stretch.

That's the hotel from the outside. So pretty in purple...

The door you see on the left of the picture looks like a cupboard hor... it is actually the door to the bathroom! Such a clever design.

That's how it looks inside.... more purple!

What: Sawasdee Hotel @ Sukhumvit Soi 8

Where: 42 Sukhumvit Soi 8, Sukhumvit Road, Klongtoey, Klongtoey, Bangkok 10110

Tel. : + 66 ( 0) 2 653 3075-7
Fax. : + 66 (0) 2 253 8788

Web: http://www.sawasdee-hotels.com/bangkok/sukhumvitsoi8/index.html

P.S. More posts on BKK to come!

Strangely comforting

2011-05-26T09:45:00.000+08:00

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a lovely evening

2011-05-21T23:09:00.001+08:00

Ok.. like my work... i am actually having a backlog of entries.

I was looking at the photos I have taken over the past few months... and realized that there's so much to share... yet not had the time to do so.

On 8 May, I had the pleasure of attending a good friend's wedding @ Capella , Sentosa. It was my first time @ Capella, and have heard lots of good stuff about it, and that it made a very good location for that perfect wedding.

Well... i would say it sure lived up to it's reputation. Rustic architecture amid the island' s greenery, giving one a sense of tranquility right from the drive up to the hotel.

The ballroom was one of it's kind... circular, pillarless with pretty dome shaped high ceilings.

The environment played a very important role in bringing out the love that was floating in the air. It was simple, yet very beautiful. Beautiful not because of how the place was dressed up to be... but coz i could truly feel the love. The way the groom looked at his bride, the song the bride wrote and sang for her groom, and nothing else matters at that point.

To top it up.... i think the food was "fusion-ly" decent. Loved the codfish the most (second pic on the first row).

If i haven't said this quite enough.... truly happy for my ex-naybor @ work....congrats again if you read this.

renewed optimism

2011-05-03T21:22:00.001+08:00

After a year's hiatus from regularly visiting my gynae, we finally decided it was time to re-start that routine. It is not always something I enjoy, given each visit usually takes up about 2 to 3 hours. Well... as in previous posts... I am embracing this TTC journey with renewed optimism... so why not share this " (re)new(ed) journey" here.

After 2 rounds of clomid and a laproscopy... we thought we should probably start on what's naturally the next course of action, which is SuperOvulation (SO) and possible intrauterine insemination (IUI). So our visit to Dr F last satty was just to do some routine checks... in case during the course of the previous year, some weird stuff have started to grow in me... also to prepare him for our intentions.

My womb was given a good bill of health (Yay!!)... and to our pleasant surprise... Dr F found a little follicle growing. As I was in day 10 of my cycle... we were all quietly excited and secretly hoping that this little bud will blossom and of course mature. Well... even if it does not grow at the rate it is supposed to... Dr F was willing to give it a little boost in a few days time. So... today... i skipped into his office expecting to be given a HCG shot. But... we found that the little bud hardly grew in the past 3 days... and it would be a waste of $$ to take the shot. So... we left it as it is. Oh well... somehow... somewhere in me knew this would happen.

I think the good thing that came out of this visit is being able to focus on the buds that all refused to grow. During the past 2 clomid cycles... we kinda knew this was a problem... but we focused on the blocked tubes instead. Since the tube problem cannot be fixed... moving onto other problems was the next logical step.

Dr F actually told me that we don't really need to start on SO for the time being. We should try another cycle of Clomid with Metformin. Apparently, dosing both allows the buds to react better... and greatly helps in ovulation. Well... at this point... i guess we will try anything as long as there's that flicker of hope. And... i think not needing to jab myself was a relief , at least for the time being. Yes... while i thought of starting SO... the thought of jabbing myself 5 days in a row somehow scares me.

Here's a peek into what's in store for me in the next month....

Baby dust to me! Baby dust to anyone else who reads this and is on a similar TTC journey! :)

Daily brew

2011-04-24T15:16:00.001+08:00

Yup.. That's my daily brew. :) Powdery, bitter, comes with a very strong herbal smell...and equally hard to swallow.
That's my daily beverage prescribed by my tcm doc. Happy drinking....:)

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simple pleasures

2011-04-23T22:14:00.001+08:00

Spending some quiet time away from home... :)

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an interesting journey?

2011-04-23T01:54:00.001+08:00

Thanks to Bear, we managed to snag a couple of complimentary tics to "Voyage de la Vie" . Always had the intention to watch it, but since it is the resident theatrical show @ RWS, I thought... what's the hurry.

Well...since I have never watched any other mega scale circus such as Cirque du Soleil, neither did I take the trouble to read any reviews on the show... hence, I pretty much did not have any expectations. It was already a bonus that Hwa was willing to go for the show with me on a "schoolnight". :)

We were sitting at the front few rows... and when the show started... we were pleasantly surprised by how the the cast "mingled" with the audience when they made their entrance, although I secretly wished they will leave me alone.

Voyage de la Vie, in french means " Journey of Life", where it depicts the story of Boy (Jonathan Leong) and his experience while growing up. I loved the set and the pyrotechnics. I loved the gymnastics performances.... but other than that.... i did not know how to appreciate the other parts of the show. I felt the show got a wee bit draggy towards the end... and some of the magic tricks wasn't much to be wow-ed about.

Oh well... all in all... I would say i did enjoy the show, and it was quite a nice and relaxing way to end the stressful work day. But, I do wonder with the crowd (or lack of ) we saw on a Thursday night, do they even make any money from running this day after day!

This will certainly make a good show for families to bring their kiddos to... and remember to take the front seats to ensure full enjoyment!

Now... i am looking forward to " The Lion King"!

do not shout at me

2011-04-20T23:35:00.001+08:00

I think some people must start to learn that being stressed at work does not give them the right to raise their voice at others for no apparent reason. The people that they shout at may have had a worse day than them.... and problems can definitely be solved quicker if talked over calmly.

Very often, we make the mistake of assuming too much, and getting worked up over our assumptions. However, how many times have we taken a step back...and try to look at things from another perspective?

Hence, to that someone who just raised her voice at me this evening... doing so only makes you a very difficult person to work with.

P.S : I hate being shouted at for no rhyme or reason. I have all the patience in the world to deal with the most difficult people. But once you cross the line and start to shout when there is no need to... I am not going to be nice.

wee thots on a sunday...

2011-04-17T22:07:00.001+08:00

It's been 5 months since i moved to my new job, and am occasionally finding it hard to describe to people what I feel about this change.

Things seem familiar yet different.

I cannot quite put my finger on what' s missing ..... and maybe it is really too early to conclude something is amiss. This is not to say i don't like my job or anything negative. Personally.... i just feel i need to find that one thing that keeps me going in my career... the way I have always been with my previous ones. Maybe... and just maybe... I have not quite let go of the past.... and sometimes i wonder... have i stepped back... or moved forward.

Ah well.... let's re-evaluate in another 5 months time.

Time to hit the sack... good nite world.. and thanks for enduring my "thinking out loud" moments like this!

over-reaction

2011-03-27T22:18:00.001+08:00

I don't know if such a word even exist. Anyway... my journey of starting a family, with the situation I am faced with is seemingly getting a bit over the top for me.

I twitch at every pain and discomfort, hoping it means something to only face disappointment every single time. Sometimes, I admit I seem to be creating my own signs.. It's probably all psychological.

I have tried to blog less about my TTC journey so as not to bore people following my blog, but when there is no one to talk abt this... Or should I say no one who has had similar experiences tfor me share this in detail with .... It's tough. Really tough.

But... I do take comfort in knowing that I am not alone, In fact I am part of a statistic. Whenever the little twitches get to me, I will start googling to see if it is a sign of pregnancy... or just my mind playing tricks on me! There are many women out there who have been through worst than I have... so... i am really learning to let go... give myself more time... and be glad that I am alive each morning.

Also, i shouldn't stop writing in here about this trying journey... for I now know... there will be other ladies who are just like me... frantically searching the web for that little bit of re-assurance. So... if whatever I share here and help someone feel better... than why not...

Vanilla Bar & Cafe

2011-02-13T01:04:00.001+08:00

Discovered this lovely little restaurant hidden along Boon Tat Street, a quiet find amidst daily CBD crowd.

True to it's name, you will notice there is a subtle vanilla scent as you enter the restaurant. It even has a small outdoor sitting area for about 5 to 10 people, which looks like a totally different place with it's lush greenery.

Food served is a fusion of local and japanese, which I find quite refreshing.

I ordered the Mini Burger sampler , which is two mini burgers , one with pulled pork, and the other with pork katsu. Love the slight spiciness of the pulled pork... and would definitely go for the "full" pulled pork burger the next time.

My colleagues ordered the beef japanese curry rice, grilled cod fish with baked potatoes and sausages with rosti.... they all tasted yummy! I cannot seem to find anything really wrong with them... Oh! and i forgot to mention their bacon wrapped enoki is juicy on the inside and crunchy on the outside. I can down 5 of them at a go!

Two things you cannot miss at Vanilla would be their signature desserts: Chocolate Molten Cake with Vanilla Ice-Cream.... AND... Vanilla Dirt Cake!! Their vanilla dirt cake is created to look like a potted plant... and really is chilled vanilla cream topped with crushed oreo!!! The pictures below say a thousands word of how delectable these desserts tastes...so I shall elaborate further....and encourage everyone to take a trip down to Vanilla if you want somewhere different for a satisfying meal away from the maddening crowd...

Vanilla Bar & Cafe, 3 Boon Tat Street #01-01, Tel: 6423 0366.

Mini Burger Sampler

Japanese Curry with Beef

Chocolate Molten Cake with Vanilla Ice-cream

Vanilla Dirt Cake

Pizzeria Mozza @ Shoppes at Marina Bay

2011-01-09T20:17:00.001+08:00

A long overdue meet-up with some ex colleagues brought us to Marina Bay Sands... which was really my first trip there since it opened its doors last year.

Daph read in 8 Days that Pizzeria Mozza got a 5.5 / 6 rating.. which is apparently (according to her) quite rare. I actually don't really read 8 Days... so don't really know what the ratings mean... so i just went with the crowd and the recommendation.

Well, i would say, it sure did not disappoint.

Mozza has quite a history, and is actually the same the way it is in California. There is actually two parts to Mozza, the more upscale Osteria Mozza that serves culinary creations from the chef's travels. Pizzeria Mozza on the other hand is more casual that serves up wholesome italian pizzas.

I didn't manage to take many pictures, coz i was famished.. and was licking my fingers, savouring every bit of the food

Some of the dishes i can remember that's got me wanting more are:

- Fried Potatoes with Rosemary leaves

- Fried risotto balls with Bolgonese (i think.... )

- Chicken Wings

- Calamari al forno with fagioli & oregano

- Funghi misti, fontina, taleggio & thyme (Pizza)

-Bacon, salami, fennel sausage, guanciale, tomato & mozzarella (Pizza)

While all very yummy, they tend to be a tad too salty. Even their desserts were salty, especially theirCaramel copetta with marshmallow sauce & salted Spanish peanuts.

Maybe that's why they were 0.5 points short of getting full marks from 8 Days! Haha!

However, i do recommend them for anyone who loves Italian food, as they serve up quality with a different. What they offer is not the "run-of-the-mill" italian food that usually taste the same almost everywhere.

Are you curious?!

2011-01-04T00:25:00.001+08:00

geeksville

2010-12-31T00:04:00.001+08:00

I have always wanted to blog about how i've got lots of techie stuff lying around in my house , and it's truly a wonder why hubz is not an engineer of some sort.

Well... just doing a mental scan of my house now, I have got 2 e-books (nook and kindle), 4 portable hard-drives, 4 digital cameras,, 4 wireless mouse.... ermm... 1 ds lite, 1 psp, x-box kinect... and these only makes up the tip of the iceberg.

Hubz' love of all things techie is beyond my comprehension, just like how he cannot understand why I am constantly browsing reebonz.com, and how my eyes light up at the sight of Gucci, Agnes B, Coach, Kate Spade and the list goes on.

I guess I stand to be the major beneficiary of his interest, thus should not be complaining... however, I often get pangs of guilt for not being able to fully appreciate the beauty of these toys. Other than the iPad, and now my MacBook Pro... all other gadgets he got for me have been banished to the cold palace... like my DS Lite and possibly my nook.

This reminds me of his addiction to Crazybid.sg... or should I say obsession. Ironically, while i had issues with him glueing his face to the site, I was the one who actually told him about it!

Despite being jealous of having to share Hubz with the site, i would have to say it is a pretty good one. While i read in a couple of forums on how people felt it is a scam and all.. i think not.

To be able to successfully win something here, you will first need to have lots of patience... secondly... be willing to sacrifice precious time with your bed... and be selective in the items you bid for to remain in the game for the long run... and eventually go for the kill!

Well... never bidded before, but at least from observing Hubz @ it... and of course with all these tech toys as his trophies...I suppose it really works... although when he tried to go for the kill... he failed... and that's how he decided end his relationship with it!

Oh... and two of the most interesting wins he had were...... 5kg D24 Durians and Durian Mooncakes!!!! Whahahahaha! Guess this geek loves durians on top of tech toys!

merry christmas

2010-12-25T18:42:00.001+08:00

Merry Christmas everyone!

I know i have been pretty quiet both on FB and here for the past few weeks...been trying to make some changes, and adjusting to them.

When i made the decision to move from Aviva to my current job, i have in some way made my christmas wish(es).

I want to change the way i live my life .... i want to be able to spend more time @ home, doing the things i love.

So far, the past few weeks seem quite promising , so let's see how i go from here.

Other than changing jobs, we've got a new member in the family. Mum has let go of Vespa's passing, and opened her heart to accepting a new dog. We adopted and welcomed Mickey , the mini maltese to our home.

I've also made baby steps to re-visit my plans for UrbanNook. I have put my maiden business in cold storage for about 9 months now. It is about time squeeze some time out of my daily schedule to fulfill my dreams. SO.. here's doing a little advertisement... there will be new stock coming in in January.. so look out for it on urbannook.com! Oh... and before i forget... I will be @ West Coast Mall on 15 Jan to peddle my ware! So come on down if you one to be one of the first to see my new collection! kekeke!

On the home front, we have also finally gone to see a chinese physician to see what we should be doing to improve on Project B. She was extemely positive and was quite sure we don't need IVF, at least for now. So.. crossing my fingers to see how things progress then. I do hope to have more good news to share ... :)

Lastly... thank you Hwa for the very very lovely gift! After being a couple for close to a decade, I know gifts of bags and jewellery is not your cup of tea, but tech toys are. So... here's my new mac pro, which I am loving every minute of using it! Love ya!

P.S. I am sure 2011 will be a good year.... so let's hope I will continue to have this positive outlook to life for the months to come! yeah!

fat!

2010-12-12T23:26:00.000+08:00

I can see my collar bone no more! This is not good news! Bring on the soups and salads!!!
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Hong Kong – Dec 2010

2010-12-12T10:57:00.001+08:00

Only 3 days outta here… but thoroughly enjoyed the trip with Vic. Out first trip out together…and did some serious walking…(ermm…. no… i should say SHOPPING!).

While only 3 days… one of the best thing i enjoyed was Agnes B. The peops there simply love the brand, and if you take a trip down to IFC… you will see a corner of level 2 (i think) turned into an Agnes B concept store… everything you want to find relating to the brand is there. That includes a cafe, a chocolatier and even a restaurant. Yummy!

Let’s do this again soon! Korea next?

meen is sad

2010-12-06T22:20:00.001+08:00

(this post is actually 5 days late as I can’t seem to connect to the internet when i wrote this)--- so back date this is 1 Dec 2010.

I seriously did not think leaving would be so hard.

Someone once told me, the best time to leave a job is when u are doing well. True… but it is also the hardest time to leave.

When I saw the tears from my colleagues eyes… no matter how much i tried… i cried too!

It’s barely 24 hrs since i left… and when Wellie told me someone is already sitting my desk…. i was like..”HOW RUDE”!!

Haha! Just a sudden surge of emotions… :) Anyway… i shud really get to bed… have to be up 4 hrs time.

goodbye yellow...

2010-11-28T18:34:00.001+08:00

“Great is the art of beginning, but greater is the art of ending.” ~Lazurus Long

I have made the decision more than a month back to leave my present job for another. This is probably one of the hardest decision I have made in my career so far. I love my job…I love the opportunities given to me, the trust people in the office have in me. I love the people….and the chemistry the team has.

Then everyone starts asking… if i like whatever that’s going on…why do i then want to leave?

My answer? Hope.

Hope that with the change, I will start having the time to do the things I have always wanted. Hope that the new environment will help me attain the things I dream of...and Hope that I can slow my pace down… and start enjoying the world around me.

I know this sounds quite ridiculous to some… and many have the other view that jumping into some place new … also brings about an equal and even greater stress than staying in a place of familiarity.

Like what I have said to people around me who have asked the same question… I really don’t know if I will be happy at the new place. I have taking a leap of faith here… If it does not work out… I know I will either make sure it does… or find my way out. I have been like a psycho for a good 3 weeks… trying to make out whether or not to retract my decision and stay on. One moment determined to go… the next wanting to remain. But… now that I am only 2 sleeps to my last day walking with the sun…I just want to look forward… and once again Hope that things will all fall in place nicely. :)

Goodbye.. and I will miss the Sunlight beaming in… :)

belated birthday brunch @ Hai Tien Lo

2010-11-17T22:36:00.001+08:00

“Happy 31st Buffday to my dearest Hubz… time to grow up yah? Can you please please please don’t spend so much time on your games and crazybid?”

Have heard about the superb Hai Tien Lo’s dim sum, with it’s equally superb price tag…. hence always had two minds about dining there given Hwa is never really someone who likes to indulge (stingy poker! hahahah!)., yet loves to eat! Oh well… so without thinking too much, i made the reservation… and we made our way there on this lovely public holiday morning.

On storey 37 of Pan Pacific Singapore, this popular restaurant serves an a la carte brunch buffet of over 50 dishes (i think) every weekend and public holiday.

Let’s have a look at some of the yummies we tried….

Mini Buddha Jumps over the wall – Never tried this before from any other restaurants, hence this is my first…and not sure if it is good or otherwise. But, at first taste tells me it is well flavoured, hinting the richness of the ingredients used during preparation. Loved the huge juicy mushrooms that oozes the thick stew with every bite!

BBQ Pork Buns and Har Gow – Nothing special about these two…pretty normal, although I feel the skin of the bbq pork bun is light and fluffy, and does not stick to your teeth like some others…thus making it easy to eat, and less filling to the stomach.

Bird’s Nest Egg Tart – Hmmm… pastry not flaky enough…custard not silky and sweet enough…bird’s nest quite bland. :(

These two are actually of my favourites: Pan fried dough with homemade XO sauce…i think it’s the XO sauce that made the difference to this simple dish.. don’t quite know how to describe… but after first taste… i can’t stop wanting more! Haha! And then there’s the Deep fried prawns with Wasabi mayo. The prawns were huge, juicy and crunchy all at the same time!! Paired with the wasabi mayo….hmm…. Perfect!

Another of my favourite… the sharks’ fin soup… One of the best I have ever had with huge chunks of sweet crab meat , and equally huge pieces of sharks’ fin…. and for me, who don’t usually fancy sharks’ fin to say this… means it is definitely quite good!

There’s two must tries… which I forgot to take piccies of are the Deep fried soft shell crab with oats and their steamed codfish with black bean sauce…

Well… there are definitely some items on the menu that’s worth trying… although i feel it is not all that fantastic as portrayed in one of those channel 8 food shows…however, with the attentive service and superb view… I would give Hai Tien Lo 4/5!

Cost: $150 for two.

Burp!

recognition…

2010-11-13T23:26:00.001+08:00

Something I am quite proud of and would love that teeny weeny bit of recognition is the fact that I worked on launching an FB page for my current company. Social Media, while quickly taking over and finding its way into many marketing teams’ plans, it is still a medium that is shunned by many others, especially so in the industry I am in.

There are concerns echoing in the organisation about how well we will do this, and whether or not it will backfire etc.

One month on…results on the page seems encouraging and has in fact created waves in the company. I am so sure FB will be a main medium of communication in the months ahead.

Having said that, no matter how big or small, everyone wants to be recognised for something…. but i think we are often shy to stand up and tell people that we deserve recognition… and most people needs that little bit of push to open up and share their untold stories.

Well… the campaign currently running on facebook.com/avivasingapore - “ What do you want to be recognised for” does just that. We are encouraging people to come forward to tell us their stories… no matter significant or not in their eyes… they can do just that right here. The contest runs for 4 weeks (ending 28 Nov)…and the most exciting part is top three entries with the most votes (via “likes”) each week will win an iPad!

It is all about recognition!

Perth Trip 2010 – Final Instalment

2010-11-13T21:15:00.001+08:00

I finally completed editing my favourite photos taken in Perth.

Sunset coast…. we spent two days at a bed and breakfast at Sorrento. Not only was the property and our hosts fantastic…the beach and the view you get is simply breathtaking! Enjoyed the evening walks we took along the beach with the cool sea breeze and warm sunshine… if only we stayed there longer. :)

The pic on the bottom right is Sorrento Bed and Breakfast which i just mentioned. The property is split into two levels, where the owners, Alan and Clodagh lived on the first storey, while the the second storey is kept exclusively for visitors like us. The bed was the cosier than most hotels i have stayed at… for the price we paid… we got so much more from staying here…. :)

Rottnest Island… having lived in Perth for 3 years…. i have never stepped foot onto Rottnest. It is only now that i realised what I have missed! An almost untouched island… with soft white sand… and clear blue water… Love Love Love the sun and the sea here!

Another holiday comes to close…and becomes a memory… now looking forward to the next which isn’t too far away…

Hong Kong 买东西,吃东西… Here I come!!!!

Perth Trip 2010 – Part 2: Swan Valley Experience

2010-10-26T00:12:00.001+08:00

First stop @ Houghton Wines

Clear blue skies @ Houghton Wines…Lovely!

One of the best apple pies I have ever tasted

Chocs galore @ Margaret River Chocolate Company Yum Yummy Gelato @ Margaret River Chocolate Company

Love this pic taken at Sandalford Wines…

Perth Trip 2010 – Part 1…

2010-10-25T23:32:00.001+08:00

Ok.. as promised, here’s moi update on what I would define as a pretty “unhappening” holiday. Well… but we don’t always need an activity packed holiday all the time yah? It is sometimes the simple things in life that counts?!

We landed in the western shores of koala land mid-afternoon, and by the time we sorted ourselves out with the car and hotel , it was already 4-ish…We decided to check into an airport hotel and settle for whatever food we can find around the area.

Formule 1 Perth Hotel, is part of Accor Hotels… but don’t expect any great service or luxury from this establishment… rooms are tiny

…. bathrooms even tinier… I actually wouldn’t find myself here for more than one night…

Dinner on day 1 was much better compared to our bed… I decided to bring Hwa for authentic Vietnamese fare @ my fav Trah Vinh… ermm… cud not find it… so ended up at Viet Hoa instead. Still a pretty decent choice…and had my tummy filled with their mixed beef pho! *Slurp*

Hwa funnily ordered curry chicken egg noodles… which i tot was really weird… but it turned out to be quite different and yummy as vietnamese curry seems more flavourful and less “milky” if you know what i mean. Here’s hwa enjoying his noodles! Oh… and of course… we also had stuffed chicken wings where they used the usual vietnamese fried spring roll filling to stuff into boneless chicken wings! Great way to end off the day… and kickstart a fab holiday!

it’s friday already?!

2010-10-22T10:23:00.001+08:00

Unfortunately…. it is …. and I am due back in Singapore as well as to work in another 3 to 4 days time.

Hmmm…. although this holiday isn’t much of a sight-seeing one… but generally… we are enjoying every bit of doing almost nothing everyday away from humid & hazy home. Hwa is still sleeping the morning away at this time, leaving me with the time to type this entry.

Coming to Perth brought back so much memories of how cool and relaxing life is… and can be. Nothing has really changed over the 8 years which is quite amazing. Can u imagine some shops at the popular shopping malls are still at the very same unit it was about 8 to 10 years back?! It feels like so many things just stood still… Not quite sure if it’s a good or bad thing…. but it is comforting to know that change is not necessarily needed to move on and progress.

Anyway… some piccies first before i load more when i get back…

Ready in our car for a day out at Swan Valley

I am having a JetStar moment! Yay!

At Sunset Coast trying to catch a sunset of course!

trying to be excited….

2010-10-15T00:14:00.001+08:00

After a hectic month…plus news of more changes in the office again… i feel i am getting burnt out soon…

Glad that my holiday is just 4 more sleeps away, but i am hardly excited. Have not planned…. have not thought of what i want to do in perth…

Breathe shermeen …. breathe!

thank goodness for girlfriends

2010-10-03T19:53:00.001+08:00

Been feeling tired and restless of late. Increased workload…coupled with some recent increase of a few friends (read: a FEW ) being blessed with baby luck kinda brought spirits down a little bit. Well….I thought i was doing well coping with the lack of baby luck ever since my op last May. But of course sometimes current situations may open up that little wound.

Whenever things get a litle rough… i am really thankful for girlfriends to ease the pressure a little for just being there.

I am someone who doesn’t thrive on socialising in pubs and bars. When i get tired and sad… all I need is for someone to have a cuppa tea… or a k session to chat or simply to be there.

I had a pretty good dinner with Addy and Jenny last Wednesday…. and it feels great to spend that quality time talking about almost everything under the “moon”. To top it up… we had a free meal!

Love these girls!

Tired...

2010-10-01T15:55:00.001+08:00

Seriously drained and tired. Help!

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Rochester Park

2010-09-26T22:48:00.001+08:00

I was at Rochester Park twice in a week… Love the place. Away from the maddening crowd in town.

I was invited to a mixed wedding @ 9 Rochester Park , Krish. When i got the invitation… was looking forward to it loads. Partly because I have not been to Rochester park… but also I love weddings especially when it’s not the boring hotel sit-down ones.

Krish has a very large outdoor bar in a very serene and prettily manicured lawn. The unique furniture and natural setting gave the wedding a very heartwarming feel.

Famliy were seated in the restaurant, and had their 4 course dinner served at their tables…. while the outdoors were for friends and dinner was served in a buffet line, it is really fine by us as we were pampered with free flow of champagne, wine, beer and Krish’s house cocktail. However, the buffet line was pretty much empty till about 9.45pm… which got many of us quite upset as we were famished by then. Other than this minor hiccup… the food was actually quite tasty. Although i did not see what I was eating…. i recall having duck and codfish (i think!) which was cooked pretty much to perfection. It was a pity that we were not able to savour it given we all wanted to go home at that point.

Well…. i guess Krish was not very ready for such a big crowd of over 300 people… oh well. That one experience has not quite created a bad impression, at least to me, and I am waiting for the next opportunity to try out their Sunday Brunch. Everyone… or even restaurant deserves a second chance. And… for brides to be who wants a different outdoor wedding experience, Krish is definitely one you can consider.

Friday saw me going back to Rochester Park, although this time to No.1.

F1 night means every where in town was packed with people…and Ineeded to chillax. While we initially wanted to K, B2 & myself, with some Safrians found ourselves having wine and cheese in the outdoors.

We ordered some french fries with Truffle Oil, but found them disappointing as it tasted like they were trying to stinge on the oil. Hmmmm…. have tasted better ones at Alcova… so this missed the mark.

Well… my verdict is that am definitely gonna find myself @ Rochester Park pretty often.

Love chilling close to nature :).

Doing nothing...

2010-09-25T10:53:00.002+08:00

Got up bright and early this morning... Hopped over the causeway (well I guess more accurately...rode in a car rather than hop)... And this is where I am sitting...
Reading and enjoying my much needed coffee while waiting for hubz to be done with his team-building arrangements at Mercure Johor.
If only we can do this more often... Great time to clear the mind. Anyway... Realised I have been tardy with my updates here... And have so much to catch-up...oh well...

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what’s in that blackbox?

2010-08-21T21:16:00.001+08:00

Oops… i did it again!

An impulse click of a button…now another bag richer @ close to 50% of the original price. Who can say no to such a good deal… especially when i am yearning for a classic black leather bag for some time now… although…. this looks a bit too big as an everyday bag… oh well…. :)

Love the smell of leather…..uhmmmmmmmmmmmmm…!

Singapore Afternoon High Tea Buffet List

2010-08-21T15:27:00.002+08:00

Ok... I am like a super duper fan of afternoon high teas as well... and absolutely love this guide by ladyironchef. Having afternoon teas is sooo soo british... and soo soo tai-tai-ish.... feeding my ultimate dream of living the perfect life!

Read on...

Singapore Afternoon High Tea Buffet List

Quality @ hawker prices

2010-08-21T10:06:00.002+08:00

We are all very familiar with the hawker-type western food of pork chops, fish and chips, spring chicken...all the yummies that we all so loved as kids. Today... I still sometimes crave to have them...the good'ol comfort food. Loved the chicken chop from Ang Mo Kio's Rasa Sayang...

Recent years, we see the new generaton "western" food springing up all over hawker centres in sg...with the likes of Botak Jones serving up authentic american fare of thick succulent beef burgers.

Skillets is another new "western" food stall I found near my mum's place. Grew up at Jurong west all my life and only had Kuai le ji, so having Skillets around seems like a nice new change.

They serve up a mix of american and a bit of italian pasta dishes at a fraction of the price you can find @ restuarants.

I tried their fish and chips and was pleasantly surprised at firstly the portion, the well breadcrumbed batter and the effort the cook put in to garnish the fish fillet. Their fries were the nice thick potato sticks that I so loved, but were a little too soggy because they placed the freshly deep fried fish fillet on the fries.

My next try will definitely be their american cheese burger! (Look at the food pic at the bottom left of the first pic)... Looks uber enticing!!

Where: Blk 496 Jurong West Ave 1, CoffeeUnited coffee shop.

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our photo weekends

2010-08-14T19:42:00.001+08:00

Hwa got himself a hybrid camera from an online auction, that makes two of us… hence we decided to make good use of our weekends to start a photo journey…. great way to hone our photography skills as well…

First stop: The Singapore Bird Park

Makeup for the Workplace | Nanz Inc.com : Do Life Better

2010-08-01T20:28:00.001+08:00

Makeup for the Workplace | Nanz Inc.com : Do Life Better

Geeky toy

2010-07-31T16:58:00.000+08:00

Yup! Hubz got us an iPad after I raved at how cool it was to look at pictures on it. This was after having a sneak peek at it from jojo!

Well... I have always knew how cool apple products are, but never quite owned one. I was one of those who stood firm on my loyalty for the BB, hence when everyone went mad at the launch of iPhone 3GS, I stayed clear. One reason is that my fat fingers can't seem to work well with the iPhone.

The iPad solved that problem of mine especially when we turn it to a landscape mode, I can type quite smoothly like I am at my lappy. I am actually typing this post wholly using my iPad, and doing this quite smoothly too!

While there are limited local apps for iPad , I love how I can quickly access information without waiting for it to load, unlike my lappy.... Perfect for someone like me who cannot live without the internet!

I am enjoying every bit of the iPad, although I dun think I will ever give up my beloved lappy as I love being my old fashioned self...typing away at the keyboard!

All booked...

2010-07-25T17:26:00.001+08:00

Finalised the air tickets, car rental and 3 different accomodation for our october's trip down under.

Well, I have always wanted to bring hwa to perth, to have a look at my life while in uni... At the same time, I want to visit some other parts of the western state which I have never been before.

Can't wait!!!!

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thinking of a change…

2010-07-24T12:24:00.001+08:00

…in hairstyle that is….

Should i leave my hair as is… till it’s really long…. and go for those huge sexy curls… or maybe a short bob…hmmmmmmm

Here’s a look @ my past 3 years…

Ideas anyone?

a wake up call…

2010-07-21T23:13:00.001+08:00

A colleague of mine passed away last thursday night / friday morning… Her passing was very sudden , and people around her did not even have time to say their goodbyes. Till today, we do not even know what caused her death as she was well and good on Thursday morning… she had no illness… and always been her bubbly, friendly and helpful self. The word was stress, and that was the silent killer. Though not apparent, she worked too hard and vented too little. What broke our hearts was she left behind a 10 year old daughter and her hubz was in Canada on a business trip.

People all around the office were clearly affected as we have in one way or another worked with her. And being the nice person she always was… sadness just fills our hearts.

I think the most important thing is, her departure is a wake up call to many. Work is really not the be all and end all. We do not have the faintest idea when our last day on earth will be… so why get all worked up… pissed… angry… furious over bits and pieces which in most circumstances will, at some point evaporate and be forgotten.

I was not happy today… and it’s over something that has been bugging me for some time now. To be more specific… it is since the day my boss left the company. I hate the feeling of having fallen from grace. While i know it is silly… and that no one will be the blue-eyed boy/girl forever… it makes me feel like all efforts have turned to naught.

Of cos, something happened today that triggered some pretty intensed unhappiness… which i obviously shared with no one except writing it in here. Whatever it is…. when i remind myself of the passing of my colleague… all that matters now is just to be happy… and to channel all my negative energy to loving the people around me. Do the same for yourself.

Brunchie munchie

2010-07-17T19:25:00.002+08:00

Well... I think I just found another place for weekend brunch with girlfrens in the ever crowded orchard road, and this place has actually been around for ages...

Domani is the old pokka cafe , tucked away in a little corner of basement 1 takashimaya. Almost forgot its existence and was pleasantly surprised with the new decor and unqiue menu. Portions for their brunch menu was huge... And best of all, they have the traditional english tea and pastries served up on pretty silver multi-tiered trays... Just the way I like my afternoon tea. :) Domani is still run by pokka fyi...

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Guilt

2010-06-30T20:17:00.001+08:00

There is this thing that I have so badly wanted for a long time.

Now, I see light at the end of the tunnel, with a pretty considerable chance of getting what I want ( or so I think).

But... I get pangs of guilt hitting me just the thought of this possibility.

Perhaps I never really wanted it in the first place. Perhaps certain things are best kept as an unattainable want. Perhaps it is a way for me to learn to appreciate the beauty of what I already have ( which sometimes is not as apparent).

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why me?

2010-06-15T00:11:00.001+08:00

I cannot help but ask myself that question in recent times.

I wonder if I have done anything so wrong that I’m being punished to go through bouts of uncertainty in the pro-creation area.

After mustering up that little bit more courage, agreeing to go through the surgery, we find ourselves back at ground zero.

Pipes are still clogged and any attempt to unclog it will in fact make it worse. My mind froze momentarily. I seriously did not know how to react to this new insight into the state of my system.

Why me?

Maybe it is God’s way of telling me that time is still not yet right. He led me to go for the surgery so that i can take time necessary for me to take a break to complete the journey. It’s probably time to slow down… and get closer to Him.

language of love

2010-06-13T22:28:00.001+08:00

I feel loved when...

The Five Love Languages

My Primary Love Language is Quality Time

My Detailed Results:
Quality Time:	8
Physical Touch:	7
Acts of Service:	6
Words of Affirmation:	6
Receiving Gifts:	3

About this quiz

Unhappiness in relationships is often due to the fact that we speak different love languages. It can be helpful to know what language you speak and what language those around you speak.

Tag 3 people so they can find out what their love language is.

Take the Quiz!
Check out the Book

let's pl@y

2010-06-13T00:40:00.002+08:00

I have been asked to start and lead a team of ladies at work in Netball...
Have not played for about 10 years...but am uber excited about it, esp with these pretty pink bibs! Ha ha!!

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Pleasant Experience @ MAH

2010-05-29T12:20:00.002+08:00

I have in recent times learned to give compliments when I see good service. I mean, the folks in the service industry get enuff shit from over-demanding singaporeans who complain at every small inaction, which sometimes makes every third person's blood boil.

Treat people with the same respect you expect to be given, and that is what I always live by.

I have had my fair share of experience dealing with hospitals, both private and govt. My recent surgery at Mt Alvernia proved that there are healthcare professionals who really care, and not doing what they do because it is "just a job". The people at MAH made my surgery experience less scary than it seems, registration was effortless, waiting and prep for the op was made as comfortable as possible even when the day surgery ward was at full occupancy. Discharge was pleasant where nurses fussed over me making sure I was really ok. And... They made the effort to call the following day to ensure there was no dire after effects.

So, I just want to say thank you to the folks @ the Day surgery ward @ MAH. If I were ever to have a kid... It is MAH for sure.
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Reebonz June Luxury Sale

2010-05-28T12:18:00.001+08:00

Hey sistas…. Reebonz having their June luxury sale soon…. click on the pic below to rsvp… :)

http://www.reebonz.com/s/iti

So excited!

I am 30...

2010-05-27T14:10:00.002+08:00

Feel very blessed to have so many people remember my hatchday this year ( although I have to admit, it is probably partly becoz of the power of FaceBook). Well, whether or not it is social media @ play, i choose to believe people send their well wishes across cos they want to! :)

Like what some people say... 30 is the new 20s... and I cannot agree more. Being financially independent means I am better able to enjoy the finer things in life, yet occasionally bask in its simplicity.

For once after 8 years of being a couple, Hubz made a mini effort to take me away for a weekend out of town. Although it was only across the causeway... it was a good start esp with a not surprising surprise birthday cake delivered to our hotel room. of coz, not forgetting the annual flowers to the office "Surprise". :) This year, it's Lilies.... so i suppose next year will be roses... :) hahahaha!

At 30, it was also my first time going for a surgery. Yeah.... i found out that one of my fallopian tubes are blocked. Of coz I had options not to do the op, and look for alternatives to conceive. But, not doing the op means, whatever option i choose going forward, chances of success will be reduced by 50%. Obviously, i was nervous.... but had to put up a front to everyone .... Am ok now, although it still hurts @ the wound... let's hope all these are worth the effort.

Anyway.... birthday wish this year is to make use of time to do things i have always wanted.... but not dwell to much on the unnecessary. :)

Ok... i am off to napzzz.... the heat + the painkillers are making me sleeping... AGAIN.

geek

2010-05-12T23:19:00.001+08:00

The week is passing rather slowly, but I think it is quite a refreshing change from my daily routine.
My direct report is on compassionate leave the entire week, giving me the (fortunate) opportunity to take over a couple of the urgent online projects.
Since the time work got quite over the top, I spent very little time on my online portfolio, which I often feel very guilty about from time to time.
This week reminded me how much I enjoyed working on creating websites, webpages... Tracking them... Problem solving etc.
I think I am a geek. I wish I can do this a little longer before I get back to boring customer experience work... (Well.... But truth is... I think I am a better customer experience geek than an online one... Am i confused... Maybe!!!)

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I want these…

2010-05-09T02:53:00.001+08:00

Was out with Bestie this evening… and tried these on @ Warehouse. Love love love them… and I honestly think i look damn good in them! Hahahahahaah!

missing them…

2010-05-09T02:35:00.001+08:00

As much as i hate to admit it, i miss the two who have left the team.

Although i was angry and upset when they took turns to go… looking back… it is probably coz i care about them…. when colleagues turn to friends, that’s when every action or inaction from each and everyone matters.

I miss the competitive, yet friendly banters…. the laughter…. the gossips…. the angst….and the list goes on.

The past year and a half was in fact one of the best times in my career. Learnt and grew over such a short time.

While i miss them…. life goes on…. and as change is the only constant, I can only continue to move on. Time to once again justify my existence.

to korea and back…

2010-04-24T21:29:00.001+08:00

Yup… i am back from my short vacation … and back at work… not a very happy place in recent times.

In brief, i would say it was a good break… and in fact the best of the 4 official “annual obligation” trips we have had so far. Well… many friends and people who know us frown at the thought of bringing both their parents and in-laws out on a holiday @ the same time. We on the other hand have in fact done this 4 times.

Frankly…it was not easy… and every trip would have someone… or in fact more than one person getting upset over trival stuff. You may then ask… why even bother to do this year after year? I don’t have the answer really. Is it an obligation that bites us? Or maybe it is the guilt of not spending enough time with our mothers. I believe it is a bit of both… with the latter taking dominance.

Anyway… here’s some high&low-lights of the trip…

1. Great scenery, fresh air and plenty of time away from home.

The week leading up to the trip was quite difficult for me as I had to deal with close colleagues leaving and some issues that was to spill over pending their departure. It was not pleasant, and my holiday was timely enuff to bring me away for a while to clear my mind.

2. Group tours are really not that scary after all.

After lessons learnt from previous “Obligation Trips” , we decided this time we will go with a tour group instead of F&E. Right choice i would say as other mothers could not blame us for any boring itinerary, although i felt 7 days was a bit too long. At the beginning there were smiles… but guess the cold and being tired took over their emotions… which saw mini tantrums flying around.

3) Shopping… or the lack of it

I am not saying that Korea is no fun to shop at. In fact, it is quite the opposite. But this trip did not allow me the freedom and time to shop @ ease. Other than the over $400 worth of skincare product + make-up, i brought nothing. Hence, this leaves me with some unfinished business in kimchi-land. I am quite sure i will be back very soon, and have declared Seoul to be my next best shopping place after Bangkok.

4) Dwindling independence…

…of our mothers. I think it’s the age, and their insecurity that they yearn for our attention more than anything else in the world. And, that’s also the reason why we were not able to let them roam around on their on at the shopping places and amusement parks. So… i would say…. hwa and I missed out on quite a bit of activities which we would love to be part of. Oh well… just imagine another 10 years from now….

Verdict: I WILL BE BACK…. very soon!

P.S. By the way… I think this tour package I got with ASA is fab! Well worth the money and had a pretty good and fun Korean tour guide.

bye bye sad world…

2010-04-11T16:21:00.001+08:00

Off to happy place for a week…

Hopefully by the time i am back… i can feel a tad happier…

Kimchi-land…. HERE I COME!

the ugly truth

2010-04-08T23:29:00.001+08:00

She takes the jigsaw pieces out of the box, puts them together and the picture becomes clearer.

All of a sudden… her heart turns cold.

She runs away as fast as she can… as far as possible.

She stops.

She starts building a wall between herself and the rest of the world in bid to protect herself.

She is afraid that her trusting heart will once again get hurt.

She has been a fool to trust, to believe, to let her guard down.

She now prays and hopes He will show her the way…

my Nike

2010-04-04T19:14:00.000+08:00

Hwa has been walking into Nike shops over the past two weeks, and looking earnestly @ the Apple / Nike Plus device. In his usual prudent fashion, he walks out not purchasing it at all.

On Friday, I decided to pop into the nearest Nike shop to get him the Nike Plus + Sportsband. Silly me did not realise that with his iPhone, he actually does not need the sportsband at all. Nonetheless, he was a happy boy. One thing led to another… where he got another device, and passed me the first device + sportsband so we can run together. Then we realised… we needed a pair of nike shoes each so the device can work properly…. so… ta-dah! New shoes!

Anyway… just did my “first run/walk”…. and loving the Nike website… Now there’s an easy and fuss free way to track my runs. But… i think the only downside is … i am unable to include my regular yoga sessions into the same programme… Oh well…

If only all my digital marketing work is as fantastic as this site!

http://my.nike.com/ah-meen

reebonz.com

2010-03-27T22:22:00.001+08:00

Finally made my first purchase on www.reebonz.com.

Have always wanted to make myself the proud owner all those chic designer labels off Reebonz as their prices are always too good to resist. Alas… my fingers were never fast enuff. By the time i get to the website, most of the popular designs would have been snapped up by other fashionistas.

Last Thursday, while waiting for my slowcoach colleagues to go out for a happy lunch… i decided to drop by Reebonz exactly at 12pm ( that’s the time when each event @ Reebonz commences…). Then i saw Coach… Instinctively… i went in… found one design… without thinking too much… clicked on “Buy”… If i did not forget my paypal password… i would have completed the transaction in less than 10 min! Hmmm…. to some… this sounds like an impulse buy… Well… i would concur actually.

I became $500 poorer… yet a bag richer. Who cares right… as long as I am happy! The change in my mood was apparently too obvious for colleagues NOT to notice! Wahahaha!

Today… this uber cool team @ Reebonz made my day once again! My package was actually due to arrive next sat…10am… but guess what…?! I got my bag in bed! The new addition to my bag collection arrived a week + an hour earlier! WooHoo!

Anyway… enough of my rave… to those who wanna check Reebnoz out… click tru here… www.reebonz.com/member_invite/ahmeen

Now that i have practiced “fastest finger first”… i can smell MiuMiu, Gucci and Prada coming my way!

Oh… did i forget to mention…Hubz has very kindly offered to pay for my “mindless” purchase! Sweet!

inspired to be an iron(wo)man?

2010-03-23T23:56:00.001+08:00

As my third Aviva Ironman 70.3 as a spectator came to a close, I get that familiar feeling which i had exactly a year ago.

I recall changing into my exercise gear and headed out for jog right after i returned home from the Ironman last year. I was extremely inspired… and told myself I wanted to start running… and eventually take part in a women’s run. Well… i did take part in the GE run…but i was coerced into it.

This year… i am inspired again,… this time, I am thinking if i should pick up competitive distance swimming. Hmm… but that would mean I’ve got to start my training like now. While I stood by the swim start, watching the participants run down the sandy beach into the sea for their swim…. i do wish i can be like them. But then, when i saw how exhausted some of them were after the first leg… i started to have second thoughts.

Inspired? I definitely am. Gamed enuff? Maybe not.

Let’s stick to running for now… 10km next….

swat...smack!

2010-03-21T15:44:00.000+08:00

There is this big fat fly that keeps buzzing at my ears. Please keep away from me or I will swat and smack u dead!

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refreshed

2010-03-20T22:50:00.001+08:00

Remember i mentioned in a previous post that I was itching to get myself a new toy? I actually did. And that was like a few months ago.

I got myself a hybrid digital camera (do we even call them hybrids?!) – Canon SX20IS… but have not used it as often as I would like to…SO, have decided to make the best of my investment… and start snapping.

Am no photographer, but this is a first step to feed my desire to take pretty pictures.

I feel my spirits lifted after walking in the park after a drizzle…Nature is refreshed…so am i.

Testing

2010-03-17T20:27:00.000+08:00

Am trying out email posting so I can blog with my crackberry! Hope this turns up...
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it ain’t over til its over…

2010-03-16T23:33:00.001+08:00

Realised I have not been conscientiously updating my blog, and not because i have ran out of things to write about.

I have always used this as an avenue for me to vent my frustrations or share my joys, and the past one month has been no lack of frustrations…. short of joys.

As Lillian Too has quite accurately said in her “Fortune & Feng Shui 2010” , the year of the Tiger is going to be tough one for monkeys. To be very honest, while i enjoy reading these fortune and fengshui stuff… i never really believed them, neither do I follow them. But i can’t help marveling at how much of what has happened has got so much parallels with book.

There’s been a whirlwind of events since the lunar new year, and I am seriously struggling to keep my head above the water. I am trying to keep my spirits up, as I know the journey ahead will be rather bumpy.

I started the year losing a very dear friend… my dog… and his passing is something, till today, we are not able to talk about in the family. He left us rather quickly, although we found out he was like a ticking time bomb, ready to explode any moment, with no signs at all. And one thing i regret is not following my family to the mount pleasant to at least spend his last few moments with him.

When i returned to the office, i noticed a huge dip in morale of many people dear to me. Obviously, I am no exception. I reckon the constant change and the noticeably less local environment have taken a toil on all of us. Everyone is simply unhappy. For me… i just don’t know what to do about it.

Project B’s also not really working out. I started the year with the hope of little meens or little hwas taking shape…. not until i agreed to go for a HSG. Well… to speak the truth, although I was able to see the result instantly during the procedure, i wasn’t at all affected at that point. I was actually more afraid of the procedure, and nothing else. Hence, it was a relief to get it over and done with…. and was quite positive that no surgery of sorts is required. But, reality struck me when i went to saw my gynae 5 days after the procedure only to be told to seriously consider a laproscopy to increase my chances of having kids. I hate hospitals… and i have absolutely no courage to put myself tru the ordeal of a surgery albeit only a day one.

I guess….i need more than courage at this point, and it has only been a month since the tiger came roaring in.

I know things are not over until i call it quits…. hence i am definitely pressing on, and at times like this, I am grateful for the love of my friends and family. And…although i don’t say this enough… Mr Lim… I love you, and thanks for always supporting me.

It really ain’t over til it’s really over. Time for me to hit the sack. :)

swim for a cause

2010-03-11T23:19:00.001+08:00

No. I am not swimming for a cause…. but my neighbour @ work, who i sometimes endearingly refer to as my twin @ work…is.

Aviva, my employer is once again sponsoring the Aviva Ironman 70.3 this year. With last year seeing quite few internal teams taking part in the corporate challenge, this year is no different. Not only are there more teams, but also more colleagues pushing past their comfort zones to participate as solos… meaning doing all three legs of the competition on their own.

To put some icing onto this encouraging sight, some of my colleagues are racing for a cause. They have selected charities of their choice, and we as their supporters can do our part by donating to these charities.

Well… as a member of the brand and marketing services team, i would have obviously done my part by donating to the charities that resonates closely to what I believe in… and that means supporting some pretty close colleagues. Having done that …. kinda used up my monthly “charity allowance”. While I would love to support my twin… i think I would do it in other better ways…. like being his assistant during his song and dance in bid to raise funds, as well as posting his cause up here.

Mr Eshin or once again my twin has picked two charities he hopes to raise some funds for…. 1) UN High Commission for Refugees & 2) Asian Women’s Welfare association. You can obviously donate directly to these charities… or to make things simpler, you can visit Mr Eshin’s page on Ammado – Swim for a cause – where you can help him raise a combined total of S$2,000 for both charities.

Whatever the case is, i am very impressed with how my colleagues are all putting in so much time and effort , to not only overcome adversities of taking part in such a high endurance sport, but also the fact that they put their effort up to help those in need. Kudos to them… and who ever reads this, hope you can support Mr Eshin, as your help goes a long long way for many.

Looking forward to the race in a week’s time.

big heart, small ego

2010-03-02T22:58:00.001+08:00

Grabbed the title of this post off one of my friend’s msn status I felt it makes so much sense and that this definitely something lacking in many many people.

Take a minute to reflect on the happenings of the day… did you get upset at someone or feel some people are incompetent? Or did someone think little of you… and you felt like you’ve been bashed up left, right & centre?

Well… we often hold ourselves high in esteem and in bid to protect ourselves, we close our hearts to others. That’s probably why there’s so many unhappy souls out there… me included. :)

I am going to start making this my daily mantra… “ Cultivate a big heart & small ego”….

goodbye

2010-02-21T21:05:00.001+08:00

Thank you for a good 5 years… while it was short, you brought so much joy to our lives. We will miss you…and are glad that your pain has been taken away.

Vespa – 7 Jan 2005 to 18 Feb 2010.

a second try…

2010-02-16T00:52:00.001+08:00

One thing I love about being a chinese is the chance to have a second try @ making new year’s resolutions. It’s always easy to erase the resolutions made on 1st Jan… and create new ones just to make myself feel better. Or rather… to pretend not having broken any resolutions made.

I told myself to face challenges this year with optimism, and control stress in my best efforts.

Barely 2 months into 2010, I have succumbed and started getting upset over the endless piles of rubbish called work. Can’t help wondering if I am at the right place, and if I am appreciated at all.

A sudden, yet familiar urge subconsciously takes over. The urge of walking away to find myself.

Anyway… hope the year of the tiger brings all that everyone hopes for. I wish it will be a year of hope & joy… :)

Happy New Year… and i want to continue to face life with optimism!

happy lunar new year….

2010-02-06T23:22:00.001+08:00

Baking is therapeutic :)

Good for the soul, but bad for the back! My back is breaking now!

secret fear

2010-02-06T01:39:00.001+08:00

It is amazing how time just flies past us. We are into the second week of February, and i don’t know where January went to. This also means that the clock is ticking….and am another month closer to turning 30. I am actually afraid…. very afraid of spending the last few moments of the twenties, as I realise how much time I have wasted… and how much more I want to do.

Have been having thoughts of re-evaluating my options. A sudden desire to drop everything and focus on what makes me happy. Easier said than done…. but ain’t life about choices?

courage for the new year

2010-01-02T17:34:00.001+08:00

Yes, courage is what i ask for in 2010. 2009 flew right past me… and looking back now, I hardly had the time to stop and reflect on the year’s happenings.

In many ways, 2009 marked the start of many things in my life… like UrbanNook…..increased (& still growing) responsibility @ work….. sudden realisation that I am turning 30 this year & yet have so much I have yet to experience…… most importantly, it’s a start of a long journey to get my first-born. And, this last bit is what i need the most courage for.

Writing this in itself takes a bit of courage.

I found out months ago that I need help in getting pregnant. Although i always suspected i would have problems… i brushed it aside. I guess what i needed was just for someone professional to tell me so. But, truth always hurts yah? It does, and that’s why I kept it from everyone. In actual fact… i am dying to talk to people… dying to seek solace in people who understand the journey I am on… as the disappointment kills me every month. Being on the pills is bad enough, giving side effects of pimples and all…. yet all these while, I don’t know how to explain or tell anyone about it when they ask.

It’s not going to be an easy route ahead, as the next step is to check if my tubes are blocked. I hate to know wha’s the outcome, as either way…. i know there will be almost daily visits to the gynae… and frequent injections that’s going to burn a hole in out pockets.

Hence, all I want for the new year is courage to oust the fear.

komart.sg

2009-11-24T22:26:00.001+08:00

I have recently switched from being a huge fan of almost everything bodyshop to today… a true blue korean skincare addict. Love skinfood to bits, but always found their stuff a little overpriced… so i would only purchase their products “in moderation”.

This… is not until I found www.komart.sg.

Komart sells a range of korean beauty products of different brands. Skinfood, The Face Shop, innisfree, Missha etc…. at fraction of the price u find at the outlets. And…. when they have their regular promotions, prices are as low as 50% off the price we know.

Used them once, and got my colleagues hooked! Service was prompt and staff were friendly. Website was user-friendly too… although i stumbled upon a mini bug… which was fixed quite quickly. Anyway… while they obviously don’t have the full range of products from each brand, like what you see @ the retailers… what they do have are the popular ones…. which we use so often. So… all in all…. this site is God-sent! :)

Well…. just in case some of you are wondering why I changed my skincare preference…. there is nothing wrong with Bodyshop! I still have my favourites like the African Salt Scrub, my tea tree bleamish stick, tea-tree body wash….and of coz… I always loved my facials @ GreenSanctury – BodyShop….still love, always will love . So…. nothing wrong at all… i just wanted a change….

my first run

2009-11-01T18:49:00.001+08:00

Yup… took part in my first ever “mass” run this morning. Well, I signed up for the 5km… not the 10km one, but i thought it is a really good start.

Running in an event like this was not as easy as i thought especially when some people were really there just to have a fun morning out. Hence for those who really wanted to test their speed and endurance would find this course slightly hard to go by. I found myself having to slow down now and then to maneuver past those who were strolling. Perhaps there should have been a rule where those walking should keep to the left and leave the path ahead clear for those who wanted to run. Well.. other than this, I thoroughly enjoyed the jog. Did not stop to walk at any point. and it helps a great deal to have someone to pace you. So, thanks to my colleague SW. I think I managed to finish 5km in about 45min… not ideal, but to me… someone who’s really never managed to complete her 2.4 in school… this is an amazing achievement. :)

The other thing that made my day was seeing a sea of SCGS girls in bright, running the route with us, and apparently they send in the most students for the GE year on year. The atmosphere the girls created brought back memories of younger days…. and also made me proud… once again to be an scgs girl…:

a recent favourite

2009-10-25T10:30:00.001+08:00

Just finished 2 other twdrama series.

Started with “A Game about Love”… led by Joe Chen and Sam Wang Shao Wei, and got quite impressed with Sam Wang. For those who don’t know who this guy is…. he makes up part of the idol group 5566, and also 183 Club. While he has been in the industry for a long time now, never took a second look…. and never thought much of him since his other group members always seem to outshine him. But, since watching this series… felt that he is charming in his own ways….and talented in many other ways…. dance lah, act lah, sing lah…. and now is an entrepreneur.

Hence… I went on to watch “ The Prince who turned into a Frog” , and once again feel that Sam Wang may just be one of the not so fortunate ones to be the lead in everything he does…. and almost always play second fiddle to his group.

But still…. my favourite for now…although a bit late…. (move aside Jay Chou, Wang Lee Hom and JJ Lin!!!!!! hahaa!)--- I can see B2 rolling her eyes now!

I am going to watch every other dramas he has acted in! Whhheeeeeeeeeeeee………!! Turning into a couchie soon!

Something to share on Sam Wang and Joe Chen...

what’s your purpose in life?

2009-10-24T00:19:00.001+08:00

Someone asked me this question sometime ago. While it seems like a really simple question, but when you spend some time thinking about it, the answer ain’t that straight forward after all.

When was the last time you asked someone or yourself that question? I, in all honesty, cannot tell you offhand what’s my purpose in life. But what I do know is, I have things I want to do , things I want to achieve in my life. But those does not necessarily constitute to the purpose for my being here, right?

Well… i think when someone does not have a goal in life, it makes them hard for others to understand… Not that it matters at all to me…. but it just makes me wonder how anyone at all can live their life absolutely not knowing what they are living for? Ermm… I sound cryptic? Yeah I do…

Just a random thought while waiting for a meeting…. I hope I haven’t started anyone thinking now…. haha!

a new toy?

2009-10-18T12:30:00.001+08:00

** tapping fingers on the table ** Been thinking of getting a brand new camera… the point & shoot kind… that gives us a manual option, with very close macros… yet not quite a DSLR. While DSLR is my ultimate dream… I don’t think I am quite there yet in terms of my photography skills. :) The new camera really is for urbannook… (haha… my excuse to get myself a new toy more like it!)

Some options…

Nikon Coolpix L100

Would love the P90… but i think it’s a bit too costly for my wimps and fancy…. hence thought the L100 fits the bill perfectly….

Sony Cyber-shot H20

A similar sony model to the nikon l100. Slightly more expensive, while i feel some specs are not as good as the l100.

Canon Powershot SX120

LALALALA… Smaller and lighter… this one?

Hmmmm…… *taps fingers*

a new past time

2009-10-18T11:12:00.001+08:00

During one of those saturday nights when Hubz had his frens over for mahjong, i decided to rummage through BIL’s taiwan drama collection. Here I mean the idol kind… with good looking lead male and female artiste. Not those long winded soap operas like 爱 that airs every weekend.

Anyway… i did that just to past time on a lonely sat night, while working on some pieces of jewellery for urbannook.

I started on “Why Why Love” (換換愛)… A romantic comedy about a girl, Tong Jia Di, burdened with work to pay off her family’s debts… yet needs more to life than that. Hence, her best friend sneaks in a “Love” coupon into Jia Di's raffle box with the hope that a lucky guy will draw it become Jia Di’s prince. As it so happens, Huo Yan, the compassionate manager Jia Di has secret crush on, is the lucky guy who she affections calls 第10个男生. But, tho' the prince can exchange the coupon for Cinderella's love, it doesn't mean he will, especially when his devilish younger brother is determined to exchange his “Master/Angel” coupon for her servitude.

In the first part of the series, viewers are left to guess who will be the one who walks tru life with Jia Di. As with the saying goes…. “男人不坏女人不爱”, we should have expected that Jia Di would end up with Huo Yan’s brother, Huo Da. Before there can be a happy ending, the lovers have to go through a test which finds Huo Da at the brink of death.

I was hooked on this series, and now have gone to look for more series to follow. New past time means more to look forward after each hard working day! Bring on the chips and coke!

I wonder why I never got hooked onto K-dramas after numerous times of trying…. hmmm……

change is the only constant…

2009-10-13T21:29:00.001+08:00

Over a short period of a month, there’s been almost a change in the people front almost every week.

I think, today was the one change that made me slip into a mini depression.

Someone who taught me a lot in this job, someone who supports all my initiatives, and is 100% committed to a common goal of putting our customers at the heart of what we do.

Someone who’s always so positive…. someone who rose through the ranks… someone who’s always encouraging me on…. never giving up.

She has decided to step down to spend time @ home with the kiddies. I think she made the right decision as nothing beats watching your lovely children grow up day on day…. taking their first step, speaking their first word, reading their first book…..

While i wish her all the best…. i know I am going to miss her dearly. Don’t know how everything will turn out to after she leaves. All I can tell myself is to press on… tomorrow will be better!

To this lovely lady… i will miss u. All the best to you!

chinese chicken . fruit platter . caffeine overdose…

2009-10-09T20:41:00.001+08:00

… chocolate éclairs, intensed, dark and dingy meeting room, planning, timelines, boomz, people in the radio, undernourished kids, exhaustion, worried, still worrying, 9 Oct, info overload, fun & laughter, drama king, devil beside me….

That kinda sums up my day. Nothing extraordinary, but that’s all I can remember of today.

It’s going to be a tough tough month ahead before i go for my vacation. Is it their way of pushing me over the fence?

Bless my soul.

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