tanchristine.com

Wardrobe Weekly #2

2012-02-05T11:30:00.000+08:00

Woohoo! Got inspired (somehow) and came up with my own layout for my very own Wardrobe Weekly. Yay/Nay?

I really wonder if this is sustainable... My wardrobe will run out of clothes if I document them down like this.......

Grooming your own dog: The Miscellanous Stuff

2012-02-04T14:00:00.000+08:00

So I have to admit that I'm not one of best dog owners around, but I thought it would be good to share what I usually do for my mini schnauzer once to twice every week.

Apart from the usual fuss over diet, bathing, exercising, some owners may not pay so much attention to grooming. I send my dog for full grooming every 2-3 months, so in between each professional session, I have my own 'kit' to make sure her brows don't block her sight, her naturally-droopy ears wouldn't be infected so on and so forth.

Might be good for new dog owners who haven't gotten a clue! So here I go!

This is what I have at home:

(from left to right, top to bottom) Nail files x2, nail clipper, scissors for trimming and thinning, Tea tree oil ear cleaner, surgical alcohol, flea comb, tea tree oil medication, ear wash solution, short-toothed comb, slicker brush, cotton pads, mini battery-operated clipper, long cotton sticks

On first glance, you see many 'tea tree oil'! Haha because it is a natural ingredient which has antiseptic and healing properties. I consider it a safe option for my dog, who has typical (but not serious) schnauzer bumps (skin condition), and natural droopy ears that are prone to infection (because of the lack of ventilation).

The third bottle is an advanced purchase as a replacement for the 4th bottle, which is finishing!

i bought the alcohol from a neighbourhood chinese medical shop as someone from Pet Lovers Centre recommended that I swap the infected area of the bumps with it before applying the cream for effectiveness.

Other than that, I bought everything else from Pet Lovers Centre for around $15 - $25.

I apply the cream on my dog almost everyday (unless I forget) and clean her ears weekly.

I usually use 2-3 drops of ear wash around the ear flap before using the cotton sticks to clean as deep as what I can see in brightly-lit conditions only.

It's hard to damage the ear drums of the dog (see image below, it's slightly L-shaped) but it's better to be safe than sorry.

After using the cotton sticks, I will soak a portion of the cotton pads to clean the whole area of the ear flaps.

If it's dark yellow or black, please arrange for a check-up.

Your dog's ears might be infected already. Don't procrastinate as it will worsen and complications may develop soon after.

Battery-operated clipper that I bought from Petgamart at Pasir Ris Farmway 1.

Costs only $29, good for noobs like me!

I use it on Chloe whenever her brows are blocking her vision or if I need to shave off the fur at her belly (more airy that way).

There's no regular schedule I adhere to; as and when I notice a trim is necessary, I will do so.

What's in the package. Basically a double-end comb (3mm and 6mm) - sometimes I use it w/o the comb, you need to have a firm grip and control over the clipper.

If it seems to be weaker than usual, it's either (1) battery needs to be replaced, (2) too much clogged fur - may need to use the small black brush to sweep out as much as you can, (3) needs some lubricant, or (4) the device is stuck - you'll need to use your finger nail to push it back to the centre and try again.

Ok, let's add (5) YOU SPOILT IT WTF.

Chill okay, I thought I spoilt mine as it didn't work after I applied a bit of oil. Was okay after a few days - perhaps the oil has evaporated/flowed onto other areas that do not obstruct the mechanism.

3 different types of comb for 3 different reasons. I haven't been using the slicker brush (the red patch with the wooden stem) because I've been keeping Chloe's fur short and easy to maintain.

To be honest, I don't really know the exact functions of various types of brushes and combs so you can head to the websites I've provided below for more information:

http://www.info-on-dogs.com/dog-brush-and-comb.html

http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=2+2099&aid=789

I bought the blue flea brush from Daiso ($2), the others from Pet Lovers Centre.

It's good to brush its fur everyday or other day, but I do it only after I dry my dog after bathing - twice a week, that is.

Scissors for minimal grooming. The blue pair is to trim lengths while the pink pair is for thinning.

I bought them at Daiso - yeah, $2 each! /thumbs-up

Like the clipper, there is no fixed routine; I will use them as and when I think it is necessary.

Nail files (didn't realise I bought a set already) and the nail clipper

Filing a dog's nails are like filing yours.

Good to ensure that the nails remain blunt in case they scratch you out of excitement.

Good to monitor the length of their nails especially when you don't bring them out for walks or exercise often.

Overgrown nails can actually cause dogs to limp in the long run and may cause health complication.

As a general guide, when the nails are almost touching the ground surface when your dog is on all fours, they need to be trimmed.

Another case of as-and-when.

I would strongly advise you against clipping your dog's nails if you don't know how, especially if your dog's nails are black (where blood veins cannot be seen).

I caused my dog to bleed because I cut off too much at one go. It took me more than half a day to recover from the guilt. The blood will keep flowing. If you don't have proper medication, you need to press on to the wound for some time for it to stop bleeding. Your dog may not want its nails to be cut next time if attempts have been unpleasant.

It may seem a lot of work, in addition to bathing and walking your dog. It is, actually. Some owners opt for the more convenient method by sending them to the groomers more often.

There's nothing wrong with it. I just like to take this chance to bond with my dog, observe her development and identify if there's anything amiss.

In addition to all these external maintenance, I gently press against her belly area and the bones of her rib cage as a routine. I noticed that's what vets do during check-ups. I figured that if somewhere I pressed hurts her more than usual, she'll try to escape or whine, and if there's a lump growth I should be able to feel the difference. So, it's all about looking out (or in this case, pressing) for signs of discomfort, since they can't speak.

P/S: I may not be 100% right, so feel free to comment, suggest or discuss!

L'Oreal Professionnel goes social!

2012-02-03T11:00:00.000+08:00

I was really surprised to receive an invitation from L'Oreal regarding hair products and it turned out to be L'Oreal Professionnel Singapore's 1st ever blogger launch event! I overheard some of them (maybe the hairstylists) mentioning that they didn't have time to memorise everything while I was in the lift. #firstworldpains

Honestly I haven't heard much of L'Oreal Professionnel products, except for its rebonding. For the oblivious, L'Oreal and Shiseido have been the popular brand products for rebonding, as girls feel that they are the only 2 brands that can produce seemingly natural straight locks without causing extensive damage to your hair. Go ahead and browse through beauty forums to verify this!

We are all given a bag stuffed with their newest products and samples! Tried to contain my excitement but I was like thinking of going home ASAP to check out everything.

Gary, Director of Salon Vim working his magic on a fellow beauty blogger's tresses

Sharing some hair care tips and advice

I don't think I need to point out which side is before and which side is after!

And the product that made this happen (along with Gary's skills) is:

Mythic Oil!

Let me remind you to cast aside all your preconceived notions of oil! The first thing I notice about this product is that it is non-greasy and does not weigh down your hair!

Two of its key ingredients are:

-> Avocado oil - rich in vitamin A, B1, B2 and D and well-known for its nourishing properties, and

-> Grape seed oil - which contains high level of linoleic acid (a powerful antioxidant) that enables quick penetration for prompt nourishing (and is the reason behind Mythic oil's light-weight trait)

Simply put, this product is good for nourishment, shine, suppleness, controlling frizz and flatness of hair due to high humidity.

I tried this for 2 weeks and I can safely guarantee that it works wonders - at least for my hair.

I have many hair products at home as I'm not blessed with good genes.

Don't believe me? Here's a portion of the stash at home:

Just, a portion.

Beneath the top layer, my hair can get so curly that they appear frizzy.

Thankfully, those stubborn strands seem to have mellowed down over the years.

I'd been trying many products to maintain my hair in the state that I'd stepped out of the house with, but to no avail.

I thought I found the solution (the milk), but no. When the humidity rises, I really look like a mad woman the moment I reached my office. I'm not someone who checks my appearance in the mirror often. Initially, I thought I was just feeling mad - another bout of quick temper, maybe. Until the frequency of my colleague exclaiming, "Wah, what happened to you? Fought a war?" increases do I realise that I really need a new fix.

It's really frustrating because I spend 15 minutes blow-drying my hair every morning (when I spend half of the time on skincare and make-up), yet I can't possibly give up and leave the house without doing anything to it. URGH. WHY ARE YOU SO HUMID, RED DOT?!

15 minutes is a hell lot of time when you are not a morning person and cherish your sleep a lot.

15 freaking minutes also means a lot to my dog, who insists on having belly rubs every day and night before she stops pestering me.

How my hair looks after every use (need to blow-dry lah)

Blow-drying your hair everyday can be quite damaging to your hair, so you really need to apply a protective layer before using heat on your tresses. Trust me, you won't stop blow-drying your hair when you can achieve really nice effects.

One thing that I found out through trial-and-error is blow-drying your hair when your hair is moist helps to curb the stubbornness of your hair. Common-sensical to you? Perhaps it didn't occur to me as I am one who washes my hair before heading to bed, which means that the next morning I usually start styling my hair when it is dry - and messy no thanks to the god-knows-how-many flips I do at night. Plus the marks left by my hairband and clip... D:

Yet I don't want to wash my head again in the morning (i've only been sleeping!) because it will be too time-consuming and too much for my hair to take in the long run, so what I'll do is to rinse parts of my hair (and not the whole head) with water so that my hair is more manageable and easier to style.

I've also learnt to not cut corners when blow-drying my hair in order to save time. If I have a quote to illustrate my beauty philosophy, it would be:

The longer route is often the shorter path.

What I mean? For hair, sometimes you might think that every side looks fine except the top layer at the back, so you merely style the top layer of your hair at the back. Or sometimes you don't find the back too messy- it's the fringe and the hair at the sides of your face that matter, so you'll just crimp it without applying any serum or spray. WRONG. You'll realise that no matter how you style the top layer of your hair, it doesn't fall nicely as how you'd expected, because the inner layer requires attention in order for the top layer to fall nicely into place. Or you'd step out of the house to realise that your fringe has messed up. You'll curse under your breath for skipping the hair spray.

The same goes for skincare. You think the toner/softener and sun-screen lotion aren't important right? Patience, my dear. The adverse effect (for leaving them out) will reflect on your skin soon.

Hence, follow the steps required in order to achieve the ideal outcome. Divide your hair into sections starting from the inner layer when you blow-dry and crimp/curl your hair.

Well, back to Mythic oil. After 2 weeks of trial, here's my verdict:

I really like how my hair remains as it was when I stepped out of the house even though it has been 8 hours. My hair could have been more well-maintained if I use some wax to apply to lock the ends and set my fringe to prevent flyaways (for some reasons, the gusts of wind at Tanjong Pagar are really powerful in the morning), but that's just laziness on my part.

Another thing I like about this product is its versatility.

I use it as a protective coat before I blow-dry and crimp my hair straight, and finishing every morning.

You can even use it for as a pre-shampoo or as a mid-day leave-in conditioner.

What pre-shampoo, I hear you ask.

The thing about shampoos in general is they strip your hair of dirt, dust and everything else, including oil that your scalp naturally produces for silky, healthy hair. To ensure that your hair has sufficient oil (just like how you need essential fats), you can use Mythic oil before you shampoo your hair.

And yes, this product is suitable for all hair types. Saves a lot of trouble, eh? Sometimes I can spend half a day at the drugstore just to read labels and whatever that is on the shelves. This product is literally a no-brainer for everyone.

It is much pricer than what you can get from Watsons or Guardian at around $10, but when you value time and results more than a one-off addition of $30, you would know that this is worth it.

Besides, for my hair length (and those whose hair are just below the shoulders) I would think that 1 squirt (not directly on your hair! I mean your palms) for each application is sufficient.

Mythic oil is priced at $42 for the 125ml bottle (one size only), and is available only at selected hair salons.

The ones I know are Salon Vim and NK Hairworks. You may send an enquiry to L'Oreal Professionel via their Facebook page or lorealprofessionnel@sg.loreal.com to ask for the salons that are carrying this product and their locations.

If you're interested in what L'Oreal Professionel has to offer, I strongly encourage you to join their newly launched Facebook page!

P/S: I see a lot of friends complaining on Twitter that popular blogs nowadays are flooded with so many advertorials (some don't even label them) that it gets quite sickening. For me, I will specifically state that it is an advertorial at the blog title, first paragraph or at my sign-off bar as a tag/ category "advertorial". For sponsorship or ambassadorship, I will state it clearly on my sidebar (yes, don't have any now but I welcome them anyway!). If you've fully ingested what I typed here, you should be able to conclude that this is not an advertorial. So clever, you.

PP/S: I will be launching my blog's Facebook page soon with freebies to be won! Stay tuned. :)

New wardrobe plan: THEMED DAYS!

2012-01-27T12:00:00.000+08:00

Review: MUSEE PLATINUM Tokyo IPL Underarm Hair Removal

2012-01-25T13:00:00.000+08:00

No one will ever find it too sparse or little. Yes, I am talking about armpit hair.
Whoever that wants to do hair implants for their armpits must be really sick in the mind.

I don't have bushes under my pits, but I was enticed by the prospect of having hairless armpits effortlessly.

After browsing dozens of forum pages just to get some feedback and opinion, I decided to go ahead with MUSEE PLATINUM Tokyo salon (I know right, it's in Singapore lah) since I saw their $138 nett package for unlimited number of sessions.

It's been my third session now (once every 2 months) and I would say that it's been a pleasant experience. The growth rate of my APH has significantly slowed down. Before the sessions, I had to shave everyday. Now, I shave every 4 to 5 days, and that's only because I want to play safe and not risking getting STOMP-ed for pit stubble D: /clutchesfaceinhorror

Also - and very importantly - Musee doesn't do hard selling and there is no hidden cost. When I'm paying for beauty treatments, I want to relax or be pampered. Do not disrupt my tranquility by telling me this awesome deal that costs $1388 that is coming to an end.

Musee has 3 branches in Singapore, if I am not wrong. The most popular branch is probably at Plaza Singapura. I frequent the one at Millenia Walk. No, I wasn't trying to beat the crowd. It so happened that the first phone number I saw was the one at Millenia Walk, and there is a penalty charge for switching of branches mid-way. @)($# At least my re-scheduled appointments are within the next 2 weeks.

There are a lot of issues to address to ensure that you are in a proper condition to undergo IPL treatments. In order to undergo an IPL treatment on that day, you:
(1) Must not be having your menses,
(2) Must keep the portion free from any form of application 24 hours before your appointment (i.e. no sunblock or make-up if you're doing your upper lips, no perfume or deodorant if you're doing your arm pits)
(3) Must shave the portion
(4) Must not be pregnant
.... and the list goes on!!! They will pass you a set of instructions/guidelines upon sign-up, so no worries.

The very first meet-up was a 15-30 minute consultation, depending on your waiting time. They will ask simple questions, and explore the possibility of getting you to do IPL for other parts of your body. Just say you're only interested in getting your arm pits done, because the rest are quite expensive. They seem to have an all-time promotion rate of $138 nett for unlimited sessions of IPL APH removal. Occasionally there is a $98nett deal on Deal.com.sg if I didn't remember wrongly.

After which, you'll fix an appointment for your first IPL session. Here are the procedures:

Step 1: Get changed. For APH removal, you're required to change into the blue spaghetti top they have.

Step 2: Lie on the bed without your footwear, and wait for the consultant/expert.

Step 3: The consultant will cover your eyes with a piece of tissue before putting on safety googles for you to protect your eyes against the laser beam of the machinery.

Step 4: You're required to bare your armpits to the consultant for the rest of the sessions. AWKWARDNESS. I mean, you NEVER flash your armpits to anyone for more than a split second, but you need to bare your armpits for as long as the session takes.

Step 5: The consultant will use an epilator or an electric shaver to remove any remaining stubble, before cleansing the area.

Step 6: The consultant will apply cold gel to the area to prevent burns from the treatment sessions.

Step 7: The consultant will use the machine pictured below to zap the area. See the picture at the right side? It works almost like a barcode reader! HAHA. Ok, you feel a tiny prickly sensation each time the area is zapped. It is not itchy nor painful to me, but if you really need to label the sensation it is more painful than ticklish. Having that said, the pain meter reading is probably a 0.1/10. You probably get zapped around 6-10 times each side, unless your pores spread over an unusually large area.

Step 8: The consultant will wipe off the remaining gel on the areas, and then place cold gel pads on each area. You'll have to cling it on for 5-10 minutes. The consultant will leave the room.

Side note: I just recently spoke to a friend who told me of the incessant hard-selling techniques of a particular beauty chain ("Singapore's leading hair and beauty group" that is named after its founder). She got the $128nett deal from Groupon. Apparently the cooling gel pads are not a given - they are retailing at a discounted price of $588 for 10 pairs. Altogether now: SERIOUSLY?

Step 9: The pads are removed. The consultant will apply some moisturizing essence on the areas. You can then get dressed and schedule your next appointment. My appointment takes place every 2 months.

This whole treatment session lasts effectively for 10 minutes, so it will usually take up around 20 minutes in total, depending on your waiting time.

The hair growth cycle differs from one individual to another, so it is really hard to tell how many sessions it will take to be declare your AP free from hair.

In addition, you stand to receive benefits from referring a friend!

Each time you refer a friend, both you and your friend gets a complimentary small part IPL session.

These benefits can be accumulated. For example, if you have 2 small part sessions, you can change it for a large part session, and so on.

Hence, if you want to benefit from this, feel free to quote me and my member ID when you sign up. Just kindly leave me your name and member ID! The last time I referred 2 friends, they had to ask me for my friends' details, so I suspect their records are not fully-digitized. My member ID is 81011205.

For more details, visit their website or Facebook page!

It's all in the genes.

2012-01-24T17:30:00.001+08:00

Mom: Did you see that so-and-so's bag? Nice huh? I like!
Me: (keeping quiet as I recall the last time I bought her a Longchamp bag... It was when she had such a conversation starter)
Mom: Keep a lookout online! I like dark brown. Light colours also can.
Me: . . .

For the record, I didn't buy her the bag because of these subtleties. It dragged on until one day, she continuously slapped my arm fats in excitement as some stranger walked into the lift with the bag in the exact size and colour she'd wanted. Yes, like a fan girl. That's right, I didn't know where to bury my face and it was time to put her thoughts into action.

Guess what were her first words when she saw her gift?

Mom: (SQUEALS, with eyes entirely attached to the bag) You really bought it ah? Aiyoooo...

What would the world be without heels?

2012-01-14T00:12:00.000+08:00

Definitely less sexier.
Wearing heels is one of the easiest ways to feel confident and good about yourself. (Not referring to those who sprain their ankles after walking in heels for 5 seconds- you need to practise how to walk demurely in the first place!)
Truth be told, your footwear often determines whether your whole outfit is a yay or a nay. One of my professors back in WKWSCI even revealed that he likes judging people from their footwear. I guess that is how the term "well-heeled" came about, huh?
If you believe you have a personality, your heels must be everything but conventional.
Do yourself some justice by giving your feet a nice prep-up with heels from Project Heels.

At PROJECT HEELS, we offer a wide variety of heels to suit your different moods and to match your varied apparels. With our eye-catching heels, we aim to inject some fun and pizazz to your outfits.

'Project Heels' is the brainchild of a friend of mine who will never leave the house without having a proper pair of heels to match her outfits - not that she ever did, since she has too many heels to count!
I really like some of the selections she has for the debut:

Gunmental White & Gold Platform Court Heels in EUR35 and EUR 36 retailing at S$31

Black Polka Dots Bow Platform Court Shoes with Pink dots in EUR35 and EUR37 retailing at S$35

...and my ultimate favourite! Magenta Velvet Court Shoes with Black & White Side Bow in EUR37 retailing at S$33! (She has the same ones with a back bow too!)

As you can see, the prices are really reasonable and they don't even look cheap! There are limited sizes for this debut, but fret not! If anything catches your eyes, feel free to drop Project Heels a note so that they will order it for you!

For those who worry about getting the wrong sizes, Project Heels does exchanges within 14 days after the items are despatched! Find out more on their website.

Also, if you like what you see and you're just waiting for your next paycheck to come in, do join the mailing list by signing up for an account in order to receive the latest updates.

Hurry along!

Product review: L'Oreal Youth Code Boosting Essence

2012-01-02T13:49:00.000+08:00

So I just got back from Japan not too long ago with really bad skin. Somehow I forgot to pack my face moisturiser even though I placed it beside my luggage (/facepalm). It was winter, for God's sake!

The all-purpose moisturiser I brought was of minimal use, and even using facial masks daily did not help. My skin felt like it was going to crack from dryness! I think my skin became drier ever since I started work because of the air-conditioned environment, and my facial therapist was unable to squeeze blackheads and whiteheads because my skin was too dry! In fact, my pimples/acnes/scars are taking forever to recover because of the severe lack of moisture.

So, yes, I was in red panic mode. No moisture = die. It has gotten to a point where my usual skincare set doesn't seem to be working well on my skin anymore. Happens occasionally, eh? Well, here's why:

A research done by L'Oreal found compelling evidence suggesting that the fault may not lie with the products but with the efficiency of what has been dubbed the ‘recovery gene’ in the user’s skin. In youthful skin, the recovery gene absorbs active ingredients and counter-responds to fatigue and stress up to five times faster than in mature skin. Conversely, as the skin ages, the recovery gene slows down.

I'm really glad that I received the Christmas pack from L'Oreal before I went out on impulse to get a new set of skincare, because the problems can be solved with L'Oreal Youth Code Boosting Essence! It is designed to combat the slow recovery gene. Apart from restoring the skin’s optimum natural recovery capabilities, it also amplifies the effect of any and every type of skincare applied - be it anti-ageing, whitening or hydrating. It worked very well with my hydrating korean skincare set.

The product's star ingredients include:

Pro-Gen™ Technology, or Biolysat (a product of fermented Bifidus bacterial) that increases the expression of recovery genes involved in cellular renewal.

Adenosine, long known to be a constitutive component of DNA, which slows the effects of ageing in skin.

HEPES (Hydroxy Ethyl Piperazine Ethane Sulfonic acid) which has a pro-exfoliating action, which improves absorption of active ingredients.

The packaging consists of a dropper- you press the cap down to extract the essence from the bottle. For me, the amount of essence I use each time is about the size of a 20-cent coin. Right after cleansing my face, I spread the essence on my clean palms before applying and patting it onto my face. The routine is followed by my softener and moisturiser. I guess it makes sense since you want your skin to respond to stuff you slap on your face right?! Think of it as the skincare version of a make-up primer.

Another reason, apart from reviving my severely dehydrated skin, why I love this product is the cost savings! If I were to buy a new skincare set, that would easily be more than $150, yet all I have to do now is to incorporate this $39.90 boosting essence into my skincare routine, and to top it off, everything is functioning better than ever.

What can I say, seriously? The 10 years of Gene Science research was time well-spent. It has become my favourite L'Oreal product of all times. Cross my heart. This is DA BOMB.

(Rated 5 upon 5, in case you're rubbing your eyes! Perfect score.)

If you are interested, the Youth Code Boosting Essence can be found at leading retailers including Watsons, Guardian, SASA, selected Department stores, major supermarkets and hypermarkets.

Dog Grooming for owners

2011-12-18T15:18:00.003+08:00

After feeling frustrated with attempts to secure an appointment for Chloe and Ashton to be groomed by reliable groomers, I've decided to take up a course so that I can do simple maintenance in-between sessions. Weeks of research led me to only 1 option which was affordable, time-efficient and would fulfill all that I wanted to know.

Snoopy Doo is located at 11 Anamalai Avenue (just beside Sixth Avenue), and they offer a 4-hour hobby class for dog owners, apart from the professional and advanced courses they have.
Priced at $180/pax/breed, the course covers:
- Basic information of your breed (the origins, the coat etc.)

- Nail-cutting and filing

- Ear-cleaning

- Brushing

- De-matting

- Clipping of fur (type of blades to use, direction, styling etc.)

I would say that it's a very useful course! I knew about 40% of the information beforehand since I was reading and watching videos online while trying my hand on grooming with a battery-operated clipper I bought from Petgamart (lol!).

Anyway, if you're interested, you can drop them an e-mail (enquiry@snoopy-doo.com or rolandng@hotmail.com) or call them at 64693638. Roland should be the course instructor, if I am not wrong.

This world needs to be more left-hander-friendly, seriously.

I'm still feeling very guilty from snipping too much of my fur kid's nail which caused Chloe to bleed. :( Thankfully, she's forgiving and was willing to last through the whole session.

Here are some points to take note:
- The only stuff you need to bring are your dog and yourself. Every equipment or item required is provided for learning.

- Make sure you have your dog's fur dematted before the lesson to prevent time wastage.

- Make sure your dog's last grooming session was at least 6 weeks ago.

- If you can't stand stench or fur flying all over, this is not for you. The course is conducted at the back of Snoopy Doo's grooming premises - the stench of dogs that badly needed a bath might be hard for you to manage initially.

- Make sure you're prepared to put in 100% of your concentration and patience. You might want to head straight home for a bath and nap right after the session.

- Make sure you eat before you start. My sister and I were damn hungry. This seems trivial, but hey, when you're hungry, you're cranky and there's no room for patience.

See how badly Ashton needed grooming?

Hohoho, I shall practise more so that I can declare myself a Schnauzer Specialist Groomer and charge for my services! Kidding.

S-woofy-S: Need for type DEA 1.1 negative blood

2011-12-13T11:14:00.004+08:00

Calling out to owners of large dog breeds:

blood type DEA 1.1 negative needed!

Chantelle, when symptoms start to appear

Chantelle, the mini schnauzer, narrowly escaped death last night as she underwent transfusion from a kind bone marrow donor named Simba. She seems to be down with primary bone marrow failure. Even though the transfusion is successful, more blood is required for further treatment.

Feeling increasingly unwell soon after

Hospitalized for closer observation

Your dog has to be 18kg and above, ideally. Understandably, you would probably not know the blood type of your dog. I urge you to visit Chantelle's vet at the hospital to do a blood type test, in order to save a life.

Still in critical condition

the blood test results showed a slight improvement in Chantelle’s red and white blood count but her platelet continued to drop to a dangerous 71K/μL (normal range is 175-500). vet remained skeptical. she had requested for a review tomorrow and told us to check for signs of bruising in the meanwhile.

Please help Chantelle- she's fighting strong despite the pain and misery. Like your fur kid, she hopes to be well again - to run around biting her favourite toys and wagging her tail at her beloved owner, who's been dedicated enough to make sure her fur kid gets all the support that she needs.

Jazreel would greatly appreciate your help if you can pass on this message or bring your dog down to:

Heart2heart Veterinary Centre

24-26 Jalan Lokam, Tai Keng Court, S(537870)

to do a test and donate type DEA 1.1 negative blood to Chantelle, the mini schnauzer (Owner: Jazreel Lim).

Please don't deny a brave fighter a chance at survival.

Update (16 September 2011): Chantelle has left us. Thanks for the help, people.

Movie Review: Arthur Christmas

2011-12-07T11:30:00.000+08:00

So I had the privilege of catching Arthur Christmas before its local release date, thanks to Sony Pictures!

(Actually, Christmas has become so commercialised that it has planted a common imagery of what makes a perfect, white Christmas and how Christmas should be spent in our heads- and that includes watching a Christmas-themed movie just to feel warm and fuzzy within in a breezy, cold climate. Yes, never mind if Singapore doesn't have snow. We get the drift, really. Not that I'm complaining. I like how Christmas is commercialised, unlike Valentine's Day, but that's another story for another day.)

Arthur Christmas is a CG-animated family comedy, of which the story reveals how Santa delivers 2 billion presents in 1 night with a modern twist: in faraway North Pole, Santa is, in fact, well-equipped with ultra high-tech operations that leaves no room for error! Well, almost. ;)

Oh, and did I mention that this elf is chooooo adorable?! Introducing Bryony Shelfley (played by Ashley Jensen), a lowly member of Santa's Giftwrap Battalion, yet proud of her job nonetheless! Yes, that elf is a female. She is a very loyal Wrapping Operative Grade 3 elf with an OCD - "Nobody receives a present unwrapped!!!"

What I love about the movie is the details, especially how the elves conducted their operations - like some blockbuster in animation form. Each team is only allowed 18.14 seconds to complete a delivery per household! Each elf in operation also owns this gun that ejects candies according to its naughty-or-nice meter reading (in percentile)! One elf had to scan himself to load a boy's sock with candies because the boy failed the meter reading! Aww...

I shan't reveal the story plot since it is a light-hearted, family-oriented movie, but the non-3D version is definitely something you might want to consider catching to complete your to-do list for Christmas! :)

4 / 5 !

Scoot away to Australia!

2011-12-01T10:44:00.001+08:00

Haven't you heard??
Singapore Airlines' new budget carrier, Scoot announced its first destination.................... DOWN UNDER!
Not very newsy? I think so too.
How about a pair of premium-class return tickets from Singapore to Sydney absolutely free?
You'd also become a celebrity overnight! I think. Your face will probably be plastered on various media publications since you're the sole winner of the free pair of tickets on Scoot's maiden flight, no?

YES, I hear your question. Your answer is here: http://bit.ly/v454Gd

(This is not an advertorial. I always get excited when there are free air tickets to win haha!)

Nail that look: Leopard prints

2011-11-27T15:03:00.002+08:00

Ain't these nails pretty?! Nah, they weren't done by me. It was something that I stumbled upon recently and having not to be a fan of manicures - because I have a phobia of nail filing - I had to try it out myself! After googling for the easiest way out, this is the outcome of my first attempt:

NOT TOO BAD RIGHT?! The colour scheme might be too funky for most people, but I kind of like its quirkiness, heh. My point is: I am not a nail person, and if I can get this on the first attempt, so can you!

What you need are:
(1) protective base coat
(2) base colour
(3) print colour (for the leopard prints)
(4) fine-tip black nail marker
(5) top coat

For the purpose of demonstration, I ignored (1) and (5) totally.
I use Innisfree's 17 for my Tiffany blue base and Innisfree's 23 for my khaki-nude leopard prints.

As for the outline of the leopard prints, I actually used L'Oreal Paris Superliner. Yes, you read this right- it's an eye liner!

Here's how you can recreate this look without overspending:
(Nobody needs instructions for applying base coat, I assume.................)

(1) Apply your base colour. Don't overapply, i.e. apply thick coats if not it will take ages to dry and it might smudge.
(2) For the leopard prints, I use the nude-khaki nail varnish brush to apply as dots on my nails. Keep the dot arrangement sparse, and both the arrangement and sizes random. As you might be able to tell from my index and ring finger nails, the dots were too cluttered and orderly. Yet, on the other hand, the design on my little finger is too pathetic. Oh, whatever.
(3) Wait for the dots to dry. This sounds kind of duh, but some of us can get really impatient or forgetful.
(4) Using the black marker, or eye liner for my case, outline the dots with random strokes. Keep the stroke pressure and width random. If you've noticed the nails in the 1st image on this blog post, there're usually 2 strokes to each print - one heavier than the other. The pressure and width of my strokes are about the same. The third technique to do so is to outline the dot with a 'C'.
(5) Wait for the strokes to dry. Refer to reason stated in (3).
(6) Glaze your nails with top coat.

........ and we're done!

There are many looks you can create with the same techniques! You can play around with the base colours or print colours, or add diamontes and ribbons to it. I'm going to try having leopard prints as my french manicure tip next time!

Try it, it's really simple!

This week - in tweets (20/11/11 - 26/11/11)

2011-11-27T02:20:00.001+08:00

Rather than blaming Twitter for my increased laziness in blogging, I shall share some interesting happenings that I'd tweeted about this week :

(my current thoughts in bold)

20 Nov
Omg, why got shark's fin at my cousin's wedding?!! :(

Slutteh indeed! RT @ruiqibabylee Slutty Kitty @jaynetham @pling_ lockerz.com/s/157851295

21 Nov

"Bo buek buek la si mi lan jiao" 哇Uncle, 你上火啊？

(overheard one morning while I was on my way to work. Loose translation: "No 8 8 la, what p*nis" Wah Uncle, you heaty ah?)

Screen-grab of Lady Gaga performing at Children In Need Rocks 2011. The eyeliner made her look like a Korean celeb eh? http://pic.twitter.com/ldfKtUq7

Just received an SMS ad on aircon servicing. SRSLY?

22 Nov

Looking for freelance editors (biz/tech) & graphic designers (web/print)! PM me for more details with your portfolio/resume and rates.

(Still looking! Feel free to drop me a note via my contact form.)

Which local movie can garner so much support that it's #AlreadyFamous before airing? We Singaporeans just love@imMichelleChong lah!

Because it is our pride and honour. #voteforchangiairport http://www.worldairportsurvey.com/svyAPP/airport2012.htm

23 Nov

Always amused at how Chloe tries to maintain physical contact when she sleeps. Good night, sweetheart. :)

Looks adorable! RT @daintyflair [Blog] Five Stones Hostel Soft Launch Party

PL and I were laughing over some chinese jokes tt went viral, then our shanghainese colleague said it was on Weibo years ago. #facepalm ok.

Can't figure out if it's herbal hair treatment or excessive hair tonic I'm smelling on the train now. Beats body odour anytime, I guess.

The pair of @FeiyueSG sneakers we got for @kiezin!@mytaintedmind @thadii

24 Nov

LOTD: @tracyeinny's LBD w pearl necklace and nude pointed-toe kitty heels #fb

哇，emo到爆⋯⋯ T.T - 田馥甄 - 還是要幸福 (官方版MV) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1CcQDuuhdXA&feature=share

Can test it at Snow City haha RT @ladyironchef A little skeptical about Uniqlo's heat tech... so thin, does it really work in winter?!

at Cathay Cineleisure for @SonyPicturesSG Arthur Christmas exclusive screening!

I've made my Twitter public again if you realised... Follow me @pling_ !

SNIP SNIP

2011-11-15T00:05:00.001+08:00

... And it's gone! Not for long, though.
I'm referring to my hair.
On one random day, I decided to get my hair permed and look like Olivia Ong's long-lost sister (it's a joke. Now, laugh).
I was really determined to do something to my frustrating hair, but I was too late in booking an appointment at a salon in Orchard which I was beginning to trust.
I was so frustrated with my hair, I told myself I HAD TO DO SOMETHING RIGHT NOW.
So I walked into a salon at Tanjong Pagar MRT (yah, near my workplace) and paid for a perm job!
Little did I realise that it was too late to get the perm job done- I'd have to return the next day to perm.
So basically, the hair stylist cut my hair just above the shoulder-length and did temporary curls for me.
I quite like it actually, but the moment I thought of my kiddish-looking boyfriend, I went, "D: maybe not."
So I ended up developing a liking for my shoulder-length hairdo - straight, instead of permed.

It soon grew out of shape, and I decided to return back to the salon for a trim, and perhaps have full bangs this time.
I almost died. He cut more than half an inch shorter than we'd agreed, and I looked like a dork when I have my hair tucked to the back of my ears. I was lost for words when he asked me if it is okay. How to say no?
Feeling emo, I pre-empted my boyfriend that he probably didn't want me anymore. My mom even laughed at me when I reached home. BOOHOOHOO. #wailaidis
So, I was honestly surprised when the photo collage of my new hairdo was quite well-received by both female and male Facebook friends.

As you might be able to tell, I wasn't even comfortable showing my entire face with the new hairdo back then. Hur hur.
It's been a couple of days and I have, once again, learnt to like it. It's lighter (not necessarily air-headed =P), more convenient, faster (I never leave house without blowdrying my hair straight), and cost-efficient (less shampoo used).
I was telling Bobby on Facebook that I probably wouldn't cut it short if I was still actively modelling.
It dawned upon me that I've accepted and moved on from that phase of my life. I still miss it and would like to do it occasionally though. Only if time permits.

So anyway, this hairstylist with balls (because he is daring enough and more game than me to decide that it's time for an overhaul) is Dylan of Creme Hairdressing at Tanjong Pagar MRT, if you are interested. Yes, common sense tells you that if I am stating details here, it means that I recommend him. Not sure if he remembers my name, maybe he remembers me as the girl whose boyfriend doesn't like her to cut short hair. HAHAHA, serious, I repeated that to him several times.

Now I look like my colleague - the only difference is one dress size. I'm the larger one, of course. *wails*
Okay, plus my hair has more volume than hers. To me, the key lies in the shampoo you use. I used to be lackadaisical in my choice of shampoo - nice-smelling, cheap are the only factors I'd considered, if I weren't using shampoo for rebonded hair. Naturally, my hair and scalp reacted to my poor choices - my hair, especially near the roots, became flat even before half a day passed, and soon my scalp became flaky. I still thought that my hair was dry - since the ends were like hay. I switched to Keratase shampoo for oily scalp after a hair stylist told me that my hair condition was because of an oily scalp, and have been using hair mask to resolve my dry ends problem.

My hair has never been better. One good hair day means one less cranky day. :)

Lessons in life

2011-11-08T23:31:00.002+08:00

My BFF shared a very interesting article with me about the author's lessons learnt from 27 years of his life.
Here's the list of 27 lessons (my comments in red):

1. The first pancake always turns out badly.

2. You don’t have to get along with everyone, or make everyone like you.
(Quit trying or die trying, really)

3. Love makes you stupid.

4. You always have at least 2 choices, even if you don’t like your choices.

5. Sometimes even women need to learn to MTFU.
(Seriously cannot stand girls who whine for help from men for every small little thing)

6. Most people operate out of selfish motivations.

7. It’s rarely about you.

8. Soda is evil.

9. It’s okay to break the rules, as long as you are good enough not to get caught, and you aren’t hurting anyone.

10. “Be kinder than necessary ’cause everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.”

11. There’s three sides to every story- his, hers, and the truth.
(No matter how factual or objective you think your story is, it is still subjective. So who knows the truth?)

12. Time doesn’t heal anything- it’s what you do with that time.

13. Complaining and blaming other people doesn’t help anything, and makes you miserable company.

14. Everything in your life is your responsibility.
(Kind of realised this through driving on the road)

15. You train people how to treat you.
(Food for thought, huh?)

16. There’s always hope.

17. You can always be grateful for something.

18. If you aren’t making mistakes, you aren’t trying hard enough.

19. You never really become an adult. You just get more responsibility, and become wiser.

20. Showing emotion is not a sign of weakness. Knowing when it is appropriate is a skill.

21. Google can answer anything.

22. Being silly is one of my favorite qualities in a person.

23. Honesty is always the easiest route. Even if it’s not in the short term.

24. You should never stop learning, or trying to be a better person.

25. Worrying is useless, unless it motivates you to take action.

26. When people show you who they are, believe them.

27. There is only fear, and love. And one of them is way more fun.

- Extracted from http://www.stumbleupon.com/su/8aUtQu/dreaminthelife.com/2010/06/27-lessons-ive-learned-in-27-years/

In Spotlight: Clutches

2011-10-29T22:07:00.002+08:00

This is random. I came across gorgeous-looking clutches and just decidedto share the good stuff, so here we go:

Annabel Ingall clutch (see more clutch bags)

Clutch (see more leather clutches)

Lulu Guinness clutch (see more striped handbags)

FOSSIL clutch (see more fossil handbags)

Alexander McQueen clutch (see more leather clutches)

Anyway, if you're thinking of buying something plain, don't! Clutches are not meant to be forgettable.

If you want to play safe, do opt for understated designs. Their interesting parts aren't the clashing combination of colours or filled with studs, chains and what-not - it is the details.

Okay my randomness shall end now.

I have updated!

2011-09-19T00:02:00.002+08:00

... the smaller sections. Haha, check out my "About" and "Portfolio" tabs!

Still thinking of what to include for FAQ. Questions, anyone? Drop me a comment or fill up my contact form!

Movie Reviews: Contagion, Crazy Stupid Love

2011-09-12T00:25:00.002+08:00

(don't worry, no spoiler here.)

An action-thriller centered on the threat posed by a deadly disease and

an international team of doctors contracted by the CDC to deal with the outbreak.

That's all that was mentioned on Golden Village's site when I was booking tickets for the movie. Directed by Steven Soderbergh - the same fella behind Ocean's Thirteen, this action-thriller boasts a star-studded line-up: Marion Cotillard, Matt Damon, Laurence Fishburne, Jude Law, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Kate Winslet.

Seemed to be a highly-raved movie from what I read online, but I did not particularly like it. The over-arching story line was very much predictable (which is fine with me), but it did not have enough punch to it. It was, like, an action-thriller being unfolded in the style of a documentary. There was not much action or thrill. Expect some gruesome images though - having a skull drilled open and blood squirted on the medical professionals. The movie requires you to think- but it is not mind-boggling to be exact. The scenes did not require you to decipher any latent meaning or symbolic expression. I find myself listening to a whole string of medical/technical expressions in order to understand what was going on in the scenes, just to realise that oh i did not have to do that because the experts expressed them in layman's terms after they were done in their own lingo.

That aside, two thumbs-up for the amazing performances of Gwyneth Paltrow, Kate Winslet and Matt Damon.

The movie comes across as being more educational than entertaining- I have a better understanding of the chaos and complications that countries and their governments would need to go through when such epidemics take place.

For that, I'd rate Contagion 3 upon 5.

=====

A father's life unravels while he deals with a marital
crisis and tries to manage his relationship with his children.

On the other hand, I had low expectations for Crazy Stupid Love since it was a romantic comedy. Found myself enjoying it a lot as the story unfolds in a non-cheesy (read: unpredictable) manner. What do you get when you put 4 men (or 5, if you consider the 13 year-old a little big man played by Jonah Bobo) and 3 ladies in entanglement? A big ugly mess. Like how Betsey Sharkey puts it, it "conjures up the bittersweet magic of first loves, lasting loves, lost loves and all the loves in between".

Did I also mention that Ryan Gosling is hot?

Ah, there you go! You're very much welcomed ;)

Totally in love with how this bad ass turned good, but yes the character is fictional, and I would not have the guts to try out with such a person in reality anyway. #JustSaying, you know?

Also, I cannot help but be constantly reminded of tau pok whenever I see Kevin Bacon (har har) on screen. He is one man that did not age like wine.

On a side note, Emma Stone needs to vet the scripts before taking up the jobs. At the rate she is going, she is probably going to be typecasted very soon. Or has she, already?

I'd rate Crazy Stupid Love 4 out of 5.

In any case, both movies are only worthy of weekday ticket prices! I got mine at $7.50 so it's okay.

Shark's fin is tasteless.

2011-09-05T22:17:00.004+08:00

This video is totally a must-watch. For those who can't sit through the whole video, start from 9:00 onwards. Might be too gruesome for some to finish watching.

It's time to deal with the truth, people! Shark's fin soup is tasty because of the chicken broth, not the shark's fin. The fin is tasteless; what you're in love with is the chicken broth. In fact, shredded chicken pieces are much better an ingredient to go with that chicken broth.

The high market demand for shark fin is currently the main driver of unsustainable fishing for sharks globally. Shark fin soup has long been a tradition at Chinese festive celebrations and wedding banquets. But growing demand of shark fin soup is pushing our sharks to extinction.

I've been swearing off shark's fin soup for possibly more than half a decade now and I dare say I've never ever craved the taste of it since then - not that I ever did.

I'd all along been a silent supporter and my efforts (rejecting offers made to me at weddings and at CNY gatherings) stopped short of convincing others to share the same sentiments lest I would offend my relatives.

Now, I feel that I must do better.

To believe that shark's fin soup is a savory delicacy is just pure foolishness.

It's stupidity to continue the tradition for the sake of doing so.

Have a mind of your own, will you?

73 million sharks are killed annually just to sustain this tradition in our Chinese culture.

It is not being cheap to strike shark's fin soup off your wedding menu; it's thinking long-term.

And if you think you alone cannot make a difference, you are wrong.

Do you know that Singapore is the second largest shark trading nation? Yes, this red dot is capable of causing sizeable detrimental effects to the ecosystem.

Don't just share the video; share your sentiments.

L'Oreal Revitalift White

2011-08-31T23:45:00.001+08:00

For those of you who have me on Twitter and/or Facebook would know that Hebe - yes, one-third of S.H.E. - is the celebrity ambassador of L'Oreal latest anti-ageing product, Revitalift White!

I'm sure most of you, like me, have started noticing signs of ageing on your faces. I'm only in my early 20s but dull complexion, dehydrated skin, with laugh lines have been bothering me recently! Actually, I often slacked when it comes to my supposed daily beauty regime PLUS i have dry-combination skin heh. So it isn't surprising to notice signs of ageing now (oh i suddenly remember all the late nights too) although they are to kick in at the age of 25.

L'Oreal Revitalift White series contains:

Pro-Retinol A (Prevents Premature Ageing): Reduces wrinkles and fine lines by stimulating cell renewal Helps to thicken the epidermis for a complexion that looks soft, smooth and supple
Vitamin B3 (For Fairer, Translucent & More Radiant Skin): Evens out patchy skin tones & lightens skin without a trace of brown spots or pigmentation by inhibiting the transfer of skin-darkening melanin to skin cells

which help target the 15 signs of ageing in 1 step (application, duh!). No more worry on whether Brand X's anti-ageing products is too 'heavy' or intense for your comparatively young skin or whether you need to buy a whole range (gulps!) of anti-ageing products just to resolve your woes! This is the product to get if you're experiencing your first signs of ageing and are too busy/short of time to fuss over a whole range of products!

Thanks to L'Oreal, I got to meet fellow beauty junkies and try the L'Oreal Revitalift White series which consists of the day cream (50ml, $27.90) and the night essence (30ml, $34.90) to be applied before your moisturiser, before you hit the sack!

Day cream

Night essence

It's Day 4 of application so far, and I'm quite pleased with the results.

Shall do a more thorough review soon!

I actually have a few sample pieces to give away since I have them in full size. Holler by leave your e-mail address and mailing details on my contact form if you want a freebie!

In the meanwhile, L'Oreal Revitalift White is available at Watsons, Guardian, SASA, Selected Department stores, Supermarkets & Hypermarkets.

Hurray to fuss-free beauty regime!

It's been a while

2011-07-06T23:48:00.004+08:00

Gee! Thick layers of dust and cobwebs everywhere! I've been wanting to do many beauty product reviews- the pics are all stuck in my digital camera! I should really turn procrastination into action.

Let me see, I actually have:

- The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil concealer

- The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil exfoliating pads

- Nature Republic The Bamboo of Damyang moisture facial set

- Lucido-L Designing Aqua Hair Curling Lotion (Airy)

- Innisfree Mineral BB cream

and quite a few more to be reviewed. Yes, I really am a beauty junkie- don't doubt; don't judge.

I exceeded my luggage limit when I came back from Korea- all thanks to beauty products! Not that I'm complaining; got to love Korea for that!

Oh and I also went to Phuket.

Okay, that's more than a handful of entries. Yikes!

On a random yet entertaining note, here's a video for laughs!

AFF2011: Greyhound Autumn/Winter

2011-05-17T12:38:00.006+08:00

Date: 16 May 2011 (Monday)

Venue: Tent@Orchard

What is the inspiration behind your latest collection?
Bhanu: The theme for this collection is called, “Peace Please”, symbol for the new generation coming together to change the world. There is so many negativity going on in the world right now, taking Thailand, the Middle East and Japan for example. With a lot of tension and conflict affecting the way we live our lives, the world is going crazy. Let’s change the world. Let’s go slow and peacefully. Thinking about the world than just yourself, don’t just take but also give and share. That’s the attitude of the show. - from Fashforward.com

Creative Director Bhanu Inkawat and Designer Vitchukorn Chokedeetaweeanan

Photo Credits:

For runway: Chris McGrath/Getty Images AsiaPac

Audi Fashion Festival 2011

2011-05-15T19:24:00.006+08:00

I just realised Fashforward streams all of the fashion shows live for Audi Fashion Festival 2011.

How exciting is that?! Especially when it's hard to get front-row seats...

So anyway, I just caught LASALLE's graduation show on fashforward- some of the pieces were really amazing. I feel so proud and happy for Jacqueline who is finally graduating!

This has got to be my favourite from Jacqueline's designs. Love how she mixes both rigid and flowy fabrics together to achieve the edgy yet feminine look. Very suitable for sophisticated ladies who know and are confident of their stuff.

Also spotted Vivien, our New Paper New Face 2010 winner sashaying down the runway with other international models.

In case you didn't know, she was one of the 4 faces of Audi Fashion Festival 2011! Read all about it here.

That means she is guaranteed at least 10 shows for AFF2011. Isn't she amazing? :)

Todayonline featured her in an interview, if you wanna snoop around.

OMGAH I am so excited! Gonna try getting good shots for Greyhound tomorrow- not online, I bought tickets for this! WHEE!

POSSI-TILLY-TY | Asia Fashion Exchange

2011-05-12T20:22:00.001+08:00

Presenting:

Tilly by Tilly Soelistyo

I just got to know of this local designer and her works recently on Facebook, and soon after I received information regarding the launch of her Cruise 2012 Collection! Whee!

One of my fave shots of the campaign!

The thing I like about Tilly's designs is the fine balance of confidence and femininity. Her collections are filled with fresh combinations of colours and/or interesting details - something that certainly require a matching personality to pull it off!

The overall approach is to create new looks from everyday classic pieces through the cut and detailing, making them timeless items.

Catch Tilly's Cruise 2012 Collection in person
at the fashion extravaganza, Asia Fashion Exchange (AFX)!

What: Blueprint 2011

When: 19-22 May

Where: Marina Bay Sands Convention Centre Hall B

Watershed battle that wrapped up in bittersweetness

2011-05-09T01:07:00.004+08:00

I must say GE2011 was so exciting!

Never felt so involved in politics before.

Thankfully I held back my excitement and minimized spam-tweeting.

Here are some of of my tweets (@paranoiamakesme):

The announcer needs a Ricola or Fisherman's Friend. #JustSaying

This May, can you don't present like you're rallying in the studio? Doesn't help that u have kim moh.

#ge2011 doesn't mark the downfall of PAP. They'd emerge stronger and better for citizens and our nation, hopefully.

3k plus spoilt votes of no-confidence for TPL, for sure.

So how? Anyone inspired to run for the next GE? Start working the ground and clean up ur social media footprint now! Also, no $ no talk. #fb

SG FTW! RT @doggieshaman you know whats amazing is SG elections account for 2 of the worldwide trending topics now

In case you were sleeping while the results were announced, the announcer (whom I said needed a Ricola or Fisherman's Friend) became an overnight sensation! YAM AH MEE has 34k fans as of now (and counting!) - never mind if his name was spelt wrongly! The best thing about this was Mr. Yam is my friend's relative! I think he felt awkward for a moment, but after he realised the whole nation was talking about his relative, he turned half-amused? I did try to clear the air by saying that I talk like that sometimes too - then I added that his initials were the same as his surname and that his name sounds like YUMMEH when you read it too fast! All my friend could reply was "omg -.-" . Haha, hope Mr. Yam doesn't suffer from culture shock. This is Generation-Y for you, sir. ;)

Also, so involved was our nation on Twitter that we made it to trending topics worldwide for that moment! How epic was that?

On to more important issues, I think that 81-6 is a fairly decent effort put in by both parties. I, felt the nation's loss of a dedicated minister, George Yeo too. When I thought I was all for WP to win Aljunied GRC, GY's promise to be "the change" did make me waver (not as though I was in that constituency). Unlike some MPs, I genuinely believe he will deliver his promise. I am in anticipation of good news on how the government can nonetheless put such great talent to serve the nation. Let's hope WP can make a difference to Aljunied and Hougang during this term.

To wrap up this entry of random thoughts, I am heartened that youths who are eligible to vote (like me) are not politically apathetic! Like what I've said, we're just closet critics.

GE2011 made me love my nation more, for at a point of time, I felt as though the hearts of Singaporeans beat as one.

Whether is it a wrong move- only time can tell.

For now, all we know is we are striving towards a better Singapore for us and the nation.

What's in your acne cream/gel?

2011-04-23T23:59:00.000+08:00

Every time I have a bad acne/pimple outbreak, I tend to rush to the nearest drugstore to lay my hands on as many effective solutions I can find to tide over the situation.

The bottom-line is, I just can't leave them alone.

There was once I had a sizeable patch of skin chemically burnt because I applied too much of the product- and yes, I cried because I thought I was going to be disfigured!

Yes, go ahead and laugh. No regret, but definitely a lesson learnt.

I've learnt to understand the ingredients within each product, have many trial-and-error sessions to determine what works best for my skin and the situation (sometimes acne, sometime pimple, sometimes burst, sometimes Work-in-Progress).

Hence, I can spend a very long amount of time just browsing products at drugstores because I take many factors into consideration. Friends' feedback, packaging, convenience, ingredients, price...... you get the idea.

And because I think it is for one's benefit to be a better-informed consumer, here's a list of common ingredients of acne cream/gel solutions you should be familiar with:

(FYI: P. acnes = Propionibacterium acnes, the skin-dwelling bacteria that is involved in causing acne)

Benzoyl Peroxide

Works to clear up acne by reducing acne and removing dead cells from the skin to prevent comedones.
Use of benzoyl peroxide should be continued after acne clears to prevent new lesions from forming.
Principal side effect: excessive dryness of the skin, so be sure to follow directions and not use more than stated unless otherwise instructed by a physician.
Works by flooding the pores with oxygen. Since P. acnes cannot survive in an oxygen-rich environment, the bacteria is killed.

Salicylic Acid

Effective in treating non-inflammatory acne lesions
Helps correct the abnormal shedding of skin cells and unclog pores to resolve and prevent lesions
Does not have any effect on sebum production
Like benzoyl peroxide, must be used continuously. Once stopped, pores clog and acne returns. May be irritating to the skin, but is gentler than Benzoyl Peroxide
Promotes the healthy shedding of skin cells. This helps prevent dead skin cells from combining with the sebum on your skin and blocking your pores. This constant regeneration helps to keep the skin looking fresh and vibrant.
Helps to keep the dirt and oil from caking onto the skin. This in return helps to keep the pores clear of excess debris.

Tea Tree Oil

One of the most powerful antibiotic and ant-fungal essential oils.
Especially effective at regulating sebum production and has a remarkable ability to interrupt oily skin outbreaks and the flare-ups
Can kill bacteria, so applying topical tea tree oil to acne lesions has been thought to kill P. acnes
Fewer side effects than the benzoyl peroxide, which was associated with itching, burning, stinging, and dryness.

Witch-Hazel

A diluted extract of witch-hazel leaves and twigs will alleviate skin inflammation and acne.
Has an anti-inflammatory effect and acts as a disinfectant, which enables it to provide relief of painful and slow-to-heal pustules.
Also a mild astringent, and will reduce and constrict pores, making them appear smaller.

Aloe Vera

Extract is used as an emollient, skin conditioning agent, external analgesic, humectants
Gel is widely used for its healing, soothing and moisturizing qualities.
Benefits can be attributed to its nutrients: the plant proteins; carbohydrates; vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B6, C, and folic acid); and minerals (calcium, magnesium, manganese, zinc, and copper). Work synergistically to soothe, heal, moisturize, and regenerate your skin. They act as growth factors by stimulating fibroblasts (connective-tissue cells) to produce more collagen.

Of course, if your skin is in a bad condition- redness, itchiness, swell for a prolonged period of time, you should really be consulting a dermatologist instead of heeding my advice here.

More often than not, dermatologists have their own set of skincare products, which are more effective especially when the recommendations are based specifically on your skin condition. Their skincare routine can include oral and topical prescriptions. They may not even advise you to use over-the-counter products for obvious reasons.

Hope these would come in handy the next time you shop for acne solutions!

Information extracted from:

http://www.livestrong.com/article/73961-acne-cream-ingredients/

http://www.aurasnaturebeauty.org/ingredients.htm

http://www.a1-natural-beauty.com/W.html

http://www.acneinfotoday.com/acne-cream-ingredients.html

http://www.lifesweeping.com/acne-solutions-pimple-cream-or-something-new/

How dependent on gadgets are you?

2011-04-15T23:11:00.006+08:00

iPhone, PSP, iPad, MacBook... the list of portable gadgets that you own and/or desire can go on and on.

Nobody would probably question the benefits of owning a gadget, but are you aware of the adverse effects of being over-dependent on them?

What exactly constitute to "gadget over-dependency" then?

Read this to find out more: (psst, you can click it to download it directly from Scribd.com!)

Get Smart; Gad-Savvy

Review: L'Oréal's latest lash magic

2011-03-31T21:50:00.001+08:00

Unveiling L'Oréal's latest lash magic

- the Curl Impact Collagene Mascara!

Said to have 13x more volume and all-day Curl Power

No clumping and smudging too!

The mascara wand is made up of two sides- the flat side, which you use for initial application and the curved side (as shown above) for curling and volumizing effect.

Make-up artist and the model

Look at the amazing effect on the left eye!

Make-up model at the bloggers' event

No, she's not Felicia Chin.

HAHA, looks alike right?

Glamorous, luxurious evening look done by the make-up artist

We were also treated to eye-candy. L'Oréal collaborated with Smooch!

Sweet model in a Smooch.com.sg outfit

Pretty xiuzie!

... and the enormous mascara.

Goodies are love!

Personal Review on L'Oréal Curl Impact Collagene Mascara:

Lengthening: 2/5

- Slight effect on lengthening; my lashes are quite long to begin with (for a Chinese)

Volumizing: 4/5

- Very visible! As you can see from the picture below, each strand of eyelash became much more defined.

Curling power: 4/5

- Actually, no mascara I've used could actually give visible curling power (i.e. without any lash base application, lash crimping etc.), much less long-lasting curling power. As you can see from the pictures below, the mascara could make my lashes curl very naturally!

(uneven thickness of eyeliner. HAHAHA. Yes, shoot me. SRSLY.)

Final Verdict:

Retailing at $26.80, I think this is a value-buy solution for girls who love fluttering natural-looking lashes! Some mascaras give you very volumizing lashes, i.e. dolly lashes which may not be to your liking. This is also quite a fuss-free mascara- no clumping, easy to clean off (w/o leaving any irritating fibre residue etc). No irritation too.

I also just found out from L'Oréal's fanpage that they have a 3-for-2 promotion at all Watson's outlets! That's right- 3 items for the price of 2 (as usual, item of lowest cost is free)! The promotion is ongoing, until 27th April 2011! If you were to ask me, this mascara, HiP eyeshadow in Metallic Duo or Open Eyes Pro in Turquoise, and the BaseMagique Smoothing Primer would make a good combination for this not-to-be-missed promotion!

Open Eyes Pro in Turquoise

Really feels buttery smooth on your skin- minus the grease, that is!

Grab, or regret! ;)

Wardrobe clearance

2011-03-20T23:01:00.002+08:00

I've created a new page, "For Sale"!

Mostly pre-loved items from my wardrobe which is bursting at its ~~seams~~ corners!

There won't be any items that are not in perfect condition. Some pre-loved items are in mint condition! I would state so.

Anyway, there are only 2 items now cos I'm quite tied up with work.

Check them out!

Guide to Nuclear Threat: Kids' edition

2011-03-19T20:56:00.002+08:00

Very nicely done! It is still quite factual. I speak on behalf of attention-deficient young adults. Hahahaha.

IMO #1

2011-03-16T23:08:00.004+08:00

Alright, since there are some repetitive questions I've been answering via the contact form, I might as well publish some of them- no worry, I've smudged away contact details.

I'm really glad that you didn't pick up any nude assignment! There is no need to do so, alright? Do not fall for those lecherous men's talk- donning less does not necessarily get you further. These pictures may haunt you one day, in the event where you've become successful and popular one day.

Otherwise, for decent paid photo shoots, I think everyone knows there is ClubSnap to turn to. Sign up for an account and browse the forums- you'd be able to get a decent account of reliable organisers. If you would like to play safe, stick to organisers that only organise casual and/or fashion shoots. Also, do protect yourself while at work. Safety shorts are an absolute necessary if you are wearing a skirt or dress for photo shoots.

I'd been working with Mike and he seems pretty fine. You can look up for him here on Facebook. He guides newbies quite patiently. Just don't be ungrateful. ;)

As for events, you might want to turn to: Albert from Eleganz or Desmond from Citrus Models. They seem to have many event jobs of varying job scopes.

Hope this helps!

Putting thoughts into action

2011-03-14T21:40:00.003+08:00

Except on news coverage of my Final-Year Project, Gad-Savvy, I never felt good tuning in to broadcast news.

I feel jittery and unsettled, yet I cannot stop tuning in to CNN, Reuters, Twitter for updates on the 9.0-magnitude earthquake that happened on 11 March 2011.

If you don't know what 9.0 on the Richter scale means, here are some information for easier 'digestion':

1. The whole catastrophe moved Japan geographically by 2.4m, and the Earth by 10 cm on the axis.

2. Videos

3. Map to illustrate impact of earthquake

Keeping fingers crossed for people of Japan- especially with regards to the aftershocks and the nuclear plant situation.

In the meanwhile, you can really do some good for people of Japan.

Here are some methods:

1. Tweet to show your support and encouragement

Yes, words do help encourage people along the way. To people who survived the quake, yet do not know if it is for the better or the worse. For people who are still clinging on to the hope that the loved ones that got washed away are still alive.

There are very touching tweets by Japanese that were compiled by a fellow Japanese that I chanced upon on Facebook:

* 揺れている最中でも・・・
http://twitter.com/gj_neko26/statuses/46394706481004544
聞いた話でびっくりしたのが、とっさに「入口の確保」と揺れてるにも関わらず、あの状況で歩いて入口を開けた人が居たのが凄いと思った。正直、シャンデリアも証明も何時落ちるか分からないのに、凄く勇敢な人が居た事に感動した。
During the earthquake
We’ve all been trained to immediately open the doors and establish an escape route when there is an earthquake. In the middle of the quake while the building was shaking crazily and things falling everywhere, a man made his way to the entrance and held it open. Honestly, the chandelier could have crashed down any minute … that was a brave man!

* 日本人の良さを再認識
http://twitter.com/VietL/status/46376383592677376
この地震が、きっかけになって、失いかけていた日本人本来の良さが戒間見れた気がする。犯罪はする様子はなく、助け合い、律儀、紳士的。普段日本人は冷たい人が多い…。って個人的に感じてるんだけど、多くの人が今回で「絆」を取り戻しつつあるように見えて、それがなんか感動して、泣けてくる。
Reminded of the goodness of the Japanese people
This earthquake has reminded me of that Japanese goodness that had recently become harder and harder to see. Today I see no crime or looting: I am reminded once again of the good Japanese spirit of helping one another, of propriety, and of gentleness. I had recently begun to regard my modern countrymen as cold people … but this earthquake has revived and given back to all of us the spirit of “kizuna” (bond, trust, sharing, the human connection). I am very touched. I am brought to tears.

* 外国人から見た日本人
http://twitter.com/kiritansu/status/46335057689980928
外国人から見た地震災害の反応。物が散乱しているスーパーで、落ちているものを律儀に拾い、そして列に黙って並んでお金を払って買い物をする。運転再開した電車で混んでるのに妊婦に席を譲るお年寄り。この光景を見て外国人は絶句したようだ。本当だろう、この話。すごいよ日本。
What foreigners are saying about Japanese people
At a supermarket where everything was scattered everywhere over the floors, shoppers were helping pick them up and putting them back neatly on the shelves before quietly moving into line to wait to pay for them. On the totally jam-packed first train after the quake, an elderly man gave up his seat for a pregnant woman. Foreigners have told me they are amazed witnessing sights like these. I do believe they actually saw what they said they saw. Japan is truly amazing.

* 父親の行動
http://twitter.com/s_hayatsuki/status/46386255767937024
1階に下りて中部電力から関東に送電が始まってる話をしたら、普段はTVも暖房も明かりもつけっぱなしの父親が何も言わずに率先してコンセントを抜きに行った。少し感動した。
A little story about Papa
We live in an area that was not directly hit. When my father came downstairs and heard the news saying that our area had begun allocating electricity to the hard-hit areas, he quietly led by example, turning off the power around the house and pulling the plugs out of their sockets. I was touched. He usually NEVER turns off the lights or the AC or the TV or anything!

* 「みんな」
http://twitter.com/n_yum/statuses/46388003706380288
タクシー運ちゃんと電車駅員さんとおばさんと話したけど、みんな遅くまで帰れなかったりしてすごく疲れているのに、苛立つ事なく、言葉遣いもふるまいも丁寧で、逆に気遣われてしまった。｢みんな大変だから｣という"みんな"って意識があることに感動するし、私も受け継いで大事にしたい文化。
“All of us”
I spoke with an old taxi driver and some elderly staff at the train stations. All of them had been working non-stop and had not been able to go home for a long time. They were visibly very tired, but never once did they show any sign of impatience; they were gentle and very caring. They told me “… because all of us are in this together.” I was touched at what the notion of “all of us” meant to these elderly people. It is a value I will treasure and carry on to my generation.

* 日本の強さ
http://twitter.com/dita_69/status/46309373458382849
サントリーの自販機無料化softbankWi-Fiスポット解放、色んな人達が全力で頑張っててそれに海外が感動・協力してる。海外からの援助受け入れに躊躇したり自衛隊派遣を遅らせたりしてた阪神淡路大震災の頃より日本は確実に強い国になってるんだ。みんな頑張ろう。
A strong Japan
Suntory Beverages has set up free vending machines. Softbank Telephone services is offering free Wifi spots. Everyone in Japan is putting everything they can into helping one another. Japan is also now receiving aid from abroad. Compared to the Kobe earthquake, when Japan took too long to contemplate accepting foreign aid or dispatching the self-defense force to join the rescue effort, Japan has definitely grown into a far stronger nation. Be strong, everyone!

* いつでも買える
http://twitter.com/7474529/status/46565903520907264
今日、募金箱に金髪にピアスの若い兄ちゃんが万札数枚入れていた。そしてその友人に｢ゲームなんていつでも買えるからな｣と言っていたのが聞こえて私含め周りの人達も募金していた。人は見た目じゃないことを実感した。そんなお昼でした。この話感動しました。
Goth youth
A goth youth with white hair and body piercings walked into my store and shoved several hundred dollars (several tens of thousands of yen) into the disaster relief fund donation box. As he walked out, I and people around me heard him saying to his buddies, “I mean, we can buy those games anytime!” At that, we all opened our wallets and put our money into the donation box. Really, you cannot judge people by their appearances.

Hashtags for easier tracking:

#Jishin: focuses around general earthquake information
#Anpi: a hashtag for the confirmation of the safety of individuals or places
#Hinan: Evacuation information
#311care: a hashtag regarding medical information for the victims
#PrayforJapan: A general hashtag for support and best wishes for victims of the crisis

2. Donations for relief efforts of any kind

I know there has been many shady groups/organisations that are leveraging on this situation to increase their member count and stuff like that. I made my donations via Groupon.sg for Red Cross.

Here's a list of what I deem reliable:

a. Groupon.sg: Today’s deal:

Donate $5, $10, or $25 to Support Emergency Relief Efforts in Japan and Other Affected Areas. All donations will be given to the Singapore Red Cross.

(P/S: You can make bigger sums of donations by increasing the amounts of $5/$10/$25 nominations)

b. Causes.com (A Facebook platform): Help Japanese Earthquake and Tsunami Victims by America National Red Cross

c. Food for the Hungry

d. World Vision

3. Dance for Japan

The event is initiated by dance enthusiasts in Singapore in bid to raise funds for Japan. They would need help of all forms- dancers, ushers, runners, backstage crew etc. Find out how you can help here.

Not who you're looking for

2011-03-14T15:10:00.002+08:00

Okay so I was wondering who googled "Christina Tan" and landed on my blog.

And also wondered who's this "Christina Tan".

Today, The New Paper tweets:

Another beauty queen with an accent boo-boo: Is Christina Tan the new Ris Low? http://on.fb.me/dPz9SM

This is my biggest bet on the Real McCoy, since she seemed to have mixed up accents with language proficiency.

Still, that doesn't make me less real.

But okay, that's not the point; the bottom-line is: I am ChristinE Tan.

Gonna be here forever more

2011-03-04T00:22:00.002+08:00

Anywhere you are, I am near
Anywhere you go, I'll be there
Anytime you whisper my name, you'll see
How every single promise I keep
Cuz what kind of guy would I be
If I was to leave when you need me most

What are words
If you really don't mean them
When you say them
What are words
If they're only for good times
Then they don't
When it's love
Yeah, you say them out loud
Those words, They never go away
They live on, even when we're gone

And I know an angel was sent just for me
And I know I'm meant to be where I am
And I'm gonna be
Standing right beside her tonight

And I'm gonna be by your side
I would never leave when she needs me most

What are words
If you really don't mean them
When you say them
What are words
If they're only for good times
Then they don't
When it's love
Yeah, you say them out loud
Those words, They never go away
They live on, even when we're gone

Anywhere you are, I am near
Anywhere you go, I'll be there
And I'm gonna be here forever more
Every single promise I keep
Cuz what kind of guy would I be
If I was to leave when you need me most

I'm forever keeping my angel close

If you haven't read or heard about Chris Medina's commitment and dedication towards his fiancée, read it up here.

Support comes in the form of USD1.29- buy his single on iTunes!

Benefit with a Better Fit

2011-03-03T18:12:00.003+08:00

Steer clear from all ill effects of badly-fitted bras by getting fitted professionally. The girls behind Get The Right Fit will be holding a week-long fitting session at all its participating outlets for women who care about their assets and want to get fitted! Apart from a $10 discount voucher from Pierre Cardin Lingerie, and a chance to win a white HTC Desire phone, Pierre Cardin would also be donating $1 to Breast Cancer Foundation for each fitting session!

The week-long event starts on 5th May 2011 and ends on the 13th!

Find out more details here!

Getting the Right Fit

2011-02-28T01:21:00.007+08:00

So, when I was asked to attend a bra-fitting session, I had my reservations.

Firstly, I was thinking if there was even a need to because I know my size (I've seen those DIY-measurement charts around).

Secondly, is the auntie gonna touch me? ERM.

BUT OKAY, since I would like to pay more attention to my assets (or the lack of), I decide to give it a shot. Especially when I do encounter these problems at times:

So I met the all-girls team behind this campaign of Getting The Right Fit.So I met the all-girls team from Wee Kim Wee School of Communication and Information of NTU behind this campaign, Get The Right Fit sponsored by Pierre Cardin at Minoshe (Toa Payoh Central).

... and that's when I found out stuff I previously did not know/heard of.

SURPRISE 1: The fitter could figure out my size just by taking a look and surrounding my lower bustline (where your rib cages are) with her index finger and thumb. Experienced? Yes, very very experienced. In fact, very nice and patient too! Not aggressive at all.

Fitter using a measuring tape to be more precise.

SURPRISE 2: I am nowhere near A-Cup! LOL. After my bad bout of stomach flu, I permanently lost weight/fluid, such that everyone said I shrunk. Yes, if you know photoshop, it's basically SHIFT+(move cursor diagonally inwards). -insert bawling emoticon- In fact, the fitter said that I could try one cup bigger if I would like more coverage for the specific cut I've chosen (e.g. for 3/4-, halter-cut).

SURPRISE 3: No such thing as being able to fit (X+2)(Y-1) or (X-2)(Y+1) if you're a (X)(Y). Hahahahah don't understand? Yes, I was making your life difficult. What I meant was, I was once told that if you're a 34B, you can try 36A or 32C if the bra you want ran out of stock for 34B. I told these to all my girlfriends before, you know?! Now I hope they won't point fingers at me when they have health problems.

My expression after the fitter told me I am not an A-cup! HAHAHAHA.

SURPRISE 4: I know a bad fit can be quite unsightly, but I didn't really associate it to other adverse effects on one's health. Breathing problems, constipation, skin problems (oh yes, on hindsight, I realised. LA SENZA BRA, YOU DIE), and even circulatory problems.

Your lymph nodes (very important for your immune system) are located at the back where your bra stretches across, so prolonged tight fits restrict the lymph flow, "leading to possible toxin accumulation and cancer growth". Can you imagine? You consume enough toxins on a daily basis already, yet you restrict its flow. DOUBLE BLOW. NASTY. NONO.

Being educated on the various cuts and function

Choosing bras for fitting

Being advised on the bras I was interested in.

SURPRISE 5: You really need to try every bra that you intend to buy. Because it may fit differently for different designs. I was told to take one cup larger for a 3/4-cup cut for more coverage. In addition, different brands have different fits AND your assests change size "as much as 6 times in a lifetime"!

My Verdict?

It has been a fun, comfortable and insightful session!

I realized bra-shopping isn't something you can shop like you're having a spree. Have to check if it is the right fit- by "right fit", I mean the correct cup size, coverage, support and so much more!

I think I need to get myself fitted more regularly, and not be embarrassed to ask questions!

You should too! (I mean, if you're a female, of course.)

Hop over to the girls' website, Get the Right Fit and connect with them on Facebook and Twitter!

P/S: Their website is really beautiful, and contains lots of information you'd never knew about bras and your assets.

Advertorial: Hopealethia II

2011-02-27T23:47:00.005+08:00

Whee! Hopealethia is back with a bang!

I was spoilt for choice when Sze Hwei told me to take my pick.

SO MANY! HOW TO CHOOSE?!

After much frustration (lol), I decided on:

Satin Lace Layered Mini Dress in Peach (Retailing at $28)!

This piece is so sweet, I almost turned diabetic.

The satin-lace combination coupled with a sweetheart neckline is a killer.

As you can see, my inner child got the better of me when I donned it. LOL. Okay, enough lameness from me.

Floral Denim Zip Bustier in Light Denim (Retailing at $27)!

Looks good on its own, it doesn't even need any accessories.

Lace-trimmed slip in Cream (Retailing at $28)!

Just because its colour combination reminds me of Chanel.

Didn't expect it to be such a good fit!

Also, according to hopealethia.blogspot.com, there are 2 promos going on:

Promo1: Spend above $55.00 (excluding postage) and get a complimentary Satin Ruffletop Dress in color of your choice!
Promo2: Post a photo of yourself in a HOPE original and get $5 off your next purchase! Top 3 gets a $25 voucher each! Read more here

Go grab your favourite pieces now!

P/S: Loving the new logo on Hopealethia's facebook page:

Keeping it together

2011-02-20T22:11:00.005+08:00

If you haven't seen this around, then you must have really been living in your own bubble.

This year's theme for Total Defence Day is "Home - Keeping it together". What better way to do it than to do a new version of the iconic "Home" sung by Kit Chan and written by Dick Lee in 1998, you tell me?

This video is amazing- I am astonished by the number of local performers that went international. As in, not that I have been oblivious, but you never really give it much thought- you know what I mean? By the way, these singers volunteered to do this for you!

You can check out the artistes' profiles at www.thisishome.sg! I have a small confession: I almost did not remember that A Do (Ah Du) is from Singapore.

SO ANYWAY, Show some love by downloading it (YES IT'S LEGAL) over at www.thisishome.sg because your click will raise $1 to the Community Chest! This has got to be one of the easiest way to earn brownie points!

Compulsive behavior

2011-02-19T18:29:00.003+08:00

Somebody needs to stop me from downloading fonts and PhotoShop brushes.

Oh by the way, check out my new signature! Wheeeeee!

Ok, over and out!

Gad-Savvy: Photo Competition

2011-02-13T02:22:00.003+08:00

In Search for the Ultimate Gadget Junkie

We are searching for THE PICTURE that best depicts the ULTIMATE Gadget Junkie and stand a chance to win great prizes- proudly sponsored by Groupon.sg!

First Prize: $300 Groupon.sg credits

Second Prize: $150 Groupon.sg credits

Third Prize: $100 Groupon.sg credits

Upload your picture as a fan photo by 17 February 2359 hours!

More details over at our FaceBook Page.

P/S: Seems quite easy to win something! BTW there was a 4D3N Vietnam travel package which costs below $300 available on Groupon.sg previously. IT COULD HAVE BEEN FREE. Faint.

Canto-101

2011-02-12T12:40:00.002+08:00

In case you haven't seen this around- YES YOU'VE GOT TO WATCH IT, IT'S HILARIOUS:

Domestic Escapade: Making waffles

2011-02-05T16:36:00.005+08:00

Finally we did the Kenwood machine justice.

After getting our hands on the recipe and the machine for the longest time ever, mom decided to act on her months of procrastination- by forcing her daughter to make waffles.

Doesn't make sense because:

1) the machine and

2) the recipe belonged to her

Plus the fact that she's the one who love eating waffles- which was why her colleagues bought her that machine (but hey there is a difference between one's love to eat and one's love to make- more on that next time).

So anyway, it didn't turn out as bad as I thought. Considering the fact that I can burn the porridge at the base when I merely wanted to heat it up, and the fact that I have since replaced 2 kettles, this waffle-making attempt deserves a standing ovation.

For those who're interested in making these soft waffles, here's a list of items you'd need:

All-purpose flour (1 cup)

White sugar (1.5 tablespoon)

Baking powder (1 teaspoon)

Baking Soda (0.5 teaspoon)

Salt (0.25 teaspoon)

Milk (1 cup)

Egg (1)

Vegetable Oil (2 tablespoons)

Bowl for mixing/beating (2)

Waffle griddle machine

1. Mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt together in a bowl.

2. Mix the milk, egg and vegetable oil in another bowl. Beat until the mixture is even.

3. Heat up the waffle griddle.

4. Pour even mixture of Step 2 into mixture of Step 1. Beat until the mixture becomes smooth.

5. Pour the smooth mixture onto the griddle- do not pour excessively. Use the back of a spoon to even out the mixture on the griddle to prevent overflowing.

And you're done! Whee! Bring out the butter, honey or jam to eat with the waffles!

In Search for the Ultimate Gadget Junkie

2011-01-31T21:51:00.003+08:00

The last semester of school is supposedly slacker, but I'm not feeling it especially with the stress from FYP.

So anyway, in case you haven't found out:

Head over to GadSavvy for more details now!

MEOW ALONG

2011-01-19T02:18:00.003+08:00

Boo!

Feels like I've gotten possessed after donning my latest purchase from ASOS.

Don't you just love how quirky the cat frames are?
SAY MEOW with me!
Hahaha ok, peace out.

Rocky Horror @ Esplanade, Singapore

2011-01-18T12:40:00.006+08:00

Yes, this is my annual routine- to attend a musical at the Esplanade every year.

For 2011, it's the Rocky Horror Show by Richard O'Brien!

Personally, I love the Time Warp (WHO DOESN'T?!) and Juan's "Sweet Transvestite"!

The lightings were really good. I don't know why I am so fascinated by them every time I watch a musical. They do wonders!

(Couldn't resist grabbing a few images! View more here.)

I think we had a 20-minute autograph session because it was the last show for the Singapore leg.

Of course, I had to grab a few fan-girl shots! Especially for Pamy and Welyon who couldn't make it :(

I'm just a Sweet Transvestite from Transexual, Transylvania.....................

Saving Gaia

2011-01-08T16:51:00.002+08:00

Just in case you've been living in oblivion, here's what National Environment Agency has adopted for their 2011 campaign, which I like a lot.

Heaven on Earth

Music & Lyrics: Kathryn Cheng & Rafaee Mahmood

(Verse 1)

I dreamed of a world

Where everything was beautiful

The green forest lands

So peaceful and serene

Clear blue skies

Where rainbow birds fly free

The sparkling mountain river sings a song for me....

(Verse 2)

But dreams can't solve everything

Just take a look around

The Earth is our home

But we're breaking her down

The scars we've made

Have cut so deep

Can't you hear her voice cry beneath your feet?

(Chorus)

Is this Heaven on Earth?

Why have we forgotten?

Does our heaven deserve

All the pain we've given?

We've all got to change

Before it's too late

Save our Earth

Before she fades away

(Verse 3)

A memory of trees

A lifetime of ashes

No breath of life

The empty land is barren

As poison seeps into the sky

The blackened waves rise

Around you and I

(Chorus)

Is this Heaven on Earth?

Why have we forgotten?

Does our heaven deserve

All the pain we've given?

We've all got to change

Before it's too late

Save our Earth

Before she fades away

(Outro)

I dreamed of a world

Where everything was beautiful....

What resolutions?

2011-01-03T18:07:00.003+08:00

I actually enjoyed how I welcomed the new year.

Haha, yeah it's the 3rd now and I'm still reminiscing about the 1st.

No big deal for a party animal, but I am not one to begin with.

Yet the countdown event I was working at with Vivienne and Jessebella (made possible by Corde) at Amara Hotel was really fun. Probably because we self-induced all the fun we could have on the near-empty 'dance floor'.

Well, it was not that bad towards the end.

I hope no one recognised me. I was goofing around with two left feet.

Girls just want to have fun. :D

AOTW: MakeMe

2010-12-27T13:34:00.002+08:00

I have no idea why I downloaded this application but it kind of gives me sone cheap thrill (or rather, free thrill) so there!

Make your own avatar with MakeMe!

Yes, you have got to choose your gender. Just cross-dress later if you're unsure.

It is pretty idiot-proof so go have fun! There're many goodies locked up, so if you want, you can make the purchase for more choices.

What's the cheap thrill, you ask?

How about expressing an alternate side of you?

Here's mine.

Meet Agatha- she's the hugger-mugger nerd side of me who never got to see the light of the day. Pretty non-existent to people who know me. Haha.

This is my sister. Down-to-earth, girl-next-door (wait, that can be summarized to girl-next-door-on-earth). Oh, very importantly, with single eyelids.

Meet Adeline. No, it's not by choice that her skin colour is that of a mud doll. Cute okay. SARABt- Single and Readily-Available Bachelorette.

This is my bestie, Jane! She has enviable fair, porcelain skin such that a random (and obsessed) female passerby came up to her and scrutinized her face complexion in close proximity.

This is The Technical Guy. Not a zhai nan, not yet an uncle.

You can save the avatar to your contacts. So yes, you determine how your friend looks! Hohoho. I got a bit high realizing that it reflects on Whatsapp too. Whatever, I know.

All the little things.

2010-12-27T01:43:00.002+08:00

So I've heard that Chloe poo-ed at the wrong place again. Yeah, she screws it up randomly.

Apparently it wasn't her fault this time, and she tried to state so.

She was locked away from the tray because my mom wanted to separate Ashton and Chloe from fighting (playfully).

However this time Chloe barked after my sister shouted her name when she found out about the mishap.

Like, barked.

As though she's stating a disclaimer that she was forced under circumstances.

Hahahahahahaha.

So, she was spared from punishment for this time.

Trivia Santa facts

2010-12-24T12:50:00.002+08:00

Since I'm feeling all-so-festivey after a long walk along Orchard Road (thank goodness, ending exams on the 23rd Dec did not kill everything) yesterday, here are some things you might not know about the man whom everyone loves making demands to.

1. Santa Claus is also known as Father Christmas, Saint Nicholas, and Kris Kringle (?!).

2. Behind successful Santa lies Mrs. Claus- yes, Santa is a hot-bloodied male after all.

Yet, she may not be Santa's ideal choice though. It was the writer of a short story who designated him a wife.

3. How does Mrs. Claus look like? There isn't any fixed look.

She may look like that traditionally.

She looks like that, according to Chloe.

Your 3 year-old cousin may have treated her soft toy as Mrs. Claus.

Or to testosterone-enraged males, here's Mrs. FantastiClaus.

4. Nicholas (who became a Saint) was born in Parara, Turkey in 270 CE and became bishop of Myra.

5. Everyone knows Santa's ~~factory~~workshop is located at North Pole. Do you know "North Pole" is not the geographical North Pole, but the Magnetic North Pole? That particular area lies ambiguously between Russia, Norway, United States, Canada and Denmark.

6. Canada has stepped out and declare Santa Claus to be a Canadian citizen because his robe resembles the Canadian flag and that his postal code was H0H 0H0.

"The Government of Canada wishes Santa the very best in his Christmas Eve duties and wants to let him know that, as a Canadian citizen, he has the automatic right to re-enter Canada once his trip around the world is complete."

7. The Canadian Government would be disappointed to know that the red-white robes were actually an image successfully commercialised by Coca-Cola. The only thing that kept constant through the years was probably his beard. Coca-Cola's advertising with relations to Santa started in 1931, where their ads featured St. Nicks as a kind, jolly man in a red suit and white beard.

Someone, pass him some bread and wine?

Wah, plunging neckline huh.

Now, are reindeers biological mutations of goats?

8. Eight reindeers pull Santa's sleigh. Unlike Angry Birds' birds, these reindeers have unique names! How lovely. They are: Dasher and Dancer, Prancer and Vixen, Comet and Cupid, Donder and Blitzen.

Okay, that's about it. I need to spend my Christmas fruitfully.

MERRY CHRISTMAS, PEOPLE! :D

Digressions

2010-12-21T02:11:00.003+08:00

You know you're a tech junkie when all your outlets for digression from mugging have got to do with technology somehow.
Facebook. Twitter. Applications.

At the rate I'm going with my festive edition of Angry Birds, the Red Bird might just be me.

P/S: It's a pity Roxio (developer of the highly-addictive application) missed out on a great branding strategy to personify the birds further! Yes I just googled for the names of Angry Birds and they are Yellow Bird, Red Bird, Green Bird............................. Yawn.

Wait, what was I doing?

FML.

The purple patch

2010-12-11T16:08:00.001+08:00

Chloe must have gotten sick of her fur coat.

Apparently she got herself some purple highlights while I was asleep.

Here's her DIY dye kit:

Yes I'm monitoring her now. So far, so good. Hope those toxic stuff will be excreted.

Hottest Pre-nup video ever

2010-12-09T14:12:00.003+08:00

Music: Glorybox by Portishead

Shot with Ian Cruz

A Simple Act for a Great Cause

2010-12-03T22:00:00.005+08:00

RED ALERT: Ongoing Epidemic on Facebook

The virus is said to be able to change one's profile picture into a cartoon character.

And it will only subside from December 6, 2010 onwards.

WHUT.

Of course, I am kidding. Pun unintended.

Unleash the kid in you for kids across the globe:

”Until Monday (Dec 6), there should be no human faces on facebook, but a stash of memories. This is for eliminating violence against children”

Show your support (and relieve your childhood) by changing your facebook profile picture!

Initially I changed mine to Kero!

Kero-san is against all evil!

Yet, The Technical Guy pointed out that Kero-san is an anime character, and not a cartoon character. Fine.

So here's WonderWoman:

Wait, is he going to tell me she's a Comic Character and not a Cartoon Character? Hmm.

Brand New Not Worn

2010-12-02T22:31:00.003+08:00

Leatherette Flats

Luxe label - Manufactured by Agneselle

Classic. Elegance. Feminine. Chic.

With cushioning heels for the heels.
Anti slip sole

1 Pair in Size 38 (24.5cm)

In Nude shade.

$23.50 + $1.00 normal local postage

1 Pair in Size 38 (24.5cm)

In Ivory shade.

$23.50 + $1.00 normal local postage

Selling because I've gotten the wrong fit :(

To purchase, leave a comment here with your e-mail, or drop me an e-mail at christinet.work@gmail.com

Man's best friend

2010-12-01T12:03:00.003+08:00

In case you haven't heard, Danielle has gotten herself a Corgi!

Say hi to Ninja!

Corgis' trademark sleeping posture

Which reminds me of:

Here are more cute videos to keep you entertained:

Somehow Danielle's Ninja fuelled my love for Beagles. Hahahaha. Gee. Don't know how that works, but okay sure.

What would a compliment comprise of?

2010-11-23T01:08:00.003+08:00

As I was filling up the information sheet for my QnA as a Freshlook Illuminate Ambassador, I stumbled upon a question for the longest time ever.

8. Best compliment about yourself

What? I... don't really remember any. Or rather, I have never come across one that I strongly resonate with, especially those that has got to do with looks. I hardly consider myself to be one of the best-looking people around.

Nothing much left, eh? I'm not exactly the sunshine amongst my friends, such that gatherings would be less fun without me. I'm not exactly the sweetest person around, because, well, I like to poke fun and be sarcastic sometimes. Haha. Neither am I the girl of every man's dream because I have a quick temper, and can hardly cook.

In the end, I gave a rather flat reply for that question:

"Many others would want to be in your position-
own what you have, live the life you're living."

It isn't a compliment to begin with- more of a reminder someone said to me when I was feeling down. I note it down mentally as a compliment so that when I try to find redeeming qualities about myself when life gets tough, it makes me feel less horrible .

So what's the best compliment you've heard about yourself? I'm all ears. :)

Hohoho, season's greetings!

2010-11-21T11:30:00.001+08:00

Thinking of hosting a Christmas 'gift-away' here for all the unopened cosmetics lying on my vanity table. For now there's Clinique, L'Oreal, Anna Sui, Benefit.

What say you? :)

Fabric-ated culture

2010-11-17T13:48:00.005+08:00

When I was younger, I had this intention to collect ethnic costumes if I were to travel around the world. Don't you think the piece of garment speaks a lot about the culture?

I'm currently obsessed with saris. Just check these out:

Love the fabric and how flattering the saris are! Quite conventional, I hear you say. Here are the fusionised ones:

With Chinese, Vietnamese influences

With East European influences

With Western influences

You know what? Time for Miss Singapore Universe to don one of these, instead of some Merlion-inspired outfits.

P/S: If you are thinking of making purchases, I grabbed the pictures from here.

Review: Shiseido's Tsubaki Damage Care Shampoo

2010-11-16T22:22:00.004+08:00

Label Description:
Shiseido TSUBAKI Damage Care Shampoo with Tsubaki Amino contains the newly innovated amino ingredients, with high penetrating ability to repair damaged hair.

Shiseido TSUBAKI Damage Care Shampoo with Tsubaki Amino can help increase hair density, add shine and elasticity. Give you beautiful and outstanding hair color. The natural flower fragrance makes you feel in forest. Apply with Shiseido Tsubaki Conditioner for perfect results.

I chanced upon Tsubaki Damage Care shampoo on the racks of Watsons (Jurong Point) when I was shopping for a new brand. I am slightly amused that I had initially wanted to settle on Essentials or back to Organix Hydrating Teatree Mint Shampoo, but walked out of Watsons with a 220-ml bottle of Tsubaki Damage Care shampoo purely based on the label description and the scent.

Initial hair condition: Undergone many chemical treatments- most recently, rebonding. Straight, Mid-long, dyed hair.

Scent: I don't really like wearing fruity scents- just my own opinion. The shampoo smells mild yet soothing, possibly due to the main ingredient Camellia (Tsubaki in Japanese).

Usage: Product texture was normal. I noticed my hair doesn't entangle as much when I was massaging the shampoo on my scalp.

Effect: I don't know about you, but I've always felt that the apparently good condition of my hair after each use of a drugstore shampoo was due to this invisible coat of wax/shine/fill-in-the-blank. To me, it only serves as a temporary disguise and I'd never leave the use of a conditioner out of the equation. However, I decided against using a conditioner for the first few times to evaluate the effectiveness of the shampoo. Guess what? I could really leave the house without conditioning my hair, or even applying serum. For once, I am willing to indulge (yes, I am No. 1 skeptical consumer) in the thought that the shampoo is indeed working on improving my hair condition inside-out. My hair feels smoother and more manageable. The ends of my hair strands look less wispy . The hair condition seems to improve after every use- I have been using it for at least 4 times. I'd definitely buy the conditioner and mask that are available in the Singapore market. The full range is not available yet.

On a side note, Tsubaki was first launched in Japan at least 3 years ago? They have introduced a revised formula for their native market currently.

Final verdict: If you're willing to splurge a little more to see results, then this is definitely for you. The smaller packaging I bought costs SGD9.90 if I didn't remember wrongly. And the full-sized bottle costs SGD20 or less.

FYI, Shiseido's Tsubaki also has the red range that's for dull and dehydrated hair. I've yet to try it though.

Cheers to perfect eyesight

2010-11-15T21:56:00.002+08:00

Well, in case you want to know, the degree for both of my eyes is 200. Not that bad, but not perfect either. Just as I was on the lookout for contact lens brands, I got selected to try out 1 month's worth of Freshlook Illuminate contact lens! It seems pretty comfortable and natural when I tried the trial pair for their event in Plaza Singapura last Saturday. Let's see how it goes! :)

Introducing the latest brush in town-

2010-11-15T21:17:00.001+08:00

But, you wouldn't want to use this blush brush (say that 10 times!).

Some Miranda Kerr

2010-11-11T22:30:00.001+08:00

In case you don't know how adorable Miranda is:

Aww!

No Miranda Kerr

2010-11-11T22:02:00.005+08:00

The Annual Victoria's Secret Fashion Show is here!

Well, almost. 30 Nov, though it has taken place.

I'm upset that Miranda Kerr is not in the show (in case you don't know, she's expecting).

Thankfully there's Alessandra Ambrosio, Chanel Iman and Gracie Carvalho (who, in my opinion, has resemblance to Rachel E of TNPNF 2010)!

More pictures over here!

Kaching kaching at ASOS.com

2010-11-11T00:04:00.001+08:00

Retail ~~damage~~ therapy.

The Rumour Mill

2010-11-09T21:34:00.004+08:00

Sticks and stones may break my bones,
but words will never hurt me.

You think? Just as how images may be doctored, words can be twisted.

People remain mostly apprehensive when they chanced upon a ridiculous image, but when it comes to words, people let these hearsay cloud their judgment- regardless of the fact that words themselves can be fabricated.

As much as one may claim to be a victim of these rumour mills, I'm sure he/she must have contributed to the grapevine for other issues.

I managed to squeeze some time for 'Easy A'- the movie, thanks to Qais Consulting and Sony Pictures. Emma Stone plays the lead role, Olive- a high-school girl of squeaky clean image who came to realise how a supposedly-white lie in attempt to advance her social standing wrecked her reputation, and almost her life. Penn Badgley (better known as Dan Humphrey- ha!) plays her knight in shiny armour- metaphorically, of course.

The whole movie just reminds me of Gossip Girl- minus the glamour. Yet there were various scenes where I really laughed out loud, like the bedroom scene where they were trying all other ways to trick the partygoers eavesdropping at the door that they were doing it.

I would rate it 3/5 perhaps, i.e. catch it at off-peak timings!

By the way, I really enjoyed how Emma Stone played the temptress. HAHAHA.

Chloe the SuperDog

2010-11-07T16:15:00.001+08:00

Mama said I'd just have to hide so that the monster-thieves won't appear in my dreams anymore.

Ain't working. Okay, I just got conned- again.

B for Bobbi Brown

2010-11-06T09:14:00.000+08:00

Thanks to Qais, I got to attend Bobbi Brown's make-up workshop!

~~Who are you kidding, man? You know I'm such a make-up junkie!~~

As promised, we got to try out the full range of Bobbi Brown's products! Make-up cleanser, moisturizer, foundation, eye shadows...... you get the drift.

Thankfully, Rui and I didn't miss out much- we were late because of my afternoon class.

Basically, these are the 2 looks for this season! Smoky VS Sultry. Either way, it spells M-E-O-W!

If you've been noticing Bobbi Brown's collections, they have always been very warm- filled with browns, golds etc. Simply put, there's nothing about their collection that is over the top; Bobbi Brown has always aimed to bring out your best features subtly, yet alluringly.

With their products, the trainers and beauty advisors taught us how to achieve two different looks via the Bobbi Brown way.

If you do it the paranoiamakesme way, it is a 3-step process comprising of concealing blemishes, drawing brows, lining your eyes! Hahahaha. Easy, breezy- and also lazy!

So, you ask: How to do it the Bobbi Brown way?

It's actually a 10-step process which consists of:

1. The corrector/concealer- You'd need the corrector only when your dark eye rings are very obvious. The corrector is in visibly brighter shade (meant to be toned down to your skin tone with the concealer) to help perk you up!

2. Foundation: Always note that you should always apply foundation inside-out in a downward motion. A beauty advisor said it's basically in the same direction as your hair growth. Otherwise, it might clog your pores.

3. Loose powder: To 'set' your foundation

4. Bronzer/Blusher: Smile to locate the apples of your cheek

5. Lipstick

6. Lip liner

7. Eyebrows

8. Eyeshadow

9. Eyeliner

10. Mascara: Strictly no falsies for a true, blue Bobbi B. lady!

Check out their simplified video tutorial here on Facebook!

Left: Step 1-5, Right: Complete look

Like the red lippie? I think it's Vixen Red, retailing at SGD$33!

Rui and I were saying how red lippie actually can make one look fresher.

Anyway, use nude shades for your eyeshadow if you're going red for your lips!

Unless you're doing a Taylor Momsen:

I'm actually contemplating investing in a red lippie now. Haha!

Next, we tried the smoky look:

Now the eyes are the main feature; lips are to go nude as the secondary feature

I think my eyeshadow shade is Denim.

I love both of the looks! Anyway I overheard a blogger requesting a beauty advisor to help her with the smoky look because she "always look(ed) punched" when she did it herself. I'd think that brushes would help solve the problem! With an eye shadow and eye contour brush, you should be able to fill up your eye socket with the dark shade. If the dark shade at the crease of your eyes seem too harsh, soften it with a light shade (preferably the one you dapped below your brows to highlight your brow bone) and you're more or less done! Things might get messy when using your fingers (or any other way which I cannot imagine) to dap the eyeshadow onto your eyelids.

Tired, but happy! <3

Bumped into Niki- a great colleague-friend I've got to
know during my internship! Check her out!

I can't wait for my make-over in end-Nov! Have you heard about Choose Your Glam Bobbi Brown Makover?

A personalized makeover, professional hairstyle, a glam photo shoot, a portrait and a chance to win a year long supply of Bobbi Brown products worth S$ 500. All for S$ 100 per person!

Hop over to Bobbi Brown's fanpage tab 'ChooseYourGlam' on Facebook to sign up!

c'est la vie?

2010-11-05T01:30:00.001+08:00

how. why. what.

I need answers to these questions.

It's been some time

2010-11-04T22:26:00.003+08:00

Woo, almost fell asleep while doing facial just now! It's been some time since I last did a facial. I feel guilty for signing on a package because I don't have income inflow due to academic commitments. Oh well, I'll earn it back when 2011 comes.

On a side note, I realised I enjoy massages and facials so much more than manicures and pedicures. Maybe it's the nail filing that makes me feel very uncomfortable- it gives me the jitters and goosebumps.

On a random note, it sucks to be me. I'm just reminded that the end of this semester is coming to an end- that is on the eve of the eve of Christmas.

Well done, I say.

Anyway, stay tuned for my Bobbi Brown's workshop post!