Review before 2016...

I should have done this review in June, like a mid-year progress check but I think I forgot about it. Hahahaha. So, we'll just do it at the end of the year ya?
Before I whisk off to Bangkok for the new year, let's talk about what I've done and not done for those resolutions that I set out to complete in 2015.

Alright then. So looking at the 2015 Resolutions, Super "Proud" (ahem *ashamed* ahem) to say that I have achieved 4.5/10.

Let's talk about those I achieved.
(1) Eat Healthier & exercise more +.5
Technically, I am eating healthier but I dont see myself exercising more. At least not much different from the previous year. Now that I've received a FITBIT on my birthday, let's try running more in 2016.

(4) Spend more time reading
Essentially, I only got my kindle after my birthday, but yes, I've been caught up with all the paperbacks I've stocked up on previously. Yes, nerdball here but who cares? I love me fictions and fantasies. A girl can dream. Hahaha.

(5) Spend more time with my family
Probably because of school, I'm getting off work earlier and home more often. My schedule's like schools on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays nights. And when I dont have classes, I either finish rushing my work or to head home earlier to rest. Somehow, somewhat, through all these rushing, more time is spent with the family which is something I am pretty happy about.

(6) Revamp the house
If you've been reading my blog since July, you would have noticed a few renovation photos. So yes, this is definitely checked!

(10) Consider School
I was supposed to seriously consider school. The keyword here (or there) was CONSIDER. However, when I was looking through the applications, good timing I may say, I chanced upon a 'recruitment talk' for Murdoch with Kaplan. One of the choices I was considering before. And almost right after the talk, I signed up. So instead of considering, I've made the choice and yes, I am suffering the effects now. Hahaha.

As for those I failed to achieve are:
(2) Get Lasik Done
I had to save my savings for school fees so... this just has to wait.

(3) Get attached
Hahahahahaha. I received many questions about this too cause I am at that age where my friends are all starting to get married or engaged. So... my answer for now is... I want to. However, I cannot be selfish. I hardly have time for myself after the work and school. I cannot imagine someone giving me only 10% (or 5%) of their attention and I can't do the same to someone else. So yes, this too have to wait till I graduate.

(7) Work hard & (9) Get Promoted
It's always disappointing when you know you've done your best but the results just doesn't show ehs? Yeah, this was it. Pissed off but there is nothing I can do but wait till the day it comes. Even though I can only wit till 2016, let's just hope it comes soon.

(8) Play hard
Truthfully, I highly doubt I have been able to play at all, let alone hard. This year has been tough but I'm toughing it out like I usually do. Sow the seeds and bear the fruits. Hopefully, the fruits will ripen by Sep (since I will end school then - provided I pass all my units) and everything is much easier then.

To a better year! Will share my 2016 Resolutions after Bangkok. Some fresh air to think, some money to spend before I decide on anything. Hahaha! Cheers, and have a happy new year guys!

A “Korean” Skin Care Routine

People always rave about how good Koreans skin is but do you know how particular they are about the basics? There’s always this “10-Steps” regime that they follow to a T on a daily basis. I will share my own adapted version below which is slightly more than “10-Steps”. Hahaha.

Even if you’re not a make-up person like me, but if you do put on sunblock, you need to remove it as if you’re removing make up. So yes, I double cleanse my face every night. In a month, I am proud to say that my face is ¾ clear. As a girl, I am always bothered by PMS breakouts. So, aside from that, all’s well.

Start off with an Oil Cleanser. For me, it will be the SKINFOOD’s BLACK SUGAR OIL CLEANSER and it has a very lemony (not citrus, just lemon) smell that I love. Always start your oil cleanse with clean hands, in fact, never touch your face without washing them first! Wash your hands thoroughly, wipe them dry and then pump 2-3 pumps of oil and start massaging them into your skin. You can add a little water to emulsify it for better cleansing.

After which, I will continue with a Bubble/ Cream cleanser. Currently, I am using the Hada labo AHA/BHA Bubble Cleanser. Frankly, I feel that the moisturising effect for this is not quite sufficient so I might actually switch back to the hydrating cream cleanser.

On alternate days, I will exfoliate my skin to remove all the dead skin cells. This tub of St. Ives Apricot Scrub can go a LONG LONG way since you only need a pinch. It comes in both a tub and a tube and it costs less than 10SGD. Sometimes, I will skip a day in between. Meaning, instead of exfoliating on 1357, I will do it on 151. If you don't get my numbers, they represent the days each week. There’s really no need to exfoliate your skin too much but you should always do it to remove build-up.

The next stop will be toning. I use a variety of toners. Technically steps 4 and 5 are both toners. Step 4 is more of a cleansing toner while Step 5 is more of a hydrating toner.

Since I have fairly sensitive skin, I choose my toners carefully to avoid alcohol as much as I can. Usually I am using the ICM Witch Hazel and Rose Water. 

Witch Hazel is very good for sensitive skin, however, it smells pretty strong and most people may not like it. Guardian has their own house brand but it does contain alcohol so I prefer the ICM brand since it is alcohol free and gentler on the skin. You can find it at the pharmaceutical section of TTSH, Unity and selected Guardian stores – where all the bandages and rubbing alcohol are – for approximately 6SGD. It does a pretty good job in keeping your skin clear and refreshed.

While shopping on Qoo10 one day, I saw highly advertised “BEAUTY WATER” and was attracted to it because of the sleek bottle. 

Yes, I’m superficial like that. Hahaha. When it arrived, I started using it as a night toner and I loved it since. It smells a little peculiar. I’m not too sure how to describe it but it’s a good kind of peculiar. Hahaha. It really cleanses well and it also leaves your face refreshed after.

Enough about Cleansing Toners, and moving on to moisturising toners, I am in love with HADA LABO Hydrating SHA Lotion. I know it is advertised to use it by dripping a few drops onto your palms and spreading it across your face while patting dry for maximum absorption. However, there was one day where I was confused – since I pour my contents into pump bottles for easy usage – and I pumped the contents of the wrong bottle onto the ‘toner cloths’ and used them on my face. I pat my toners on my face as well and when I realised the error, I also realised that my skin actually felt softer. Since then, I have been using it this way. Hahaha. Trial and Error, I guess!

About the ‘Toner Cloths’ – I’m actually not sure if this is the right name for it but instead of using cotton pads that soak up most of your product, I use these ‘toner cloths’ that are more like your wet tissue materials, just dry and already pre-cut into squares. Hahaha. They don't soak up your product much as they just act as a barrier to help remove dirt and also ‘return’ the products to your face. Hmm. I don't know if it makes sense to you. I found a similar or possibly same item online here it might give you a better idea? 

Alright, so where am I? Right, Step 6. Frankly, I still can’t decide whether the HADA LABO Moisturizing SHA Cream or the regular Moisturizing Cream is better. Both do help to moisturise my skin but I think the SHA one will help to lighten scars though I can’t really judge that. Essentially, do remember that even with a hydrating lotion, you need to moisturize. 
Keep in mind that, 

Hydrating ≠ Moisturising. 

You need both to keep your skin healthy and glowing.

When I visited Korea the last time, the lady at the cosmetic shop told me that I did not need to start on any eye or neck cream. I was only 19 back then. Even in Korea, they usually only start these creams at the age of 25. If you need to, use it marginally. I do use it only on a weekly basis for now as the skin near your eyes (in your 20s) is still very young and sensitive. Exposing them to such strong products will make them more dependant in future. So, limited usage ya?

Sheet Masks – the ultimate convenience! Most of you know that I travel a lot of work and most of the time, I do not check in any luggages because of the ‘fast-in-fast-out’ results from work. So, I always make sure to pack sheet masks with me when I travel, in case I can't pack enough bottles in my carry-on. Sometimes, I even use it on a daily basis when I am abroad because the air (up there, literally) dries up your skin even when you don't feel it yet. While I’m on land in Singapore, I will try to use it at least twice a week. And my all-time favourite for now is THEFACE SHOP 3D Ampoule Mask Sheet Hyaluronic Acid & Colostrum mask. It’s a 2 step mask where you first apply the ampoule and then the sheet mask.

After that, I will follow up with emulsion/ serum. In my case, I use Horse Oil as my emulsion. Sounds weird? Hahaha. Have you heard of the highly-raved “Horse Oil” lately? It’s been crazy hot selling in Qoo10 (various brands) and almost all major retailers have started to carry them. Isetan and BHG carry the GUERISSION brand from Germany.

Spot the orange round box on the shelves. It is almost everywhere all of a sudden. A friend told me that Horse Oil has been popular in Japan since long ago and that it is an all-purpose moisturises for the entire household. By that, I meant that you can use it from head to toe and for all ages. I’m not sure if the same applies for the GUERISSION brand though. Anyhow, when my colleagues went to Japan, I asked them to get me a few bottles and they got me three different brands.

I heard the Son Bahyu is the best but I’ve got 2 common pharmaceutical brands as well. All of them cost no more than 15SGD each. Yes, you’ve read right, the bottles of this volume will sell for more than 30SGD in Singapore. So, if you’re really interest to try it out, if you do visit Japan or have any friends visiting, ask them to get you a bottle first. From what I know, all major drug stores carry some - even the ones at the airport. It is THAT common. You just have to utter the words “BAH YU” which translates to 马油 or Horse Oil. And yes, sorry for digressing but I have been using them in my skincare routine and my hair too! Both of which are seemingly healthier now.

When the skin is bad with breakouts, I will follow-up with some acne care first. I am a great fan of essential oils and have been using them in my skincare routine. I took a mini workshop about blending of essential oils before so sometimes, I will mix my own blend for my skin or headaches, etc. When dealing with essential oils, always remember… “A little goes a long way”. Too much of the essential oil – without the right proportions will actually make your skin worse than what you started off with. So, please take care ya? Nonetheless, I use THURSDAY PLANTATION’s Blemish Gel for acne. I used to get the Blemish Stick from Australia.

Imagine a lip gloss applicator, but the same tube and brush for your acne. Convenient, isn’t it? Too bad, the blemish stick is not available in Singapore so I just had to settle for the gel.

Last but not least, to end off, finish your routine with a sleeping mask to seal in all the moisture and then some more! Hahaha. Sounds like a very long list of things to do but frankly, all these take less than 10mins. It really won’t take up much of your sleep time. 

If you're thinking how I slap so many products on my face in the morning, I don't. This is mainly a night routine. However, the morning routine is somewhat similar. Lookout for those coloured in orange, from Cleansing to Toning to Hydrating to Moisturising and Sun Blocking – the 5 main steps for the day. Remember, taking care of your skin the right way is much better than spending hundreds on your products. Hope you find this helpful! 


Most products can be easily purchased from major pharmacies - Guardian, Watsons, Unity - in Singapore except 
4. Beauty Water, and, 
9. BAHYU/ 马油/ Horse Oil

Click on the names above and it should link you up to the best online seller/ bargain that I've found thus far! Do note that I have not bought the BAHYU from that seller before. Please vet through and unless you're comfortable ordering from that blogshop, continue. If not, I guess it would be better to first try the GUERISSION brands first.

As for Skinfood and Faceshop, you should be linked to the store directory so that you can easily pinpoint the nearest outlet for your convenience.
1. Skinfood Black Sugar Oil Cleanser
8. The Face Shop 3D Ampoule Mask Sheet Hyaluronic Acid & Colostrum mask

Sorry, this post got much longer than I planned. Thank you for reading. Cheers~!

Season of giving...

Christmas is around the corner again and I always like how giving people are - kinder than usual and more tolerant to mistakes (Not that I'm making any)... But yeah, you get what I mean. Season of giving yo!

Before actually talking about Christmas, I just want to babble about my presents!! As in, birthday presents~ Hahaha. I received my Kindle – that I bought for myself, and my SOUFEEL bracelet – that I designed and bought for myself. They arrived 2 days after my birthday. Let’s just say, it’s a belated birthday present and an early Christmas present for myself. Hahaha.

 

Super stoked to receive these items. Have been using the kindle and I can’t really put it down. It’s the bookworm in me that’s not allowing me to drop any books until I complete them. And with the lightness of the Kindle, it’s just awesome~! Only downside is that although font and colour looks like a book, the feel is not that exact anymore. I love the smell of new books. Am so gonna miss them now. Hahaha.

And, about the SOUFEEL bracelet, I knew about this because of cousin MEOW. She made it for another cousin as a wedding present. Do you know you can customise charms to your own design? Check out the website and yes, there is a template to follow but this already gives you so much to work with than PANDORA. With that in mind, and since I’ve always wanted a non-gawky looking allergy bracelet, I created ‘artworks’ for my allergies and sent it in for printing. The outcome was pretty good, I think. Not too bad for a “PANDORA” bracelet with a cheaper price tag. Do note that I read online that PANDORA charms will work on this bracelet but these charms may not work on PANDORA bracelets because they have no threads. There is neither safety chain nor chip for SOUFEEL bracelets. However, they do have their version of a ‘stopper’ to help stop the bracelet from ‘swinging’ too much. Since I already have a full Pandora bracelet, this gives me more ‘space’ to work with. Whee-oh-whee~!

And yes, I also received something I wanted for a long time ever since my MiBand got drowned in water… and that is… fitbit. My team got it for me, and it’s my favourite colour. Green/ Teal/ Mint yo! Hahaha. Although I already got the tracker from National Steps Challenge, I will use fitbit when I run. Until the NSC ends, I will switch back to my watches and fitbit…

My Boss drew a "FIToBITo" for me while the NSC tracker is on the right.

The actual fitbit that I received

Alright, back to the topic of this post – SEASON OF GIVING… This year, I was really interested in the “SNOWMAN SOUP” that I saw on Pinterest. It’s so adorable, I can’t really say no to it. And its not exactly expensive either. All you need is:

• Marshmallows (preferably small ones)
• Hot Cocoa Mix, and,
• Bags/ Containers (depending on your personal preference and design).

All images taken from Google/ Pinterest

That said, I didn't have enough time to create those cute hats for the top of the bag seal because if I did, I have to cut them down to size properly and past the stripes accordingly.

So, instead of that, to try to be more sincere, I tried to create and design this card to personalise/ customise it to the Singapore Weather. Hahaha. Effort okay? So here’s how it went,

December rains like snow in Singapore, 

Temperatures drop and cool some more, 

Sipping a cuppa Snowman Soup, 

Warm yourselves and share a scoop!

My own version... :)

The usual (regular) version you find on the net/ pinterest is:

Was told you've been real good all year, always glad to hear it!

With freezing weather drawing near, you'll need to warm the spirit.

So, here's a little snowman soup, complete with stirring stick.

Just add hot water & sip it slow.

It's sure to do the trick!

So yes, each year, I will prepare these small gifts for all (almost) my colleagues. Just a little thought to warm our hearts, I think. It doesn't hurt my wallet (giver) since they are all small gifts and not so expensive, all you need is to invest a little more time. Of course, friends and colleagues closer to heart will not only receive these but also more interesting presents. I specially ‘designed’ hand phone covers for my team like below and went on a shopping spree for my other friends and colleagues. 

Like I said, season of giving, it's the one time of the year where it feels really good to spend money and give back. Hahaha. Well, to me at least…

Cheers to a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

2 cycles, 24 years.

If you're wondering what I meant by 2 cycles, 24 years, I am talking about the Chinese Zodiac Cycles. You know how the zodiac repeats itself every 12 years since there are 12 animals? Since I was born in the year of the ram, this year marks the second ram year since my birth, which basically translates to me being 24 this year.

I swear, whoever came up with “time flies” is damn smart. Or rather, it should have been teleport, but since teleportation is not an exact nor actual form of transportation yet, I guess we just have to settle with flying. Hahaha. Seriously, it seems like just yesterday that I celebrated my 21^st – with that crazy pool party that you-know-I –know. Hahaha. And 3 years just swoosh by.

My AWESOME 21st Birthday Cake that cost a BOMB...
Not worth it. Even it was awesomely good. Hahaha.

I seem to be saying this every year but ever since I celebrated my 21^st, I wanted my birthdays to be more meaningful. The older I am, the more I feel it’s time to contribute to the society. This year, the initial plan was to volunteer at a home, but I didn't have time to plan for it so, I decided (with my mum) to do a small get together at my place, after the renos were done, we haven’t had our friends over yet. And to thank them for their “support” during the reno period, we decided on an ever-tempting CRAB PARTY. So yes, this dinner was also on my Birthday since it was the first Saturday after my cursed exams and that my mum – the main chef – had to work on all remaining Saturdays in December.

Credits to Grace

Anyhow, the day started with collecting my “National Steps Challenge” Tracker from HPB. If you do not know what it is, please do read up from the link above. You can earn points and redeem vouchers just by accumulating your steps daily. I read that this activity or registration will end on 31 Dec but they also mentioned a season 2 coming up. Read through if you would like...

Anyhow, back to the CRAB PARTY. This idea generated from my continuous crab posts from few weeks or months back that was ever so tempting to my colleagues. 

And most of us love seafood – although we hate the hassle, the love overpowers all messiness. Hahaha. And yes, they did try to surprise me with a cake. Keyword, TRY! Hahaha. Initially, I had no intention of celebrating my birthday. It was just a gathering so I even rejected my mum when she said she wanted to get a cake. Then on 11^th Dec, a few things happened that prompted suspicion.

My mum texted me that she wasn’t feeling well, which she really wasn’t since she was starting to burn up… I saw her text right after my paper and was worried I will have to call off the entire gathering. She told me to not worry and just get her Panadol. Getting her Panadol is nothing as simple as JUST. Most people that know me know I don’t take Panadol. Haven’t been taking them for years and all of a sudden, when your mum says to get it, of course you do! Since it was rather late – almost 10pm, I went to 7-11 to get it. The Panadols at 7-11 were kept behind the cash register. So I had to request for it and when I did, the lady asked me which one I wanted. So logically, I said the most basic one for fever. She replied, “They are all for fever, cold and pain.” I was like, WTH. What am I supposed to do? Panic of the year, maybe. Hahaha. Since all of them were behind the counter, I asked her to let me see the boxes and read for myself. She seems rather irritated at that point in time. Her tone of voice was hinting me like, How can you not know about Panadol and which one you wanted?

In any case, when I was staring at the boxes, she was right – of course she was – that all of them had Paracetamol which helps to bring down fever. That little bit of pharmaceuticals, I know. Hahaha. So, the only lifeline I had was my dad who was in the car waiting. I called and asked what was best, and he said the very normal and regular one. And guess what, that also had 2 types!!! Oh god, I couldn't decide. Even the lady was pissed. In the end, I chose the capsulated regular Panadol because it was printed on the box that it is gentler on the stomach. And yes, even for something that cost 5bucks or less, the lady was damn pissed and I wasted more than 15mins there. Hahaha. Joke and Panic of the year, seriously.

Once I got home, I checked in with my mum and wanted to take the meds to her. But I just got her water and the entire strip of Panadol. She looked at me, puzzled, and said, “你给我一整片做么？” So I explained that I was worried it will cause a reaction if I touched it. Allergy symptoms were scary and painful. I hate them so much that I always make sure to pay extra attention to what I do to avoid the, She nodded and ‘extracted’ the pill herself and looking at her condition, I texted the group that “Ladies, I might have to cancel tomorrow. 主厨生病了。”

Then almost everyone came back with, WHY. Don't. DC even said that she will cook, etc. Hahaha. It was already suspicious, the way they were so adamant about not postponing or cancelling. Hahaha. So I said I will judge the next morning…
And, when the clock struck 12 (i.e. 12^th Dec), a colleague of mine (W) wished me HBD from Japan and sort of got scolded by DC via our group chat. This made me even more suspicious. Hahaha. I didn't want them to think that this invitation was for my birthday – which it wasn't – so I didn't say anything about it. Apparently, my awesome colleagues remembered and they were attempting to surprise me. If not for this open “lecture”, I would not have known they were doing something. That is of course, not including them trying to hide the cake from me when we met at NEX and also, exposing the cake while I am trying to fit the drinks into the fridge. My mum was also saying, “you friend (DT) very funny. Ask me if she can put the drinks inside the fridge but that is paper bag. 这么明显。不跟我说实话就算了，还很可爱的想把蛋糕盒子和纸带一起放进冰箱。”

Leaving you with the awesome cake and us, Cheers!

Black Friday...Cyber Monday

Anyone made any purchases over Black Friday and Cyber Monday?

In case you're not aware, 'Black Friday' is the Friday after Thanksgiving Day - usually the fourth Thursday of November. Usually in western countries, stores are not open on Thanksgiving Day and many people will start their Christmas shopping the next day and more so over the weekend.
However, there were reports that some consumers were unable to shop over the weekend which resulted in more online shopping from Monday onwards that resulted in the new term and promotional gimmick, 'Cyber Monday'.

And yes, I fell for that. Hahaha. Finally purchased a Kindle from Amazon - 2015 Paperwhite - for approximately 150SGD, not inclusive of shipment. With the increasing amount of story books at my place with no storage space, I think it's a fine investment for the many more novels ahead.

Managed to get into the trial Amazon Prime that allows for free delivery within 2 days. Placed my order yesterday and expected to arrive at the forwarders' warehouse by tomorrow 8pm. How wonderful is that?

I hope everyone had their fill of shopping yesterday and the weekend before... Looking forward to the arrival of my Kindle - in my hands - in one to two weeks time! Will share updates again then. Till then, Cheers and have a good night~!

Two-for-One

Don't get me wrong. I'm not talking about my block but the famous...
6241-0-241... Canadian Pizza, Two for One!

Anyhow. Ordered pizza for dinner a few days back and they were giving out free Churros. It came hot and fresh with the pizzas. The pizzas were pretty good and so were the wings.

When I finally tried the Churros, I was sadly disappointed. I wasn't a huge fan of Churros but I like the concept of it. So when I knew it was coming free, I was excited. Knowing it will be free but worried it won't be good.

True enough. It was disappointing. It was nothing like what I had in Seattle. Nor was it anything like what I had at Sarnies. Don't try cause I don't think it's worth the effort. But, to each our own. You can try and let me know what you think. Cheers!

A bad scare~

I think I posted on Facebook a few days back that my personal phone was down and recovered the next day.

So here's the story.

I was at a seminar when my phone prompted me to update it. Since there was WiFi, I decided to update it there and then lest I forget it when I get home.

It took about 25mins or so for the entire update to complete. And I mean, downloading and rebooting after application. But here's the catch...

...

After updating my phone, I was greeted with a blank white screen after I slide the wallpaper off. Initially, I thought it was only a lag. But it didn't recover after 5mins. Then when I slide it off again, it was the same. Again and again. Shock and in a panic, I took another hour or so to reboot and try all ways to recover it but still failed.

So, I used my iPad, which was also connected to the net to search for solutions and at the same time, connected the Mi service chat. Did I mention that I'm using XiaoMi? Yes, Mi4i. So, the lady at the service chat, whose name I'd forgotten told me to get to a PC, connect my phone and fastboot it. And she sent me a set of detailed instructions, which I'll get to in a minute. So, I told her that I don't have any PC around me at the moment and will try her method when I get home. Before ending off, she warned me that data might be wiped in the process. I mean. If the phone can be recovered, I guess data being wiped is just a little price to pay.

Worried although irritated, I didn't know if i would be able to revive the phone before meeting my friends for dinner and drinks that night. Managed to contact my friend via Facebook messenger which functions on my iPad as well. Smart right? Hahahaha. But seriously, who remembers numbers at this age right? Except my parents and my own mobile numbers, I doubt I remember any one else's.

Anyhow, when I got home, I started fumbling with the set of detailed instructions given by the service chat lady - which by the way was quite outdated. As the screenshots featured were of an older version of the fastboot application. There were many more buttons on this new application that the screenshots didn't have. Even though that manual was rather detailed, I had to figure my way out around the on my own. After which, there was no effect on my phone. I still saw the same white screen after the wallpaper. Yes, potentially I might have already wiped my data but I didn't recover my phone.

Angry and with dampened spirits, I didn't meet my friends for dinner nor drinks cause there was simply no mood. Found the designated service centre in Singapore and decided to visit that place first thing the next morning.

When I arrived at the service centre, I patiently waited for me turn. If was probably a quick 10mins wait. Then when it was my turn, I explained the situation to the friendly guy at the counter. Literally showing him what I meant. So he smiled and asked, "this happened when you updated your phone ya? So what's your lock type?"

I couldn't really understand what he meant so after few clarifications, I realised he wanted to know if my phone lock was pattern or numeric and if numeric, he would like to know the combination. And so I told him. And the magic happened. Hahahaha. He started keying in the password on that white screen, assuming where the numerics are and wala! The screen came alive! After all that fuss, the only issue was one thing. And simple at that - the theme I was using was not compatible with the latest update. So by changing the theme, everything became normal again! It took less than a minute for me to get my phone back. Was actually a little mad at the lady that told me to fastboot my phone and prepare for the loss of data because it was not the problem at all. Sigh.

Yeah. So that was the bad scare. Hahahaha. Probably wasted a few minutes of your time but yeah. Don't trust those service chats! Hahahaha. Go XiaoMi!

"Back to office" pains

In a retail line, there is no such thing as weekends, public holidays and occasionally off and leave days. Why? Because the stores are open for the public to shop on all days.

That said, when I started as a retail staff, I have gotten used to and resigned to fate of not having any of such luxuries.

However, after I got transferred to the HQ, work days start to get more routine. In general, you will get weekends off BUT you will need to be on standby. Especially when you have a company phone. People from stores may call you anytime. Or even email you at odd hours expecting a reply.

That said, I have always disliked people contacting me for non-urgent stuff when I've clearly indicated an out of office email stating that I will be on leave and the date I shall return. Yet, there will be those who ignores those email and disturb your calm peace on leave.

But that has been improving lately. The locals especially have been "educating" the Japs by intentionally ignoring their non-urgent mails or calls. So its a work in progress. Improving but slowly.

What I hate about going on leave is what I have to deal with when I'm back. The 3-figure unread emails, and a ton of routine to complete. This is precisely why people feel like shit the night before they return to work. It's the last day  of sanity. The last day of peace. And all hell breaks loose after 8 hours of sleep (or less).

These days. I try to take leaves one day at a time, just extending my weekend by one day. Yet, I will still come back to office with a total of 250 emails unread. For a person that makes it a point to clear all unread emails each day, its a bloody eyesore. On the phone where the figures in the red dot keeps increasing. And on the laptop outlook where the bold subjects are scroll-endless and the blue figure beside the "Inbox" keeps updating and increasing. It pisses the hell out of me. Damn it! Even just an additional day off.

This year, I had to take more leave days because of my classes and exams. It's already draining to have to study and work together. But its even more so when you finally complete your papers, yet return to office to find that work has been piled up and you need to work later than usual to clear it.

Sorry. It's all rants this time. Really drained. Will write a more positive post soon ya?

Review: Essential CC Oil & Night Care Milk

I've always experienced dry hair. While many of you may know that heat styling, perming, and dyeing - all that chemicals - can damage and dry out your hair, you may not be aware that our environmental factors and our everyday habits can affect the health of our hair.

This review today is about a bottle of golden magic and another bottle of white goodness.

Left: Essential CC Oil. Right: Essential Night Care Milk

So what does CC stand for? Cuticle Oil. Yes, our hair has cuticles too. And we're often exposed to things that causes damaged cuticles like below.

Extracted from: Garuda Hair

The golden bottle of magic I was talking about targets the 5 main stresses we face almost daily with Cuticle Coat Protection that leaves hair smooth & tangle free all day. It also contains Hair Supplement Oil, which is similar to hair’s natural oil.

1. Blow-drying process of blow-drying removes moisture from the hair, both outside and inside the hair - leaving hair dry, brittle and susceptible for further damage 
2. Combing through wet hair causes great hair damage as the hair follicle is at is most fragile state. Likewise, the friction caused by coming through dry hair can form hair knots which makes hair prone to unnecessary breakage.
3. Split Ends are often caused when the ends of your hair are the oldest and driest parts. When the protective hair cuticle is destroyed at the end of the hair, the hair splits into two or more parts.
4. Hair Breakage happens besides daily heat styling, blow drying and brushing, other seemingly harmless actions like tying your hair into a tight ponytail or twirling your hair with your fingers exert excessive stress on your hair, resulting in hair breakage 
5. Dryness of hair is often due to sun exposure, wind or even air-conditioning can result in hair dryness. The hair cuticle that protects the hair is weakened and is unable to retain moisture within the cuticles of the hair 

These 5 hair stresses are further elaborate by The Evil Hair Stress Brothers.

Enough words, now for the actual review. I like how the prodct smelled because it is not too strong that overpowers whichever perfume you're wearing. And, I guess my hair loves it too. See how easily managed it gets after application.

Another thing I love about this product is how light it is, it does not cause your hair to look all greasy and wet for the entire day. It is quickly absorbed that even after application, you don't feel oily on your palms even.

You should:

1. Use on towel-dried or damp hair
2. Pump an appropriate amount onto palm
3. Spread and apply evenly onto hair, concentrating on mid-length to the tip of hair
4. Do not rinse off
5. Enjoy your easily manageable hair for the rest of your day!

Before you leave, there's one more item that I would like to share - the Essential Night Care Milk.
This product protects your hair from pillow friction by leaving a protective coat around each hair
strand and prevent misaligned cuticles when hair rubs against the pillowcase, leaving
hair more manageable the next morning.

You know how you go to sleep with your hair straight and nice but wake up in the morning with a lion's mane? These are usually caused by Pillow Friction where you toss and turn at night, there is friction between your hair and the pillow, causing the cuticles to be misaligned and thereby causes frizz. Although washing our hair solves this issue, it introduces another - blow-drying our hair - which is one of the 5 stresses mentioned earlier.

So, technically, Night Care Milk is like step 1 for each night while you follow up with the CC oil as Step 2 every morning. Frankly, I couldn't see much difference for me when using this Night Care Oil. I usually sleep and wake up in the same position. Meaning to say, I very seldom move around in bed. Apologies, each morning is too much of a rush to take any photos Sorry~! Anyhow, if you're one of those that wakes up with a lion's mane every morning, please give this product a go and let me know how is it working out for you. Basically, all there is to do each night is to apply it before bed.

If you're interested in either of these products, they each retail for SGD 11.90 at most leading supermarkets, personal care stores and western pharmacies or departmental stores.

Lastly, something for your entertainment.

Do check out Essential's Facebook Page and try out the Essential’s Mane Hero Facebook game to combat the 5 evil Hair Stress Brothers and Pesky Pillow King and win attractive weekly prizes! All you have to do is to catch the bottles of CC Oil and Night Care Oil. Good luck~!

After almost 24years, this is my first

First time taking Malaysia Airlines to the other side of Malaysia - East Malaysia. Yes, I'm here at Kota Kinabalu. No, I'm not here for a holiday. Sad but true. Workaholic much. Hahaha. For a very long time, I've not taken any flights longer than an hour since I'm mostly travelling between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur only.

Actually, after the many aircraft accidents last year, our company came up with a list of acceptable airlines based on the airline safety ratings, highest being 7. 

• Anything above 4 is alright but of course, the lowest cost option should be chosen which mostly left us with Jetstar. Not that I'm complaining. Besides the small delay in flight departures, flights with Jetstar have been pleasant thus far. 
• Anything rated 4 is up to supervisor's approval. Malaysia Airlines is rated 4. And Scoot too.  
• Anything below 4 should be avoided unless there's absolutely no choice. In my case, from Singapore to Kota Kinabalu, the only direct flight - AirAsia - falls under this category.

From Singapore to Kota Kinabalu is approximately 2hours and 30mins flight time. But there's only one direct flight from Singapore to Kota Kinabalu each day and its offered by AirAsia around 2-3pm each day. How can I get such luxury working from the noon right? Hahaha. So, my boss actually helped me look for flights and basically decided the flight for me and told me to book it. Hence came my first first time, taking Malaysian Airlines. Like I said, the only direct flight from Singapore to Kota Kinabalu is AirAsia and because I took Malaysia Airlines, here comes my second first time - Transit in KL alone.

I usually fly direct and the only time I transited was on an exchange to Seattle where I had to stopover at Tokyo Narita. Besides that, I've got no experience of transits at all. Of course we're not talking about the trains we take daily! Hahaha. Anyhow, I'm not sure if all transit flights would "directly relay" your luggage from flight 1 to flight 2. I think this only happens if the stopover is short right? Oh well, if I'm wrong, correct me but I was pretty glad that I didn't need to find myself lost and I had extra time on my hands to do a little duty free shopping~

Before I go on, I just had to say this. If there's a direct flight, I would only need 2hr30mins right?
But because I had to arrive in KK at a specific time, I had to transit, and so I was up since 0330am. Yes, you didn't read wrong, I wrote AM. I had to catch an 0640am plane to KL for the transit. And the domestic flight from KL to KK is at 0905am. I will only arrive at KK at 1150 based on the itinerary. That's a total of 5hrs away from home. Twice the amount of time I would need if I was taking direct. So yes, I've been awake for almost 8hrs having just arrived in KK and haven't done anything yet (except a little shopping at KLIA) earlier.

Frankly I started this post on the plane and I couldn't get my PC to connect to the internet at the hotel and that's why you only see it now. Guess its too wordy and all so please allow me to end off with some pictures of KK.

Review: A lady's essential - Kotex Luxe

We'll always have to prepare this whenever Aunty Mary's in town. Hahaha. Yes, our one and only, Aunty (Bloody) Mary visits regularly and almost punctually every month. And when she does, we always need to prepare PADS for her arrival. Hahaha.

Guys, if you're shy, move along and read something else. Cause I am talking about PADS - Sanitary Pads. In fact, KOTEX LUXE.

I've always been a Kotex user. Maybe because of the influence of my mum initially but trust me. Being the rebellious me, I've tried many other brands and I am always coming back to Kotex. I first got the Kotex Luxe (randomly) because it was packed in a tin can. I've long thrown away the container but I know that was the first thing that attracted me. And that, it was easy for me to bring overseas because of the slim packaging.

They have a few sizes. By sizes, I mean the length.

My favourite is the 28cm because you can use it anytime.

Because of SampleStore, I've got the opportunity to try both the Overnight (32cm) and the Regular (24cm). If you're using the Kotex LUXE Overnight pads, you will never have to worry about staining your beds ever again. It is "the pad that will help you realise that overnight period leakage is never your fault”.

It is really long so, so avoid wearing a V-back or low-back panty. Otherwise, you will not be able to wear the pad properly. That said, precisely because it is very long, you do not have to worry about spillage and staining at all. Sleep however you want to, move as much as you like. Wake up the next morning feeling refreshed. There is no need to feel constrained while you sleep. Some of us are so conscious that we restrict our movements when we sleep and wake up the next morning with an aching back or neck. With the Kotex Luxe Overnight pads, you do not have to worry.

There are 3 things that I absolutely love of the Kotex Luxe Pads.

1. Small wings gives you more mobility. Why do I say this? I cannot understand why some of the pads' wings are so big and long. I really hate it because (maybe I am petite) it can never wrap around your panty right. Are any of you facing this issue? Or is it just me? How will it help to prevent spillage if it doesn't wrap around well? Hmm... Anyhow, thumbs up for Kotex for keeping their wings at the right size.

2. Ultra Comfort Cover keeps you dry and keeps rashes away. I know it sounds weird but yes, we do get rashes if the material doesn't keep us dry. What I like about Kotex is that the pads will not stick to you. Many other pads that I've tried have some Dry technology but all of them crumble under the Singapore weather. So far that I've tried and known, only the Kotex Luxe pads are 'surviving'.

3. Pretty Pads. Have you seen pads that are so colourful and pretty? Awesome or what? No one knows that this colourful thing you're holding is a pad. Okay, maybe after this post, they might. Hahahaha. 

If I haven't given you enough reasons to part with your money, try out the samples provided by Sample Store. Alternatively, you can also request a free sample direct from Kotex. Let me know what you think.

Okay. I've written 2 reviews in a day. Let me rest before I come back with the 3rd. Maybe tomorrow or Sat ya? Hahaha.

The haze in Singapore is so bad today that I cancelled my appointments. Not only that, I heard from colleagues that the Japs who are working today are actually wearing N95s in the office. Yes, they are wearing it inside an air-conditioned office whilst working. It is that bad! Well, we just had to be located in a low building with direct access to the streets. So whenever someone opens the door to receive delivery or head out to just use the toilet, haze will get into the office. Sad right? So yes, I foresee myself doing the same thing tomorrow. Sigh.

The news has reported that primary and secondary schools will be closed tomorrow. I wish they would just rule it across the entire country. Hahaha. Well, a girl can dream.
Good night people.

Drink more water, 
Eat more fruits, 
Don't forget your N95s. 


Cheers.

Review: Bioré Aqua Jelly Makeup Remover

This is my second review on Bioré's make-up removers. Hahaha. Anyhow, I don't put makeup often - as some of you might already be aware. However, it is a necessity for all to put on sunblock. And sometimes, sunblock will have the tendency to lock your pores so you should always cleanse your face with make-up remover to remove the impurities.

Think of it as a double cleansing every night when you get home.

Step 1: 

Clean your hands. Never (try your best not to) touch your face with your bare hands.

Step 2: 

Steal some cleansing oil from your mum, sister or girlfriend and massage it on your face in circular motions and rinse it with water
Sometimes, you will 'emulsify' the cleansing oil with a little bit of water and massaging it before rinsing it off entirely

Step 3: 

Follow up with your regular gel/ foam cleanser and rinsing it off entirely.

Step 4:

Finish off with your everyday toner and moisturisers.

Right, back to the main topic.
Sunblock is the main reason why I indulge myself in various makeup remover/ cleansing oils. I've always been a fan of cleansing oils because they do so much for me yet they do not dry out my skin. Hooray!

So this one fine day, I've decided to "experience a whole new world of make-up removal with the new Bioré Aqua Jelly Makeup Remover". Those were the exact words on the advert but I kid you not, it feels damn good.

Click to  visit Biore Singapore's Facebook if you're interested in getting a sample.

How to use?

1. Clean your hands and ensure they are dry
2. Pump few (2-3 pumps) onto your hands and spread them evenly over your face and eyes.
3. Gently massage over to dissolve makeup, and
4. Rinse thoroughly with water

The product cautions you to remove your contacts before use and to close your eyes during cleansing. Like any other liquid products it has the tendency to go places you don't want it to. So, do be careful as it might still sting your eyes if it gets in.

While it has similar effects as cleansing oils, it feels lightweight and gentle. There's also a hint of floral fragrance to it. Usually, I'm all for fragrance-free but this is so nice that I really wouldn't mind having it. Hahaha. Makes you feel like a spa/ facial experience when using it.

It will be difficult to judge on the removal effectiveness on sunblock. So, I've specially donned myself on some Mascara - Waterproof Mascara - to test how well this works and I'm pretty amazed at it.

I should have captioned it, 'Before' and 'After'.
I don't know what came over me. Hahaha.

 So 'with' is the waterproof mascara that I was talking about and 'without' is it being removed by the wonderful Bioré Aqua Jelly Makeup Remover. I'm really impressed with this because:

• Very lightweight
• Leaves my skin feeling refreshed - and my spirits too (probably because of the scent... Hahaha)
• Awesome cleansing ability at how it removes all that waterproof mascara

I think it was difficult to judge after just a few uses but the product boasts to nourish and hydrate your skin with a dewy moistured finish as it contains 40% more moisturing essence. I have to agree that it feels like the make-up came off very easily without needing to put in extra strength whilst cleansing.

Did I not mention that you do not need any facial cotton pad or tissue for this? Save yourself some money and save the environment yo. Hahaha. Go to any leading supermarkets, personal care stores and western pharmacies or departmental stores and grab yours today at a mere $24.90.

Have fun~!

Shed skin...

Of course not my physical skin but changed my blogskin yesterday for a fresh look – might be a little dull but I like how the colors play out. With my newest creation as well.... The "ellielizzieliz" watermark stamp! Anyhow, might change it again sometime in the future so, let’s just get used to this first.

Will be prepping to write a few more reviews in the next few weeks as I’ve just received 3 campaign invitations from #SampleStore. Have yet to receive the actual items for review but basically, all 3 items are mostly for ladies. Noticed I used the word “mostly”? Hahahaha.

There’s one for the face, one for the hair, and one more, ONLY FOR THE LADIES. 

Make up remover, Hair Oil, and..? Guessed it already?  The ultimate solution for ladies when “Aunty Mary” comes to town. Hahahaha. Okay, I shall leave you with this. If you get it, you get it. If you don't, well… just wait. Hahahaha.

Till next time…

P.s. Happy voting, fellow Singaporeans, tomorrow.

“Think carefully, Choose wisely.”

Phew~!

Finally. After all the trouble. I managed to get off work at 1815 and head towards school. My first class of the second trimester. Hahahaha. Sounds like I'm pregnant but no. It's only because the year is divided into 3 terms each.

Anyhow, I'm most likely late for the first class. Whoever said the first impression counts? Yeah. I guess I'm just going to go with a bad first impression. Boohoo. I wonder how the tutor will be but I highly doubt any class can beat Dinesh's classes but oh well. There's always hope, so we'll see.

Work was hectic these 2 days. Mainly because I forgot to arrange for a transfer to East Malaysia that resulted in a panic frenzy from all parties. Finally, after almost not being able to sleep and eat... (Okay. I'm being dramatic but yes, I was worried. Especially with the additional cost that we might be spending)... I've managed to work around the schedules and come up with an alternative plan. With the support of many others, of course! Thankful for those that supported! Hooray!

So now. The first stage of transfer is completed but the worse has yet to come. Hahahaha. The Ops team will have to accommodate their schedules in order to meet the deadline. Hopefully, everything will turn out fine.

P.s. after the dreadful day yesterday, knowing I have slipped up at work, ZX made my day by saying he always thought I was S ranked. For those of you that don't know what this means, its okay. Because although, sadly, that's not the truth YET but I feel good that people outside of my team sees me up. Hahahaha.

Pps. I've just finished this entire post on my way to class. From boarding opposite GB building to now at padang. Achievement unlocked. Hahahaha. Okay. My hand hurts. Laters~

Protecting your skin with a layer of sunscreen

I always thought that sunscreen is a hassle and that it is too sticky. For people like me with an oily/ combination skin, it adds on to the troubles that you're already having. So I have a love-hate relationship with sunscreen, using them on and off.

I been using this korean brand, ODBO that features this small sunscreen pact for a few years now. It's like your regular foundation/ blusher pact but it's only sunscreen. I don't really indulge in makeup - except for occasions, or when I have too much time on my hands before leaving the house. 

Most sunscreen pacts that I find in Singapore come with foundation.
This is JUST sunscreen.

Usually, for work, I would just put on the basic toner, hydrating lotion and moisturiser and if I can spare an additional 5 mins, I'd put on some sunscreen. But I can't see to find this in Singapore and when I ran out the first time, I had to source for alternatives while troubling my friend to bring it back for me when she visited Korea. The first alternative that I tried was Neutrogena. I forgot which collection it was but it was slightly sticky and I didn't like how it felt on my face. After I managed to get some stock from Korea, I tried to save it for when I travel since it's easy to carry the pact around. You know how some airlines are exceptionally anal *ahem* strict about carrying liquids and sprays? This is the best solution for travelling. And since I travel quite a bit for work, I had to save some for the 'rainy/ flying' days so I still tried some brands that I can find locally like Avene's Very High Protect Spray. But now, I found a better solution!

Few weeks back, I started this facial program with Skin Shape (I've posted my review few days back) and my consultant/ beautician reminded me on how important it is to have sunscreen. And approximately the same time, I was watching a video on youtube and I came across one of those irritating advertisements that either forces you at the beginning of the video to watch 5 seconds of it before skipping or one of those that pops out of nowhere in the middle of your video. Hahaha. Anyhow, this was how I saw the advertisement on Loreal Paris' UV Perfect Aqua Essence City Mist with SPF50.

So, seeing that I have the same excuse as those in the video, I decided to get myself one of those sunscreen mist and give it a try. And boy, ever since I started using it, I'm in love with it. It is so easy to apply, so fast and, it's ultra lightweight. Well, maybe after a few hours, it starts to get oily and sticky but this is just as well - a reminder for you to slightly cleanse your face and 'top-up' your sunscreen. 

The only "Make-up" I have on my face when I leave for work.
Either the Odbo Sunscreen or Loreal Mist would protect me from the Sun.

The bottle is quite small and easy to carry around. I usually start to remove my sunscreen in the afternoon because your face starts to get all greasy. But it got me thinking, after this video, why I got UV glasses? Hahahaha. Precisely because the computer - that I am staring at right now and 90% of my time at work emits UV rays... So, I decided to keep this "tiny solution" in my office for any re-application if necessary. 

Good news for those that might be tempted to try. 

From 20-Aug till 02-Sep, Watsons is having a purchase with purchase sale. With every $18 spent, you'll get to get this tiny magic solution at $17.90. That's a total of $7 savings as compared to its original price.

The funny thing is, because the original price of this item is already more than $18, you don't need to purchase something first. You can just get this at the discounted price. I clarified this with the cashier before I stocked up another 2 bottles at home. Hahaha. Sharing the love and benefits for all those lazy bums out there - like me. Hahahaha. Enjoy~!