Friday Wisdom

Something has been weighing heavy on my heart lately and I felt that I needed to get it off my chest. I hope that whoever reads on will find this post more motivating than insulting. I'm not referring to anyone in general, just a general message to all those ambitious people out there.

A lot of people have dreams and ambitions, some people are lucky enough to know what they want from a young age and other are still soul searching for the one thing that they will find joy in doing. Whatever the situation I'm sure that no one wakes up in the morning and says, "I want to be a failure". Question is, how are you going to be the person you want to be?

As it is, there are so many lessons in life that books can't teach you. Respect needs to earned not demanded and trust needs to gained. Nothing is a given. We all need to pay our dues in life and staying ahead is a constant and demanding task. All of us want to be managers or leaders but how many of us actually has what it takes? And if you think you're lacking, what are you doing to change this? 

The above couldn't be more true. More often than not, we lose the plot somewhere between hard work and success. We forget what it was like to start at the beginning, we lose the human aspect of our person and in the end, its lonely at the top because we lost so many people along the way. 

For me, I try my utmost best to be the kind of manager that I would like to follow. This means that when I think about the leader I want to be, I imagine that this same person would be my leader or manager. I'd imagine that I would be more than happy to have a manager that inspires me, that has my back and encourages me to always grow and learn- and this is who I try to be in my work life. I think that every morning, each of us has a choice to make, to inspire someone, to guide them, to encourage them or to simply make them smile. You have a choice to be strangers in the workplace or a support network where the possibilities are endless. You don't need to be a manager to make a difference, make the difference and people will see that you are a leader anyway.

Now I'm by no means perfect and I am still learning everyday but I am not afraid to say I made a mistake and apologize if I have to. I also believe that I have yet to harness or unleash my full potential and perhaps it will happen soon and maybe it will happen later but it's OK! I'm merely trying to get by just like everyone. I haven't cracked the code nor have I got it all figured out but I hope that in each waking day, I have inspired someone, guided them, encouraged them or simply made them smile. No grand gestures but tiny little moments for us both to remember.

Thanks to those who have so far given me the opportunity to "share" my wisdom- it's been a pleasure and I hope you haven't been misguided thus far.

Happy and Zen Friday everyone! 

"There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work and learning from failure"

- Colin Powell

My Fitness Progress 2

So it’s been awhile since my last fitness progress in December 2014 (read here) and while it may seem like I have fallen off the wagon (again!), I have actually been persevering and pushing hard and watching my body change as the weeks go by. All this is not without hard work and aches but as we enter Phase 3 of my pursuit of a better lifestyle, here are some of the things that are changing as we start this most intense yet strangely satisfying phase.

Before I start with the details, I just have to share this progress photo! My lovely sister even went as far as to exclaim in all honesty, “Wow Ness, I never realised how fat you were before!” Hmm, thanks I guess.  

Top row taken 24 May 2015
Bottom row taken 10 May 2015

1)  My Diet

After months and months of not touching my diet and allowing me to indulge, my trainer has finally put her foot down and said somethings got to give…and that is my diet! I have to say that she is been fairly lenient (but don’t tell her I said that!) in allocating my carbohydrate and fat intake as well as my daily calories. When I first heard about the allocations, I had to check if I heard right because it was a damn lot more than I needed.

My Fitness Pal (the app) has been key in helping me to monitor my intake and I am really enjoying the use of the updated version! It makes things so easy to use and I am able to monitor my progress on the go. One of the main things I realized is that in a normal day, I am sometimes able to come in under my caloric requirements but the calories I was consuming consisted of mainly fats and carbs! Being Asian, this is something that I am trying to deal with every day! When one is surrounded by awesome rice and noodle dishes, the protein portions of it just don’t measure up!

Need to change the totals to actually match the goals.

I also think the chicken rice guy at Lau Pa Sat thinks I am a little bit kooky when my order sounds something like “Uncle, less rice and white rice not chicken rice, can you also add one more portion of chicken and one egg please?” My packet of chicken rice which would normally cost $5 now costs $11! Wth…the price to pay for vanity! Plus, the chicken rice uncle thinks I am a greedy little pig when what I am trying to achieve is quite the opposite.

Anyways, daily challenges- how to get more natural proteins into my diet without the fat and carbs that come along. With each passing week, my daily calorie allocation gets lower and lower and the challenge is to try get all the requirements in without going overboard in calories.

2) The damn scales!!!

I truly have a love hate relationship with my scales. First, despite the physical changes, the scales seem to be stuck. I hate that it always looks like 7X.Xkgs…yes, I am over 70kgs. How I yearn to be Asian size petite sometimes but I shall console myself by remembering that despite being on the way to hosting Changi Terminal 4 runway in the front, I am all bootylicious in the back!

Gymming 25 May 2015

I am starting to fit better into most of my clothes and I feel more confident but the problems I have are now different…my long sleeved shirts are tighter and I can’t lean forward and slouch too much for risk of tearing my sleeves off the dress/shirt/etc. Well, I traded in my pouch for a bigger upper body.

Well, I guess if I am going to work so hard for my guns then I should just jolly well show them off. Also, thanks to Iban genetics, I have chunky warrior legs which my trainer says is a good thing but I would give anything to have chopstick legs and be able to buy off the rack just once. Grass is always greener on the other side. I’ll just work with what I have.

3) Tough love means tougher routines

No joke, when my trainer said this phase was going to be intense, I felt it in every aching bone and muscles in my body. Every Saturday I am happy enough to have to endure or do a series of exercises which within minutes makes me sweat like a cow. It targets 3 main parts of the body- core, arms and legs, is a series of 5 exercises, 15 reps each and done continuously with rest only between the 5x15reps. Now for those of you heroes out there who have been doing this- good for you! For people like me who lack coordination and energy- HELP! Having said this, I think I am a secret sadist because I like pushing my boundaries and feeling all those new muscles waking up to say hi the next morning.

I guess nothing good ever came out of sitting around and waiting for things to happen. While I have enjoyed being a sloth these past years, it’s time to move this booty and get that metabolism going!

PS: At the point of writing, I am seriously struggling to get enough protein in my diet, I used to love eggs and now if I have to see another egg I think I may barf. I also drag mealtimes because it always seems like my options are to go either caveman (all meat) of vege out…all of which requires a crazy amount of chewing and I reckon I am also building muscles in my mouth. I wish I could just drink my meals and be done with. Can someone please make a char kueh tiaw flavoured protein shake please?

Fitness freaks fans out there, please…any tips on how to increase my protein daily would be much appreciated! Comments below!

What I've been up to!

So this is just another one of those random posts where I talk about everything and nothing in general. Some stuff about me which friends and family may find amusing and strangers are entitled to their own opinion- but thanks for reading! 

My blog posts have been so sporadic the last two months and my archives are full of half written posts either needing to be finished or requiring pictures before they get posted. In the meantime, the experiences (food, travels, beauty secrets, etc) I want to share are piling up and if they don't get shared by May, I am a lost cause because I wouldn't know where to start nor end. This whole blogging stuff is really quite a bit of work. It's one thing to think in blog posts, it's another thing to get the posts done, pictures edited and post an entry. I now remember why so many people "fall off the wagon", myself included! Well, I'm going to persevere and as long as I make one person laugh and my mum is happy to read about my life because I don't call so often anymore so it has served it's purpose. 

L Top to Bottom: Sunset in Krabi, Sunday Tea in Perth, Cycling around our Maldivian Island
R: New Years Eve in Hong Kong

How does that equation measure up? Well since September 2014, I have been to Phuket, Krabi, the Maldives, Kuching, Perth, Hong Kong for New Year, Bangkok, Kuching again for Chinese New Year, Krabi again, Ho Chi Minh, Kuala Lumpur, Rome, Israel and last but not least Krabi again because I can. 

L Top to Bottom: Lunching with Grandma and cousin in Kuching, Surprise birthday in KL
R Top to Bottom: Meeting my sister and cousins in Bangkok, Krabi with Winnie, Having a cocktail in Ho Chi Minh

Now before any of you green eyed monsters out there start to question- yes I do have a job and yes these are all self sponsored. Some were work trips and some were long weekends, others were just an excuse to get away. Apparently, I left the airlines but my body and soul didn't quite get the memo! Hopefully I'll catch up on my sharing soon enough. 

L Top to Bottom: Card games in Krabi with La Familia, Israel
R: Italy with the (Italian) hubby

Speaking of the airlines, recently an ex-crew posted her Dayre (read here) to commemorate her one year post flying career. She shared her mostly miserable flying career and described (it seemed to me) mostly worst case scenario passengers. It was a long and lengthy post for whoever cared to read (I gave up half way and had to reread it again after receiving sooooo many questions about how bad my own flying career was). Readers responded with sympathy, some empathy and the writer received a fare bit of flack as well- one article even going as far as suggesting that in order to make flying careers less traumatizing passengers should just self serve and DIY. Reading it, I felt that the writer was a bit conflicted because after every bad point, she tried to reiterate that it wasn't so bad because there were good bits too. She even went as far to finish her post by encouraging those who were interested in flying to give it a shot for 2 years and then leave...umm if I had read that and was considering flying as an option, I would hightail and shelve the idea. 

To be absolutely honest with everyone, I had a tough first year of flying. It was old school of thoughts vs Generation Y when I first started and someone like me had a hard time with JUST ACCEPTING authority. I needed logic to get things done, give me a valid reason and I will do as you wish. Also, having a face that screamed insubordination(!) did not sit well with many of my seniors. My self confidence took a beating after many disparaging remarks that highlighted that I wasn't as smart as I thought I was but looking back, I realize I became the person I am today because of those experiences. 

After my first year, flying was a breeze! I had loads of fun, enjoyed the layovers no matter how short, made lots of friends- passengers and crew alike and have seen most of the world, more than I ever imagine! Now I can fund myself and strike whatever else I haven't seen off my bucket list. Once I started to feel a bit under whelmed by the job, I knew it was my time to go. And I left almost as quickly as I could find something to move on too. 

Because of flying I am much more worldly, I have learned to control my temper, I have learnt the art of choosing my words carefully. I have also learnt to think outside the box, be creative in problem solving and use all the resources you have at all times. I believe that I have grown to be a better person on the whole. 

Admittedly, I do believe that the aviation industry for cabin crew was undergoing a cultural change at the point when I left 3 years ago and recently having flown on many a flights with the airline of which I was previously employed at, I really noticed the differences. The job seemed much more intense then when I had been a part of it, the fact that traveling is so affordable now and travelers are much more savvy makes passenger handling a challenge if not an art. While every job has its pros and cons, being cabin crew is definitely not for the weak and faint-hearted. I used to joke that the sarong kebaya is long so it hides all our bruises badges of honor! Whatever the case, flights were always a good workout and I would like to think that the cabin crew life is comparable to National Service for ladies- it builds character!

My last flight in which my husband so kindly graced me with surprise Business Class tickets was a really humbling experience. It made me realize how far I had come in a few short years. To think that I could have been the one serving yet here I was lucky enough to be on the receiving end of the wonderful service. Counting my blessings every single day!

In any case, I believe that everyone who joins the airlines has a different experience and no two are alike. A lot of it depends on a persons' upbringing, tolerance for correction, the people they meet and luck in general. At the end of the day, we all at some point are on the receiving end of a service, be it transportation, food and beverage and other things- as customers let us try to be as pleasant as possible. I always remind myself to never mess with the people serving me my food! Don't want any extras...

Ending on a zen note...

3 Days in Krabi

Hah! First time I am writing a post as I am doing stuff!!!

Great to be back in Krabi again and excitedly  awaiting the arrival of the family! It's so lovely to be able to hop on a plane and be somewhere else in less than 2hours. But I think I have been here too many times when I can recognize the immigration officer and he confirmed he has definitely stamped my passport before. I don't mind. I'm an advocate of quick getaways!

Day 1

After a 30 minute drive, we arrived at Golden Beach Resort, it's a lovely beachfront resort which on a normal day doesn't usually cost too much but because this time they were having some convention so it was slightly expensive and fully booked!

We got the Executive Pavillion Bungalow with jacuzzi as we always do. Perfect for couples and it doesn't cost too much to upgrade from a normal room. It's a lovely view and the beach is literally at your doorstep along with an amazing chicken noodle stall and beach bar on the left and a massage area on the right. It doesn't get better than this. Take note that massages are 50% off from and if you get more than 3 treatments you get a gift (It's usually scarves).

First order of business- let's get fed. Of course we go for the noodles stall on the left! So friggin amazing! I could eat there every day (and I did!). It's the epitome of cheap and good. I always ask for the woon sen (glass noodles) with chicken soup. Yums! Of course, no meal in Thailand would be complete without the mandatory fresh coconut. Then there is the post meal banana Nutella roti, thin fried chocolate-y banana-y goodness. Total cost = 270 Baht! Satisfaction = priceless.

Then like the sloths we were, it was nap time! Honestly, sometimes the hustles and bustle of the city really does my head in! Waking up 2 hours later, hunger strikes again and so we went for a walk with the sole purpose of getting a light snack. This light snack turned out to be a shared light bite of morning glory with garlic, spring rolls and some rice at A-Ning restaurant.

My parents and sister arrived in the evening and checked into the Pavillion Suite Gallery which is on the second floor of a chalet and can fit 3 people. I really liked how the hotel provided for 3 which included 3 bottles of water, towels, amenities and etc. The room is also big enough for everyone to enjoy. I realize that the lighting in my room vs the lighting in the room also accommodates couples vs non couples.

For dinner, we choose Chaba Thai Kitchen on the Seafood Street for dinner because I remembered that they did pretty thick curries. They didn't disappoint. We ordered quite a lot as the portions in Thailand are generally fairly small.

For vegetables, we had the melinjo with eggs and morning glory with garlic which too be honest was just vegetables so it's nothing to write home about. The Massaman curry with duck is by far one of the best as I prefer fattier cuts of meats and the duck slices still had their sliver of skin on them. The Green curry with chicken was so so- wasn't as thick as I would have liked it. The Pineapple fried rice portion is a little bit tiny. The plain omelette is just plain eggs.

The tilapia steamed with chili and lime was really good- I liked the sour sauce that the fish was sitting in. My biggest disappointment was the prawns with roasted butter which was fried with the shells and this is probably why the flavors didn't seep through and flavor the prawns. With a little help from the waiter, I managed to convey that we were celebrating my sisters birthday and for dessert we had the mango sticky rice with a little candle for her to blow out. While the mango sticky rice wasn't amazing, it's the effort that counts on their part. Altogether the meal cost 2750 Baht and finished off at 3000 Baht after tips for 5 people.

Day 2 

The next day my sister and mum decided last minute (at 7 am!) to go for kayaking (at 8.30 am) so I bailed because I can't do last minute plans on my holidays- I drag the thought of rushing around. Instead the hubs and I went to enjoy massages at 50% off. We both choose back, neck and shoulder massage plus a foot scrub each and the total for both was 500 Baht! To appease the hunger pangs after the massage, again we went to the chicken noodles at our doorstep. But this time we made ourselves comfortable and brought the food to the room!

After my sister and mum came back at about 1 pm, we decided to go to the beach and catch whatever limited sun that we could. We moved to the swimming pool after awhile and then it was nap time again! We took a nice evening walk up towards Pakasai Resort and did some window shopping so we could plan what to buy post dinner. 

We decided on A-Ning Restaurant for dinner hoping to catch the live band but unfortunately the band doesn't perform on Sundays. We still had dinner there and with no regrets. There were 8 of us and we ordered A LOT (again)!

Really impressive was the Calamari Stir fried with Yellow Curry which everyone enjoyed. Their red snapper dishes which we had 2 ways, one in Red curry and one with Garlic Butter was also really fresh and tasty. I can honestly say that eating here is always an enjoyable experience. The most impressive thing however is the fact that the wait staff are so experienced and happy to accommodate your requests without too much fuss. They speak English fairly well and despite some changes in the dishes, they got it all correct every single time we went.

Total bill was 3728 Baht after a 20% discount (for Thai Food). After tips it was about 500 Baht per person which is more than reasonable because we all felt like we had to be rolled out of there! 

Day 3 

We booked a longtail boat with our favourite longtail boat guy, Beer, the day before. In Krabi, Beer is our go to guy! He has officially met both sides of my husbands and my family now, as well as several friends! We always call him when we are in Krabi and just want to spend a day island hopping without the schedule. A quiet man of few words, I would recommend him to anyone wanting to do a half day island hopping trip around Krabi. Simply head to Ao Nang pier and look for Beer, the day tour becomes leisurely and easy and super fun. Basically because I usually spend the entire day "running" from island to island when the big tour groups start to arrive! 

So our trips usually start with us going to Poda Island where tourists will need to pay the park ranger 200 Baht per person to access all the islands, we pay 100 Baht per person (locals price I think)...the park ranger seems to know Beer by name!

Then after that we headed to Tup Island and walked the sandbank to the island across for some more pictures. After walking back, it was nice that Tup Island had cold coconuts that you could buy! What a dream come true! Nothing like a cold coconut after playing in the sun.

Just a little bit off Tup Island, is a place that you can anchor the boat and jump into the ocean for a bit of snorkeling. The water isn't the clearest compared to a lagoon or something and you always end up seeing the same sea urchins and fishes, occasionally one unique fish. Again, its optional to jump off the boat here but its just for the sake of doing it because honestly, by then, most people have had enough of the sun!

Now is usually a good time to go to Railey South- Phra Nang Cave. It's by the Rayavadee Hotel and Grotto where you can go take pictures if you can't afford to stay at the hotel, so you can kind of strike it off your list of things to do! Phra Nang Cave is usually the star of the trip there because its an interesting cave full of phallic wooden carvings in ALL shapes, sizes and color! As this is still a a place of worship, I would suggest that one actually respects the items left behind and not touch, move or play with them. Sure, take your photos, lean in, get real close, but do you really have to pick it up? 

This time round, it was low tide, so we were able to walk to the other side of the island after climbing through some rocks and check out the caves behind.

We swung by Railey just to have a look see before heading back to Ao Nang pier, all tired, tanned and hungry. Total cost for the trip is 3000 Baht for 4 hours and plus 50 Baht per snorkel.

The only thing you can do after such a long morning is shower, eat, massage and/or nap! Each of us went on our own agenda and reconvened for dinner. This time it was a family affair though and guess where we went? Yup, A-Ning restaurant! And this time, we caught the live band! Amazing music and loads of classics. By far the best live band in Krabi!

Last Day

Time to go, it's been fun Krabi and I look forward to seeing you again soon! Just a little tip for travelers, it takes about 30 minutes to get from Ao Nang area to the airport. There is no point leaving the hotel too early as there are no traffic jams or contingencies to be worried about. The airport is also rather small and straight forward. Leaving the hotel 2 hours before your departure time should leave you with enough time to get to the airport, check in, go through security and immigration as well as grab a cup of coffee before your flight. 

Happy Travels!

Babette, Singapore

So I came back from my facial a few Saturday's ago and boy was I in for a treat! The hubster had been looking for Japanese fusion restaurants to take me to! We managed to get a booking at Babette (after trying 3 other spots) although I don't think it was necessary to make one because when we got there it wasn't even 50% full. Perhaps because of the seemingly random location. 

We took a cab to Parc Sovereign Hotel and a miscommunication between the taxi driver and ourselves led us to the wrong Parc Sovereign on Albert Street! Torn between settling for something around the area or trying to get to Tyrwhitt Road, we choose to persevere as an available taxi came round the corner.

As we pulled up to the Parc Sovereign on Tyrwhitt Road, Babette really stood out as one of those loft style dark minimalist bars which I'd love to see in the day. We could identify our table immediately as it was the only one with the "reserved" sign on it...kind of funny. As we took our seats, I felt grossly over dressed in heels and a sparkly top as the atmosphere is a more casual hipster sort of joint.

K chose Babette because we have been doing this thing where we have been enjoying the appetizers at restaurants and sharing mains between the two of us. Babette offered exactly that- great selection of appetizers. We ordered 5/10 tapas that was on the menu- over ordering for sure. And I reckon that we may have ordered more had we been with friends and K didn't have any food restrictions. 

All the tapas were generous in portions and very tasty! The price point for each tapas was between $8-$16 which worked out to be slightly more expensive then ordering 2 mains but we have greedy eyes. I would order all of them again but this time I need to enlist the help of some hungry friends! Plating was simple yet appetizing and the flavors were well balanced. 

6pcs Garlic and Salt Chicken Wings 

Grilled Asparagus with Garlic Miso Cream

Octopus Tempura with Mayonaise

The octopus tempura was all mine but again- it would have been nice to have had some friends help finish the dish. Cooked to perfection with a nice crunchy and chewiness to it. I appreciate the fact that it is not soaking in oil!

Charred Cauliflower with tangy Yuzu Sauce

K really enjoyed the cauliflower and he ate most of it. The yuzu sauce gave it a nice unique flavor with the tangy taste and creamy texture. I think there must have been ginger (I suspect its the fried stuff on top) in the dish too because my throat was protesting the next day...ridiculous allergy to ginger!

Roast Avocado with Aburi Salmon and Diced Tomatoes

I couldn't get enough of the avocado. It feels like an extremely sinful dish but I would like to be deluded and say its "healthy" fats. Whatever right? Fats is fats!

The one main that we chose was the Steak and Foie Gras Donburi to share.   The main is very similar to one of my favorite dishes and Ichiban Boshi but the one here is 10x tastier and more value for money! Honestly, as a couple, we could have just ordered 2 Donburi's and that would have made us both happy campers. The entire dish was cooked to perfection and it all (the steak, foie gras, rice and the in house special sauce) came together in a perfect little bite that melts in your mouth like chocolate. Yes, I am in love!

Steak and Foie Gras Donburi ($28)

The cocktails looked interesting but I wasn't in a drinking mood so I had a boring glass of wine and I have yet to try the desserts but this is definitely classified as a social venue for friends to eat, drink and catch up. I would definitely come back again just to try everything else that I haven't- especially their truffle fries! But I wouldn't leave without having the Steak and Foie Gras Donburi.

Babette

165 Tyrwhitt Road,

#01-03 Parc Sovereign Hotel,

Singapore 207569

Tel: +65 6341 7727

Email: info@astronauts.com.sg

Opening Hours: 11am- 11pm

Top 7 Must Have Face Masks for 2015

Ok so I hit the dreaded 3-0 right? And this sudden urge to take care of myself has overcome me! I am obsessed, and I mean OBSESSED with facial masks and skincare! Is there such thing as too many products and masks? Everyone has a different opinion. As for me, working in the beauty industry, I feel that as long as you keep your regime functional and with purpose, following the instructions on the boxes, then you shouldn't have too much of a problem.

I have been blessed with a $5 face meaning $5 products will do the job as well as a $500 product. However, with age and the influence of media, I find myself investing a little bit more in skincare depending on what their purposes are. I have something for everything. One zit will send me into a flurry of mask application activities, but at the end of the day, I have definitely been blessed with relatively good skin. 

** Please bear in mind that all the products listed worked on MY skin and results may vary. I have relatively fuss free skin and wish the same for everyone, however, please carry out a patch test when in doubt, especially when using products with a higher concentration of acid based ingredients. Using certain products on broken skin will be exceptionally painful and not recommended.

I should also highlight that all opinions on products tested are on a non biased basis as I have invested a lot of time for research and testing as well as my personal funds. In a nutshell, I am not obligated to say nice things unless it's true! Also, products that don't cut it, don't get a mention.

1) Avene Soothing Moisture Mask ($40.70)

I bought this as a pharmacy comparison. I am very sensitive to sunblock and I use the Avene water resistant 50SPF emulsion sunblock with no adverse reaction. So I thought I'd try their soothing moisture mask. It's supposed to be a hydrating mask and the only thing the tube says is leave on for 10-15 minutes. Uh ok. Then what? Apparently you are supposed to "remove access with cotton pad" and spray with the Avene thermal mist.

Well I did just that. While it was on, I didn't feel too uncomfortable, just a tiny bit sweaty on the nose. After removing it, my skin definitely felt smoother but I guess it's because the outer layer has absorbed the product.  (There is a disclaimer on the tube that says "for hydration of upper layer") Because this is a mask for sensitive skin, don't expect to feel like anything massive is going to happen. I did however notice that my skin was much more plump looking the next day.

Recommended for people with sensitive skin that requires hydration and lazy people that want to re-hydrate their skin overnight

Available at Guardian pharmacies around Singapore.


2) La Roche Posay HydraPhase Intense Masque ($42.90)

Yet another leave on mask for hydration. However, compared to the Avene Mask for sensitive skin, I much prefer the texture and the feel of this particular mask on my skin. I felt that the mask absorbed better and faster, leaving me with more flexibility to go to bed sooner without getting mask every where. I loved how my face looked super plumped and rejuvenated the next morning too.

With Hyaluronic Acid to aid recovery of fine lines and wrinkles and thermal water as its main components, my skin definitely got nicely hydrated and plump.

Recommended for those with combination skin and a busy lifestyle.

Available at Guardian pharmacies around Singapore.

3) Peter Thomas Roth Therapeutic Sulfur Mask ($71)

Upon application, it's a nice smooth texture and the smell is fairly subtle. It's supposed to be for acne but 30 seconds after application, my face started tingling and I mean really tingling - my point is if it's supposed to be for acne prone skin and my skin with no breakouts or sensitivity is tingling, then those with severe acne problems may want to be really cautious with this mask. The 10% sulfur content is higher than that of the Dr Murad clarifying mask which contains only 4%. After 10 minutes of application, the mask dried but didn't leave my face with a tight feeling. Upon removing the mask with warm water, my skin felt hydrated and supple. And I could already see the problematic parts on my chin drying up.

The kaolin and benzonite clay is supposed to dry and clear acne while the aloe soothes the skin. This mask can also be applied on the chest and back. It's rather worrisome though that the disclaimer at the end of the instructions say to "reduce frequency of application if dryness or peeling occurs". 


Recommended for a quick fix on problematic break out prone areas of the face.

Available for purchase at Sephora outlets.

4) Boscia Luminizing Black Mask ($50)

When I first read about the benefits of this product I was kind of skeptical but curiosity got the better of me and a black mask? Sounds kinda fun! My conclusions are: its definitely a fun mask to use, application is rather thick though so be generous and be all means avoid any facial hair unless you want a free wax. I did have some fun peeling the product off but I didn't not have fun removing it from my hairline due to over zealousness during application. That said, despite such a generous layer, it didn't feel too tight when it dried on my skin. Its also cool to check out whats left on the mask that used to be on your face! I did feel like my pores were cleaner after the mask was removed so that was nice. Having to be so generous with the mask, 1 tube will probably last about 5-6 applications.

Recommended for when you see too many blackheads that need cleaning

Available for purchase at Sephora outlets.

5) Bliss Triple Oxygen Instant Energizer ($88)

This is definitely high on my list of favourites! It's an amazing pick me up on your darkest mornings when your face feels so blah and you feel like you have a grey complexion! Slather on some of the mask, massage in, activate, brush your teeth and 10 minutes later- clean teeth fresh face. Yes, I love this product. I don't know if my skin is actually getting the oxygen and whatnot but I love the way it feels and the after effect. Need I say more?

Recommended for a morning feel good fix.

Available for purchase at Sephora outlets.
** After 3 different outlets, I finally found it at Sephora Suntec City

6) ONSEN Tenseless heat Mask ($600)

This particular indulgence is also another favorite of mine. Claiming to increase the skins ability to retain moisture which in turn plumps up the skins surface, diminishing fine lines and irritation- this is truly a sauna in a spa. Upon application to damp skin, the mask starts to activate and warm up. Left on for 10 minutes, it opens up the pores through the heat and deep cleanses, leaving your face ready for a good moisturizer that will close the pores and nourish the skin.

With Coral Fossil to help remove dead skin cells and promote clearer skin and Maifanshi stone which is said to contain micro nutrient element such as various minerals, the heat aspect makes this mask perfect for a good wind down from a hectic day.

Recommended as a good treat for the skin and for yourself.

Available for purchase at ONSEN Outlets in Singapore:
ONSEN Mandarin Gallery Orchard #02-20

ONSEN Marina Bay Sands #B2-K17 (near Bath & Body Works)
ONSEN Marina Bay Sands #01-06

7) Vine Vera Resveratrol Pinot Noir Phyto Silk Mask ($640)

By far the most expensive out of everything here, this is yet another hydrating mask. However, the difference is that this mask is designed to deep cleanse your pores and hydrate at the same time. The mask goes on very smoothly, quite apt to its name "phyto-silk". Within minutes, you are able to see a sort of sweating on the surface which implies a cleansing of the pores. Rinse off after 15 minutes and and follow with your serum and moisturizer.

Vitamins A, B, C and E and Chamomile Recite Flower Extract all make this a super hydrating and skin calming mask.

Recommend for a night of luxurious face treats followed by a day of fabulous face

** I usually follow up with Resveratrol Malbec DNA Biology Emulsion ($2200) but with such a hefty price tag, its honestly for those special occasions when I want to look extra amazing. This particular product deserves a post of its own!

Available for purchase at Vine Vera Outlets in Singapore:
Vine Vera Mandarin Gallery Orchard #03-07

Vine Vera Suntec City Mall #01-313 (opposite H&M)


So these are all my favorite masks for the year 2015, each of them has a different purpose, some similar but definitely caters to the different needs that a lady like myself will have. You will notice that there are 3 main categories which are off the rack Pharmacy brands, Sephora and boutique skincare. Obviously you pay a lot more for the boutique skincare experience but with that comes personalized explanation of products, custom recommendations for different skin types and sometimes, heaps of freebies.

** 6 weeks after all this research and self imposed guinea pig tactics, I went for a facial and it's the first time my facial lady has NOT said my skin was dry! She even asked me what I did! Hurrah! Of course there are other beauty secrets which may have contributed to it but I shall slowly divulge my secrets post by post!

Oh she's married now...3 Highly Misunderstood Facts about Marriage

How many times have you said that about a recently married friend? Discounting her for events and occasions that you'd usually call her along for...

I have been married now for a little over 6 months and these are some of the things that irk the shit out of me! There are the questions that come with good intentions (which I smile and answer sincerely) but there are also assumptions (which I don't take so kindly to).

Most of society assumes that when a woman becomes a wife- she becomes one half of a whole, she is enjoying her post wedding bliss, she is now dedicated to her husband, she wants to do everything with her husband, everything has to be about the husband, for the husband, with the husband! What happened to the woman as an individual!?!

What marriage feels like sometimes...

Well I have news for you people, married life doesn't change a person. That friend that you grew up with, that girl you used to know, that girl who was always there for you, is STILL that girl! If a person decides to change and changes, maybe they had a reason for doing so, maybe this change is to make themselves a better person. A person with purpose!

Here are my top 3 pet peeves post marriage:

1) Friends don't call because they assume married life is keeping you busy

My kooky friends...old, new and their other halves.
Friendship means you only gain another friend through the chosen life partners.

After marriage, I realize that friends kind of split into 2 groups- those that a) constantly say "oh she got married and got boring" and assume without calling OR b) the friend that occasionally checks in on you and remembers that you are still the same person. 

I'll be honest, I suck at keeping in touch- in general and it has nothing to do with being married. So when I started to hear from the grapevine that I got boring since I got married, it baffled me as to why and how this conundrum happened! I was the same person, I feel like my schedule got busier and I felt like I was doing a hell lot more that before! But then it clicked, I realize this friend was just giving excuses on my behalf. 

So for the friends that do check in on me once in awhile, I'll make the time! Hell, I'll even make dinner! Thanks for at least asking me if I can and not just assuming I can't. One day when I really can't make plans because I got married, I'll be sure to let you know.

L-R: The extremely busy "yogi", the disheveled chef of the night and the initiator of  most meet ups.
Love you ladies!

2) Married life = 1+1, husband goes where the wife goes and vice versa

No, this is so totally untrue! Unless you are another couple where its a 2:2 ratio or the ratios always stay in even numbers. I think the last thing any husband wants to do is sit around listening to girls chat over coffee and cakes about everything under the sun and moon! And the last thing any girl wants to do is sit around with a bunch of guys, drinking beer and watching football. I am fine with my husband doing his man thing and he also respects that I have things that I would prefer to do with my girlies. 

So friends, when you do decide to ask me out, have no fear that my husband will have to tag along unless he is invited. Neither will I breach any boundaries by asking if he is allowed to join us. If you wanted, you would have invited the both of us anyways.

I've known this girl for over 20 years now! Recently we had an opportunity to meet overseas and jumped on it!
Krabi, Feb 2015

Also, married life is lonelier than you think, it seems that the couple are now more reassured in their status that they now have more time to invest in their careers, lives and health. You know that there will be someone to share the fruits of labor in the end but the journey to success is a lonely road, and sometimes having a great support network of friends make it a little easier to bear.

3) Now we're married, let's have kids!

Oh my, where do I begin...I had to start my Chinese New Year Eve family reunion dinner with a huge disclaimer to all present that I was not pregnant, family planning was not yet in the works and for everyone to not ask! I could tell that some were disappointed but I'd rather loudly announce it than have to answer to numerous people in a few short hours.

I know that for a lot of couples, family planning after marriage seems like a natural progression, and it is! But with all due respect, I have different priorities in life. The time in which I will start to slow down and take a breather is drawing near, but until that day comes, I am busting my ass trying to create a future that can accommodate my dream lifestyle. I also have the most curious case of wander lust which seems to be incurable. Despite having served the airs for 8 years and visiting many places, I feel like there is so much more to see and I want to see it all!

All this aside, when the time comes, I will be more than happy to assume my new role in life but until then, I am still me.

L: Attending my oldest best friend wedding in Perth, Oct 2014
Top R: Our couple friends who are now lovely parents
Bottom R: Another friend I have known since 7...

In the end, I know that there are women who really do conform to the stereo typical wife material but please please, all my friends reading this, I haven't reached that stage yet, I'll be more than happy to meet you somewhere for a holiday, be your wing woman in striking off your bucket list and ever happy to just have a coffee and catch up somewhere. I am still me, maybe my priorities have gone from party girl to a more healthy "invest in myself" sort of lifestyle but that doesn't mean I don't enjoy the occasional night out on the town or a good catch up with friends. 

I am sure many girls feel the same way. So ladies, pick up your phone and call a married friend! Even if she can't make it, at least you tried and she knows that you care.