Tuesday, August 11, 2009

guess who's back!

hi its been awhile... sorry for the long hiatus! was away in cheenaland for the 3 months. and the communist land bans access to blogger and facebook =( so i was unable to blog.

but now i'm back! and hopefully i wont be too lazy to blog. i'm sure if i start posting again, the co-owner of this blog will also be motivated to! thanks for posting the past few entries =) =)

promise entries on some of my travels if im not too lazy!
SO STAY TUNED!!


Friday, May 15, 2009

Travel: Hong Kong

this post is very very long overdued. hongkong trip was like half a year ago.. i'm so sorry for the un-updated blog for so long. yes i've been lazy. and my co-owner has been unmotivated cos of me. so anyway my travel review for hongkong..

this is my 2nd time to hk but im still loving it so much! there's just so much to talk about hongkong i've no idea where to start. if i were to blog about everything i love about hongkong, the post will be never-ending. i'm sure there are many travel blogs and forums about hongkong online with the same praises for hongkong's shopping, food and the common attractions. shall talk about some of the highlights during my trip from the experience of a budget student traveller.

taking the afternoon 3.30pm budget flight, i arrive at 7pm in hongkong. headed to Ah Shan Hostel (Room 1406, Sincere Hse, 83 Argyle St Mong Kok, Kowloon Hong Kong) by the Airport Bus A21. had alittle difficulty trying to find the hostel. but we eventually arrive at the minimalistic hostel. albeit being squeesy, the hostel was fully equipped. in our puny room, there were 2 beds, a television, airconditioner, a little fridge, attached toilet. pretty comfortable =) quite a good deal for approx S$28 per night.

after dropping our stuff, we headed out to roam the night streets of Hong Kong. and of course, the first street food we had was the most awesome AH TU MIAN XIAN near our hostel. i declare it the best street food in Hong Kong! and yes, you probably guess it, we visited that shop every day. my daily bowl of mian xian =)

roamed the streets and the various night market. actually, the night market stalls eventually all look similar with many repeated stalls. of all the streets, i guess Fa Yuen street was one of the better ones. Fa Yuen street is also known as the sports street with many sports stalls as well as all kinds of sports footwear. the guys will love this street.

one thing i like most about hongkong is the night buzz. it's like at 12am in the night, the streets still seem to be buzzing with activities and there are many 24hrs eateries still open! indeed spoilt for choice to go for supper.

how can one go to hong kong without having the authentic dim sum! yes, had dim sum for breakfast the next day. the scene at the dim sum restaurant was rather similar to those we see on hongkong dramas. the crowd seems rather old though. we were probably the youngest customers around. perhaps cos it was a weekday morning and young adults have to work!

after a fulfilling breakfast, once again roam around hongkong. this time to explore the various malls. all the big popular brands can be found in hongkong; personally not a very brand conscious shopper so the shops didnt quite appeal to me. but i went crazy at H&M!! it's really the best shopping store in hong kong!! H&M rocks socks! the one at tsim sha tsui is new and the biggest in hongkong! go check it out yo! haha i came out of the store with a big hole burnt in the pocket =/


if you like people watching and being around good looking people, you definitely have to check out Lan Kwai Fong. i think all the best dressed in hongkong all flock to that place. it's like Singapore's clarke quay and dempsey combined but ten times better. it's where all the clubs and pubs are. i felt so self conscious and out of place in my adidas jacket, ugly denim jeans and sports shoes. so yup didn't try the clubs nor did i hang out very long there. but i'm definitely heading back there again the next time i go to hongkong!

For sightseeing places, besides the common attractions like The Peak (don't really advise you to go in april when i went. cos it was super misty up there. i couldnt see a thing :( ) and Repulse Bay, another place you can go would be seeing Hong Kong's longest bridge, Tsing Ma Bridge. personally, if you are not a big fan of large bodies of water or majestic bridges, then save your time and money, don't go there. there's nothing much there except a magnificient view of the bridge. it's pretty inaccessible though, waited pretty long to get a cab. oh a caution of advice: don't take the wrong MTR line! i took the airport express instead of the normal line and thus ended up paying HKD 30 for that trip =/ heart pain!

next, if you have an extra day, take a ferry and drop by Macau. Macau to hongkong is like Batam to singapore :) just a ferry ride across. but i'll leave Macau to another post =)

i guess that's about all my memory can do for hong kong now.. so after 4 days of the canto goodness, i took the 20hrs KTM train from Kowloon to Shanghai and that's altogether an experience worthy of another post =)

Sunday, May 10, 2009

Happy Mother's Day!

Thinking of the old cliché "we always hurt the one we the love the most" truly believing that all is forgiven... Mom's tough she can handle it... Mom knows deep down that I really don't mean it... well, Mom's don't know that.


Mom's need to be exalted...not trodden upon. God loves us enough that we are personally given an earthly Guardian Angel. Think about this for a moment... allow the monumental impact of that statement to sink in and all that encompasses. The one person that will always love you no matter what. As we get older we don't think we need Mom quite as much as we did before and sometimes we think we don't need her input at all... What does she know? She's behind the times. If the truth be known and we really take the time to look at it... Mom still knows pretty much more than we do. She is the crone that has gone before us ... experienced pretty much what we are going through now ourselves. Maybe we feel times have changed and many Moms have not faced the extreme challenges that so many of the younger generation is facing now ... like drugs, the extreme peer pressure of joining a gang ...male or female, but all the same the challenges were pretty much the same when she was growing up only in another format ...drinking, smoking, sex, guarding your reputation and with a lot more condemnation than is going on in 2009. The point is Mom has lots of knowledge and lots experience for you to tap into and to honor.


Everyone has a mother, and our favorite pets and animals are no exception. One Mother's day story that is particularly meaningful takes place on a little farm on a faraway island. The farmer raised sheep, and every spring they gave birth to their little lambs. One special ewe was named Ma. Ma was an old ewe, and had been a favorite of the farmer for several years. On this particular year, Ma was likely to give birth to three or even four lambs, as was her custom. She wouldn't eat, and was nervously pawing the stable bedding, so the farmer know that the birth was eminent. He put her in a private small stall, made sure she was comfortable, and then went inside for his dinner. While he was away, Ma gave birth. There were complications, and by the time the farmer returned, two of the lambs were dead, but a third was on the way. Eventually, a final lamb was born. A tiny ram lamb, a wispy little thing. Too little to stay out in the cold, the farmer whisked him away to the warmest room of his home, where he put him in a box that was lined with the softest towel he owned.


The farmer checked on the little lamb throughout the night. By morning, the lamb was hungry and ready to return to Ma. But alas, during the course of the night the farmer's beloved Ma had died. The tiny lamb was now an orphan. Try as the farmer might, over the next few days he tried to get some of his other ewes who had recently given birth to adopt the little lamb, but to no avail. He would get butted away, and he was sad. So, the farmer named him Boubouki, which is Greek for "Rosebud," and gave him four bottles of milk everyday. He grew big and strong. At the start, he lived in the house, and in the evening the farmer would let him lay on his lap while he listened to the radio. Boubouki was fond of jazz, the farmer discovered. Eventually Boubouki became the ram for the herd. In this way Ma continued to live on, through her son. The farmer often thought of Ma when he looked at Boubouki, and he thanked her for giving him the best ram he ever had.

Remember ...

God loves us enough that we are personally given an earthly Guardian Angel...

One of God's greatest gifts to us.

Saturday, May 9, 2009

Latest in town: Red Wine umbrella

Wondering what's this exactly?


It is not only a pretty bottle but a pretty umbrella when you open the top of the bottle and pull it out. It is also a kind of unique bottle you could not only put the umbrella inside, but also pull the rope out and hang it as a ornament if you so wish. The bottle is a watertight one. No leakage, even if you put the umbrella inside. It is a nice choice as well when you present this as a interesting gift, especially to your mums. I'm sure mummys would love this new creation. The unique designs are as below: (there could be more but these are the ones i see)

The above is the lover series

This apparently is one of a kind. one colour. My personal favourite.

O% series. They have it in white, black, green, blue. Pretty much the basic colours. Very chic. Apprently, this is their firest series. The first generation

Another one of a kind. Cute. They have other cartoon ones as well.

Anyone like oriental stuff. Well, this would suit you.
They also have it in the pirate series. They have it in light yellow, bright yellow. pale blue and green. This is their 4th series.

I actually saw tuch umbrella in a shorter version. Like a Sigg bottle, with the hook and all. But i personally feel that it is not as pretty as the wine bottle ones. And ladies, if you're worries abt the weight, don't be, it's not as heavy as it might look. I'm so tempted to collect the whole series!! And no, you don't have to order online or anything.. it's already in Singapore!



Fleakerofhope

Hi girls, i know this is a little late but there will be a flea marlet@ HomeClub on the 9th of May from 12 - 9pm! And Fleakerofhope flea is one of the stalls.

Item for sales will only be avail online after the flea, available at
http://ilovescarletroom.blogspot.com/

There will be alot of limited pieces sourced from overseas as well as Manufactured items.


And this is a preview of what's going to be there! =) Hopefully i catch some late sleepers around.


Tuesday, May 5, 2009

Recipe: Wild Mushroom Soup


Ingredients:
  • 40g butter
  • 1 medium onion, peeled and diced
  • 250g fresh mushrooms (Portobello, white and brown button), sliced
  • 600ml water
  • 1 vegetable stock cube
  • 1 potato, medium size, peeled and diced
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • 1/4 cup white cooking wine
  • salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
  1. Add the butter to a large pot and melt over medium heat
  2. Add theonion and cook until soft
  3. Add the mushrooms and cook for another 5 to 7 minutes.
  4. Add water, stock cube, potatoes and parsley.
  5. Add white cooking wine.
    Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook for about 15 minutes.
    Puree the mixture in a blender or food processor.
  6. Leave about 200 ml of mixture un-pureed, so that can get to eat the mushroom chunks.
  7. Return mixture to the pot. Season with salt and pepper, and stir.
If possible, toast bread and spread whatever you want on it. Like maybe garlic spread or something. It will taste nicer. I'm never a fan of very creamy soups. I prefer wild mushroom soup, especially those dark coloured ones. so imagine my delight when i found this recipe. No more campbelle mushroom soup!!

Monday, May 4, 2009

Recipe: Apple with Pork Ribs soup

Need I sae more about the ingredients? the name of the soup says it all. Seriously, soup making can be really easy and tasty and this one in particular, is very refreshing.

Ingredients:
  1. 2-3 Red Apples
  2. 1 onion, cut in chunks
  3. Pork Ribs or shoulder meat
  4. 6 red dates

Instructions:
  1. Blanch the pork ribs, drain and run under cold water, to get rid of the fats
  2. Cut the apples and the onions
  3. Put everything into the pot to boil. Slow cooker even better because can boil until meat soft soft and all the flavour in. Yummy!
I love having fruits in soup. See how we mix them and what kind. This is sort of a cooling soup. Very suitable for the hot weather now and for people who are stressed in exams. LIKE ME. haha.. so sorry if this blog is lacking of posts. Try to get a few entries up here and there. dun give up on us yea! =)

Friday, May 1, 2009

Online Shopping: Vogue-armadio


Came across this website selling footwear. Ladies, do check it out if interested.

www.vogue-armadio.blogspot.com

Thursday, April 30, 2009

Do you know?

10
is the number of good friends you should have to up your odds of being happy.

And the longer you know them, the better, according to a British Study.

how to look your best in photographs?

Learn to be more photogenic and you'll get a self-esteem boost everytime you see the pictures. Carson Kressley, who teamed up wtih Nikon to host an online series called Look Good in Picture at www.lookgoodinpictures.com tells you how.

  • Create some space between your body and your arm to appear more shapely. Try placing your hand on your waist and bringing your elbow out to the side.
  • Avoid a double chin by having the photographer hold the camera slightly above eye level and pointing it down.
  • Turn your face a little to the side instead of looking at the camera dead-on; this will make you look slimer.
  • Giggle out loud right before the picture is taken - it will give you a more natural smile.


Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Movie Review: X-Men Origins: Wolverine


Refering to my post on X-Men Origins: Wolverine which is here:



29 April is the opening day of this movie and i bet this could be one of the reason why the cinemas are so crowded today!! at least those cinemas in the east i saw. I even saw this son and daughter-in-law or daughter and son-in-law brought their mother to watch it. I thought that was quite cool. Even this old couple, with white hair and all were seen squeezing into the cinema just to catch this show.

I'm not much of a X-Men fan so i didn't read the comics or catch the cartoon. maybe many people out there are better judges than me but i think some might feel that the movie didn't do justice to the cartoons or comics. Think they changed the story a little. But I have to say here, sometimes making a movie out of comics or cartoon can be challenging. They just try to capture everything that's main point here. Sometimes if there are details that needs further and further elaboration, of course they will change that detail. just to make it easier to depict and that they can put it in film to bring across that point in merely 5 mins, let's say? So yups... it's still very much enjoyable for X-men or Marvel fans.

Just wanna let you guys know... stay a little while, maybe 2 mins after the credits roll in. there's something behind. Well.. there's always something behind for Marvel movies right?

Saturday, April 25, 2009

Food: Durian Fiesta

Durian lovers, have you heard?

Goodwood Park Hotel Durian Fiesta 2008 from 1 March - 31 July

The annual Goodwood Park Hotel Durian Fiesta is back with an exciting range of 10 Durian pastries and cakes, each filled with the richness and goodness of D24 Durians!

Apart from the signature Durian Puffs and legendary Durian Mousse Cake, the range also includes all-time favourites such as the Durian Crepe, Durian Crumble, Durian & Crunchy Hazelnut Tartlet, Durian Pudding and Durian Roll. Back by popular demand is also the fragrant Durian, Pandan & Coconut Cake.

This year’s NEW Durian pastry creations - the Durian & Brownie Chocolate Cup and the Durian Oreo Cake, are all set to please all Durian Connoisseurs! A first in Singapore, the Durian Oreo Cake is the ideal cake to celebrate Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, with its rich D24 Durian pulp sandwiched between layers of vanilla sponge sprinkled with gula melaka syrup and covered with crunchy Oreo cookie crumbs!


This is not the buffet yet.

The durian buffet will be available at the Coffee Lounge on 1 June till 10 August 2009.
At $19.80++ per person available 1 June to 10 August 2009

Durian Puff
Durian Pandan & Coconut Cake or Durian Roll
Durian Crunchy Hazelnut Tartlet
Durian Pudding
Durian Pancake (Live Station)
Ice Cream – 2 selections with condiments
Fruit Platter – 5 selections
Hot/Chilled Dessert – 4 selections
Cake – 6 selections

Citibank and DBS Credit & Debit Cardmembers and Goodwood Park Hotel Gourmet Cardmembers enjoy 15% discount on takeaway durian pastries.

Call 6730 1786 to place your orders or visit them from 9am-9pm daily.


Friday, April 24, 2009

Movie Review: 17 Again

What would you do if you got a second shot at life? Maybe not so for those who are younger than 25 but New Line Cinema presents...

Class of 1989, Mike ODonnell is a star on his high school basketball court with a college scout in the stands and a bright future in his grasp. But instead, he decides to throw it all away to share his life with his girlfriend Scarlett and the baby he just learned they are expecting.

Almost 20 years later, Mikes glory days are decidedly behind him. His marriage to Scarlett has fallen apart, he has been passed over for a promotion at work, his teenage kids think he is a loser, and he has been reduced to crashing with his high school nerd-turned-techno-billionaire best friend Ned. But Mike is given another chance when he is miraculously transformed back to the age of 17. Unfortunately, Mike may look 17 again, but his thirtysomething outlook is totally uncool in the class of 2009. And in trying to recapture his best years, Mike could lose the best things that ever happened to him.

I'm sure Zac Efron (Young Mike O'Donnell) is not strange to most people out there. Especially the younger people. He starred in the muscial "Hairspray", which was a hit in 2007. However, the beginning of the movie could be a disappointment to some. It’s bit early to say that Zac has grown up to a serious adult actor, but we did see some quite promising points in him. And not to mention how charming he is. Especially that smile!

A predictable storyline but heart warming. I have to admit i think Leslie Mann (who play older Scarlet) was pretty hot in this show. My opinion la. Sophisticated mum.

Not a weekend worthy film in my opinion but nice enough for a weekday afternoon of relaxation.

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Food: Taiwan Cup Noodles

you must be wondering what's so great about cup noodles. well this is no ordinary cup noodles! read on..


my friend was raving all about the taiwan cup noodles. that was the only thing he requested from his parents to get from taiwan when they went for a holiday. i was very curious how good the cup noodles from taiwan can be, so my friend gave me one to try to experience the goodness of it myself. goshhhh! was he damn right! THIS IS THE BEST CUP NOODLES I'VE EVER EATEN!!

really yi du zan! (translate: praise all the way!)


with the ingredients inside.


wonder what's that extra big packet of stuff doing there?? you dont usually find it in your normal cup noodles. hmmm, i'll tell you later!


let me show you the steps for preparing this awesome cup noodles!


first, of course you have the noodles!


here are the different stuff to be added to the noodles. add the 2 packets right at the bottom first. followed by the big orange one and then the small chilli paste packet.


adding in the 2 small packets of seasoning


next, add in the water.


as you cook the noodles, put the orange packet on top of the noodles to warm it. this is a special instruction from my friend. maybe this is the secret to why the noodles taste so nice! ;)


tada! ok lah i suddenly realise for those who know chinese, you would have guessed what the orange packet contain. yes, it's meat!! and not the fake meat kind! it's authentic KOU ROU! (translate: braised pork i think)


tell me which instant noodle in singapore has large chunks of meat!! very chewable! haha! and very very tasty too!

look at the meat! anyway, add the chilli paste.

before mixing everything up.


yeah. it's now ready for consumption!


gosh! the first bite was yummmmms! and i gobbled everything up at 3am in the morning. how sinful mans! but really the best best BEST cup noodles i've ever tasted!! so everyone, if you are going to taiwan, please buy a carton back!! definitely worth it! haha! i hope they have this cup noodles in shanghai! i'll definitely ship back a whole cargo!! =p

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Shape Run 2009

Shape Run 2009 is open to registration from 25 April onwards! Sign up early to avoid disappointment. The actual run is on 19 July (Sunday)

For ladies only. There's a registration fee. Early bird weekend-special (April 25-26) is $35. Week long after (April 27 to May 3) is $45. After that is $55! Can register via online:

http://www.shape.com.sg/

Monday, April 20, 2009

Wedding Series II: The Proposal


The thing that most women want memorable and the thing that most men wanna do it perfect and right. How crucial do you think this element of the beginning of marriage is?

Timing is everything.
A lot of guys like to propose engagement on certain "Occasions." We call them Occasions because they are noteworthy dates that will remain noteworthy whether they become a part of your proposal or not.

First, there are dates of personal significance -- dates that carry a meaning only you and your partner would truly understand. It could be the first date, it could be the first time you guys watched a movie? Even the first time you kissed. Another great choice is the anniversary of your relationship. You should also consider dates that reflect personal accomplishment. Graduation day could be one? The day u got a promotion?

The second kind of Occasions are holidays -- three of which are a given. First and foremost is Valentine's Day. We probably don't have to tell you why so many guys gravitate towards it. After all, the whole point is to celebrate those we adore! Christmas is another popular option. Christmas is all about giving. And what better gift can you give than a shiny, new ring and the promise of your love? New Year's is also an ideal time. There is hope in a new year -- it's a fresh start, a beginning. Sort of like a metaphor for marriage. It's kind of heartwarming, actually. Still, there are things you should ask yourself before proposing engagement on any of these holidays. New Year's, for one, is a time to let loose and party. Maybe that's appropriate. But maybe it isn't. It depends. Every girl's got her own tastes.

So timing is really really crucial as well as how romantic and memorable can the guy get. The major benefit of proposing on an Occasion is that significance is already built into it. Of course guys can also choose a non-occasion to propose. One good thing that non-occasion gives us is flexibility and creativity. We can inject our own meaning to just any other day!

If your proposal is a recipe, it would include these 5 things:

1. Money
So how much should you splurge? That depends on what you hope to accomplish. The first trick of the money's-no-object crowd is the big budget production -- a proposal taken straight from a Hollywood movie. Like billboard asvertisement? This type of proposal will certainly give your girlfriend something to remember. However, it's heavy on drama, and that's not for everyone. There are other, more intimate ways of going all-out. Think elegant and classy.Take your girlfriend to the finest of fine restaurants. Order a good steak. Drink champagne. Hire a limo. Buy a bouquet so big she needs a second limo just to bring it home. The sky -- or your paycheck -- is the limit. It's important to note, though, that you can't just throw money in the air and hope it takes the shape of a memorable proposal. Besides, there's no need to clear out your bank account -- especially if you're about to spend your life savings on a ring. So if you're tight on money, don't sweat. Prioritize. Focus on the other ingredients. Maybe do the fancy dinner without the limo. Or here's an idea: Forget the fancy dinner. Cook her something at home. Women love that!

2. Atmosphere
Realtors say location is everything. Every great love story starts with a setting. So where do you think she'd like to be when she gets engaged? What kind of place would set the right mood? Romantic proposals and fancy dinners seem to go hand-in-hand, so lots of guys propose in restaurants. Equally romantic -- yet potentially less expensive -- locations might include the park, simple resturant and esplanade even. Once again, though, it's a matter of taste. If you want the atmosphere to reflect something personal, how about taking her to the place you went on your first date? It could be anywhere!! Maybe at some ulu hawker centre or some place you guys call lao di fang? It's hard to get more personal than that. But no matter the setting, just remember you may need to get there while keeping your plans hush-hush. So if keeping a secret is crucial to the proposal, don't put yourself in a situation where you just know she will figure it out.

3. Romance
So I need to say anymore? But just in case for blokes who really don't know: It's incredibly important! The night you propose ought to be one of the most romantic nights of your girlfriend's life. After all, this is the night she's been waiting for. Make her feel like a princess. Sweep her off her feet! Of course, like other ingredients, romance is a matter of personal taste. For some, romance is fine wine, roses, and a violinist playing tableside. For others, it's simply the element of surprise. One girl's diamond is another's lump of coal. When in doubt, it's probably best to lean towards tradition. It's hard to go wrong with fine wine and roses or chocolates -- that's why they're synonymous with romance and love. Our advice is to put a premium on intimacy. Be willing to act suave, even if it's something you're not used to. Do your best to filter out real-world distractions. And above all else, make it feel like you're the only two people on earth. I feel that that's the basic premise of marriage in the first place.

4. Surprise
Some couples shop for rings together. But for lots of guys, the element of surprise is the best part about popping the question. Keeping a secret is a tall order, though. So if that's what you want to do here, listen up: DON'T DROP HINTS. Seriously, most girls are less dense than they seem. If you know a girl well enough to marry her, she can probably read you like a book as well. Whatever you do, DON'T DROP HINTS. Also, don't let too many people in on the secret. Maintain a very small Circle of Trust. One person you'll definitely want to tell is her father. In fact, if he's part of her life, you'll want to ask his permission. However, be selective with the info you give him, and try to hold off on asking until your proposal's a day or two away. The typical dad keeps a good secret -- but why take chances? As for her mother, unless you have a specific reason to let her in on the secret, it's best to zip your lips. This way, mother and daughter can share in this surprising and joyous occasion together. This is camera worthy. Lastly, find yourself a "mole." By that, we mean someone close to your girlfriend -- a sister or best bud -- to serve as your personal assistant. This person will have to do the dirty work, like getting your girlfriend's ring size or coordinating important time-and-place stuff. So whoever it is, make sure it's someone who thinks your girlfriend deserves a magical moment nearly as much as you do.

5. A little dash of me
Like snowflakes, no two proposals are exactly alike. Every guy -- even one who isn't interested in an award-winning, jaw-dropping, front-cover-of-a-magazine proposal -- wants a proposal that says "me." So personalise, add a drop of yourself in it. Like if u are really good at singing or playing the guitar, u can always do it!

Here are some creative ideas I come across:

1. hang a sign up on your car saying: 'will you marry me?' if you have close friends or relatives who work as truck drivers, fire men or any other job that involves unique vehicles, don’t hesitate to enquire about borrowing the vehicles. Imagine her surprise when she sees a large firetruck heading towards her with a large sign. You can sit beside the driver, or hold on to one of the ladders, and when you stop by her, you could jump off the truck, get down on one knee and pull out the engagement ring.

2. if you are both fond of any extreme sport (and even if not….) you can express your idea of a creative marriage proposal by asking her the question while skiing, sailing, scuba diving or any other sport that you find suitable for your creative marriage proposal. You can hold out a sign prepared in advance (good for under water marriage proposals) or just simply ask the question.

3. these creative marriage proposals are perfect for the dramatic couple, who like to have it BIG: include in your creative idea for the marriage proposal the conductor of an orchestra, and then while the two of you are sitting in the audience of a large, fancy hall, the orchestra would stop its playing and the conductor could read your marriage proposals out loud. This idea and many more, including a unique production, can be an excellent idea for a creative marriage proposal. It could be a muscial or a play, where the lead reads it out at the end of the play. How cool is that? but of course, the girl has to be the like attention kind. If not, TIMING IS WRONG!

4. turn your house into the most romantic place in the world: spread lighted candles all over the house, prepare a bottle of good wine or other drink you both enjoy drinking, play soft music and of course make sure she has no plans for that evening. When she walks into the house and sees the efforts you have put into turning your home into a magical place she is sure to be surprised and excited. This is the perfect moment to kneel down on one knee, tell her how much you love her and present her with the beautiful diamond ring you have bought.

5. Marriage proposal with mystery: lead her to a large sign saying 'Will you marry me?' with clues and hints – as playing the signs game. The clues can be sent to her by text message to her mobile phone, hiding notes in various places, emailing her or just calling her on the phone and telling her she should arrive to a specific point at a specific time. This general idea allows you much room to improvise and create a unique game that will match her character and style.

Of course, i cannot name every single type of proposals here. Every one is unique to its own. But i just cannot emphasis enough, if the guy is the blokiest bloke ever. Please do a very memorable proposal for your girlfriend. Cos this is probably something (i hope not the only thing) the girl will hang on to for as long as ever.

Sunday, April 19, 2009

Food: Ramen Ten (Century Square)

with all the hype about tampines 1, of course i wanted to have a look at it before flying off to shanghai for a good 3 months. so yup headed with my sister down to tampines for some sisterly bonding time.


despite the crowd, i had fun exploring tampines 1! was pretty impressed with the wide variety of retail outlets they have!! from fashion to food to electronics. everything mans! gosh. am definitely gonna come back again! hopefully the crowd will die alittle by then!


okok back to the main topic of my post review on Ramen Ten. Well, all the F&B outlets in tampines 1 had long queues, so we headed to Century Square and had dinner at Ramen Ten.

Ramen Ten at century square is combined with ShinTokyo, a sushi-on-the-belt restaurant. They are currently having a promotion -- 99cents for their white plates.

Dinner wasnt very impressive. I ordered a tomyum chicken cutlet dry ramen while my sister ordered the Super Spicy Miso Ramen. As chilli-lovers, the spiciness from both the ramen was shiok! Other than the spiciness, the ramen wasn't fantastic.

In addition, we ordered a plate of salmon sushi and a plate of jellyfish sushi. Even though 99cents for a plate of sushi was really cheap, 2 plates were enough for us. the sushi was horrible! not only was it puny, it wasnt fresh! and the rice tasted gross. so yah the 99cents promotion is definitely not worth it!!

and service was pretty bad. perhaps cos it was a friday evening. it was crowded and they seem shorthanded. we had to try very hard everytime we wanted to get the attention of the service staff. on top of that, they do not serve ice water! you have to pay for a bottle of mineral water =/ oh wells.

i had a good experience at the far east branch. but this century square branch is pretty bad. doubt i'll be coming back again.

Saturday, April 18, 2009

Star Awards 2009

Frankly, this is a must watch for both of us since young. Every year for many many years, we would be on the phone throughout the whole show, gossiping about what she was wearing and complaining how unfair it was for him/her to get the award then oohing and ahhing over small details, laughing and grumbling all at the same time. There were some years, we only call each other during advertisements cos it's very disturbing to talk while the show is on. And when the ads were over, immediate hang up of the phone. And the cycle goes on. The annual ceremony for mediacorp artistes ( except last year) is also one of the most look forward for us every year. I know most people our age outgrows of it after a while or find it no biggie or even some people dun even give a hoot about it since young. We are not being aunties here. A large part why we are still attached as u can tell is more of "watching" it together. We grew up together with Star Awards in a way and somehow, this will always be a part of us wherever we go. Always.

Here are the nominations: (and we always like to make predicitons and then say see, I told you so!)

Best Drama Serial
By My Side
Just In Singapore
Love Blossoms 1
Perfect Cut
The Golden Path
The Little Nyonya

Best Actor
Adrian Pang (Nanny Daddy)
Chen Han Wei (By My Side)
Huang Wen Yong (Just In Singapore)
Pierre Png (The Little Nyonya)
Qi Yu Wu (The Little Nyonya)
Tay Ping Hui (The Golden Path)

Best Actress
Chen Li Ping (Just in Singapore)
Chen Li Ping (The Golden Path)
Fann Wong (The Defining Moment)
Felicia Chin (The Golden Path)
Jeanette Aw (The Little Nyonya)
Joanne Peh (The Little Nyonya)

Best Supporting Actor
Chew Chor Meng (The Golden Path)
Dai Yang Tian (The Little Nyonya)
Darren Lim (The Little Nyonya)
Yao Wen Long (The Little Nyonya)
Zzen (The Little Nyonya)
Zhu Hou Ren (The Defining Moment)

Best Supporting Actress
Eelyn Kok (The Little Nyonya)
Li Yin Zhu (The Little Nyonya)
Lin Mei Jiao (The Little Nyonya)
Ng Hui (The Little Nyonya)
Xiang Yun (The Little Nyonya)
Cai Pei Xuan (The Golden Path)

Best Newcomer
Andie Chen
Dai Yang Tian
Jerry Yeo
Koh Yah Hwee
Paige Chua
Zhang Zhen Huan

Best Variety Show Host
Christopher Lee (Life Transformers)
Quan Yi Fong (Life Transformers)
Kym Ng (Buzzing Cashier)
Lee Teng (On The Beat 3)
Marcus Chin (Golden Age Talentime 2008)
Guo Liang (CelebriTea Break)

Best Variety Programme
Buzzing Cashier
CelebriTea Break
King of Thrift 2
Life Transformers
Star Chef 2
SuperBand 2

Best Info-Ed Programme Host
Belinda Lee (Find Me A Singaporean 2)
Belinda Lee (Come Dance With Me)
Chua Lee Lian (Food Old Days)
Dasmond Koh (Tourism Insiders)
Guo Liang (Breaking Barriers)
Lin Pei Fen (So Simple II)

Best Info-Ed Programme
Come Dance With Me
Food Hometown
My World My Blog
Of Rites & Rituals 2
TR- In the Face of Death
TR- 5 Years of SARS-free

Best Variety Special
S-Pop Hurray! Music Gala
Star Awards - 25th Drama Anniversary Show
Star Search 2007 (Finals)
SuperBand 2 Grand Finals
The Anniversary Gala 2008
The Sichuan Earthquake Charity Show

Well, I would love to add individual comments for the nominees. I have LOTS of them but i will leave it at your discretion and your comments! Plus, there's also the green apple award. But i highly doubt you will know each and every of the little children's names. So didn't add them, can tell you what show they from though.

So, the event is next sunday, 26th April 2009. 7pm! Don't miss it if u are at home.


Friday, April 17, 2009

Wedding Event: GLAMOUR BASH

Indulge in an afternoon of good food, exciting activities and great fun at the Style: Weddings Glamour Bash 2009 and stand a chance to win prizes worth more than S$20,000!



Date: Sunday, 26th April 2009

Time: 12 to 6pm

Venue: Fairmont Singapore, Level 4

Cost: $35 per couple ($1 admin fee per couple)

RSVP: Get your entry forms in the latest March09 issue of Style Weddings.



For registration: http://www.styleweddings.sg/COMPONENTS/Administration/CMS/Pic/events/GlamourBash09.pdf



Programme:




  1. Banquet showcase by Fairmont Singapore and Swissotel The Stamford.

  2. Designer Showcase 2009 featuring Ted Wu.

  3. Style:Weddings Celebrities Bridal Couture featuring Di Gio Bridal, French Studio & Bridal Boutique, La Belle Couture, Z Wedding D’sign, My Dream Weddings, WhiteLink and My Bridal Room.

  4. Sumptuous high-tea buffet by culinary team of Fairmont Singapore and Swissotel The Stamford.

  5. Wedding preparation workshops.

  6. Style:Weddings Dream Bridal Wardrobe Draw. Win a gown from Divine Couture, and sparklers from Lee Hwa Jewellery, all worth S$16,000!

Plus.. it's on the same day as our local Star Awards!!!

Thursday, April 16, 2009

Family

i'm sure some of you would have come across the latest MCYS ads on family. everyone on blogosphere seems to be talking about it. let me jump on the bandwagon too. well, here are the ads. very touching and pulls at one's heartstrings. =] but most importantly, the message about family is something close to my heart.








with our busy and self centred lifestyles, these ads were good reminders for us to stop in our tracks and to spend some quality time with the most important people around you. as cliche as it is, learn to treasure before its too late.

personally i know how difficult it is. especially when we have vastly different views from our parents. more often than not, i tend to take my parents for granted, speaking very rudely to them. i dont know about you, but somehow i just find it so difficult to openly express my love and concern to them even though i want to. perhaps its the conservative asian environment we are brought up in.

i'm not trying to say we should now all go saint and be angels to our parents. i guess just spending alittle more time, having more dinners together, talking and listening to them talk about life are little gestures we can do to show our appreciation. i guess i'm gonna start today by clearing the dustbin voluntarily later and to try talking alittle less harshly. haha!

on an ending note, i came across this website http://parentswish.com/. some food for thought :) couldnt help tear abit while watching the slideshow. hope it touches you too! =)


Wednesday, April 15, 2009

happy one-month old!


yays! the blog is a month old!
and it's going strong! =)

please continue to visit our blog!



Wedding Series I: Engagement Ring

From a very young age, both of us keep talking about wanting to open a bridal shop together and our dreams of becoming wedding planners. Weddings are such beautiful things to us that we want to play a part making them all come true. So naturally, not surprising that we decided to come up with this wedding series. Though we are not professionals, cos we never had a wedding before but here's just something from 2 girls in their twenties..


So where does a wedding begin from? Even before the actual wedding or whatever that follows after, there's the proposal. The day that alot of guys get panicky about. The weeks that they fret on. But what's the main thing of a proposal? Not the flowers or the words to use, not even the place you do it. That, I would cover another day but it's the engagement ring!

Ladies out there, do you know you are entitled to two rings in your entire lifetime from the same man. two MUST HAVE rings. the dating type of ring don't really count. The first would be a engagement ring, this is exclusive to you and you only. The other one will be a wedding band, where u and ur partner will each have one. And personally, engagement ring is the one you want to have diamonds. Wedding bands can have but, it's nothing like an engagement ring. Think along that line.


So how do you go about choosing a engagement ring?

The diamond will most likely account for most of the overall cost of the ring. Educating yourself on 4 Cs will ensure the making of an informed decision. The 4Cs are Cut, Clarity, Carat and Colour.


The setting, also referred to as the head, is the part that holds the diamond in place and is manufactured to fit the size and shape of the diamond you choose. The two main types are either prong or bezel settings. With round diamonds, you will have an option of either four or six-prong. A four-prong setting shows a bit more diamond, while a six-prong setting offers a slight security advantage. The band, also referred to as the engagement ring setting, is available in a variety of styles from the classic solitaire to diamond accented styles. Your choices of metals are 14k white or yellow gold, 18k white or yellow gold, and platinum. Some engagement settings are also available in two-tone. Now that you've covered all the components to an engagement ring, follow the simple guidelines below, and you'll be ready to pick the perfect ring to last a lifetime:

  • Establish Your Budget
  • Choose the engagement ring SHE will adore (ladies if u are choosing on your own, of course something you will adore)
  • Select the diamond (there are so many different shapes, round, oval, pear/teardrop, heart, emerald, marquise, princess, trillian)
  • Know your Jeweller
My personal preference would be a solitaire ring, most girls out there will agree with me too. Choosing an engagement ring is really important, it's one of the most beautiful thing to begin a whole new chapter of yout life.


Stay tune for more of the wedding series.


The photos are taken from:
http://www.vivodiamonds.com/

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Shopping Mall: Iluma

The new mall in bugis goes big on arts~

Iluma, a 10-storey mall is located at Bugis, right opposite Bugis Junction and beside Bugis Village. You won't miss it.

While many new malls are showcasing the biggest and best international fashion brands, Iluma is focusing on the arts and entertainment. The 10-storey mall opposite Bugis Junction is devoting about 60 per cent of its space to restaurants, a cineplex and dance clubs.

There is an indoor events plaza and a outdoor civic plaza. All the floors are undulating (curved) so it gives shoppers an amphitheatre experience.

The rooftop has sky terraces and restaurants, which will provide an alfresco dining experience. And there are even discussions to connect a link bridge, which will be completed in six to eight months' time, to Bugis Junction, are underway.

To demonstrate its commitment to the arts, discounts will be granted on rent or even full venue sponsorship to artists.

This means that artists could use the open space on the rooftop, the indoor events plaza and the outdoor civic plaza for performances. More than 150 shops will be targeted at the young, hip and trendy. Unlike many malls, Iluma will NOT have a supermarket. But it's not going to be a big deal since there is already a cold storage in Bugis Junction.

One thing to note is also opening a Filmgarde cineplex in Iluma. The nine-hall cineplex will boast 1,400 seats. Located on the fifth floor, it aims to bring back the 'glamour' of movies, with gala premieres planned. For those who wanna check out the newest cinema in town, here it is:

http://www.filmgarde.com.sg/new/index.asp

Tenants include Japanese pasta chain Waraku and Style Evolution, which sells bags and wallets from the US and Europe. There will be a new fashion and lifestyle shop called Red Velvet which is opened by former merchandiser from streetwear chain 77th Street.

The mall was supposed to open at the end of last year, but sources said the launch was delayed as renovations could not be completed on time.

I hope to get more pictures on the inside and to share more details with you guys once I go there.. meanwhile, you should go check it out yourself.

Sunday, April 12, 2009

Hong Kong Drama: E.U.


One of the latest hongkong drama, the third series to “The Academy - 学警雄心” (The first series) & “On the First Beat - 学警出更” (The second series).


E.U stands for Emergency Unit. In this story, Kong Sai Hau (by Michael Miu, second from left) is released from prison in Taiwan after 10 years of jail sentence. He returns back to Hong Kong hoping to reunite with his daugher, Yau Yau (by Elaine Kong, third from left). At the same time, he is seeking and planning his revenge on the triad leader, To Yik Tin who caused him to be jailed.

Sai Hau decided to work with two police officers to get rid of his triad leader by giving them inside information on the drug activities & uses his relationship with Yik Tin’s wife, Yeuk Sam (by Kathy Chow, first from left) to help him rise in ranks.


Lee Pak Kiu (by Sammul Chan, third from right) , from Emergency Unit (E.U) and Chung Lap Man (by Ron Ng, forth from left) from the Special Duty Squad are his targets. Pak Kiu refused to mix with a criminal while Lap Man thinks by using his close relationship with Sai Hau, he is able to combat the triad’s activities with the inside information. His closeness with Sai Hau soon caused him to lose his job.


Yik Tin was killed and Sai Hau successfully rose to the head of the triad replacing Yik Tin. Lap Man later become an undercover cop to expose Sai Hau’s crimes. Sai Hau took Lap Man under his wings. Pak Kiu was very upset to see a sudden change in Lap Man. At the same time, Lap Man discovered that there is another person in Sai Hau’s triad with the same mission as he does.

Just as Sai Hau thought that everything is under his control, he discovered that the people he trusted most, betrayed and used him.


Lots of action, and for those who love hong kong dramas, especially related to police must must watch!

A total of 30 episodes, can be found on http://www.tudou.com/ or http://www.mysoju.com/eu/

And here's a trailer for u to enjoy.. do watch the full version.





Saturday, April 11, 2009

Food: Paulaners Brauhaus


If you are keen to have a feast on a Sunday morning, Paulaners is the place you must go. It's a German and International Buffet, with free flow of drinks and an additional $10 for free flow of beer. And no, you didn't read that wrongly, it's FREE FLOW of beer for just an additional $10. Imagine, if u are someone who don't mind drinking in the mid-day, this is definitely the place.


Located on the second level (first level is a pub), the familiar Maibaum (Maypole), a 16th century Bavarian architectural feature, takes centrestage. Handcrafted decorative iron frames and individual hanging pendant lamps enhance the cosiness of the spacious interior. Adorned with etchings of traditional Bavarian costumes and dotted with numerous pictures of scenes in Germany, customers will feel immersed in a truly convivial and cosy setting. There's elevated seatings as well, but we didn't get to sit there.

Every Sunday from 11:30a.m to 2:30p.m. $33++ and with free flow of beer would be $43++. The pictures below are taken to the best of our ability and seriously, we might not have done enough justice to the food there. But here's the main gist of it.

At their salad bar, they have a wide variety of greens and selection of cold cuts, smoked hams and cheese specialties. There's also different types of salad, such as, Potato Salad, Pasta Salad, Seafood salad, Beetroot salad and that's quite an unusual one, for me at least. And many more.

The main specialites of their main course would be the pork knuckles. Beer plus pork knuckles, could you ask for more? And even if the savory people are satisfied, we have fondue for the sweet toothers too. Actually what's more exciting for you people with a candy tooth, is way below.


A simple plate, and obviously one of a lady's. Ham, bread, greens, coleslaw and salmon.


Do I have to say that this definitely belongs to a guy's plate? Fish and fries, sausages of different type, mash potato, pasta (tomato base and cream base) and chicken fillets. The veg was only placed for decorative purposes!

The drinks, iced tea for the ladies and beer for the guys. They are a little strict with no sharing of beer though. But one quick sip can go un-noticed. QUICK sip. Once again, the free flow of beer is definitely worth that extra $10! The iced tea is nice too, especially with lots of the sugar syrup.
And here is the exciting dessert bar i promised the "sweet" people. Cakes and more cakes. Ranging from bread pudding, apple strudels to dark and white chocolate mousse. There's blackforest cake, opera, cheesecake and tiramisu. Of course, every buffet has its fruits and this is no exception.


And finally, we left the place with a satisfied meal, our tooth sweetened and a little alcohol in our blood. Maybe one day we can try this place at night, where the pub below comes to live.


9 Raffles Boulevard #01-03
Milenia Walk
Tel: 6883 2572 (For reservations)