Juxtaposition of July

Dear Diary,

Herein marks another month bringing us closer to the end of the year. This means, bringing me closer to short trip before the Honeymoon, bringing me closer to Christmas, and bringing me closer to *Feith's visit.

So in July, the new role commenced; it was like returning to a familiar trade but different, as well. The products are different, as are the crowds and people I work with. There's loads to learn, which makes it exciting, and I love the new office. Love the flexibility of time and how I can work from every corner of the island literally, meeting interesting people.

In July, I also reaped the returns of a couple of new business ventures as well as ongoing projects. The launch of the new stream is beginning, and I am excited. My mind never stops at thinking of possibilities, because there's too much going on and life is too short. Someone once asked, "Why do you have so many sides?" (not in admiration, but more of scoffing), and I countered easily, "What happens if you lose your current job right now?" Silence ensued. 

Sorry that I have not been able to set aside time for some friends I meant to meet - I will do so soon. I have also turned down a few media invites for various events - sorry but The Other Blog is really not my priority for now.

What's wrong with ventures anyway? Sales is fun, meeting people is fun, and most importantly, learning is fun. Where my dream used to be able to work in a professional capacity (i.e. doctor, lawyer, the likes), or to pursue my passion (writing, fashion design) - I have tweaked my dream so that I can have multiple streams of revenue coming from different directions and industries. Extremely crucial, especially with today's unstable economy. And the unpredictability of life.

I am saddened, as well, to note that whilst the world is progressing at a fast pace these days, with technological advancement reaching new heights and people are becoming more open in thoughts, somehow, there are still groups of people who seem bent on living in the past. The naïve past, where religions and race still form the dichotomy of enmity.  Are we going to regress, and eventually destroy each other in war again? While you and I hate each other; our companies hate each so you and I must stand as a whole; our country hates your country, then our countries'religion hates another religion, so we must stand together as a country. Is that it? Then on a larger scale, our planet hates another planet, and maybe this universe battles another universe.

I don't know. Can't people just lay down their differences and look toward saving this one Earth that we have, that we co-exist on, to make it better and more lasting instead? Why can't people simply learn to celebrate the simple fact that we are (and the people around us) are fortunate enough to be born with healthy minds and limbs and organs, able to function and think, speak, feel, see, hear, etc, that we should not take the simple beauty of life for granted, nor inflict such harm to others so that they are also deprived of this simple beauty life offers?

Serious and philosophical stuffs aside, this month also marks Hari Raya Puasa, a festival celebrated by the Muslims all over the world. I was honoured to be invited to 2 different girlfriends' houses for visits, to partake in delicacies and enjoy what their culture has to offer.

Other than that, The Beau and I finally settled the November Honeymoon trip. We also attended the long-awaited Les Miserables musical at The Esplanade, and it was magnificent! We couldn't stop singing the songs after the musical. We also plan to try to have something to look forward to, on a monthly basis - a fantastic dinner, a musical, a holiday trip etc.

Finally, a pressing issue (not mine, but would affect my lifestyle) has finally been settled, and I am relieved. In the interim, I am looking forward to more good things to come. You know what they always say? If you cannot change the way things are, change the way you think - and you would be happier, seeing things in a much brighter light.

Looking forward to seeing you dears again next month - once again, thank you for gracing this humble personal site of mine. Love you xoxoxoxo


Media Invites / Events:
(I)  Dorra's Lower Body Slimming Treatment (review here)
(II) Les Miserables Musical @ The Esplanade Theater (review here)
(III) Tasting at Beast & Butterflies @ The M Social (review here)
(IV) Tasting at Two Tall Trees Café @ Serangoon Gardens (review here)

The Passings of June 2016

 

 

Dear Diary,

Welcome into the dusty wake of June; we have now crossed more than half the year. For once, I am able to keep track of all that's traversed and how I spent my time.

Considerably less wining and dining, more business ventures and meaningful meetups with close friends.  Also managed to  bring the Niece to KidZania (review here).

 

 

There were the usual flurry of networking events and a couple of business seminars. Then the launch of the wine project, as well as updates on the BN and A projects. Completed the business proposal for OFA, and am now getting started on the new project (yet to be named). Also finished up the G-campaign.

Not to mention that the new role is starting, and though I have already closed the first case (thanks to the Bro), I have yet to get start on the rest of the to-do list for it.

 

 

Busy, but happy. Busy, but lucrative. Busy, but fulfilling. I just need to devote more time to the community work and religion fronts. Oh yeah, we have completed our honeymoon research, and are happy to move on to finalization of booking by next week.

When will I have time to develop my arts? Will I ever?

 

 

 

In this month alone, I was informed of 3 passings, sadly - a primary school classmate's dad (not close, but we'd seen each other since young and reside in same estate), the Bestie's dad, and the SIL's FIL (a distant, distant relation, but family obligatios still apply).

It makes me think again, on the fragility of life. On living it fullest and to cherish more of those who are in our lives - live and let live.

That's it for now. Take care my dears and see you in a month's time again *smooches*

 

 

For list of sponsored events / advertorials:

(i) Clear SK's Accent V Face Treatment (review here)

(ii) Greenwood Fish Shop's World Oyster Festival 2016 (review here)

(iii) Dorra's Lower  Body Slimming Treatment (review here)

How May Fare(d)

Dear Diary,

It has been more than a month since married life - how was it? Not much different, since we have been together for a decade. You need to keep more people in mind, oh, and shopping habits changed somewhat - think toilet rolls, bedsheets and breakfast muesli.

There was a short trip to celebrate Mon Beau and my 10th year anniversary, discovering new and romantic spots in a city we'd recall as nothing but "nightlife, bazaars and temples" during previous visits. The new discoveries were pretty fascinating.

Photosource: http://thearcticstar.blogspot.sg/2016/05/tackling-thailand-bangkok-new-asiatique.html

Getting artistic this month too, as I scoured 2 museums for art exhibitions and enjoyed myself tremendously, finding back the artist in me. Oh, especially dazzled by the Van Cleef & Arpels exhibition which I went just last weekend. Now searching for more plays, exhibitions and musicals to attend.

Anyway, blogging is really getting boring now that the faze is over, and I have turned down like, 5 events (fashion and hair events, a couple of food tastings). Sorry - it was fun while it lasted, and I did make some really awesome friends - and I will still be writing on and off, but new ventures have sapped most of my time away now.

Think healthcare, think beauty, think wine, think ker-ching. These are the 4 creatures keeping me ever so busy for now, oh and that's on top of the new novel I just began. Deals are sealed, indicating that "we're officially in business', or more rightfully so, "we're officially business partners".   You know, I had wanted to try out a few ventures with some closer friends (separate ventures) but they never materialized -  too much research resulting in too little actions, someone got pregnant, someone had constraints otherwise etc, etc. So I've learned that firstly, it's easier to start off on one's own, really - no one to hinder decisions or movements. Secondly, it's easier fostering business relationships with existing business partners - these days everyone seems to go the referral route and very few people start from scratch.

Finally, the month ended with celebrations - Mother's Day with the newly extended family, and Mother's Day cum Mom's Birthday dinner fairly recently. 

What else happened in May is the shedding off unworthy "friends" aka some hypocrites. But more events mean more new friendship fostered - why do people often complain about having no friends, is a notion that leaves me baffled.

Other than that, it's friends, friends and more friends, as well as some networking events.  World is too small for comfort, when you get more and more people telling you they know someone that you do, or spot your photo in another friend's social media upload.

That's it for May, see you sweethearts in a month's time. Stay tuned *kisses*

Why I love April 2016

Dear Diary,

The long-awaited month has is coming to an end, and it still feels somewhat surreal. Here we are, looking back on the first quarter of the year, then looking further back at the entire year's worth of planning - only to end up collecting memories in the wake.

Okay, I love April. I love April because it is the month I became The Mrs L. I got myself a wonderful man who has and will always be there for me, who is handsome, who is doing well in his career and is family-oriented. I cannot say that things will never change in future, but I would like to cherish everyday together - till death do us apart.

Sadly though, I am still residing at my mom's place. It is not that I do not want to move over - oh well, you guys know the reason. I need to have our own abode and left alone (who doesn't?).

Anyway, just as I'd expected, I find myself relishing in the beauty and warmth of that day - the bustle of preparation, the love and help from close friends, and the joy at seeing everyone who took time to turn up to celebrate our union with us. In a way I wish I could relive it once more - in slow mode.

I love April, because it is my month - the month of Aries, the month of Spring, and the month I opened my eyes to the wonders of the world... some years back. Thank you everyone who remembered and cared to!

I love April, because I received the pathway to something that I'd always enjoyed. I am excited and happy and thankful for it (should I go all out and shout "thank Deities for being wonderful" over and over?) but yet I also fear. It is like finally sighting celestial beauty across the lake, but am afraid to step over the water for fear of drowning.

Then I love April, because the accounting venture finally took wings. And the other venture (which I am more excited about) should take flight soon, hopefully.

I also love April, because it made me realize that I am really, truly immune to the words and thoughts of unimportant persons in / out of my life. It probably meant that I have truly grown up and above the cares of petty and imbecile people too concerned about my life when I don't care about them one bit. There were the ones who seized opportunities to get "fame" for articles not even written by themselves (lol), those who pretended to care by offering to "mediate" when they were not even there in person to understand what really went on, those who make it difficult for others to attain their tasks at work, etc.

The bad thing is that they do exist, The good thing is that those who try to hurt me always end up in downfalls eventually (call it Karma?) but nope, I am not interested to be updated, thank you - because I do not want to get involved or know.

Oh also a sidenote, through the wedding, I have also been put through tests to realize who my true friends are. Some disappoint; others live up to my low expectations of them - but I am happy that most of them are just awesome people. Oh, let's forget about those who deliberately chuck useless "wedding gifts" over (don't tell me its "the thoughts that count" because if anyone wants to know the origin of my annoyance, come ask me) or those who feign illness days before the wedding, thinking that it would make a difference over informing on AD  (oh well, if you want to curse yourself ill, I cannot help you there, sorry).

Last but not least, the world is so small, much smaller than I ever thought. It seems everyone I meet these days seem to know someone who knows someone I knew from somewhere. Hmmm...

Finally, some shopping loot and events. Thank you for reading, my dears, I love you and wish you a wonderful month ahead. Till May. xoxoxo

Butler Snow law firm launch party at The Fullerton Bay's LANTERN BAR - delicious food,
Mint Juleps and jazz band performance amidst networking

Click on links to read:
1) The Grand Finale Post of The Nuptial Series
2) Customised Rejuvenation Facial at Fabulous Aesthetics
3) Skin Magic Renewal Facial at Beauty Hope
4) Dinner at Fumee by Habanos
5) Body Whitening Treatment at Beauty Hope
6) Diamond Micro-dermabrasion and IPL at Dr. Calvin Chan

Pink Maxi Kale Dress

Black and peach lace collared blouse

Monochrome collared blouse

Gray checkered rose dress

Peachy-rose blouse

Black short dress with gray-detailed top coat

Black short dress with lacey top coat

Kimono-styled sleeping gown

Blue and white ombre tube dress with slit

Gray blouse-and-pants set

Royal blue blouse with rose neckline

March-vellous 2016

Dear Diary

The festivities have barely ended for the past months, and this month was another frantic one, filled with preparations for the upcoming wedding. Pace of work has also gone up due to some reasons,  but it is enjoyable.

Some fun activities marked this month as well, such as St. Patrick's Day and the recent Easter weekend. Lots of meeting up with friends to continue passing out the wedding invitation cards as well.

There was also the wedding dinner of a longtime good friend; a group of us took the opportunity to do catching up as well. I realise as we age and the stages of life change, catching up time as well as the people we hang out with seem to change drastically as well.

The Bridesmaids' Meeting happened as well, where we discussed the itinerary, who to help with what, and I handed out the bridesmaids' dresses. I kind of regret not having ordered the maxi dresses - would've looked more elegant and chic on them.

Networking activities for work and business continued to occur; always happy to meet new people. There was also the Guo Da Li (betrothal and dowry gifts exchange) ceremony that took place just last weekend. Lots to prepare, and lots of cake delivery to do. Saddened that I could not consume any of the cakes, wine or fruit exchanged, as it would equate to "eating away my own happiness".

Finally, collected the engraved rings and am happy to note that most stuff have been settled by now. The entire planning and preparation process was stressful and hectic but fun in retrospect. I believe I am not exactly "pantang" (superstitious) about a lot of stuff but I believe a lot in energy and positive thoughts.

All right, that's it for now. Looking forward to a new beginning and stage of life.

See you in April!


Media Invites  / sponsored events:
(i) Dinner at Ash & Elm @ Intercontinental
(ii) Facial at Shakura @ Plaza Sing
(iii) Golf, café and pub at Urban Fairways @ Raffles Place
(iv) Lunch at Grand Mandarina @ Chinatown
(v) The Nuptial Series - Wedding Styles in Singapore 2016

Fantastic Fab-ruary 2016

Dear Diary,

A very exciting and busy month has passed by.... another surreal situation. The brand new year has already crossed its 2nd month mark, and today is leap year Monday. Let's see what has transpired during this month...

First of all, Lunar New Year - being a joyous occasion for feasting, family gatherings, fun and relaxation. I also took the chance to drop by the River Ang Pao bazaar for extra atmosphere. It is ironic how we spent weeks just to prepare for a couple of days' festivities.

Then there was Valentine's Day, where we enjoyed a simple poolside dinner, marking the last V-day we'll both be single. There are so many sentiments to this day - lovers find it sweet, singles hate it or are non-chalant, and friends celebrate love of friendship.

What else took place is the intensity of wedding preparation - been meeting groups of friends to give out the wedding invites and mailing out the others.  Gown fitting and purchase of some items have been settled as well.  I think we have paced each other pretty well.

Other than that, new collaborations have been formed for the side business, and new friends have been made.  I am excited at the new possibilities that lie ahead. 

Cafes and restaurants have been cut down on, but lounging over a drink or two still continue. The writings have been more consistent. I also discovered some good skincare products.  Oh, and it was International Polar Bears Day over the weekend and it was time to adopt my very own polar bear.

To end off a good month, here's the tastings for the month (reducing significantly over the months as I switch directions):
(i) Tasting at New Fut Kai Vegetarian Restaurant
(ii) CNY Buffet at The Square @ Novotel Clarke Quay
(iii)  Valentine's Dinner at The Carvery @ Park Hotel Alexandra
(iv) Tasting at Jim Thompson Thai Restaurant @ Dempsey

The Month of Janus, 2016

Dear Diary,

After one round, we have returned to where we started on the axis, and back at January.  It feels like such a short month, probably because of all the busy-ness setting in.  Work - the pros, the cons, the usual - I could do with a little less merry-making to trade for emotionally-stable heads. Just saying.

The side business - new collaborations and opportunities have popped up so I shall set aside time to focus. Interest - food reviews are significantly reduced as I clear out the drafts and attend lesser invites or non-invited meals. I need to get started on the new book ideas before time races ahead of me.  I need to remember that the only reason I'd started the food blog was because I was trying to garner readers for my writings - but I guess the reason was subsequently forgotten as I made more foodie friends over the enjoyment of good food.

The drinking, feasting, shopping and gifting have not ceased since November 2014 (when Thanksgiving flowed into Christmas).   Lunar New Year is around the corner, especially early for this year, so there has been visits to Chinatown for ambience and buying stuff, as well as shopping for Chinese New Year's clothes and snacks.

Chinese New Year lunches have been commencing at work with company, clients, suppliers etc, as well as first round of Reunion dinner over the weekend. The latter was a gathering of immediate family members, with the Mom, bro and wife, mon beau and I, with dad in spirit. I love these authentic, conventional Cantonese fare for CNY, lovingly prepared by the mom - especially the dish made up of shitake mushrooms, abalone, dried oysters, black moss (fa cai), sea cucumber etc.  Each item is a symbolic of a good blessing, i.e. fortune.

Supposed to get started on the Spring Cleaning, but this year it weighs heavier on me. It is not just about tossing out some old stuff for the upcoming New Year, wiping the dust away and monitoring the part-time domestic helpers. It is about throwing away bits and pieces of my memory, because I will be moving to mon beau's in April..... it is about removing a lot of beloved possessions from my childhood, even if these are things I seldom bother to look at or use.   Ahhhh, I am being sentimental here... I am just not looking forward to the spring cleaning this year.

Just like how I just kissed my beloved Blackberry phones goodbye, after 8 years of being loyal to them. It was a tough choice deciding between continuing with Blackberry, or switching. And then when I made the choice to switch, which brand? Ultimately I discover that all phones are similar anyway.

This month is ..... a month of celebration? I am not kidding when I look back and realise that every week, there is a celebratory event. First weekend - good friend's baby's 1st year birthday. Second weekend - longtime friend's church wedding. Third weekend - one of the beastie's baby's 1st year birthday. Fourth weekend - a dear friend's baby shower.  And just this weekend alone, our family's Reunion dinner.

Am I "pantang" (superstitious) about attending other happy events because my wedding is in April? No. To me, energies and thoughts are very important-  I believe that as long as the guests we invite all come with happy, well-wishing mindsets and thoughts, it is enough to generate good vibes and happenings.

Media Invites:

Alati Greek Divine Cuisine @ Amoy Street
Dinner at Joie by Dozo @ Orchard Central


Logging off now to get busy. Thank you for gracing this blog again, and have a good start to February 2016, mon chere!  *kisses*