Sweet Memoirs

Harris Resort Waterfront (Day 1)

2012-02-13T14:32:00.004+08:00

At the resort lobby upon arrival.

I did mention in our Batam Island Escapade that Baby Gian enjoyed his celebrity status right? Haha! Here's one proof. A Korean national and fellow tourist carried him while i am busy taking our room keys at the check-in counter. She's giving Baby Gian back to daddy in this photo but she doesn't seem so keen to let go. Lol! There has been countless of "soooo cute" remarks towards Baby Gian. It's sweet music to our ears.

Fantastic Four

We left all our things inside the room right after checking in and off we went to explore.

First activity: Bowling! Like i said in my post here, we played as if we own the whole place.

Headed over to Pronto Pizzeria after the funnest bowling game ever for the famous wood oven baked pizza. We had another serving of this in different flavor and boy, hubby and I ate a LOT! Wala munang diet-diet! Lol!

Kyla and Mana had a blast at the pool after our pizza session.

I had a great time chillaxing. Geeez, a lot more confident now for photo opps after reaching my pre-preggy weight. READ: Not my ideal weight. Baby handles still visible, please excuse my kapal-muks. Lol!

Cheesy moment with the hubby. He joined me after testing the pool water. Too cold for him. Lol!

Of course, we didn't leave Baby Gian unattended. He's sleeping soundly inside the room with his nanny.

After the pool party, spa bliss here we come!!! First up: Hubby and I. Next up: Mama and Nanny. We have to take turns taking care of the kiddos. The traditional Indonesian massage is A-W-E-S-O-M-E!

Ended the day for Mama's birthday dinner at Golden Prawn. It's a humongous place very popular to both tourists and locals, hence requires a separate blog post. We had a fun-filled and relaxing day 1. See you on our Day 2. :)

My Big Sister's Hands

2012-02-12T10:01:00.000+08:00

SUNDAY SNAPSHOT
MOSAIC MONDAY

The day I was born,
You sang a happy little song.
"Can I hold the baby!?"
You had waited for so long.

Your hands gently held me,
You cupped my little feet.
You said, "I'm your big sister".
Your words, genuine and sweet.

Your hands are ready helpers,
They love to hold me in your lap.
Dress me up, push my swing,
Keen to help with baths and naps.

Your hands are the heartstrings,
Reaching out to help me stand.
Offering comfort when I cry,
Clapping like my biggest fan.

Your hands are my teachers,
Sharing storybooks and games.
Performing song and dance,
Teaching me to spell my name.

Together as a family,
We will both grow old,
You're forever my big sister,
Who gave her heart of gold.

POEM FROM BABYFIT.COM

Alexandra Arch

2012-02-11T15:22:00.002+08:00

Photo Straight Out of the Camera

Conceptualised as a “Gateway to Nature”, Alexandra Arch links Hilltop Walk and Forest Walk.

Walk on this 80m long bridge and admire its unique architecture - it looks like an opened leaf across Alexandra Road, with its curved deck intersecting an arch that is tilted at a 70-degree angle.

Alexandra Arch is lit up by LED lights at night. The lights change colour at intervals from 7pm to 12am daily, displaying varying shades from the colour spectrum of dusk.

Distance: 0.08km

Difficulty level: easy

This trail is disabled-friendly

Mixed Fruit Danish

2012-02-10T12:49:00.004+08:00

Another family favourite from Bread Society.

FOOD FRIDAY

FOOD TRIP FRIDAY
TRC PHOTO CHALLENGE

YUMMY SUNDAY

Magnolia

2012-02-09T11:56:00.007+08:00

Magnolia also known as "Yoloxochitl" is a large genus of about 210 flowering plant species in the subfamily Magnolioideae of the family Magnoliaceae. It is named afterFrench botanist Pierre Magnol.

Magnolia is an ancient genus. Having evolved before bees appeared, the flowers developed to encourage pollination by beetles. To avoid damage from pollinating beetles, the carpels of Magnolia flowers are extremely tough. Fossilised specimens of Magnolia acuminata have been found dating to 20 million years ago, and of plants identifiably belonging to the Magnoliaceae dating to 95 million years ago. Another primitive aspect of Magnolias is their lack of distinct sepals or petals: Magnolias possess undifferentiated flower parts for which the term "tepals" was coined. ~SOURCE

FERTILIZER FRIDAY

FAVORITE PHOTO FRIDAY
PHOTO ART FRIDAY
BLOOMING FRIDAY
FLOWERS ON SATURDAY
TODAY'S FLOWERS

Hilltop Walk

2012-02-08T04:14:00.002+08:00

Hilltop Walk runs through Telok Blangah Hill Park. This park was once a gathering place for trading communities that thrived in the area in the early nineteenth century.

Make your way to the Terrace Garden at the top of the park and stop for a moment to enjoy a stunning 360-degree view of Singapore and the decks of bougainvillea at the Garden.

Distance: 1km
Walking time: 15 min
Difficulty level: easy

SOURCE

SCENIC SUNDAY

SUNLIT SUNDAY

Harris Resort Waterfront (Batam,Indonesia)

2012-02-07T15:32:00.012+08:00

I've read quite good reviews about Harris Resort Waterfront which convinced me to give it a try. I booked a 2D1N stay for my mom's birthday. She's been helping us to take care of Baby Gian and we thought it would be great to treat her to a Spa Weekend Getaway on her special day.

Resort Lobby
Kyla anticipated traditional indonesian dancers to welcome us ala Bintan Lagoon Resort but we were only welcomed with a rosella tea, cookies and a wet towel upon arrival.

The resort brags about their previous awards namely; Best Family Hotel (Winner) , Most Popular Hotel in Asia (Finalist), Luxury Island Resort (Winner) and Luxury Beach Resort (Winner).

Room 1
They have cabanas and Japanese themed rooms but we booked a family room.

View at room 1
We opted for the waterfront view instead of pool view.

View at Room 2
Our room is connected to my mom's room. First room has 1 mini fridge and one king-size bed while second room has two-door fridge, two single beds and a breakfast table. Both rooms were equipped with huge wardrobe, you can bring your whole house and stay there forever. Lol!

Both rooms also have clean and sleek bathroom with a tub. Kyla's wish granted. Haha!

It was an off peak season, the pool area is clean and not crowded. That spells heaven for my water lover girl.

Even the bowling area is empty when we went to play. We played as if we own the whole place. Lol!

The Pronto Pizzeria serves the best and the freshest thin crust wood oven baked pizza.

We had a complimentary breakfast buffet at Harris Cafe. Choices of food are very basic.

Read more to have a glimpse of paradise.

The highlight of our stay is the complimentary Traditional Indonesian Massage. H Spa is situated on a roof top, it provides a fantastic and relaxing hill view.

This is how the cabanas look like from afar. *We call them chalet here in Singapore.

The view in front of the cabanas is a piece of heaven.

Next to the cabanas is the Sea Sports Center where you can have a banana boat ride. They also have jetski, cable ski, canoes and parasails.

The Harris Extreme Camp offers great activities both for kids and adults.

Harris Grill is a great place to chillax at day time.

A great spot to watch the kids having fun at the beach.

I would say Harris Resort is a paradise. If i have the luxury to come back again (company sponsored perhaps, lol!), i wouldn't think twice coz hubby and i wanted to try the ATV ride so bad. I would give their facilities and services a four star out of five. The only thing i want to suggest is it's about time to change their towels and bed linens to new ones. They are definitely washed but i spotted faint traces of stubborn stains.

OUTDOOR WEDNESDAY
WATERY WEDNESDAY
NATURE NOTES

Cheap Table Centerpiece

2012-02-06T12:42:00.002+08:00

If you run out of ideas for cheap table centrepiece, a small vase and a fresh bright colored flower always do the trick. It is enough to brighten your day while having your breakfast.

FAVORITE PHOTO MONDAY

FOCUS 52 PHOTO CHALLENGE
SWEET SHOT TUESDAY

TUESDAY TAKES
COMMUNAL GLOBAL
CREATIVE EXCHANGE

ORANGE TUESDAY

Waterfront City Ferry Terminal

2012-02-05T16:21:00.001+08:00

I love their logo!

Not a usual sight. It felt wonderful to be in another planet.

Breathtaking view from the terminal. Made me anticipate a great relaxing time.

Could hardly wait! See you all at Harris Resort!

FYI: Waterfront City Ferry Terminal is located south of Sekupang Ferry Terminal. Most of the ferries that stop at Sekupang Ferry Terminal also go to Waterfront City Terminal, approximately 10 mins more by ferry. It is just a few minutes by taxi to the Waterfront City area. The nearby hotels (just 5 mins away) have mini buses available for pick-up / drop-off at the ferry terminal. ~ SOURCE

If you missed our Batam Island Escapade, click here.

Batam Island Escapade

2012-02-04T15:57:00.001+08:00

We went to Batam Island for my mom's birthday treat. It was baby Gian's first overseas trip.

We arrived at Harbourfront Ferry Terminal at around 8am. Our ferry was scheduled to leave at 9:20am.

We boarded the Batam Fast ferry at exactly 9am. My mom (in red blouse and white necklace) looked thrilled.

We departed on time. The TV monitor demonstrated how to put on the life vest.

Baby Gian behaved so well during the entire trip. He kept looking around his surroundings and enjoyed his celebrity status.

The ferry stopped over at Sekupang Ferry Terminal.

We took the chance to explore the upper deck.

Photo opp at the upper deck. Hubby greeted me Happy St Velentine's Day. He was trying to save money so we celebrated heart's day in advance. Lol!

Loved the view at the upper deck! Too bad we couldn't stay too long for safety reasons.

Thank God we arrived safe and sound at our destination. Waterfront City here we come!

FYI: Batam is a small yet charming Indonesian island, strategically located close to the Malacca Strait and Singapore. Only 45 minutes by ferry from Singapore’s Harbor-front, Batam acts as a gateway to 3,000 islands in the Riau Archipelago of Sumatra. The island is one of the most frequented tourist destinations, welcoming over one million visitors each year and is second only to Bali in popularity. ~ SOURCE

Up next: Waterfront City Ferry Terminal

OUR WORLD TUESDAY
TRAVEL TUESDAY
PICSTORY

The Vines Seafood and Steak Restaurant

2012-02-03T09:18:00.003+08:00

Hubby and I had lunch after work at The Vines Restaurant on the 28th of last Month. I don't feel comfortable saying it coz you may find it corny pero sige na nga aaminin ko na monthsary namin. Lol! We were supposed to eat at the famous Wee Nam Kee Restaurant opposite Novena Church like we usually do when we visit the church but the place was so packed during lunchtime. We managed to get a table but we left when no one attended to us to get our order after a few minutes. We decided to give The Vines Restaurant which is just few steps away.

The place is spacious so we managed to get a table right away.

I had vegetable soup and garlic bread,

NZ Ribeye steak,

Sorry, this stubborn photo won't just show up rotated though i already edited and rotated it.

and fruit cake Set Meal for only $13.90! @.@ Isn't that cheap? The food is gratifying (we left the place feeling too full) plus the ambiance and service is way much better than Wee Nam Kee's.

FOOD FRIDAY
FOOD TRIP FRIDAY

Hort Park

2012-02-02T16:36:00.005+08:00

Hort Park Lobby

We visited Hort Park in August 2010.

Fish Pond

This beautiful fish pond greeted us upon alighting from the cab. My girl tremendously enjoyed the fish galore.

She became an instant endorser of Hort Park.

What a beautiful day it was!

Soothing blue sky!

Beautifully designed vertical landscape.

My girl had fun at the Home Garden. We plan to visit this park again as we didn't get the chance to join the garden tour last time. We ended up exploring the Southern Ridges. I will blog about it one of these days.

HortPark is part of the Southern Ridges, which also comprises Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park and Kent Ridge Park. We are a one-stop gardening hub that brings together gardening-related, recreational, educational, research and retail activities under one big canopy in a park setting. We are also a knowledge hub for plants and gardening, providing gardening ideas and solutions, and offering a platform for the industry to share best practices and showcase garden designs, products and services.

We are especially popular with gardening enthusiasts, families, and community groups who yearn for a tranquil environment for relaxation, and are frequently visited by people who enjoy taking nature walks along the Southern Ridges.

Open daily from 6am to10pm, there are lots to explore and gather gardening ideas from at HortPark!

SOURCE

Fun Outdoor Games for Kids

2012-02-01T01:55:00.001+08:00

Kids these days are so used to playing with electronic gadgets like Nintendo DS, PSP, iPhone and iPad which can affect their brain and behavior. In this computer age, we often forget the importance of playing outdoors. It is a lot more fun, refreshing and relaxing. I am listing my daughter's favourite outdoor games with her dad. I do play with her too but i get tired too easily. I can't keep up with her hyper-activeness, i'm getting old. Lol! The following photos were taken during our Christmas Staycation at City Beach Resort.

1) Scissors, paper, stone ~ Game mechanics depends on the condition of the players.

2) Habulan (Translation: Catch me if you can. Lol!) ~ Catch daddy then it will be daddy's turn to catch her.

3) Langit at Lupa (Heaven and Earth) ~ Get daddy to land on earth and it's her turn to be in heaven. Lol!

4) Karate Kid and The Master ~ whoever falls loses the game.

“Without continuous hands-on experience, it is impossible for children to acquire a deep intuitive understanding of the natural world that is the foundation of sustainable development. ….A critical aspect of the present-day crisis in education is that children are becoming separated from daily experience of the natural world, especially in larger cities.” -Natural Learning, Creating Environments for Rediscovering Nature’s Way of Teaching, Robin C. Moore and Herb H. Wong

OUTDOOR WEDNESDAY

NATURE NOTES

Kaleidoscope Effect

2012-01-31T14:54:00.002+08:00

Kaleidoscope effect achieved using Tuxpi Photo Editor.

Applying a kaleidoscope effect to an image can generate some wild and unexpected results. ~ SOURCE

PHOTOBLOG CHALLENGE THEME 5
ALPHABE-THURSDAY

Bintan Resorts Ferry

2012-01-30T15:10:00.005+08:00

We took this ferry during our Bintan Island Escapade in 2010.

Bintan Resort Ferries is a ferry operator with regular ferry services between Singapore (Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal) & Bintan (Bandar Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal).

BLUE MONDAY
MIDWEEK BLUES
THE CREATIVE EXCHANGE
COMMUNAL GLOBAL

Bintan Lagoon Resort (Day 1/Part 1)

2012-01-29T00:15:00.000+08:00

This is a sequel to my blog entry Bintan Island Escapade. I received a few requests from readers to do a review of the resort we went to but this is not actually a review but a more of a feature. I initially included this in my previous post but decided to split it up and tweak a little for the benefit of the readers who wanted to know whether the resort is worth its accommodation price.

Welcome to Bintan Lagoon Resort!

Upon arriving at Bandar Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal, we were transported to Bintan Lagoon Resort

by the hotel's coach and we were greeted by an Indonesian traditional dance.

Indonesian traditional dance at Bintal Lagoon Resort entrance.

I was fascinated by their costume, beauty and elegance so I asked one of them to pose for my camera after the dance.

Indonesian local traditional dancer.

After the welcome dance, we were served with a welcome tea at the resort's lobby.

Beautifully designed lobby of the resort.

Afterwhich, we were gracefully led to our room right after checking-in.

Our room. I. Loved. It.

I love the play of colours inside our room. It feels warm and welcoming.

The orange wall gave the room a lively mood.

We can't help but take souvenir photos.

Inside our room with a view of the garden.

The view outside looks so inviting so we wasted no time to explore the rest of the place.

Well-manicured lawn.

The concrete slabs lead you to the swimming pool.

The swimming pool.

Breathtaking view of the swimming pool and the beach beyond the horizon.

Splashing good time!

My water lover girl had a great time swimming with her dad.

Mommy chillaxing and having fun watching her angels.

It always makes me realize how blessed I am and how thankful I should be for the day that they were born for me.

Here's Part 2 of our Day 1 at Bintan Lagoon Resort.

OUR WORLD TUESDAY

TRAVEL TUESDAYS

Cherry Blossom

2012-01-28T00:32:00.006+08:00

Photo taken at Sentosa Flowers: Enchanted Spring

A cherry blossom is the flower of any of several trees of genus Prunus, particularly the Japanese Cherry,Prunus serrulata, which is sometimes called sakura after the Japanese (桜 or 櫻; さくら). Many of the varieties that have been cultivated for ornamental use do not produce fruit. Edible cherries generally come from cultivars of the related species Prunus avium and Prunus cerasus.

In Japan, cherry blossoms also symbolize clouds due to their nature of blooming en masse, besides being an enduring metaphor for the ephemeral nature of life, an aspect of Japanese cultural tradition that is often associated with Buddhistic influence, and which is embodied in the concept of mono no aware. The association of the cherry blossom with mono no aware dates back to 18th-century scholar Motoori Norinaga. The transience of the blossoms, the extreme beauty and quick death, has often been associated with mortality; for this reason, cherry blossoms are richly symbolic, and have been utilized often in Japanese art, manga, anime, and film, as well as at musical performances for ambient effect. ~ SOURCE

TEXTURE THURSDAY
PINK FRIDAY
FABULOUS FRIDAY
FAVORITE PHOTO FRIDAY

PINK SATURDAY

THINK PINK SUNDAY
FLOWERS ON SATURDAY

Paradise Inn (Bedok Point)

2012-01-27T09:59:00.006+08:00

We held Gian's baptism celebration dinner at Paradise Inn, Bedok Point branch last December.

We booked 2 big tables for 20 people and chose the ones near the window with a view of a raintree.

Hubby and my mom entertained the guests on the first table. It is where hubby's colleague and his wife were seated and so is my cousin and her hubby.

Seated on table 2 were my college friends with Dr Peter Flores. I regretted not inviting more coz some of the guests were only able to attend the ceremony. We ended up with a couple of chairs unoccupied.

We selected Set Menu H and started with double boiled soup and tri-something for appetizer (sorry,i forgot what it's called) and ended with a traditional chinese dessert . We enjoyed the rest of the food from the menu. I hope you will too. :)

Steamed Silver Cod in Supreme Soya Sauce

Crisp-fried Crystal Prawns in Wasabi Mayo Sauce

Sauteed Beef with Spring Onions

Crisp-fried Shrimp Paste Chicken

Braised Assorted Mushroom and Sauteed Broccoli

When we arrived home after the dinner, i received a few thank you SMS (text messages) from guests for treating them to a nice restaurant. Feedback and verdict: the food and the service was superb!

FOODIE FRIDAY
FOOD FRIDAY
FOOD TRIP FRIDAY

Home Garden

2012-01-26T14:46:00.000+08:00

*click photo to enlarge*

This home garden at Hort Park serves as a home display and a model for nature enthusiasts who wish to incorporate greenery in their homes.

This is how it looks like from the outside.

The Living Room

There's plenty of natural light in the whole house. The view inside the living room is breathtakingly beautiful! The sliding glass door leads you to the veranda. *See the very last photo.

The Family Room

I love that red flower sofa!

The Kitchen

The picture window provides a relaxing view.

The Kitchen Wall

Very creative huh?! There's an instruction manual on the right on how to DIY.

The Dining Table

Nice centerpiece setting.

The Children's Playroom

I love that animal shaped chairs. I wonder if it's from Ikea.

The Photo Wall

The photo enthusiast in me super LOVE this!

The Bedroom

I can stay in bed all day if my room is like this.

Study Room/Office

Perfect for my school girl and the hardworking hubby.

The Washroom

It promises to refresh you with the open space on the background.

The Veranda

This gotta be my favourite spot!

How about you? What do you love about this home garden?

GREEN MONDAY

Baby Gian's Development Month by Month

2012-01-25T13:45:00.001+08:00

23rd August 2011

End of Month 1

*He smiles a lot while sleeping, very angelic sleep grins.

*Arms and legs are still curled most of the time, resembling fetal position.

*Has very sensitive sense of hearing, he gets startled upon hearing loud sounds.

*Occasionally lifts his head for short periods of time.

*Makes jerky, arm movements. His paediatrician call it superman reflex. :)
*Has strong startle reflex, expected to disappear by 3 months.
* He turn towards familiar voices.We talked/sung to him a lot when he was still inside the womb.

23rd September 2011

End of Month 2

*He started to straighten and relax but his hands still remain clenched while sleeping.
*He can now occasionally lift his head approximately for 45 degrees.
*He can now see people/objects clearly.
* He smiles when Kyla make faces and plays with him.
* He started to tracks objects with his eyes.
* He started to make vowel noises, such as "ah" and "ooh".
* Shows signs of foremilk and hindmilk imbalance.

23rd October 2011

End of Month 3

* He raises his head and chest when put on tummy.
* He kicks a lot when he's on his back.
* He opens and shuts his hands randomly.
* He pushes down his legs when placed on a hard surface.
* He tries to reach for dangling objects ei. soft toys hanging on his musical mobile.
* He's starting to grasps and shakes hand toys.
* He tracks moving objects, he loves his musical mobile with dangling toys moving around.
* He keeps on attemptig to role over.
* He can now recognize people/objects even at a distance.
* He has developed a very sociable wonderful smile.
* He's beggining to develop hand-eye coordination.
* He brings both hands together, resembling an act of praying.
* He shows interest in bright colours.
* He keeps kicking his legs with all his might.
* He can now hold his head up with control and minimal support.
*He started cooing, squealing and making throaty sounds. Too adorable!
*His smiles has become truly spontaneous, flashes adorable grins giving you a cue to play with him.

23rd November 2011

End of Month 4

* He has attempted to roll over from stomach to back.
* He can now sit with support.
* He can now lift his head up 90 degrees.
* He can now follow a moving object 180 degrees.
* He started babbling and amuse himself with new noises. We are all lovin' it!
* He loves making bubbles with his saliva and make the brrrrrrrrr sound.
* He loves staring at colourful things and book illustrations.
* He can now recognize his feeding bottle and opens his mouth once he sees it.
* He loves to cuddle and snuggle, prefers to sleep in mommy's chest. :)
* He loves to pull mommy's hair, clothes and accesories. Ouch! Lol!
* He turns his head when he hears someone talk.
* He now squirms and giggles a lot! He gives us contagious big belly laughs when tickled pink.

23rd December 2011

End of Month 5

* He has started eating rice cereal and opens his mouth voluntarily, no sweat in feeding him!
* He started to burp by himself.
* He enjoys standing with support more than sitting with support. He keeps lifting his butt if you let him sit.
* He can now see people from across the room.
* He began using his hands to hold toys, bring in his mouth and lick. Yum! Lol!
* He started to suck his fingers a lot. Yes, not just thumb but all his fingers!
* He has not mastered yet the art of rolling.
* When he sees somebody eating or drinking, he keeps swallowing his saliva. Poor baby. Lol!
* He doesn't like the taste of medicine.
* He likes holding hands and soft toys for him to squeeze.
* He babbles specific sounds like "baa" and "ha-ay" to get your attention.
* He loves watching my mouth when i speak and sing to him.
* He loves watching TV. His pediatrician said it's fine, maximun one hour a day.
* He keeps jumping when delighted.

23rd January 2012

End of Month 6

*He can now take out his pacifier and puts it back by himself.
*He loves playing peek-a-boo.
*He moves around the bed, can't leave him alone anymore even just for a short while.
*He can now hold his own feeding botlle, pacifier and teeter for short period of time.
*He can now sit on his own for short period of time with minimal support.
*Everything he gets hold goes directly to his mouth.
*He loves saying atatatatatatatata. Hahaha! So adorable!
*He loves bringing up his legs, hold his feet and bring his toes into his mouth.
*He loves watching basketball down our block.
*He sleeps 6-7 hours straight at night.

Sentosa Flowers 2012: Enchanted Spring

2012-01-24T00:38:00.006+08:00

The water dragon.

This years Sentosa Flowers' theme is Enchanted Spring.

Family photo opp with the water dragon.

We went on its second day and we were not disappointed.

Exactly 6 months after giving birth, wearing no make-up.

The crowd is overwhelming. As usual, we had to Q-up for photo opps. Might as well i take advantage. Haha!

Kyla wearing matipid na smile.

Misalyn of Al Ain City Daily Photo was right, this place looks like Al Ain Paradise.

I love my baby girl's smile here.

It was my mom's first time to witness the festival and she loved it.

Haha! That was pretty heavy huh!

It took us couple of minutes to wait for our turn to be photographed. Initially, Kyla wasn't interested to join the Q but when she saw this photo she asked daddy and mommy to Q-up with her again.

Kyla wanted to carry the bigger one but i warned her it was heavy.

Baby Gian woke up in time for the photo opp.

Daddy and mommy's God-given angels.

We celebrated the Lunar New Year and Baby Gian's half year birthday at the same time. We've created another beautiful page in the book of our life. Thanks to our Master from above for keeping our family happy and healthy always. May this year of the water dragon be another blessed year for us.

Catch the Sentosa Flowers:Enchanted Spring from 10am to 10pm before it ends on the 29th of January 2012.

OUTDOOR WEDNESDAY

SCENIC SUNDAY

Sentosa Flowers

2012-01-23T00:36:00.000+08:00

Year of the Rabbit - Spring Wonderland 2011

Sentosa Flowers is an annual most celebrated flower festival during the Lunar New Year that transforms Sentosa into an enchanting floral extravaganza.

We witnessed last year's Spring Wonderland and we were awe-inspired by the award-winning event. All we could say was WOW!

We had to join a long queue to have a photo souvenir of this beautifully arranged floral bird.

My daughter had fun having photo-opp with Mr. Rabbit. There are countless spots for great photo opportunities but i was 4 months pregnant that time, i get tired easily. You can check out Spring Wonderland's photo gallery here. You won't regret viewing them.

Sentosa Flowers returns for the eight time this 2012! We can't wait to witness this year's Enchanted Spring theme.

Sweeties, mark your calendars!

Enchanted Spring Floral Extravaganza will be on 23rd to 29th of January 2012
Admission is FREE!

FYI: Sentosa Flowers was seeded in 2005. It showcases the wonders of spring with blooms that are unique to the season. This picturesque outdoor event offers a beautiful start to the Lunar New Year and presents a vibrant backdrop for capturing magic moments. ~ SOURCE

SCENIC SUNDAY

Lotus Flower (Nelumbo nucifera)

2012-01-22T09:25:00.000+08:00

Photo taken at the lotus-inspired ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay Sands.

Nelumbo nucifera, known by a number of names including Indian Lotus, Sacred Lotus, Bean of India, or simply Lotus, is a plant in the monogeneric family Nelumbonaceae. The Linnaean binomialNelumbo nucifera (Gaertn.) is the currently recognized name for this species, which has been classified under the former names, Nelumbium speciosum (Willd.) and Nymphaea nelumbo, among others. Names other than Nelumbo nucifera (Gaertn.) are obsolete synonyms and should not be used in current works. This plant is an aquatic perennial. Under favorable circumstances its seeds may remain viable for many years, with the oldest recorded lotus germination being from that of seeds 1,300 years old recovered from a dry lakebed in northeastern China. ~ SOURCE

PINK SATURDAY

WEEKEND REFLECTIONS
FLOWERS ON SATURDAY

SOOC SUNDAY
WATERY WEDNESDAY
OBSERVING BEAUTY

The Perfect and Practical Valentine Gift

2012-01-21T22:08:00.001+08:00

Hubby. Photo taken on our wedding day in October 2007.

Time flies. It feels like it was just yesterday when hubby and I got married but in reality we are going to celebrate our golden anniversary this year. Whaaaaaaat?! @.@ Oh, just kidding! Lol! We are going to celebrate our 5th year anniversary in October. Silly wifey (that's me, lol!) just prefer to call it golden because of the figure 5. It does make sense right? Put a zero next to 5 and it becomes 50. Lol! Yeah, i know i'm silly! Lol!

So what was I saying just now? Lol! Oh, about how time flies right? Yep! Look at hubby's photo above. Can you guess how old is he in that photo? Late 20's? Naks! I'm not gonna tell you. Lol!

Hubby. Photo taken in May 2008, 7 months after the wedding.

Now you might ask me, what happened to the thinner and younger looking Mond i married? Lol! Was it a sign that i took care of him very well that's why he gained weight? And what's with the eyeglasses? Hmmmmn, not cool huh?! It made him look older, don't you think so?

Hubby. Photo taken last year.

Look closely. Can you spot traces of white hair? Oh no! We're not getting any younger. The good news is, we're still together and the relationship is getting stronger as years pass by. What's our secret? Hmmmmn, nothing much really. We are just like normal couples who quarrel once in a while but at the end of each passing day, we try not to sleep without making peace. And believe me, we don't give each other expensive and fancy gifts on special occasions. We always buy practical gifts for each other.

Speaking of practical gift, Valentine's day is fast approaching and i've been cracking my brain what to buy for hubby. (I know he wanted an iPad 2 so bad for him to practise Revit Architecture while in the MRT but boy, that will create a big hole in my savings! Lol! Good thing a generous doctor from work gave me an iPad 2 last Christmas so i just let him use it coz i don't get to use it that much anyway.) It was a blessing in disguise that he lost his eyeglasses recently. Now i can buy him an eyeglasses that won't make him look older. All thanks to Zenni Optical, shopping for high quality Valentine's Day glasses was made super easy. To my surprise, they offer as low as $6.95 prescription eyeglasses. Isn't that a crazy deal? I'm gonna save $$ for sure and whatever i save, i will use it to buy another practical gift on our anniversary. I am not kuripot (stingy), just frugal. Lol!

Here's my pick from Zenni Optical. Classy and stylish prescription glasses for hubby. Perfect and practical Valentine gift.

Go and check out Zenni Optical. Their website is really cool. Just tick your prescription type, gender, type of rim, style, shape, and color and you are ready to fit the glasses. Yep! Zenni Optical has an uber cool frame fit on the side bar of its website. Just select your facial type and presto, you can check if your choice suits you. Super cool huh?!

ArtScience Museum (Marina Bay Sands)

2012-01-20T01:15:00.000+08:00

We were at the ArtScience Museum, Marina Bay Sands last Christmas day.

We don't get to visit museums in Singapore that much so Kyla was ecstatic.

We were able to see the Cartier Time Art and the Titanic Artifact Exhibition. Sorry to disappoint you but photography is not allowed inside the exhibitions.

Here's a bird's eye view of the ArtScience Museum taken from Skypark.

Designed as a symbolic gesture of welcome to guests from across the globe, the lotus-inspired ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay Sands is the premier museum destination in Singapore for major international touring exhibitions from the most renowned collections in the world. ~ SOURCE

Titanic (The Artifact Exhibition)

2012-01-19T10:47:00.002+08:00

Step on board RMS Titanic for the first time in Southeast Asia, and experience the majestic and dramatic maiden voyage of the iconic Ship almost 100 years after it set sail in 1912. The Exhibition takes visitors through the Ship's conception, construction, sailing day, life on board, the famous iceberg, Titanic's sinking, the discovery of the wreck, while all throughout telling the incredible stories of her passengers and crew.

With a replica boarding pass of an actual passenger onboard the Titanic, embark on the journey through about 275 authentic artifacts - of which 14 have never been seen before - such as china etched with the logo of the elite White Star Line, sheet music and jewelry items, and extensive re-creations of the First and Third Class Cabins, the Grand Staircase, Boiler Room and other locations on Titanic. Finally, find out how the sinking of the great Ship strongly resonated in Singapore at the “Singapore 1912” gallery. ~ SOURCE

Catch the Titanic:The Artifact Exhibition at ArtScience Museum before it ends on 29th of April 2012. Though photography is strictly not allowed, you can have a photo taken by the museum photographers ala Jack and Rose at the triangular edge of the ship right before you enter the exhibition. Inside the exhibition, you can also have another photo taken at the elegant ship staircase. We didn't take any as you have to pay for it. Lol!

What i love most is the iceberg replica made of real ice and the ship's observation deck where you can stargaze. It feels like the stars were real and when you look down, you see the waves. They did a pretty good job in making waves effect using a constantly moving light and because it was very dark on that part, it feels like you are really on board the ship. On a funny note, there was this part of the exhibition where you have to step on a glass and below the glass floor is sand where relics of the sunken ship are found. My mom almost don't want to step on the glass floor. Hehehe! Just additional info, i saw a whole list of those who died and survived during the ill-fated shipwreck before we left the exhibition. I must say it's worth what we paid for but the downside is, Kyla together with the hubby never wish to go on a cruise ship all the more so mommy's dream to go on a cruise will forever be a dream. Lol!

Click here for ticketing information.

Baby Photoshoot @ 5 months

2012-01-17T12:04:00.000+08:00

I try my best to photoshoot Baby Gian everytime he turns one month older or as and when there's an opportunity and/or special ocassion. This was taken on his 5th month birthday. Like i said before, i am not a professional photographer but a photo enthusiast. I just visited Cecily's blog and i was soooooooo impressed with the latest byproduct of her baby photoshoot. What a great inspiration! She was right, oftentimes it isn't about the camera, editing software, etc. but the magical moment of the subject. I might photoshoot Baby Gian copying the same perspective. I hope Cecily won't mind. After all, it's for personal use only.

PHOTO STORY FRIDAY

GIVE ME YOUR BEST SHOT

MOSAIC MONDAY

Sulphur-crested Cockatoo

2012-01-16T03:42:00.000+08:00

Photo taken at Singapore Zoo.

The Sulphur-crested Cockatoo, Cacatua galerita, is a relatively large white cockatoo found in wooded habitats in Australia and New Guinea. They can be locally very numerous, leading to them sometimes being considered pests. They are well known in aviculture, although they can be demanding pets.

Their distinctive raucous call can be very loud; it is adapted to travel through the forest environments in which they live, including tropical and subtropical rainforests. These birds are naturally curious, as well as very intelligent. They have adapted very well to European settlement in Australia and live in many urban areas. ~ SOURCE

WORLD BIRD WEDNESDAY

Labrador Seafood: Authentic Seafood and BBQ

2012-01-15T16:42:00.000+08:00

Like i mentioned in my blog entry City Beach Resort, I. Love. This. Place! We were there during our Christmas staycation in 2010. While doing my research in google, i found out that it is actually called Labrador Seafood: Authentic Seafood and BBQ. The signboard reads The Labrador Restaurant and Lounge, a bit confusing huh?!

What made me fall in love with the place is the way its exterior and interior was designed.

Perfect for chillaxing!

Hubby was thrilled to see the billiards table, too bad we passed by the place early in the morning hence nobody was there to entertain us.

I took advantage of photographing the whole place ala Urban Zone mode. Haha! Feeling Daphne Osena lang. Lol!

The red wall made the place pop and that wooden carving frame blends on it so well.

And oh, the painting! I. Love. It!

In fact, i love every nook and cranny of the place.

It looks great at any angle, don't you agree? I know, i know! I am neither an architect nor an interior designer but i have a penchant for coolly-designed places. Pardon my blah descriptions, enthusiast lang po. Lol!

I have read pretty good reviews of their food, click here for their dishes and promotions. They serve lunch from 11am to 3pm and dinner from 3pm to 12:30am everyday. You can call their hotline number 62732779 for reservations.

Set in the wilderness, by the sea and under the stars, amidst the flora and fauna of the reserve, is Labrador Seafood, Restaurant and lounge. We serve up the freshest seafood and other cuts in a great variety of styles, from Western BBQ to good old Singapore Chilli and Black Pepper Crabs. And not forgetting everything else in between, like salads, and other side and finger foods that go great with drinks. As for the drinks, we have lots of them. Labrador Seafood Bar is stocked with a full range of beers, from colourful imported ones to more familiar local brews. ~ SOURCE

City Beach Resort (Christmas Staycation)

2012-01-14T12:35:00.000+08:00

Hubby wasn't keen to go anywhere when i was pregnant for safety reasons. I know i can still travel coz i was only 2 months preggy in December 2010 but i shall not break the king's rule. Lol! However, the king let me decide where i want to spend our 2010 Christmas staycation. Sentosa is out on my list because we already had our summer staycation at Siloso Beach Resort last time. Hubby asked me if i want to stay at Grand Copthorne Hotel again (hubby and i spent new year of 2007 there) but i wanted a place that we've never been to and i wish to spend Christmas away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Thanks to google, i found out about City Beach Resort. It is not actually located in the city as its name implies. What made me decide to give it a try is that it was adjacent to Labrador Nature Reserve.

Rooms at a two-storey building, looks more like a hostel/dormitory to me.

The resort is popular to Malaysians who travel to Singapore in tour groups. If you are looking for luxury, this resort is not for you.

Like what we did at Siloso Beach Resort, we joined 2 single beds together.

The room was equipped with the most simple and basic things. I would recommend it to transients.

Relaxing view from our room's picture window.

There's a sofa bed near our room window meant for Kyla. The funny thing is, other guests can have a full view of our room when they pass by so we can't keep the picture window open.

The swimming pool area was very dirty when we checked.

Whenever we go for a vacation/staycation, our basic requirement in booking a hotel/resort is to have a child friendly swimming pool because Kyla loves to swim. Imagine her disappointment.

Pond right outside the vicinity of the resort. The forest on the background is part of Labrador Nature Reserve.

Good thing we found a little pond when we decided to go for a stroll since we can't use the swimming pool. Kyla had fun playing as Dora, The Explorer. We discovered a few interesting critters in the pond which requires a separate blog entry.

The Labrador Restaurant and Lounge

This is the part of the resort that deserves 2 thumbs up. It has to be featured in separate blog entry as well.

Does it look like we were in Singapore?

We had a peaceful and great time away from the crazily busy city life celebrating the birth of Jesus.

City Beach Resort's contact information.

I must agree, the place is good for corporate retreats. And if you are not too fussy like us and you want to spend a quiet time with nature, go ahead and stay at City Beach Resort. You won't be staying inside the resort room anyway coz there is so much to discover around the resort. I will blog about it next time and that's a promise. :)

NATURE NOTES

PHOTO STORY FRIDAY

National Orchid Garden

2012-01-13T15:11:00.000+08:00

We brought my mom to see the National Orchid Garden in November of 2008.

After this photo opp, our camera battery went dead.

We revisited the place in 2009 and made sure the camera battery was fully charged. Lol!

My mom was fascinated with the arches full of dancing ladies orchid.

After our eyes feasted on a wide variety of orchids, we went to explore the Cool House. I will write an entry about it another time.

FYI: The National Orchid Garden, opened on 20 October 1995 by Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew, is located on the highest hill in the Singapore Botanic Gardens. Three hectares of carefully landscaped slopes provide a setting for over 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids, with about 600 species and hybrids on display.The distinctive feature of the National Orchid Garden is its design concept which presents the display of plants in four separate colour zones over most of its areas :the "spring" zone with its prevailing colours of bright and lively shades of gold, yellow and creams; the "summer" zone with its major tones of strong reds and pinks; the "autumn" zone of matured shades; and the "winter" zone of whites and cool blues. The colour zonation is achieved by a careful blend of selected trees, shrubs, herbs and orchids (mostly hybrids) with matching foliage and floral colours.
The garden offers free admission for students during the first week of every school term holidays in March, June, Sept and Nov. ~ SOURCE

Opening hours
8.30am - 7.00pm daily (last ticket sales at 6.00pm)
Admission Fee:
$5.00 for adults
$1.00 for students
$1.00 for senior citizens (60 years and above)
Free for children below 12 years

SOURCE

NATURE NOTES

Lechon Kawali

2012-01-12T16:41:00.000+08:00

Lechon Kawali is a pan-roasted pork dish popular in the Philippines. It is best eaten with pickled papaya and Mang Tomas gravy or soysause with onion and lime. I am literally drooling while typing, lol!

Click here for mouthwatering lechon kawali recipe.

FOOD FRIDAY

FOODIE FRIDAY

FOOD TRIP FRIDAY

Symbolic Meaning of Chinese New Year Flowers

2012-01-11T13:29:00.000+08:00

1) CocksComb (the red flower on the above photo)

Beautiful wavy, velvety flowers of the Cockscomb is such a delightful sight. With Red blooms which represent good wishes, these potted plants are usually bought in pairs and placed at doorways or gates, representing double happiness and bliss for the family and home. ~ SOURCE

2) Phoenix Tail - Celosia (the yellow flower on the above photo)

The chinese name is Feng Wei which translated is Phoenix Tail. Celosia is its botanical name. Usually come in yellow and red, they look like a tail. This flower represents harmony and good fortune. ~ SOURCE

3) Hydrangea

A symbol expressing love, gratitude, and enlightenment. It is said that the observer can easily get lost in it's abundance of beautiful petals, and thus gets lost in one's own thoughts – propitiating higher thought and reaching enlightenment. Due to it's versatility, and beauty, the hydrangea makes an excellent thank you gift to an unsung hero in our lives. ~ SOURCE

4) Chrysanthemum:

Excellent when presented as a gift to someone, the Chrysanthemum signifies a life of ease. Buddhists are fond of using this flower as offerings on alters. Symbolic of powerful Yang energy, this flower is an attractant of good luck in the home. ~ SOURCE

5) Meaning of Lotus:

Buddhist's all over the world recognize this Lotus as signifying the holy seat of the Buddha. To the Chinese it symbolizes ultimate purity and perfection because it rises untainted and beautiful from the mud. Every part of the plant, from roots to petals can be put to good use and has medicinal properties. As such, the plant as a whole, conveys deep significance. Esoterically, it represents inward emptying and outward splendor and this conveys the true nature of reality according to the Buddhist philosophy. ~ SOURCE

WEEKEND FLOWERS

TODAY'S FLOWERS

FERTILIZER FRIDAY

Mom Bloggers for Social Good

2012-01-10T09:45:00.007+08:00

The founder of Mom Bloggers Club, Ms Jennifer James invited me (out of more than 15,000 blogger moms around the world) to be a founding member of Mom Bloggers for Social Good. Here's an excerpt from her email that made feel soooooooo elated:

"I am starting Mom Bloggers for Social Good because I have seen time and time again how the collective voices of moms can tremendously help organizations spread the word about their efforts to help others! I would love for you to become a founding member of Mom Bloggers for Social Good!"

As you all know, Sweet Memoirs is a purpose driven blog. Becoming a founding member of Mom Bloggers for Social Good is another great opportunity for me to bring this blog's purpose to a different level. Thank you soooooo much Jennifer for handpicking me! I am truly honored to be a founding member of Mom Bloggers for Social Good.

Mom Bloggers for Social Good is a global coalition of mom bloggers spanning eleven countries – United States, Canada, UK, India, Spain, Nigeria, Singapore, Netherlands, Malaysia, Jamaica, and the Philippines – who care about spreading the good news about the amazing work non-profit organizations and NGOs are doing around the world. When our partners need to reach the masses about new initiatives, advocacy campaigns, or fundraising efforts we will work collectively to spread the word through social media and blogging. ~www.mombloggersforsocialgood.com

Healthy Child Healthy World Searches for 2012 Mom on a Mission

2012-01-09T17:00:00.000+08:00

Photo credit

Do you know a mom who makes a difference? Nominate her for Healthy Child Healthy World's 2012 “Mom on a Mission”! I nominated one of my great inspirations, Ms Daphne Osena Paez. She is UNICEF Special Advocate for Children.

Nominations are now open at http://www.healthychild.org/mission to find eight extraordinary parents—one of whom will become our 2012 “Mom on a Mission.” From January through August, Healthy Child will select and honor one finalist each month; in September and October, the general public will vote to choose the winner, who will honored with a grand prize at a gala event in New York City in November.

Celebrating its 20th anniversary year, Healthy Child Healthy World began in 1992 after five-year-old Colette Chuda died of a rare form of non-hereditary cancer linked to environmental factors. Playing a leadership role in one of the most important public health and environmental movements of the 21st century, today Healthy Child Healthy World ignites the movement that empowers parents to protect children from harmful chemicals. More information can be found at http://www.healthychild.org/.

Singapore Flyer

2012-01-08T10:06:00.000+08:00

We spent Mother's Day at the Singapore Flyer in 2008.

Thank goodness Kyla didn't show any sign of fear of heights.

We had fun bonding.

Does hubby look like he is acrophobic? Lol!

We extremely enjoyed the beautiful panoramic view of Singapore on board the capsule.

We had a great time!

The Singapore Flyer is a giant Ferris wheel located in Singapore, constructed in 2005–2008. Described by its operators as an observation wheel, it reaches 42 stories high, with a total height of 165 m (541 ft), making it the tallest Ferris wheel in the world, 5 m (16 ft) taller than the Star of Nanchang and 30 m (98 ft) taller than the London Eye.

Situated on the southeast tip of the Marina Centre reclaimed land, it comprises a 150 m (492 ft) diameter wheel, built over a three-story terminal building which houses shops, bars and restaurants, and offers broad views of the city centre and beyond to about 45 km (28 mi), including the Indonesian islands of Batam and Bintan, as well as Johor, Malaysia.

The final capsule was installed on 2 October 2007, the wheel started rotating on 11 February 2008 and it officially opened to the public on 1 March 2008. Tickets for rides on the first 3 nights were sold out for S$8,888 (US$6,271), an auspicious number in Chinese culture. The grand opening for the Flyer was held on 15 April 2008.

Each of the 28 air-conditioned capsules is capable of holding 28 passengers, and a complete rotation of the wheel takes about 30 minutes. Initially rotating in a counter-clockwise direction when viewed from Marina Centre, its direction was changed on 4 August 2008 under the advice of Feng shui masters. ~ SOURCE

Singapore Flyer website listed 10 great reasons why you shouldn't miss the moving experience at every turn! We brought my mom and my brother's family to visit the place during their vacation here in Singapore and they all loved it. I'm sure you'll get the HIGH too as we did. Singapore Flyer made it to my list of Top 5 Tourist Destinations in Singapore. Click here for complete visitor information.

Lake of Dreams (Resorts World Sentosa)

2012-01-07T16:30:00.000+08:00

Immerse yourself in this unique musical extravaganza where

fire,

water and

light are the stars of the show.

Designed by 4-time Emmy award winner Jeremy Railton, this breathtaking coreography display will simply astound you. ~ SOURCE

Nightly 9:30pm show at Festive Walk

Admission is FREE!

BLUE MONDAY
OUTDOOR WEDNESDAY

The Health Benefits of Strawberry Fruit

2012-01-06T12:19:00.000+08:00

The health benefits of strawberry include eye care, proper brain function, and relief from high blood pressure, arthritis, gout and heart diseases. These berries, with their tempting looks and great taste, have secured their place in the list of favorites for ages. Strawberries, with their common scientific name Fragaria (there are different suffixes for different varieties, such as Fragaria Vesca for wild strawberry, Fragaria Orientalis for Eastern Strawberries etc.), are berries which grow in bushes.
~ SOURCE

Rednesday

Earth Wonders Photo Challenge
Fabulous Friday Photo Challenge

Macro Friday

Myna

2012-01-05T08:41:00.000+08:00

The myna is a bird of the starling family (Sturnidae). This is a group of passerine birds which occur naturally only in southern and eastern Asia. Several species have been introduced to areas like North America, Australia, South Africa and New Zealand, especially the Common Myna which is often regarded as an invasive species.

Mynas are not a natural group (Zuccon et al. 2006); instead, the term myna is used for any starling in India and surrounding areas, regardless of their relationships. This range was colonized twice during the evolution of starlings, first by rather ancestral starlings related to the Coleto and Aplonis lineages, and millions of years later by birds related to the Common Starling and Wattled Starling's ancestors. These two groups of mynas can be distinguished in the more terrestrial adaptions of the latter, which usually also have less glossy plumage except on the heads and longer tails. The Bali Myna which is nearly extinct in the wild is highly distinctive.

Some mynas are considered talking birds, for their ability to reproduce sounds, including human speech, when in captivity.

"Myna" is derived from the Tamil language. ~ SOURCE

WORLD BIRD WEDNESDAY

Blue Pea (Clitoria ternatea)

2012-01-04T14:04:00.000+08:00

In Southeast Asia the flowers are used to colour food. In Malay cooking, an aqueous extract is used to colour glutinous rice for kuih ketan (also known as pulut tai tai in Peranakan/Nyonya cooking) and in nonya chang. In Thailand, a syrupy blue drink is made called nam dok anchan (น้ำดอกอัญชัน). In Burma the flowers are used as food, often they are dipped in batter and fried. ~ SOURCE

WEEKEND FLOWERS
FERTILIZER FRIDAY
TODAY'S FLOWERS
FLOWERS ON SATURDAY
BLUE MONDAY

Hua Ting Restaurant (Orchard Hotel)

2012-01-03T22:28:00.000+08:00

After the spur of the moment Christmas lunch treat from lady boss last week at Patara, the big boss a.k.a superman treated us for new year lunch at Hua Ting Restaurant in Orchard Hotel. We are blessed to have generous employers, aren't we? Little did i expect that it was actually an early lo hei lunch (which reminds me Chinese New Year is just around the corner.

FYI: Yusheng, yee sang or yuu sahng (Chinese: 鱼生; pinyin: yúshēng; Pe̍h-ōe-jī: hî-seⁿ or hû-siⁿ), or Prosperity Toss, also known as lo hei (Cantonese for 撈起 or 捞起) is a Teochew-style raw fish salad. It usually consists of strips of raw fish (most commonly salmon), mixed with shredded vegetables and a variety of sauces and condiments, among other ingredients. Yusheng literally means "raw fish" but since "fish (鱼)" is commonly conflated with its homophone "abundance (余)", Yúshēng (鱼生) is interpreted as a homophone for Yúshēng (余升) meaning an increase in abundance. Therefore, yusheng is considered a symbol of abundance, prosperity and vigor.

While versions of it is thought to have existed in China, the contemporary version is created and popularised in Singapore[citation needed] in the 1960s amongst the ethnic Chinese community and its consumption has been associated with Chinese New Year festivities in Singapore as well as in neighbouring Malaysia. In Singapore, government, community and business leaders often take the lead in serving the dish as part of official functions during the festive period or in private celebrity dinners. Some have even suggested that it be named a national dish. ~ wikipedia

Here's what lo hei looks like. Everything, including the engredients has a meaning and the waiter is explaining in Mandarin one by one while adding it into the lo hei plate. Syempre wala akong naintindihan, lol!

Tossing of the lo hei. I'm the only non-chinese in the group but i still tossed and wished for abundance and prosperity for our company and my employer's family.

My share of lo hei. It tasted sweet and sour. After eating the lo hei, we had 6 course meal that includes Deep Fried Yam Pastries with Minced Pork and Prawn , Steamed Siew Mai with Fresh Scallop, Dim Sum and Chicken Feet (sosyal na chicken feet, lol!).

The highlight of the meal was the roasted duck and pork. Very sinful. If you are my friend in facebook, you might have read my post in your timeline that stated: "Just when i thought i can start my diet, superman is treating us for new year lunch." Hahaha! Nasira ang diet plan ko!

We ended the meal with an egg noddle with prawn and kai lan. Too full to have a dessert.

Photo source

Often, nominated as one of the best restaurants under the Chinese Cuisine category by prestigious restaurant guides. Hua Ting Restaurant was also one of the top five Chinese restaurants in the Business Times/Citibank Gourmet Choice 2009. Group Master Chef Chan Kwok was crowned Chef of the Year and Asian Cuisine Chef of the year, at the Asian Gastronomic Awards of Excellence 2011.

Head down to Hua Ting Restaurant to enjoy Cantonese Cuisine at its finest! ~SOURCE

Thank God for the sumptuous and gratifying meal. Who says there's no such thing as free in this world?

FOOD FRIDAY

FOOD TRIP FRIDAY
FOODIE FRIDAY

Kids Photography

2012-01-02T13:24:00.000+08:00

It's a real challenge to photograph kids so the trick is to capture them in action without them knowing. Having a natural light is a great bonus. Look at this fashionista girl, hubby caught her in action at Jacob Ballas Children's Garden yesterday. No editing was made here, i just resized and watermarked. (NOTE: Photography has taken a backseat in my priorities these days. I have no time to edit photos.)

Share your thoughts, what do you think about this photo? It was taken using Canon EOS 550D.

FABULOUS FRIDAY
GIVE ME YOUR BEST SHOT
PHOTO STORY FRIDAY
PHOTO FRIDAY

FAVOURITE PHOTO FRIDAY

Jacob Ballas Children's Garden

2012-01-01T12:11:00.000+08:00

Jacob Ballas Children's Garden is Asia's first children's garden. Dedicated to all children of Singapore, it is designed to provide unique discovery and learning experiences in a garden setting. Through play and exploration, the Children's Garden will cultivate an appreciation for plants, nature and the environment among the young. ~www.sbg.org.sg

*click photo to enlarge*

After spending Christmas Day at the Skypark at Marina Bay Sands, i ran out of ideas where to bring the kids so i searched places to go with kids in google and voilà i was reminded about Jacob Ballas Children's Garden that we have not explored yet with Kyla. We end up spending the first day of 2012 there. I love spur of the moment thingy coz whenever we plan in advance to go somewhere, it doesn't materialize.

We were greeted by this colourful butterfly structure upon alighting from the cab.

This is what you see at the entrance. Look closely (click photo to enlarge) at the sculpture and you will find countless children playing.

Visitor's information counter is still filled with Christmas stuff. Those blue thing hanging on the ceiling are made from recycled drinking straw. Aren't they beautiful?

Few steps away from the entrace is the water play area. My 9y/o girl said no when i asked her if she wants to get wet and have fun (i brought extra clothes for her). Surprisingly, she said no to my dismay. Dalaginding na talaga ang baby girl ko, why did she grow too fast?

Just glad she had fun at the Photosynthesis learning area and

at the hanging bridge

that led us to the manmade waterfall and

the creek.

Kyla had the most fun at the tree house regardless the tube slides were closed for upgrading.

Gotcha! Can you find mommy and baby Gian? Hehehe!

It was very refreshing to start 2012 spending time with nature and the kids. Though Gian is only 5 months old, he's beginning to be a very keen observant in his surroundings. We all had a great time! :)

For those who are keen to visit the place, please click the photo above to enlarge.

Bytheway, there's a Kidz Cafe opposite the information counter hence you need not worry about bringing food.

OUTDOOR WEDNESDAY

NATURE NOTES

The Best of 2011

2011-12-31T00:01:00.003+08:00

January - 3 months preggy (still couldn't believe i was pregnant).

February - My dates on St Valentine's Day.

March - Proud mommy moment.

April - Easter Sunday at Sentosa (6 months preggy)

May - Marina Bay Sands (7 months preggy, family photowalk)

June - Baby shower (8 months preggy)

July - Gian Carlo, the gracious gift of God was born!

August - Hubby turned 37 and Ate Kyla turned 9.

September - Ate Kyla received the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

October - Anniversary/Birthday surprise from hubby.

November - Sweet, funny father and son moment.

DECEMBER

Baby Gian received the Sacrament of Baptism,

celebrated with us the birth of Jesus for the first time and

WE HAD THE BEST CHRISTMAS EVER!

Until this very moment, we are still overwhelmed to have an adorable healthy baby boy that we fervently prayed to have for the longest time. Indeed, good things come to those who wait.

Thanks and praises be to GOD for a year full of wonderful surprises and overflowing blessings.

TO GOD BE THE GLORY ALWAYS AND FOREVER.

Here's wishing everyone a HAPPY AND BLESSED 2012! Thank you for being a part of our blissfully chaotic family life.

Kyla's Baby Sister

2011-12-30T21:55:00.003+08:00

My 9y/o girl is asking for a baby sister (NOTE: I just gave birth to her baby brother 5 months ago.) and i happen to stumble upon this plush toy called My Little Sister at the family thrift store. I went home and told her this is all i can give her for now. Lol!

PINK FRIDAY

PINK SATURDAY

Patara: Fine Thai Cuisine (Tanglin Mall)

2011-12-29T23:39:00.004+08:00

Last Tuesday, my colleagues and I were talking about where and what to eat few minutes before our lunchtime and out of courtesy, we asked our lady boss if she would like to join us. Little did we expect that she'll take the opportunity to treat us for Christmas lunch. She asked if we know any good restaurant in Tanglin Mall (walking distance from our working place) and one of my colleagues recommended a Thai restaurant. We all have no issues from eating Thai food so off we went.

The place is called Patara: Fine Thai Cuisine. We went earlier than normal Singaporean lunchtime (1-2pm) so there aren't many lunchers yet.

The atmosphere is very elegant and pleasant. We came at a group of 5 so we took a table for 6pax.

There are classy private rooms for bigger groups as seen in the photo above.

Our lady boss ordered Premium Patara as starters. It's a premium combination of mango salad, soft shell crab, fish and prawn cakes, chicken wings and rice crackers dip. The mango salad is really good! A must try i must say.

I have issues in eating flaming HOT dishes so i said NO to tom yum soup. (Note: I tried the same soup once when my ex-lady boss brought us in a Thai restaurant at Goodwood Park for Chinese New Year lunch but i couldn't take its spicyness.) However, the super professional Filipino (as seen in the first photo) who served us told me that they can lessen the spicyness of the soup so that i could give it a try. I commend him for doing so. I had a taste of the best tom yum soup ever! Nawala ang trauma ko sa paghigop ng pamosong Thai spicy soup. Lol!

For carbo load, we had Khao Phad Nam Liab. It is a balck olive fried rice with chickken, served with fresh chillies, lime, shallots and cashew nuts. Another must try!

We ate the fried rice with Gang Keaw Wan Neua, an authentic beef curry with sweet basil and bird chilli. The best curry i've ever had!

Pamper your palate with aromatic flavours of fine Thai cooking, lovingly presented for a memorable dining experience. ~ http://www.patara.com.sg/

I highly recommend this Thai restaurant if you have an affair with Thai food.

FOOD TRIP FRIDAY

FOOD FRIDAY

FOODIE FRIDAY

Skypark at Marina Bay Sands

2011-12-26T00:49:00.005+08:00

After attending the 11am mass today, we re-visited Marina Bay Sands and decided to explore the Skypark.

Stretching longer than the Eiffel tower laid down or four and a half A380 Jumbo Jets, with an impressive 12,400 square meters of space, the Sands SkyPark can host up to 3900 people. The gravity-defying cantilever is one of the largest of its kind in the world. From this privileged observation deck, hundreds of visitors at a time can feast their eyes on the unforgettable panorama view of Singapore. ~ http://www.marinabaysands.com/ Click here for complete information.

We purchased promotional tickets for the Skypark and Art Science Museum (I will blog about the museum another time.) and saved a few bucks.

Skypark is at the 56th and 57th floor, it was very windy and the sky was gray when we came.

There is a guided tour in the infinity pool but we did not book because all the timings are fully-booked except for 9pm. With Baby Gian, we can't stay that long.

We stayed at the observation deck for less than an hour because we haven't taken our lunch. There is a restaurant called Ku De Ta at the deck but the food is way too expensive for us, more or less S$100++ per person. (++ stands for addional 7% GST and 10% service charge)

Below are Singapore landmarks seen from the observation deck:

1) The Esplanade - twin durian-shaped building.

2) Central Business District

3) Crystal Pavillions - 2nd largest Louis Vuitton store

4) Singapore Flyer, 5) Costa Rhu and 6) Benjamin Shears Bridge

7) Marina Barrage

8) The Fullerton Hotel, 9) Merlion Park and 10) Singapore River

11) Art Science Museum, 12) Helix Bridge and 13) Float @ Marina Bay/Youth Olympics Park

14) The future Gardens by the Bay. We are looking forward to the opening of this one. According to the news, there will be international flowers to be showcased in this garden like tulips. I can't wait!

We are supposed to see Sentosa Island, Batam Island in Indonesia and Kusu Island among others but the gloomy weather didn't let us. For complete list of what you will see, click here.

The Birth of Jesus Christ

2011-12-25T22:42:00.002+08:00

Love came down at Christmas,

Love all lovely, Love Divine;
Love was born at Christmas;
Star and angels gave the sign.
~Christina Rossetti

Matthew 1:18-25
18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.

19 Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily.
20 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.
21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.
22 Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying,
23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.
24 Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife:
25 And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS.

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!

Tree of Love

2011-12-23T10:49:00.001+08:00

Snowman (had it in two different colours)

Gift (comes with blue and silver)

Christmas ball (had it in rainbow colours)

Sleigh (had it in rainbow colours)

Candy cane (wanted to but the real ones but i can't let Kyla and Mond have too much of sweets)

This year, hubby and i decided to purchase a taller Christmas Tree that looks more natural from Takashimaya Christmas Fantasy. I love the way it was color-coded for easy installation. Kyla took charge of decorating the ornaments. Our theme this year is Rainbow Magic. Obviuosly, it was Kyla's brilliant idea. We all love the outcome.

"Mommy, what does Christmas Tree represent?", Kyla asked while decorating. I was caught unprepared so i told her Christmas Tree is a Tree of Love. Afterwhich, i promised myself to do some research. Lol! So here's the proper answer to Kyla's question according to http://www.mysticlightpress.com/:

Evergreens were thought to represent the ever-burning fire of life. The color green signified the life force through the year. Eventually decorative balls represented the planets, while the star that radiates from the top reminds us of Bethlehem. The entire tree and decorations teach us that the universe is witness to the Incarnation.

Red at Christmas reminds us of the fire of the Spirit. Green affirms nature, and the ongoing life. And in the Incarnation, Spirit unites with nature.

In fact, the Christmas tree symbolizes to us a further appreciation of Jesus' birth. It is a means of retelling a miracle in a colorful and beautiful way so that we can further understand and appreciate Jesus' entering our world.

Let's all have a Meaningful Christmas and a Bountiful New Year!

Give Love and Hope for Philippine Flood Victims

2011-12-20T10:46:00.008+08:00

PHOTO SOURCE

The news about the aftermath of Tropical Storm Sendong in the Philippines is heart-wrenching. After watching it on TV last night, i knew i can't just close my eyes and go on celebrating Christmas without doing anything about it. It doesn't feel right to be merry and pretend you don't know anything when you are aware there are thousands of unfortunate people who desperately need help.

The relevant authorities are appealing for generous donations in kind or in cash. Sweet Memoirs will be donating its recent blog earnings and will also be sending clothes and other stuff via FREE shipping at LBC Singapore.

If you happen to have the gift of generosity, please do something about UNICEF's emergency appeal.Your P1000 can provide 2 families with water containers, water purification tablets, and buckets for a month's supply of safe, drinking water. You can opt to donate at Red Cross too. They badly need help.

Let us continue to give love and hope to our fellow Filipinos and celebrate the true spirit of Christmas. If you can't donate in kind or in cash, your most fervent prayers can move mountains.

Sacrament of Baptism: Gian's Christening Day

2011-12-18T14:31:00.074+08:00

Another milestone for the family.

We couldn't contain our excitement for Gian's second big day. His birth being the first.

It is the 4th Sunday of Advent and our precious lil' one is going to receive the Sacrament of Baptism and share our faith.

We bought him a little gift to remind him of this special day when he grows up.

*Chrism is a perfumed olive oil consecrated by the bishop during Holy Week. This oil is used to anoint the crown of the head of the person being baptized. In baptism, the sign of the cross on the forehead reminds us that Jesus died for us.

Hubby was assigned by Deacon Clement to read the first reading.

*Water is a symbol of being raised to new life, starting afresh with Jesus.

Welcome to the Christian world, baby Gian! *The white garment is an outward sign of our Christian dignity.

*The final symbol in baptism is the giving of a lighted candle.

We are all so happy for you!

May you grow to be a God-fearing child.

And may God continue to bless our family with abundant graces.

A simple token of appreciation for the Godparents and guests given personally by Ate Kyla.

Thank you, Dear God for another meaningful and memorable page in the book of our family life. :)

Special thanks to Dr Peter Flores, our impromptu official photographer.

FYI: The Sacrament of Baptism is often called "The door of the Church," because it is the first of the seven sacraments not only in time (since most Catholics receive it as infants) but in priority, since the reception of the other sacraments depends on it. It is the first of the three Sacraments of Initiation, the other two being the Sacrament of Confirmation and the Sacrament of Holy Communion. Once baptized, a person becomes a member of the Church.

Baptism has six primary effects, which are all supernatural graces:

The removal of the guilt of both Original Sin (the sin imparted to all mankind by the Fall of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden) and personal sin (the sins that we have committed ourselves).
The remission of all punishment that we owe because of sin, both temporal (in this world and in Purgatory) and eternal (the punishment that we would suffer in hell).
The infusion of grace in the form of sanctifying grace (the life of God within us); the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit; and the three theological virtues.
Becoming a part of Christ.
Becoming a part of the Church, which is the Mystical Body of Christ on earth.
Enabling participation in the sacraments, the priesthood of all believers, and the growth in grace.
~ SOURCE

Frisocrem: Gian's First Solid Food

2011-12-15T00:10:00.002+08:00

Hubby and i have been discussing when should we introduce solid food to our precious baby boy who is turning 5 months old on the 23rd of this month. Earlier today,his nanny almost fed him with a mashed banana but i stopped her. If we want to introduce him solid food, it is best to start with something that has a bland taste. So off i went to the supermarket with the hubby after dinner and bought Frisocrem, a rice-based cereal with milk. It is an easily digestible solid food (or semi-solid might be the appropriate word) for babies from 4 months onwards.

To our surprise, Gian loved it! Wait,that may be an understatement. Gian was crazy about it! We had a great time watching him eat like he wasn't fed for ages! He kept reaching for the spoon as if he wanted mommy to feed him non-stop. We all had a memorable day! :)

Cheap Fashion Series No.2

2011-12-14T01:12:00.012+08:00

Self photography. Am i vain? Lol!

With my unica hija. My unica hijo has not been conceived when this photo was taken so please don't imagine i still have the same physique. I am the only one allowed to daydream! Lol!

I got a lot of flattering remarks for this get-up which i wore when we visited the Penang Butterfly Farm during our 2D1N stay in Penang, Malaysia. My Salitype sister said she liked my outfit, a friend said i look chic and another friend said i look like Ms. Universe. No violent reactions please, the latter was joking. Lol! The most flattering remark came from my grade school nephew. He told his sister, "Tita Che looks like a 16 year old here." Oh am geeeeeeeee! He must be kiddin' me! Palakpak naman tenga ko. Hahaha!

Oh, please forgive me i got carried away. Let's talk cheap fashion shall we? I am sure you will be surprised as in @.@ with what i am about to reveal.

1) Sunglasses - hiningi ko lang from a friend, ganon ako ka-cheap!

2) No brand jumpsuit with singlet - S$12 from Eastpoint Mall (Every now and then, the mall hosts some kind of tiangge which i seldom miss because i have to pass by the mall to reach my home. That's not an alibi, ok? Lol!)

3) Necklace - S$15 (A gift from hubby, couldn't afford a Tifanny. Lol!) bought from Cache Cache, Tampines One Mall

I am crazy, am i? My necklace is more expensive than my clothes. Lol! Btw, i wore a S$5 flipflops from Cotton On. You won't be seeing my farmer's feet though. Lol!

Click here to see more photos.

RELATED POST: Cheap Fashion Series No.1

My Daddy Rocks

2011-12-12T23:15:00.001+08:00

Test post using my iPad2.

Best Buy: Sesame Beginnings

2011-12-11T23:11:00.005+08:00

This is one of the many gifts we received after I gave birth to Gian in July. It came from one of my husband's colleague. I have to commend her for choosing the right product.

Isn't it commendable to buy a gift and do charity at the same time?

Today, I retweeted this quote by Ivy Baker Priest :

"Great opportunities to help others seldom come, but small ones come daily."

I have to remind myself, this is a purpose driven blog. Thanks to my little angel who slept early tonight, i was able to share this with you. Have a blessed week ahead, folks! If you have twitter account, please follow @Sweet_Memoirs and i will follow you back. :)

BLUE MONDAY

Carousel Buffet (Royal Plaza on Scotts)

2011-12-10T00:48:00.010+08:00

It's a buffet treat for Nurse's Day.

As a clinic staff, i was obliged to entertain the nurses while my boss is still busy doing a surgery. (I am working for a surgeon (a.k.a. superman) who works with Accident & Emergecy and Operating Theater nurses in different hospitals almost everyday.) The nurses deserve to be pampered with good food on their special day, don't you agree? I have a number of nurse friends and i look up to them for having one of the toughest and noblest job ever.

Had enough of my blahberring? Time to enjoy the food! WARNING: Do not continue reading if you have empty stomach. Come back later when you are full enough not to drool over the food i am about to share. I warned you, ok?

Charrrraaaaaaan!!! Seafood Station here we come!

I am drooling just by sight of it! Lol!

I almost forgot to eat appetizer. Slow cooked Sous-vide of Salmon with Passion fruit Hollandaise. Truly appetizing!

My picks at the Japanese Satation. Shared it with my colleague. You think it's an alibi? Lol!

Don't drool sushi lovers! Pick one!

Can't remember from which station i picked them but it sure melts in the mouth.

READ MORE IF YOU WANT TO TORTURE YOURSELF FURTHER.

Did i just say melt? Look at the chocolate fountain!!! Felt like i found a great treasure somewhere in the dark! Lol!

My picks at the dessert counter. Am i too greedy or what?! Lol! Those chocolate coated fruits are to die for! And so is the classic creme brulee!

I have to end the buffet with a refreshing avocado milkshake. I totally forgot that there is such a word DIET in my dictionary! Lol!

Btw, superman asked us to try this. Goose liver with melted chocolate and hazelnut crumbs. You be the judge but i don't like it! Apart from this, superman had oyster feast. He said they are very fresh. Take his word. He is a certified foodie.

Click here for the complete menu of the Carousel. I've heard both good and bad reviews about the place but i must say i didn't have any unpleasant experience there and i had a great time. Maybe it's because i ate for free? Lol!

FOODIE FRIDAY

FOOD FRIDAY

FOOD TRIP FRIDAY

Spider Lily

2011-12-09T22:49:00.006+08:00

The Spider Lily plant is popular for its white, pink or red flowers that bloom both in the spring and fall above the large clumping foliage. The flower stems are about 6 inches long with about 6 to 12 flowers on each. Each bloom has curving sepals, giving it a "spider" look. ~ http://www.ehow.com/

Click here for detailed instruction on how to grow spider lilies.

Fertilizer Friday
Blooming Friday

Flowers on Saturday

Weekend Flowers

Today's Flowers

Full Month Celebration

2011-12-05T21:13:00.003+08:00

"Mua Guek", which means "Full Moon" (滿月, which literally means "Full Moon"), signifies the new born baby’s attainment of a full month's survival in good health, which calls for a celebration.
In Chinese culture, proud parents introduce their new born baby by holding a celebration during the baby's first month birthday.

Here are some of the 1st month chinese traditions according to http://www.lifemoments.com.sg/:

Red Eggs
Dyed red eggs are an integral part of the full month celebration as it symbolizes happiness and the renewal of life.
Red Turtle Cake
The dough of the "red turtle cake" is dyed red for good luck. This kueh also signifies longevity as turtles have long lives.
Glutinous Rice
In Singapore, the Chinese prepare a glutinous rice dish to distribute along with the red eggs.
Peanut Candy
The peanut candy is also another delectable ‘sweet’ distributed along with the full month gifts. It signifies all things sweet and happiness in the birth of the new born baby.

Although i have a bit of chinese blood (10% perhaps, LOL!) , i did not grow up to witness traditional full month celebrations amongst my Syjongtian family circle. When Gian turned one month old on the 23rd of August, we celebrated it the Filipino way.

I asked hubby to buy a cupcake to symbolize the 1st month but he bought a cake instead.

We had pancit with hard boiled eggs to symbolize long life and good health.

Cheap Fashion Series No.1

2011-12-02T02:08:00.008+08:00

Don't raise your eyebrows, I am not a fashion guru. I do have fashion faux pas moments but what i will be sharing here are those that i have been complimented with. I always believe you don't have to be rich to be fashionable. As i go on with this series, you'll probably agree with me. Now, let's walk the talk!

When i first posted this photo in facebook, a highschool friend commented that i look like one of those famous asian actresses. Haha! I am not trying to blow my own horn, i think i just happen to be photogenic. Anyway let's not dwell about my face, let's talk about cheap fashion. :)

1) Ladies winter cap - bought from a winter shop, couldn't remember exactly how much but it's definitely not expensive. Bought it for my trip to Switzerland and decided to use it on our trip to Bintan Island.

2) Pair of black earrings and necklace - S$5 from Peninsula Plaza, sorry i can't remember the name of the shop.

3) Ladies beige jumpsuit - P450 or about S$15 from RRJ, bought it during our short vacation in the Philippines.

Less than $50 for a fashionable look including my shoes (forgive me, i can't show you my farmer's feet as it's too embarassing. Lol!). Isn't that cheap? You can do some twist too depending on the look you want to achieve.

Here, I changed my necklace to a $2 unisex neckpiece made in Bali which i bought from Daiso, Plaza Singapura branch. Don't ask me why i have to hide my thighs and tummy from a throw pillow. I have HUGE thighs and baby handles a.k.a bilbil you definitely don't want to see. Lol!

PS. If you have some cheap fashion finds, please share and link back to my blog.

Asian Kitchen (Vivo City)

2011-12-01T01:01:00.020+08:00

Do you remember my first date with the hubby at Universal Studios without the kiddos on our anniversary month? We were supposed to have dinner in Chili's at Resotrs World Sentosa but we passed by Asian Kitchen at Vivo City and we decided to give it a try. Hubby is a foodie and we have this dream of trying out different restaurants whenever we have the chance (and when budget allows, hehehe).

It was full house when we arrived so we had to wait for a while to get a table.

I have to rethink on what to eat. If we pushed thru eating at Chili's, i don't need to see the menu. (My colleagues and I have made it a tradition to eat at Chili's once a month and i always order the same thing. It's either Cajun Chicken Pasta or Quesadilla Explosion.)

My date. We are like mag-boyfriend/girlfriend lang most of the time. Kilig factor. Hopeless romantic ako eh kaya pagbigyan, hehehe! ;)

As usual, hubby's crabby affair. The menu says: If chilli crab is your weakness, this is to die for! It is a crunchy soft shell crab in a special concoction of chili sauce. Oh well, nothing beats chilli crab specially the ones at No Signboard! This is is just alright, not really to die for based in my own taste buds. (Warning: my taste buds are not reliable for food reviews. They are very easy to please most of the time.)

A generous serving of Asian Kitchen's signature fried rice with beef. Decided to share with the hubby since i am on unofficial diet. Less carbo pleaaaaaase! LOL!

I ordered black pepper garlic beef which i regretted later. I am so used to Wisma Atria's Food Republic's black pepper beef that is really to die for (well, at least for beef lovers like me). This isn't as nice as i expected it to be. Talk about great expectations. LOL!

Stir fried kailan with oriental mushroom. Now, this is to die for if you love kailan and mushroom. I do!

Busy chefs + efficient waiters = Good service. Waiting time isn't frustrating.

If you want to have a taste of Asian Kitchen's old school flavors, click here for more info. They claim to have one of the best xiao long baos. Gotta try it next time with their dumplings.

Till our next food adventure! :)

FOODIE FRIDAY
FOOD FRIDAY

iPad 2 Giveaway

2011-12-01T00:04:00.001+08:00

Oh hello December! I couldn't contain my excitement! The Christmas spirit is all over me. I became a Share the Memories Affiliate last month and was given a chance to host my first giveaway, a digital scrapbook software which is so much fun and easy to use. The good news is they just upgraded the software from My Memories Suite v2 to My Memories Suite v3. I got the upgrade for free and my giveaway winner will have it too! (Winner will be announced soon.) The upgraded version is a must-buy! You won't regret having it as a Christmas gift to yourself. Use my personal code and you can get it for $10 off.

Moving forward, Liz - the generous host of Share the Memories informed me last night that MyMemories Blog is currently hosting a GREAT giveaway - an iPad 2!!! Liz wrote, "we are over halfway there - and someone is going to win, why not you or one of your site followers?" @.@ That's me in big round eyes! Whaaaaaat?! An iPad 2?! Oh am geeeeeee! I've been dreaming to have one! Guys, let's head over to MyMemories Blog and get the chance to win an iPad 2!

HERE'S HOW TO WIN: (copied from MyMemories Blog)

So make sure you check out the MyMemories Facebook Page and LIKE us - we really want more new friends!! And - we want to thank you with an EXCLUSIVE Free Download kit just for liking us! So - it's WIN WIN WIN around here! So, like our page and share it with your friends and when we hit 10,000, somebody gets a SUPER COOL iPAD!!! How amazing is that? Winner will be drawn at random from ALL our FB friends, so new friends AND old friends all have a chance!

I shall not hold you here longer but please LIKE Sweet Memoirs FB page too and visit me here for the giveaway updates.

HAVE A GREAT DECEMBER!

EDIT:
Sorry guys, apparently they have reached 10,000 likes and a winner has been proclaimed. Don't be sad! I will be hosting a giveaway quarterly. I will keep you posted.

The Purpose Driven Blog

2011-11-30T10:25:00.004+08:00

I started blogging since Friendster days mainly to put my thoughts into writing but I have developed a love for photography so when I realized I don’t have much time to write anymore, I moved to Blogger and created a photoblog. I later learned that i can earn through writing paid posts from my friend, Betchai of TJOSL and BIBO. I can't thank her enough for the influence and overwhelming support in my journey to blogging happine$$. In spite of my busyness as a working mom, I decided to buy my own domain for a good cause. I use my blog earnings to lend a helping hand in times of need.

I used to donate my blog earnings as anonymous but a friend suggested i should come out in the open to inspire other people. With all honesty, I don't earn that much from writing sponsored posts but let me tell you this. A little help goes a long way, it doesn't matter how much you give. A dollar from a thousand people sums up to one thousand dollars. You get the logic.

Believe me or not, with the little money i have i was able to help a high school friend and another friend who desperately needed financial help. I was also able to buy a reference book for my niece (she couldn't find the book in the Philippines) and contribute a little for my other niece's tuition fee. I also contributed a little to my group blog, The Salitype Society's scholar. All those little help were HUGELY appreciated however, when i give i don't really expect anything in return. You may or may not appreciate my little help, what matters to me is i share what little i have.

Just recently, I came across my friend's blog post Two Activities, One Purpose. It is about raising fund for Therese, a little girl with Relapsed Clear Cell Sarcoma of the liver. I knew right away that I HAVE to give whatever little money left in my paypal account. I strongly belive that it is better to be of help than to be a recepient of help. My heart goes to the innocent young girl and her parents. There are no words to describe the pain and agony they are going through.

I blog not because i have all the time in the world. I find time to blog not just to chronicle beautiful memories but for a greater purpose. Consider yourself helping people if you visit my blog REGULARLY. Increase in website traffic invites more sponsors for writing paid posts which means more people will benefit from my blogging happine$$. Please share this to your family members and friends. THANK YOU and GOD BLESS YOU HUNDREDFOLD.

PS.

Photo credit: Photography by Michael

If you wish to donate for Therese, please contact Misalyn of Al Ain City Daily Photo.

Photo credit: The Salitype Society

If you wish to help Micah, The Salitype Society's scholar, please contact Betchai of TJOSL and BIBO.

Sweet Memoirs

Harris Resort Waterfront (Day 1)

My Big Sister's Hands

Alexandra Arch

Mixed Fruit Danish

Magnolia

Hilltop Walk

Harris Resort Waterfront (Batam,Indonesia)

Cheap Table Centerpiece

Waterfront City Ferry Terminal

Batam Island Escapade

The Vines Seafood and Steak Restaurant

Hort Park

Fun Outdoor Games for Kids

Kaleidoscope Effect

Applying a kaleidoscope effect to an image can generate some wild and unexpected results. ~ SOURCE

Bintan Resorts Ferry

Bintan Lagoon Resort (Day 1/Part 1)

Cherry Blossom

Paradise Inn (Bedok Point)

Home Garden

Baby Gian's Development Month by Month

Sentosa Flowers 2012: Enchanted Spring

Sentosa Flowers

Sentosa Flowers is an annual most celebrated flower festival during the Lunar New Year that transforms Sentosa into an enchanting floral extravaganza.

Sweeties, mark your calendars!

Enchanted Spring Floral Extravaganza will be on 23rd to 29th of January 2012Admission is FREE!

Lotus Flower (Nelumbo nucifera)

The Perfect and Practical Valentine Gift

ArtScience Museum (Marina Bay Sands)

Titanic (The Artifact Exhibition)

Click here for ticketing information.

Baby Photoshoot @ 5 months

Sulphur-crested Cockatoo

Labrador Seafood: Authentic Seafood and BBQ

City Beach Resort (Christmas Staycation)

National Orchid Garden

Lechon Kawali

Symbolic Meaning of Chinese New Year Flowers

Mom Bloggers for Social Good

Healthy Child Healthy World Searches for 2012 Mom on a Mission

Singapore Flyer

Lake of Dreams (Resorts World Sentosa)

The Health Benefits of Strawberry Fruit

Myna

Blue Pea (Clitoria ternatea)

Hua Ting Restaurant (Orchard Hotel)

Kids Photography

Jacob Ballas Children's Garden

The Best of 2011

Kyla's Baby Sister

Patara: Fine Thai Cuisine (Tanglin Mall)

Skypark at Marina Bay Sands

The Birth of Jesus Christ

Tree of Love

Give Love and Hope for Philippine Flood Victims

Sacrament of Baptism: Gian's Christening Day

Frisocrem: Gian's First Solid Food

Cheap Fashion Series No.2

My Daddy Rocks

Best Buy: Sesame Beginnings

Carousel Buffet (Royal Plaza on Scotts)

Spider Lily

Full Month Celebration

Cheap Fashion Series No.1

Asian Kitchen (Vivo City)

iPad 2 Giveaway

The Purpose Driven Blog

Enchanted Spring Floral Extravaganza will be on 23rd to 29th of January 2012
Admission is FREE!