{Review} Let’s Jiak Mooncakes - Low Sugar Ones, I Like!

How time flies.  The next joyous and loveliest festival apart from the Lunar New Year is here soon.  Everywhere is bustling with people, admiring the bright lights and the pretty lanterns.

Held on the 15th of the 8th month of the lunar calendar, it is for sure a full moon on that night.  It is a night to gather and in some countries like Korea, it is also a time to give thanks for the harvest.

I remember very vividly that when I was in primary school, my parents will order the traditional mooncakes and we will eat them, together with family and relatives during the period.  As the years progress, many different variations of the mooncakes can be found in the market.  Snow skin mooncakes, alcohol infused mooncakes, ice cream mooncakes, apart from the traditional baked lotus mooncakes.

I much prefer the traditional lotus mooncakes with egg yolks.  The more yolks the merrier!  But, these days, it is mostly just double egg yolks.  Recently, Bing Liang Bakery sent over some of their well-liked mooncakes, new flavours as well as the traditional lotus paste mooncakes.

I like that they have the low sugar variants.  Don’t we agree that mooncakes are overly sweet?  For the older folks who still love the traditional kinds, the low sugar mooncakes are really much better than the usual kind.

It is evident that the low sugar mooncakes are more popular when I brought them out for friends to try because that mooncake was the first to be gone.  There was no overly sweet taste lingering in the mouth after eating a small quarter.

We hardly see durian pure lotus seed paste mooncake in the market.  Mostly durian snow skin mooncakes.  This durian mooncake is not the pure durian mooncakes we see often.  This is a durian lotus paste mooncake.  Not overpowering, with a tinge of durian smell when you cut the mooncake, this is perfect for those who cannot stand durians but yet want to have a taste of durian mooncakes.  This is not extremely sweet as well.  My parents also commented that it was not too sweet.  Phew.

Apart from the lotus paste mooncake, white lotus paste mooncake and durian mooncake, Bing Liang also sells pandan mooncake, red bean mooncake and green tea mooncake.  All 100% handmade with no preservatives, these will be good as gifts.  And most importantly, let’s talk about the cost.  Unlike many places where a box of 4 mooncakes cost more than S$50, the most expensive box of mooncake is only S$50 at Bing Liang.

Comes with a pretty box too!  One can choose the type of mooncakes to go into each box.  Meaning, you can have a choice of 4 different types of mooncakes and have the best of the worlds.

With free delivery for purchases above S$88, there is no need to jostle with the crowd in the malls to get the mooncake fix.  

Still considering?  You can always do a taste test between 2pm and 7pm at:

39A Jln Pemimpin #03-01C Singapore 577183

Look at that thin crust!

Disclosure: Mooncakes are sponsored for the purpose of this review.  All photos and opinions are true to my own unless otherwise stated.  

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{Review} The Phantom of the Opera is Here....Inside Your Mind...

"In sleep he sang to me
In dreams he came
That voice which calls to me
And speaks my name
And do I dream again?
For now I find
The phantom of the opera is there
Inside my mind"

~ The Phantom Of The Opera

 

We knew this song before we watched The Phantom Of The Opera.  This song itself is captivating and we wonder how the musical will be.

 

 

This is not the first time The Phantom Of The Opera is performing in Singapore.  I have heard of people attending all the previous productions.  And I wonder why.

 

The Phantom Of The Opera - Andrew Lloyd Webber's most famous and successful musical is the longest-running show on Broadway, winning more than 70 major theatre awards and has been seen by over 145 million people across 30 countries.

 



Photo credit : Base Entertainment





It tells a tale of a disfigured musical genius, The Phantom.  Mesmerised by the talents and beauty of young soprano Christine, the Phantom does all that it takes to lure Christine as his protégé.  However, his obsession with her soon leads to a series of dramatic events and this musical depicts the story of love and jealousy.

 

Photo credit : Base Entertainment

With a 37 strong international cast joined by a full 11-piece live orchestra playing some of Lloyd Webber’s most memorable music, including The Phantom of the Opera, Think of Me and Music of the Night, this musical is simply phenomenal.  Each act ends with thunderous applause.

 

We were told that some costumes of the soprano artistes weigh as heavy as 10-12kg.  Imagine that weight and singing at the same time.  It makes me appreciate the musical more.

 

 

I brought D to this musical because he was introduced to the book and has been listening to the songs.  Contrary to many comments on the dark emotions of the story, D actually felt that the story is romantic.  He sees more of the love the Phantom has for Christine compared to the jealousy and betrayal.  And for me, I feel sadness for the Phantom. 

 

Watching a musical lets one feel the story through beautiful voices and stunning costumes and that is what makes a musical successful.  The Phantom Of The Opera is all of that and now I understand why it is the longest-running musical on Broadway.

 

 

The Phantom Of The Phantom is here till 8 June 2019.  Tickets are available on Sistic website.

 

Event Date

Wed, 24 Apr - Sat, 8 Jun 2019

Tue - Fri: 8pm
Sat: 2pm & 8pm
Sun: 1pm & 6pm

 

Venue

Sands Theatre at Marina Bay Sands

 

What a production!!!

 

 

 

Disclosure: We were invited to The Phantom Of The Opera.  No monetary compensation was received.  All photos and opinions are true to my own unless otherwise stated.

 

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A Woman's Best Friend - Finely Cup

A woman's best friend.  Should it be non-wired or wired?  

There has always been different schools of thoughts and debates about wired and non-wired.  However, in recent years, there seems to be an increase in the number of non-wired  bras around.  It may be the next best thing, apart from nothing.  :D

I was introduced to Finely Cup by a friend.  Serene, was reviewing the bras and being the good friends we are, she was telling us about how she felt about these little cups.  "Wireless", comfortable were all the stuff I heard.  So, try, I know I must.

Unlike going into a departmental store and choosing everything on your own, FABLife provides a very personal service of helping with finding the right fit.  Alice, the founder of FABLife, helps with the necessary measurements so that one can find the best fit.  She will also teach you how to properly wear one (erm, let's admit that most of us are possibly wearing the wrong size or do not know the correct way to wearing one.).  As appointments are needed, there is no need to worry about bumping into someone you know while in the fitting room, or feel shy about being around strangers, apart from Alice.  :D

These days, I very much fancy non-wired bras.  Wired bras get "out of shape" easily.  And non-wired ones are really more comfortable with the right sizes.  Also, as they are made of built-in memory cushion for the cups, I can feel the push-up effect as it helps with breast lifting, just like any other wired bras.  But, in this case, they are non-wired.

Comparing with other bras that I have.  Both wired and non-wired ones, you will see that the black Finely Cup bra has thicker bands/wings.  This is what I think helps with the support, regardless of one being big or small.  In fact, do not be turned off by the broad wings because it actually helps smooth and eliminate back bulge, especially for body hugging tops.

If you can't tell, I actually bought for myself another 2 sets after trying the one that was given for review purposes.  I was told that with constant wearing, these can actually prevent breast sagging and the adjustment of the bust.  If you would like to feel for yourself, do make an appointment with Alice for a professional fitting.

Disclosure: I was sponsored a set of Finely Cup bra for the purpose of this review.  All photos and opinions are true to my own unless otherwise stated.  Other additional sets mentioned are paid by yours truly.  :)

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Myopia & What Helps

Nearsightedness is a common concern for children in Singapore.  It does not help when the parents are also blind bats.  Because nearsightedness can be hereditary.

We are all myopic.  So it was not surprising when E needed spectacles too.  We have been going to the eye doctor, a professional, since E had strabismus.  Although he no longer needed those eye patches, his myopia increase is something that has to be controlled.

At Primary 1, he was prescribed with his first pair of spectacles.  After 6 months, we were back at his Paediatric Ophthalmologist for review and alarmingly, his myopia increased pretty rapidly.

What's done cannot be undone.  It is definitely there to stay.  There is no cure to myopia.  The only way is to prevent it from further increasing.

Myopia arises when the eyeballs are longer than normal, which changes the angle at which light enters the eye and therefore the ability to focus on distant objects.  Thus, light rays from distant objects focus in front of the retina instead of on the retina. 

We all blame the reading, the gadgets and screen time.  We all know about limiting our time for using handheld devices and TV.  We all know about looking out to far distance.  But it all does not stop there.

We should take a break after 20 minutes of looking into handheld devices.  Which I am now making them be accountable for it themselves.  They set a timer on the iPad or timer and stop when it rings.

We learnt from the doctor that sunlight is good for the eyes too.  Reading up myself, I learn that we should all spend at least 20 minutes daily out in the sun, without sunglasses or tinted glasses.  Morning sun will be the best if UV is a concern (the bad harmful impact.  Sigh.)  For now, I tell the boys to get out to the field to walk or play after eating during recess to get their daily dose of the sunlight.

The boys are reminded that their eyes belong to them and we can only nag at them this much, threaten them that much.  They have a long way to go and should always love themselves.



Disclosure: I am not a doctor or a medical professional.  What is stated is my personal experiences and what I have learnt as a parent.

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Experience So Thai Spa During a Mummy's Trip!

2018 has been a year of travels for me.  5 trips, not including trips to neighbouring JB, 4 countries.

I wrote about my trip to Bangkok here and here.  

Blessed with a hubby who is totally hands-on, I am able to travel with friends.  Why travel without the family you ask?  And I will ask, why not?  To me, that does not make me any less a parent or a Mum.  I just feel that it is a time to reflect, make connections with like-minded friends and just relax. Back home, the world revolves around the family and work (for working mums like me).  Sometimes, I just want to wake up without the need to prep breakfast, wash water bottles, nag and babysit.  Hahaha!!!  Yes yes, i signed up for parenthood and I am not complaining.  I am just finding reasons to enjoy myself, even if it meant 3D2N.

Anyway, if you are thinking to travel sans kids, i will say, just do it!  I always come back a better human being.  And maybe that's what has been keeping me going - working, cooking, nagging......

The last trip to Phuket was indeed a rest and relax trip.  We checked ourselves into this huge villa.  And we ordered breakfast service.  On other days, we were out eating seafood, fast food.  But most times, we were just lazing in the villa, enjoying the blue skies and sea, soaking up the sunlight.

But what is a holiday in Thailand without a massage, right?  We were recommended to So Thai Spa Phuket, which has 3 outlets in Phuket.  I am somewhat picky with the massage places I go to, especially if it involves body massage.  Foot massage is fine as we all know that there are lots of shops along shopping streets at cheap prices but for body, I prefer to pay more for a better experience.

As were staying in the Surin area, So Thai Spa Phuket Privilege is just 8 minutes drive away.  Out of the Patong area, this spa's location is superb as its surroundings is quiet and zen.

Deciding the oil to use for my massage.  There is an option for aloe vera too if you are sunburnt.  

It always start off with a little treat.  No matter you are there for 2 hours or 4 hours.

A tip!  If you do not mind sharing a room with your friend (I'm sure partners are fine), it is always cheaper to book couple rooms!

We thoroughly enjoyed our 4-hour So Thai Treat which includes foot massage, body scrub, herbal ball compress and lastly, an aroma oil massage.

A treat in between.  After a shower after the scrub.

The massages were good!  So good that we went back for a 2 hour session before we flew home.  As most of the masseuses are not fluent in English, the receptionist (better command of English) will ask questions about which body part you want the massage to focus more on, any injuries so that they can be more careful.  During the massage, the masseuses will ask if their use of strength is okay.  Apart from that, I drifted off to dreamland most times.  

Refreshed, rejuvenated and ready to take on come what may.  

So Thai Spa has a few outlets in different parts of Thailand now and I will definitely have them in mind when I next travel to Bangkok.

Now, when can I have the next break?  Pretty soon, I am sure.  2019, please be good!

Disclosure: We were given discounts at So Thai Spa.  No monetary compensation was received.  All photos and opinions are true to my own unless otherwise stated.

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{Review} Sit Tight, Laugh, Clap and Cheer at The Great Moscow Circus

Hello Singapore!  

If you have watched the short clip by the Ringmaster and his friends, you will know that The Great Moscow Circus is in town.  Till 2 Dec.

We hardly have a circus.  So this is one good chance to catch it.  Family-friendly, mind-blowing, and full of fun.  Not forgetting times you will be sitting at the edge of your seat.  Trust me, you should really watch it - I have been telling friends and people around me to go watch it.

Why?!

Because it is really that good.  With about 1,650 seats, no matter which seat you choose, you will be able to enjoy the Circus (I saw that a lot of the ringside seats are left with single seats for many dates).  Ringside seats are those that are nearest to the ring, and the performers are literally in front of you - not a must, but good if you can get those.

The boys love this act the most.  Colourful, funky and fast, these Fast Track Acrobats make cartwheels and flips look so easy.  But, I am pretty sure they are not.  

I would really love to tell you all the acts.  But no, I shall not.  Because, to be able to see and hear it is a thousand times (and more) better than just reading it.  

Juggler?  Yes

Clown?  Yes

Acrobats?  Yes Yes

Daredevils?  Yes Yes

Audience Interactions?  Yes Yes Yes

With more than 16 sensational acts, featuring over 45 circus stars, The Great Moscow Circus preserves the fun and thrills of the Circus of yesteryears, yet injects in the heart pounding experiences of today's Circus.  You will be glad to know that there are no animal acts.

One of my favourite.  The Aerialists.  At each turn and spin, the elegance and strength of the performers make me love them so much.  No safety net, no safety wires, the duo displays their acrobatic gymnastics in such an artistic, yet thrilling way.  Their fitness and daring acts are all that I admire.

If you are those who like that "heart in the throat" moments, this is for you.  For the first time in Singapore, the biggest Globe of Death will be one of the acts that make you remember and talk about The Great Moscow Circus for a long time.  With up to 5 speeding motorbikes in the steel globe, one wonders how they can speed together at the same time.  It takes an open minded, strong hearted individual to challenge this death-defying circus act.

We watch American Got Talent and British Got Talent quite abit and we saw familiar faces!  If you are a fan of this talent show, then you will be happy to see 2 of the acts in The Great Moscow Circus. 

Not forgetting the adorable and funny clown, who never fails to bring laughter to all those under the Mighty Big Top.  So, remember, it's a show not to be missed.

Not to be missed.  Indeed.

The Great Moscow Circus

25 Oct - 2 Dec 2018

Tue - Fri: 7.30pm
Sat: 12pm, 4pm & 7.30pm
Sun: 11am, 3pm & 6.30pm
Public Holiday: 12pm & 4pm

Tickets can be purchased at all Sistic outlets or online.

Just a friendly reminder.  No food and drinks allowed.  There are popcorn, candy floss, drinks available for sale there.  And the Circus merchandise too if you are interested.

Disclosure: We were invited to The Great Moscow Circus.  No monetary compensation was received.  All photos and opinions are true to my own unless otherwise stated.

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{Review} Skin Care with Mary Kay Botanical Effects Range

When I was young, everything seems rosy, even my skin.  

When I am no longer that young, everything does not seem rosy.  Let's face it.  Hormones, late nights, stress and a whole long list of items and issues.  And it is most obvious on where?  The face.

I am not a preach for luxurious skincare or indulgent facials.  I try to be as fuss-free as possible, because, sleep is also not enough.  So I try to keep my skincare minimum.  A 1-hour skincare routine everyday?  I think, kill me.  But, ask me 10 years later, I may change my mind.  That's how "hiao" a.k.a vain a woman is.

In any case, I have no idea when I start having dry skin.  It was bad to the extent that I went through quite a few brands of cleansers, as most if not all gave me the tight feeling after cleansing.  Till I was introduced to Mary Kay's Botanical Effects range.

The Botanical Effects range contain a few formulas and I am using the Formula 1 for dry skin.  The 2 key ingredients, Silymarin and Luo Han Guo help defend against environmental damage and help promote healthy skin.

The Cleanse Formula 1 for dry skin is the cleanser that I felt did not give me that tight feeling after cleansing.  And I do not feel that my skin is being stripped of it's natural oil (which seriously, I hate because some cleansers strip the skin of its natural oil till you could hear the "squeakily clean" sound when you rub your skin).

I went through 3 sets of cleanser, 2 sets of toner (freshen) and moisturiser (hydrate) to date before writing this review.  

What I like about the cleaners is well, written above.  

Its toner, called the Freshen has a non-drying formula that gently removes excess residue and improves skin texture.  I like that it is a spray bottle and a bottle lasts quite long!

I have tried both Formula 1 and Formula 2 for the Hydrate.  Both works well for me although the ingredient difference is flaxseed extract and sea kelp in Formula 1 and frangipani flower and water lily in Formula 2.  For the very dry skin, Formula 1 will work best because of flaxseed extract as it is a rich plant source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to help moisturise and help relieve dry skin discomfort.

Oh, and the mask!  It can be used both as a scrub and a mask.  With tiny beads that are gentle on my so-delicate skin, I use it more as a scrub than a mask.  

And you will be glad to know that this range is hypoallergenic, meaning it is relatively unlikely to cause an allergic reaction.  That also means it contains relatively few or no potentially irritating substances.  Also formulated without synthetic dyes or added fragrance, I am happy to say that it did help with hydrating my skin.

As I grow older, I am now more concerned with my skin.  Aging is a fact of life and it is nothing I can change.  What I can try though : skin care is self care.  :)

Just a quick note, should you be keen in trying the above range or any other ranges that Mary Kay carries, Florinda Tay, a very established and experienced Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultant, is the one you should look for.  I am seriously envious of her skin, makeup looks and she shares tons of makeup techniques and tips on her Facebook.  Catch her at her live makeup sessions and you will know why.

Disclosure: I was sponsored a set of Botanical Effects range for the purpose of this review.  All photos and opinions are true to my own unless otherwise stated.  Other additional sets mentioned are paid by yours truly.  :)

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