Bite my Big Apple

Let's begin with Lent

2010-02-18T10:44:00.014-05:00

As promised, here's where we'll do it all over again: wheredidthewkendgo.blogspot.com

PS: Happy Birthday Mum...we miss you!

New

2010-02-17T01:24:00.000-05:00

A new blog is in the works...stay tuned!

Pause.

2010-01-01T15:15:00.002-05:00

I'm on a blogging hiatus for now :)

Watch this space for further updates!

xoxo

Happy 2010 to you all!

Seasons Greetings!

2009-12-25T10:16:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

I'm back from my adventure in Seoul and spending time with family and friends in YVR. I hope you're having an awesome yuletide season and partying it up for New Years to ring in, *gasp* 2010.

Photos of fun times to follow...

Counting down till SEOUL!

2009-12-12T17:27:00.003-05:00

Oh I am so excited!

Kimchi, bulgogi, kimbab, dukkboki and korean fashions & cosmetics HERE I COME!

Oh and of course being reunited with my man :)

Daddy came! :)

2009-12-01T21:05:00.001-05:00

See you at Christmas Dad! :D Don't forget to put up the tree!

Woodbury Common Run #2

2009-11-28T23:30:00.009-05:00

Dad's in town during Thanksgiving season - so a must-do is indeed another trip to the outlets to cash in on the Thanksgiving sales and complete my Christmas shopping. So off we went bright and early this morning at 9am.

It started off relatively peaceful and civilized and eventually became madness resulting in my Dad exclaiming how he never wanted to do Thanksgiving shopping ever again. But we left (11 hours later!!!) with a full car trunk and exhausted from the day's shopping, not to mention my Christmas list all checked off. How awesome.

So here's the highlights from today's run (without giving too much away for Christmas surprises):

COUPONS!!! Thanks to being a VIP at Chelsea Premium Outlets
Workout gear from Lululemon (the lowest prices I've seen so far!)
Renewing my love for cardigans at JCrew
Longchamp (another unbeatable deal!)
Juicy Couture & Betsey Johnson trinkets
And finally, an awesome, early Christmas gift courtesy of Dad from Burberry :)

Low lights include:

Skipping several stores because of the long lines, including Coach, Prada, Banana Republic, UGG (the UGG line was INSANE!!! guess those boots are still very much in demand..)
Trying on 2 gorgeous Emilio Pucci dresses realising I cannot afford either even at outlet pricing
Looking old in DVF
No size @ Nine West!
Disappointing selection at Neiman Marcus Last Call & Saks Off Fifth
Not going back to Barneys to get a Marc Jacobs knit motorcycle jacket :(
Never ever being able to go to every store you want to in Woodbury Common...

I'm exhausted and won't be shopping till Seoul (fingers crossed). Time for bed. Good night and happy Christmas shopping to you all because, I'M ALL DONE!!! Hee hee hee...

Updatorama

2009-11-13T16:11:00.005-05:00

Wow. I realised its been a while since my last post - 11 days being quite a while for my standards at least. So to anyone who cares this is what I've been up to:

Online shopping way too much - Urban Outfitters has amazing sales and I picked up goodies for my apartment to prepare for the arrival of my Dad this US Thanksgiving and of course a cute dress I've been eyeing for myself @ a reduced price of $29.99! SCORE!
Frantically packing my apartment for Dad's visit
Reading a couple of books, one of which is a Korean language book in preparation for my vacation to Seoul (Thanks to HSBC where I redeemed points to get Amazon.com gift certificates!)
Preparing a Black Friday list for Woodbury Common -Potential Burberry trench in my future perhaps?
Cooking: Namely a pretty good beginner Bak Kut Teh, Soy Sauced Chicken Stew, Creamed Spinach...etc.
Making my Christmas lists
Working out 3 times a week! Woohoo!! With the exception of this week because I forgot to bring my gear today. I spin, I kickbox, I pilates & now, I ZUMBA! :D YAY! Note to self: Get thee to a spin class/kickboxing class this weekend!
Bonding with my guinea pig: letting Willi run wild around my living room - floor time is her favourite thing especially being cooped up in the cage all day. She loves sitting under the ottoman or behind the sofa. Also when I insist, she snuggles in her Etsy cuddle cup and occasionally gets to hang out in my bedroom on the window sill bench.
Missing the boy - who's far and away in Beijing & counting the days till we're reunited again! 1 MORE MONTH!!! YAY!

Have a great weekend! :)

Happy Birthday Daddy!

2009-11-02T23:50:00.004-05:00

To the 1st and most important man in my life.

I'm glad I'm the first one to ever send you flowers!

They won't be the last! :D

Love you lots & see you at Thanksgiving! xoxo

Harrroooween!

2009-11-01T00:38:00.003-04:00

2 sailors and a table = fun night of falsies, festivities and fotos! :D

This may not be the best picture of us...

2009-10-24T01:01:00.003-04:00

But I don't care, because I miss you so...

Counting down the days till sweet sweet December.

我爱你！

Twitterbug

2009-10-16T00:13:00.003-04:00

I feel I've not been blogging as much thanks to Twitter...ahh, the wonderful world of microblogging. It saves time and makes for fast & efficient nuggets of things I found interesting or musings. I've also found it to be quite a useful resource for mini news feeds and updates on anything from the Straits Times in Singapore, Vancouver Sun or even my favourite fashion/lifestyle blogs. Many articles online are Twitter-friendly too - with sharing options so I can share what I read with the rest of the world or anyone who cares to read my ramblings.

And just an FYI - I'm not paid by Twitter.

Happy Tweeting guys & feel free to follow me!

My 1st write up

2009-10-05T15:45:00.002-04:00

I got a great opportunity to do a review of the newly opened macbar in Soho by partly sunny - one of Vancouver's foremost fashion industry insiders. Check it out! :)

+J

2009-10-01T21:27:00.006-04:00

Today Jil Sander's collection +J, at Uniqlo opens and boy was there a line! As much as I've been practicing great self control over my shopping habits - I couldn't say no to a grey woolen pea coat, one out of Jil Sander's 100 piece collaboration with Japanese basics mecca. *Sigh* With prices this affordable, it was hard to resist. My pea coat came in black & grey - Jil Sander's signature minimalistic and monochromatic aesthetic.

The selection was great for basics - cashmere cardis, sweater, crisp shirts, woolen blazers & coats. Apparently according to some line-bloggers, there were more men than women. My co-worker picked up 2 coats for her husband. Great shapes and well-fitted, I slid into the heathered charcoal pea coat and was thrilled at the fit :) I had to get it. It was Jil Sander afterall - probably the closest I'll ever be to the designer :P

I spoke to a salesperson and asked about replenishment - word is they will replenish tomorrow morning and that's it - the collection will be sold until its all gone. Happy Shopping & welcome to October!

ps: those Uniqlo cords that I wanted, aren't on sale anymore...good for me I guess! :P

My Money Saving Tips

2009-09-28T13:43:00.012-04:00

After my big splurge a few posts ago, I decided I need to scrimp & save on some things for the next couple of months or so. Sadly, those Uniqlo cords I wanted to get might be out of the picture, though $19.90 for a pair are really unbelievable..so we'll see how long I can hold out for...

But I did come up with some money saving tips that I thought I might share with everyone, so here goes:

Find inventive ways to style your hair - curl it, mimic a salon blowout. Whatever it is, styling your do refreshes it & buys you time before your next trim. So dust-off those curling irons and wake up a little earlier & put some effort into it. People notice, trust me.
Save on color cosmetics - especially the trendy stuff. Eyeshadows and lipsticks in experimental colors for the season don't have to be expensive. Drugstore brands will do just fine and if you're worried about the colors not being pigmented enough, just make sure you use an eyeshadow base/primer.
Always be on the lookout for good sales/deals - Old Navy has fantastic deals on basic tshirts and tank tops. Forever 21 and H&M are my go-tos for current trends. Uniqlo is awesome for affordable basics too. Being in NY, we have sample sales galore - so hit them up and stock up on the classics.
When shopping online - ALWAYS look for coupon codes. You never know when you can get an extra 15% off or free shipping.
Buy handmade - I've found great items for very affordable prices from Etsy.com These are up and coming designers trying to make a small living from their crafty hobbies.
Buy refill packs of shampoo/body wash etc instead of new bottles. You will often save a few dollars by reusing your old containers.
If you have small pets like I do, like hamsters or guinea pigs - recycle things around your home for them to play in or use instead of buying feeders or bowls from stores. An old tissue box, toilet rolls and paperbags make fun toys, makeshift feeders & hideouts for them.
Jojoba oil is a great multi-purpose product! Use it to treat split ends or as a hair treatment. It can also be used as a makeup remover (since it leaves no residue) and foot & hand treatment for dry skin & cuticles!
Invest in neutral nail polish to save you trips to the manicurist. Neutral colors last longer and chips are less obvious and they're easier to paint on.
Reinforce the soles and heels of your new or current shoes to make them last a lot longer and always consult a cobbler before throwing away a pair of old shoes/boots to see if it can be salvaged.
Pack your own lunch to work!
Drink your own homemade coffee or tea rather than ringing it up at Starbucks while on the way to work
Make use of a water filter rather than bottled water or if you are the bottled mineral water drinker - look out for deals. The other day at Rite Aid, I saw Smart Water on sale for 5 for $5!
Don't ever be shy when asking for samples. This gives you the opportunity to try new products without paying full price.
Make use of drugstore coupons and weekly deals they have. Often, essentials are featured like toothpaste or toilet paper and even cosmetics are sometimes buy one get one free!
Subscribe to magazines - its MUCH cheaper!
Never be afraid to look for cheaper alternatives online. Especially if you know what you're looking for. I found my Hot Tools curling iron for more than 40% off online than if I bought it at a beauty supply store. My vacuum was also at least 50% off too. Amazon has books which are sold used but really are in quite good condition and you save anywhere from 30%-70% off the retail price. This doesn't exclude designer/branded items too, my gf got awesome deals at Yoox.com - she paid $70 for a pair Giorgio Armani flats and $60 for a Marni skirt!

I do hope this proves to be useful information - in this economy a little bit can go a long way. Would love to hear any other money saving tips any of you might have! :) Go forth & save!

Golden Shopping Mall, Flushing

2009-09-27T19:24:00.006-04:00

Today, my girlfriend & I decided to venture Flushing, NY - famous for good Chinese food, cheap Chinese groceries and all around Chinese goodness. Our goal Anthony Bourdain's featured spot on the "Outer Boroughs" episode on No Reservations - Golden Shopping Mall.

Armed with an empty stomach we made the trek out of Manhattan into the burbs of what is a predominantly Asian/Chinese area. All the signs are in Mandarin, no one speaks English and not a single Caucasian soul in sight. Feels like Asia already! And of course being Sunday, its universal grocery shopping day so Main Street is bustling!

With our iPhones and Google Maps in hand, we find our destination and eventually find the entrance and walk downstairs to enter a bustling, cramped, dirty food court. Ah! At last! & it feels so authentic too. Brought me back to the days in Singapore where hawker stalls are cramped together, while patrons sit on make shift seating consisting of stools and foldable tables and orders are always yelled out. PERFECT!

We do a quick look around and settle with dumplings first. We place our orders and dug in. Note: they aren't any menus and if there are its all in Chinese so if you don't read or speak the language, be prepared to point and pay. I also think its cash only but that shouldn't be a problem, our dumpling feast was $5 with a side of fried chive pancake. Disgustingly cheap for NY's standards but also fresh, handmade and piping hot. Plenty of chilli paste and chinese black vinegar. Slurp and all 12 are gone. Next stop, Xi'an Famous Foods - another foodstall toured by Mr Bourdain. Famed for Liang Pi & their lamb burger. Seeing how I don't eat lamb we went for the pulled pork instead which was well-spiced and seasoned to perfection. Mmm..Mmm...The Liang Pi was a first for me and it was AMAZING! Apparently, the recipe from this stall is several generations old and very authentic. Chewy, tangy, spicy and peanuty all in one - its a flavour that's hard to define and must be tried.

Stuffed and sweaty, we decided to pop outside for a breather and some bubble tea and before venturing home. We swung by for cheap groceries and hopped back on the 7 to return to the city. What a wonderful way to spend a Sunday!

My Emmy Picks

2009-09-21T11:29:00.004-04:00

I only watch this for the gorgeous gowns.

My top 2: Blake Lively (HOT!!! in Versace) and Drew Barrymore (Divine in nude Monique Lhuillier)

This song always makes me cry

2009-09-21T00:04:00.005-04:00

I was surfing Youtube and came across a few unsigned but incredibly talented artists which I felt were worth a listen. In this cover of Death Cab for a Cutie's I Will Follow You into the Dark - is Jinah & Gerald (aka singindork888 or afraid of everest).

Everytime I listen to this song, I cry. More than just cry, I bawl. Partly because its such a sad song and partly because its so profoundly sweet. I don't profess to know the intention of song but it invites me to long for a type of love described here. It's incredibly hard to articulate but the lyrics of this song speak it so clearly and never fails to touch my heart.

It's the type of love only time can mould and inspire. The kind which supersedes death, separation & hardship. The kind of epic love stories and deep but quiet relationships are made of. The kind shared by an elderly couple or tragic young lovers.

It's the kind of love I should be so lucky to have one day...with time, age, wisdom and a deeply intimate partnership with the one I love and who loves me.

I've got you under my skin...

2009-09-18T19:22:00.007-04:00

Holy cow. I think I just about spent the most lavish amount of money on my skin EVER. I decided it was about high time I treated myself to a facial. So off I went after work to Amore Pacific down the street. An hour and a half later, I walk out with glowing skin and a hole in my pocket from what I consider an obscene amount of money on my face.

Walking back home, I try to justify my indulgent purchase. 2 products & 1 facial treatment and my credit card is crying from the burn. I'm sure gonna feel it this next month...But I was thoroughly impressed by the impeccable service and quality of products. It better be, for what I just paid! I also remembered something my mum once told me: "You only have one face, so you better take good care of it" And with that, I decided recently that I will take better care of my skin. I realise youthful skin doesn't come to the lazy or complacent and once the damage is done - its done for good. Unless of course, you have no qualms spending even more obscene amounts of money to fix it later.

Good quality products go a long way. My mum used to always advocate spending a little more to keep your skin looking flawless and well-maintained. My mother had AMAZING skin - right till the end mind you, despite her illness. She always encouraged me to have facials once a month, always moisturize and use eye cream. She was the 1st person to introduce me to a proper skin care regime (cleanse, tone & moisturize!) along with a starter kit from Clinique at the age of 16.

Having facials once a month is a little out of my budget these days but I do try to maintain a good routine. I'm no product snob - I use drugstore brands as well as Japanese and other more professional/higher end products. I'm a big fan of Asian brands because I feel they target my skin better than generic products :) Although as I get older, I feel the need to invest a little more in the professional brands which come with much more extensive and advanced R&D.

Whatever your skin type - remember that you only have 1 face so the best thing to do is understand your skin's needs and be proactive about taking preventive measures rather than dealing with your skin issues later. So with a large hole in my wallet, here's looking forward to glowing skin :)

Fashion Week begins!

2009-09-11T22:15:00.005-04:00

The end of Summer is commemorated by NY Fashion Week and to begin the festivities: Anna Wintour's brain child - Fashion's Night Out. A celebration of fashion where brands and retailers all over the world in fabulous cities come together to encourage shopping :)

Being fortunate enough to live in the ultimate city of fashion and work in the heart of a fashionable neighbourhood, I strolled the streets after work with some friends and checked out the festivities which involved freebies, appys, lotsa cocktails and champagne and apparently celebrities - which I was completely oblivious to :P Boo. I think I left Tory Burch a few minutes after Russell Simmons arrived. I missed Anna Wintour at Bloomingdales and I did see the crazy line-up at Bathing Ape which must've had some sort of celebrity (it was Kid Cuddi - WHO?)

Of course, I was also following the tons of live play-by-play tweets as I roamed the streets. But an early day of work the next day prompted me to retire early and head on home at 9pm. I do hope this is repeated every year - it seemed like a great success and apparently Jason Wu alone, moved about $30,000 of merchandise so I hope it did the retail scene a little good this slow back-to-school/fall buying season.

It's a Friday night, I'm exhausted from work and chilling at home with Willi and am in dire need of catching up on NYFW's first shows & my September books, doing my laundry and general apartment cleaning/tidying up.

Ah...it's nice to be home :) Happy Housekeeping!

Always listen to your mother/grandmother

2009-09-02T09:45:00.002-04:00

You know how your mom or grandma used to tell you to never go to bed with wet/damp hair because it will give you a headache? Well, shame on me. Always listen to your mom/grandma - their advice/old wives' tales may sounds ridiculous and totally unscientific but there's always some truth in it.

I know she must be laughing at me right about now :P

Say hello to Willi

2009-08-31T21:23:00.007-04:00

Meet my new roomie: Willi, an Abyssinian guinea pig. He's a gift from Jordan to keep me company while he's away. We adopted him from a Columbia med student who named him after Prader-Willi Syndrome. He's slowly but surely getting used to his new home and me. He loves wheatgrass and tons of veggies and Timothy hay. He loves cuddles too but still get nervous every now and then. I look forward to lotsa bonding time! :) *wheek*

NEW UPDATE: Willi's actually a girl! :D Willamina then? :P hahahaha....It's an honest mistake! But I was told it was a HE! :P

Walk this Way

2009-08-31T14:56:00.003-04:00

This weekend I get the opportunity to be part of a wedding party and lo and behold, a dance routine is in store. I just hope we can look as cool as this! :)

Congratulations to my good friend, E & her man! See you in LA this weekend!

Philly

2009-08-30T12:22:00.002-04:00

Our weekend away from Manhattan left us hot & bothered but it was a pleasant time exploring a new city with my better half. Philly reminds me much of Boston, colonial and old with tons of heritage & history. We ate well, slept well and enjoyed each others company. Highlights included an amazing omakase meal at Morimoto, a spectacular lightning & thunderstorm viewed right from our waterfront hotel room, savouring Philly cheesesteaks for the 1st time and an insanely comfy hotel bed.

I miss you already. Thank you for an amazing month and for being more than anything I could ever ask for.

2009-08-27T15:44:00.003-04:00

I'm way behind on blogging about things that have surfaced in the past week or so. Namely 1 extended weekend in Philly but I had to write this as soon as I could or else I burst of excitement and glee. I just got back from a lovely luncheon with my man and he presented me with a divine surprise.
As a result, I've been rendered completely unproductive at work. *GRIN*
THANK YOU my love!!!

Highlights of The Highline

2009-08-10T18:32:00.002-04:00

The Highline

A fairly new addition to NYC's parks. Take a stroll above the fray from the pedestrians and traffic and settle in Meatpacking for a lovely meal. That's what we did :)

Summers are spent...

2009-08-05T21:50:00.002-04:00

Eating lovingly-made tapas courtesy of my man :)

Online shopping resulting in a newly purchased wall clock...

And brunching on weekends with my favourite person in the sunshine.

How we do love to brunch! :)

Happy Summer everyone! I do hope yours is as lovely as mine

He's home...

2009-07-25T23:04:00.001-04:00

Just for a while...but its more than welcomed all the same.

It's good to have you back, babe.

Simple pleasures

2009-07-21T22:15:00.004-04:00

After a great spinning class, I made myself a piping hot bowl of homemade comfort. Ground pork porridge (aka congee) with scallions, garlic and fried shallots. YUM! A perfect end to the day, without compromising my good workout! :D I'll consider making this more often. As a child, porridge was always seen as a meal taken when I'm sick. But as I get older, my appreciation for a good piping hot bowl of porridge is greatly appreciated!

The secret - use old rice! And I like to season the meat before cooking and throw in the rice after the meat is half cooked so the juices will soak into the porridge, rendering it tasty! :) And my favourite toppings? Scallion and a must-have, deep fried onions straight from the motherland!

Healthy and happy me! :D

Splatchy

2009-07-16T22:49:00.004-04:00

So I went to CVS and on a whim decided to check out a self spray tanner. Lo and behold, my 1st attempt was splotchy and patchy. Hahaha..so much for spray tanning in the bathroom...Time to exfoliate!!! :D And perhaps next time I'll opt to go for a moisturizing cream-type or just go pro ;)

Either that, or I'll simply embrace my porcelain pale complexion.. :P

Home Sweet Home

2009-07-11T11:06:00.004-04:00

Ah, its good to have some quiet time. It's been a busy the past few weeks and I'm finally

alone in my apartment and I'm enjoying it.

A little packing, organizing, cleaning and pottering around the apartment is something I never thought I'd enjoy. Ha! But look at me now! Surfing Crate & Barrel, West Elm and Etsy.com for cute pieces I can add to my new home

and apartmenttherapy.com for decorating inspiration.

Lazing my Saturday morning away with a hot cup of "teh tarik", with

Dog Whisperer on the telly PERFECT!

Here are some snippets of my work-in-progress pad:

yum

2009-06-27T22:14:00.003-04:00

Remember Fast and Furious: Tokyo Drift? Well they're playing re-runs of it on TNT in HD tonight and this is guy appears for like 5 secs in the movie...

Meet Satoshi Tsumabuki.

YUMMEEEE...

I really need to stop

2009-06-27T20:11:00.004-04:00

shopping...Perhaps after Woodbury Common, I've gotten a little carried away with my recent purchases.

Fab coral wedges from 80%20 on sale and today, half off a Foley + Corinna Mid City Tote...What's a girl to do??? It seems Summer in the City is ridden with unbelievable sales. ARGH. Time to put away the credit card.

Fallen Princesses

2009-06-23T22:51:00.003-04:00

In recent events with Iran, I came across Dina Goldstein's photography from A Cup of Jo and this marvelous set of photographs, here's a preview:

Woodbury Common Run #1

2009-06-13T23:37:00.009-04:00

Two fifth's of the Lee clan are staying with me and we decide to hop into a zipcar and drive to Central Valley, NY - home of the famed Woodbury Common - designer factory outlet mecca! We clearly did not estimate our time correctly and ended up forgoing several stores but that always means we'll be back again. Nevertheless, we did quite well for ourselves.

Woodbury Common is quite overwhelming - with hundreds of stores both high-end designer like Chanel, Dior, Balenciaga etc to Chelsea Premium Outlet regulars like Banana Republic, GAP, Nine West etc. We planned a strategy of attack and at the end of the day, we did pretty very well for ourselves and scored awesome deals.

The highlight? A fabulous pair of DVF peep-toe patent pumps from Saks Off Fifth (with additional 30% off thanks to the VIP coupon book! SCORE!) - and they make me smile when I wear them & actually are quite comfortable.

I'm looking forward to my next trip there already! Thanksgiving sale perhaps?? *wink*

The Graduate

2009-06-08T21:44:00.001-04:00

He did it! The Sloanie is offcially a grad. And this photo says it all.

Well done babe!

Spent our last weekend in Boston together with the Lee Clan and did the sights & sounds of New England. Namely, Essex, Gloucester & Rockport. Fried clams, sun, sand and sea and tons of jumping shots.

Congratulations J! I'm so proud of you. xxx.

my boyfriend's back

2009-05-30T11:36:00.001-04:00

hey-yah hey-yah! my boyfriend's back!

e-shopping.com

2009-05-28T16:59:00.003-04:00

So ever since I started working full-time, my hours aren't quite 9-5. I spend alot of time at work and realise I have very little time left for myself. As a result, laundry gets piled up, the apartment gets messy and cluttered, my legs remain fuzzy and my hair overgrown. Which leaves no room for frivolous shopping of course. No room whatsoever. In fact, I actually have to make time to go shopping. Even grocery/supplies shopping.

Thankfully, stores open late in Manhattan, even on weekdays and there's always the internet. Recently, I made several big purchases online because I simply didn't have the time to buy it in-store. Having moved into a bigger, better space - I needed a 2nd air conditioner and, much to my father's insistence - a bigger tv. So I bought them online via Amazon.com and Bestbuy.com respectively and am awaiting their deliveries this week. Whilst perusing Amazon.com, I also invested in a small safe and found some great photo frames for cheap! Click add to cart and I was ready to checkout :D How easy!

I am still in need of a sofa and unfortunately, IKEA doesn't let you buy sofas online. However, upon looking at my fairly empty apartment, I feel inspired to make sure this cosy abode will make my mother proud. Hence, I spent a great deal of last night in bed browsing www.apartmenttherapy.com and getting plenty of good ideas for small spaces and decluttering tactics. Clutter seems to be my biggest problem as my dad pointed out to me this weekend. I must somehow overcome it.

So, off to IKEA I go this weekend, as well as other cool websites and thrift stores with eclectic housewares. I intend to do all of this on a decent budget and come out with a fabulously decorated apartment. And then, photos will follow to document my interior decorating work-in-progress project :)

The one thing I can't seem to get away from...

2009-05-27T22:35:00.001-04:00

The Harajuku Lovers Label has FAB shoes. I found this delicious fact @ DSW and my girlfriend and I tried on these lovelies and I'm smitten! I'm sheepish to buy them because over the weekend, I already purchased 2 pairs of shoes... :S Yeah, I just might have a problem...I can't say no to a gorgeous pair of shoes. Bags, clothes, jewelry - I can pass them by...but a FAB pair like these? It was so hard. Plus, they are comfortable! Sigh...should I???

My Memorial-able Long Weekend

2009-05-25T23:37:00.008-04:00

I'm tired from a bustling long weekend of running around the city, spending quality time with family. Much to my delight, this means the following:

Dining at restaurants I simply cannot afford

Seeing a fabulous Broadway show

Sightseeing in the city I've resided in for almost 2 years

More eating

Shopping at places I cannot afford

But the most important, spending quality time with the 2 men in my family

What could be better than that? :)

And then, there's this:

Arguably the best photo all weekend. Elmo & Cookie Monster lost in Times Square. LOL!!!

My Everything

2009-05-21T10:41:00.004-04:00

And you play it coy but it's kinda cute. Ah, when you smile at me you know exactly what you do. Baby don't pretend that you don't know it's true.'cause you can see it when I look at you.

And in this crazy life, and through these crazy times. It's you, it's you, you make me sing. You're every line, you're every word, you're everything...
...And I get to kiss you baby just because I can. Whatever comes our way, ah we'll see it through, And you know that's what our love can do.

I'm thinking of you, Mum.

2009-05-10T12:21:00.002-04:00

Happy Mother's Day Mum. I miss you & love you very much.

Moved in

2009-05-03T22:17:00.003-04:00

I'm sitting by the window (I have windows! YES!) in my new apartment's kitchen, trying to hook onto any free wireless internet until my cable guy comes on Thursday. Thanks to some very good movers, a very sweet significant other and so much more space - I am happily moved into my new pad, boxes and all.

I'm pleased to announce that I've got more than double the room that I used to have in my tiny studio on the ground floor. I'm in a doorman building, with a live-in super, on the 10th floor with more than 1 window. J and I slept so well on my 1st night here - there were no slamming doors, no sounds of people walking in and out of the building, no construction, just peace & quiet and pigeons that come visit my window sill every once in a while.

I can walk between rooms, to get to the kitchen. I have more than enough closet space (for now..) and I am actually in need of more furniture! Namely, a sofa! The apartment is work in progress for now, so no photos until its actually complete and pretty enough to show the world. But if I can I will definitely do a before and after post as recommended by J. I think I did good this time! :D YAY!!!

Boxes...Packing...more boxes...

2009-04-29T23:11:00.003-04:00

I've picked up my keys and I'm surrounded by moving boxes big & small. Woah. It's hard to believe so much of my life fits in all of this cardboard and I'm not even done yet. Eeeps. Move day is Saturday! Gotta hustle! :D

Bathing it old school!

2009-04-26T17:37:00.002-04:00

im a rubber duckie
Originally uploaded by rizalgeo

So over the weekend when J arrived, my shower decided to die on me. For some reason, it won't divert the water from the spout to the shower head and so we end up bathing old school style with a pail.

Hahahaha!! Its been a long time since I sat down in the shower with a pail to wash my hair and it sure brought back some old memories! :D Hope you had fun too babe! I promise it'll be fixed next week when you come over :p

Let me see if I can stay away from H&M tomorrow

2009-04-22T22:47:00.006-04:00

Matthew Williamson's capsule collection for H&M is available starting tomorrow at select New York locations. Thankfully, none of the Soho stores will feature this vibrant collection which means less likely a detour for me.

For those of you who aren't trying desperately to save money, go splurge at the following locations: 34th & Broadway, 51st & 5th and 59th & Lexington. Happy shopping while stocks last!

Once you find it...Buy it!

2009-04-20T21:45:00.003-04:00

So after a long day at work and amidst the torrential downpour, I popped next door to Old Navy to see if I could pick up some of my favourite sheer long sleeve tshirts. I couldn't find them, partly because it was a winter basic and its spring now. Though our weather today wasn't indicative of spring-time warmth. So I browsed and saw that they were having a swimsuit sale.

I've always liked Old Navy swimsuits. They're affordable, cute and fit me to a tee. Most of my swimsuits/bikinis are from Old Navy, often bought on sale prior to Summer. (Smart eh?) Recently, I've developed an attraction to one-piece swimsuits. Partly because my figure isn't exactly 6 pack, toned abs but also because its so chic and subtly sexy, when you have cut outs and plunges in the right areas. I purchased my first one-piece from Old Navy about 2 years ago - it was cute: navy, white & blood orange, geometric graphic prints, in a retro boy shorts cut. Sported it in Cape Cod and in Mexico!

Today, my attention turned to 2 distinct pieces: A sexy, sleek black deep plunge halter, with ruching and a racy, brown & white zebra print deep V cut out one piece with a brass ring between the bust. I peeled off my layers of clothes and slipped these 2 on and fell in love. Damn did I look good! :D All for the price of $20 a pop. SCORE!

Can't wait to hit the beach again and bring these sexies out! RAWR!

I GOT IT!

2009-04-17T23:36:00.003-04:00

So, after a couple of anxiety episodes, many miles of walking to see apartments, hand shaking with brokers and doormen, trawling craigslist, nytimes and other real estate rental websites, I've found my new home for the next 12months. It's about 2 blocks away from my current apartment but probably triple the size.

Thanks to the economy and lowered rent, I've managed to find and my broker negotiated a great deal on a beautiful 1 bedroom apartment with all the amenities I desire and so much more! A doorman, a regular sized fridge, plenty of windows, air-conditioning, laundry (a luxury in Manhattan apartments btw), elevator, an oven and an extra bonus, a concierge/doorman! :)

So I will be signing the lease next week and hopefully I'll get the keys soon!!

In the meantime, I gotta arrange for movers, pack my tiny studio and perhaps shop for new furniture, namely a sofa/sofabed to fill my new, HUGE space!! IKEA? Crate & Barrel? CB2? Where to begin?? :D Wheee!!! So EXCITING!!!

Anthropologie in Canada!

2009-04-14T10:44:00.004-04:00

It was only a matter of time when this eclectic chain would come to Canada. Its urban sister, Urban Outfitters has already entered the malls and streets of Canada and I'm pleased to hear that Anthropologie will open its doors in Toronto on April 22 at Don Mills and then in West Edmonton Mall in May and Yorkville in July. Eventually, I'm hoping to see stores in Vancouver!

Apartment Hunting

2009-04-10T22:15:00.005-04:00

Sitting down with a glass of milk and $1 ginger cookie picked up from the Farmer's market on a Friday night, with House playing in the background.

I've begun my search for the next apartment again - it seems its a very New Yorker thing to do: be on the constant lookout for the next best apartment. I've decided I've outgrown my tiny shoe box pad and I'm moving onto greener pastures now that I have a job. Also in my favour, rent prices in Manhattan have come down a lot so bigger place for the same amount of money is definitely an advantage! :)

Off hunting I go! Wish me luck, I'm running outta time and still need to pack & arrange movers!! ACK!

Not too shabby for a Singaporean Government ad

2009-04-10T00:05:00.001-04:00

I must...

2009-04-06T22:52:00.006-04:00

I must profess my love for Uniqlo again. Being back in the workforce in Soho allows me to peruse the store at my leisure. Recently, they're having this amazing jean sale - $49.90 for 2 pairs with free alterations of course. So I picked up a pair of skinnies (which closely resemble J brand's) and a pair of straight legs (the season's hot boyfriend style)! I simply couldn't resist :) Uniqlo is awesome for basics - the other day, it was absurdly cold in the office and I wasn't dressed for chills - I popped over and bought a merino wool cardi in baby blue for $19.90! How convenient! My mecca for basics!

PS: for all you Singaporeans out there, you're getting a Uniqlo of your own too!

OMFG

2009-04-01T20:13:00.004-04:00

So Jordan showed me this video of this amazing kid who plays even more amazing guitar. Check it out!

Vanity Fair's Women

2009-03-26T20:00:00.007-04:00

I was on VF.com and found a spotlight on the magazine's famous female portraits by famous photographers. I've selected my personal favourites to share with all of you *Drool*

I want one of me too, preferably naked on a horse like Gisele here... :P

Gisele Bundchen

Keri Russell

Eva Green

Olga Kurylenko

Selma Blair

January Jones

Low Intensity

2009-03-23T20:50:00.005-04:00

Photo courtesy of www.lowintensity.net

I thought I'd help spread the word just a little...

Today, I discovered that 2 old friends of mine in Singapore have formed a 2-man band and have decided to take their music to the streets of Orchard Road for the simple pleasure of public enjoyment and receiving some raw exposure for their original songs. I've known these guys since high school and I've always known that both of them are extremely talented. So as I follow them on their busking adventures, striving to give local music a voice, I hope those of you back in my homeland will follow along too and perhaps even swing by one of those tunnels and take the time to check these guys out! Much love to Mark & Jason! Great job guys!

Nurse.Fighter.Boy

2009-03-21T19:59:00.001-04:00

"The people you love never go away..." - Ciel

Recession Makeup Tip!

2009-03-20T20:39:00.007-04:00

During tough economic times, one has to re-evaluate their spending habits. Starting a new job also means, re-evaluating budgets. I've discovered a fantastic place to buy affordable makeup. I was hesitant at first and decided to buy some brushes based on several online reviews & recommendations - They are only $1 EACH!! I also picked up their mineral blush, Mineral Booster and their studio contouring blush & bronzing powder. With a promo coupon, I got 50% off my order and the package was shipped promptly and arrived in my mailbox yesterday.

I used the brushes today and was happy with the purchase! Soft, dense and very blendable. The mineral blush had great pigments, easy to apply and blend and is packaged awfully like Bare Escentuals. I also got the Mineral Booster because I accidently left my Bare Escentuals Mineral Veil behind in Canada but this one works just as well, for a fraction of the price! I've yet to use the contouring blush and bronzing powder but I'm sure I won't be disappointed.

It looks like I'll be buying some of my cosmetics from here - since many of their products are only a dollar a pop. Shopping online for makeup isn't too hard afterall! :) Go check it out!

Back in the City

2009-03-16T18:42:00.006-04:00

There are mixed feelings about being back. I miss the comforts of home. Home-cooked meals, the company of family, the cuddles from the dogs, the driving, the never-having-to-worry about laundry, food or bills. I will also miss TNT Supermarket, Shoppers Drug Mart, mega large grocery stores, cheap & very good sushi, good dim sum on weekends and the list could go on.

I am excited to come back to the big city and start a new job. In these times and this industry, I'm so blessed to have something and have great people who believe in me and who are rooting for me. YAY Employment!!! :D Here's to new opportunities...

Picking up the pieces

2009-03-13T16:36:00.002-04:00

A week of unpacking & packing has left me and my aunts exhausted. I've had the bittersweet opportunity to go through all my mother's things - mind you, she has a lot of things. My mother was a sentimental woman, who kept everything she felt reluctant to part with. This applied particularly to her clothes & accessories.

My mother was an extremely fashionable woman with a walk-in closet that overflowed into guest rooms and mystery miscellaneous storage places which till this day I'm sure we have yet to uncover. She was blessed with a fabulous sense of style and taste and as I go throw my mum's beautiful wardrobe, I feel blessed to keep many of the pieces that remind me of her. From clothes to shoes & handbags, accessories & jewelry, my mum spared no expense to her passion to fashion. I've been fortunate enough to keep some pieces which I may never be able to afford.

Going through my mother's things was an emotional but fun experience. I found clothes and accessories from the 70s and 80s, which we laughed about. Items that only my mum could pull off because if we even tried, we'd look like clowns. I found pieces which I'd hadn't seen in years since my childhood and others which I've never seen in my lifetime which she still kept. It made me miss her more but also comforted me, in knowing that she's with me every time I wear something of hers. I found things which have made its back way full circle in the fashion cycle: pleated pants anyone?

It's a blessing to me to have had to chance to do this with my aunts. I think she was watching from above and laughing along with us. I miss you Mum. You had way too many things but so many have since benefitted from them. I love you.

Hello Dr Marten, let's get reacquainted...

2009-03-06T00:54:00.005-05:00

Photo courtesy of The Sartorialist

My Dad got me these exact boots ages ago from a trip to London. I wore them fervently during my teenage 90s grunge phase and retired them when I graduated to wearing "girly" shoes much to my Mum's relief. I think its time to bring those babies out.

Fun, Laughter, Peace & Joy

2009-03-04T20:55:00.002-05:00

There probably isn’t a person in this room who wasn’t touched by my mother’s incredibly infectious spirit. My mum was a spontaneous and passionate person, who filled our lives and the lives of those around her with a constant supply of fun, laughter, peace & joy.

That used to be a phrase I shared with her growing up. Whenever she inquired about my intentions for doing things – I’d always respond to her in a sarcastic, teen-angst fashion, the words “for fun, laughter, peace & joy”. She soon picked up on my adolescent humour and would retort those words back to me whenever I asked her the same type of inquiring questions. She always knew how to give a great comeback.

My mum had a never-ending supply of energy and ideas. She was always quick on feet and had an imagination that could fill libraries of storybooks. Her stories and quirky analogies and ideas have never ceased to entertain my Dad, my brother and myself. Growing up with mum was never a dull moment and she made childhood a fun and creative time, where the imagination was always encouraged to run wild. I credit all my creativity and passion for fashion and art to her. I am living her dream and I am proud to do so. I can only hope that she is proud of me and that I am doing a good job as she would have if she were given the opportunities I have been so blessed with.

My mum brought life to our family – she gave my brother & I life, she’s the love of my father’s life and she’s always the life of the party amongst her friends & loved ones. Everyone delighted in her as much as she delighted in them and I’ve seen so many of my mum’s friends and family who have been touched by her courage and strength. She fought a good fight.

Little did she realize that those 4 words: Fun, Laughter, Peace & Joy were the treasured elements which she brought into our family and shared with so many of her loved ones and friends. Fun, laughter, peace and joy followed her wherever she went – from Singapore all the way to Vancouver and along with that she boundless energy and passion for life, love and living to the fullest. And now, she’s going Home, where Fun, Laughter, Peace and Joy will follow her all the days of her eternal life where we will all meet again.

Mum, you are home. We will miss you so much. We will always love you.

Consumed by Love

2009-02-27T20:47:00.003-05:00

A dear friend of mine sent me this poem by Mary Frye to mourn a loss we both share:

Do not stand at my grave and weep;

I am not there. I do not sleep.

I am a thousand winds that blow.

I am the diamond glints on snow.

I am the sunlight on ripened grain.

I am the gentle autumn rain.

When you awaken in the morning's hush

I am the swift uplifting rush

Of quiet birds in circled flight.

I am the soft stars that shine at night.

Do not stand at my grave and cry;

I am not there. I did not die.

Thanks Jenn. I believe they're having tea & cupcakes up there, just like we do!

Till we meet again

2009-02-26T13:10:00.001-05:00

We will miss you mum.

They've arrived!

2009-02-24T13:49:00.003-05:00

My presents have come in early! Spring boots! Not too shabby for an online purchase - On sale, Free Shipping & an extra coupon for 15% off on top of the sale price makes Daphne a very happy birthday girl.

Oscar picks

2009-02-23T23:39:00.004-05:00

Congratulations to Danny Boyle and Slumdog Millionaire!

I was a little disappointed that Benjamin Button didn't win anything. I've also made a note to see many more of the nominated movies. But no Oscars is complete without oohh-ing & ahh-ing over the beautiful gowns & couture. Here are my fashion faves of the night:

Suburb Alert!

2009-02-23T17:28:00.001-05:00

Beauty junkies Rejoice! There's another addition to much anticipated Sephora arrival to Vancouver. Along with the eagerly awaited location in Pacific Centre in downtown, I've discovered that Coquitlam Centre is getting its very own Sephora too! Right across from H&M! Yay!

Happy Valentine's

2009-02-16T00:26:00.003-05:00

A night's stay at Le Soleil was divine.

A soft, plush king sized bed, chocolate fondue, Inniskillin, 2 large LCD tvs, bubble tea, dinner @ guu, warm sake and lotsa cuddles were all that made this Valentine's perfect.

Hope yours was just as special.

Newsflash

2009-02-15T16:06:00.001-05:00

I've discovered that its possible to dilate your own pupils. I did and then spent the next 36 uncomfortable hours functioning with 1 eye.

moral of the story? wash your hands after handling ALL medication!

Lego Perspective: NYC

2009-02-11T17:03:00.006-05:00

Whilst browsing my usual list of blogs I came across these wonderful photos by Christoph Niemann, who reminisces of NYC in this delightful way:

Mrs Roosevelt was a wise woman

2009-02-04T22:54:00.003-05:00

I read this today which hit close to home for me:

“A mature person is one who is does not think only in absolutes, who is able to be objective even when deeply stirred emotionally, who has learned that there is both good and bad in all people and all things, and who walks humbly and deals charitably”

~ Eleanor Roosevelt

Thanks for sharing it Sunny! It made my day :)

Spring 09 window shop

2009-02-02T18:39:00.002-05:00

Being back in Manhattan means I get to check out the retailers spring trends via my favourite past time - window shopping. I browsed one of my favourite retailers today for the latest season's looks translated into affordable, fast fashion and was pleasantly surprised! So much so, I had to hold myself back from whipping out my credit card & swiping it all on new clothes for Spring. Despite the economic downturn, Spring fashion is still fresh and very affordable!

H&M has a to-die-for Spring 09 collection!! I wanted EVERYTHING I saw. Billowy tops and bottoms, lots and lots of volume. Icy pastel palettes, florals and lots of neutrals like taupe. Tulip skirts, dresses, tops. Lots of layers - cupcake style on tops & skirts. Ruffles & sheers seen on everything. Here are some pieces I spotted in-stores today:

Photos courtesy of Modefeber

Happy Shopping you guys!

:)

2009-02-02T13:27:00.001-05:00

Its nice to be back in the city again. Thanks babe, see you soon.

Gong Hey Fatt Choy!

2009-01-26T14:45:00.001-05:00

We rang in the Year of the Ox with a Feast! Thanks to my aunt & grandmother who were with us this festive season. All the dishes have significance - everything had to be in tact. You wouldn't be believe how difficult it is to find a decent whole chicken with head & legs! I guess most North Americans don't like to look at their food whole. The menu of the night included:

Sweet & Sour Pork

Shitake Mushrooms

A whole Hainanese style chicken

Our family traditional "zai" (vegetable stew)

Braised pork knuckle

Spicy prawns

Sticky rice

Steamed fish

*BURP*

Happy Chinese New Year!

COOL!!!

2009-01-18T00:59:00.001-05:00

Remember my little mention of iloveyoumorethan? Well here's the result of my little post! You rock Paperwhite Studio! Can't wait till Valentine's!

New Year's Resolution?

2009-01-17T19:46:00.008-05:00

I'm not one for New Year Resolutions and I realise it is the middle of January but ever since I purchased my 1st tube of red lipstick, I have since enjoyed wearing my new found lip shade. As mentioned before, I've always been a lipgloss kinda girl - its easy, its effortless, it also reminds me of high school. Then there's lipstick, which I've stayed away from because I've always thought it to be for older women. My grandmother wore it, my mom wears it, those ladies who lunch wear it. I have countless memories of watching my mother get ready in her dressing room and her rows and rows of lipsticks in various shades, all neatly sitting in the those plastic organizers on her vanity table. Corals, reds, pinks, burgundy, plums - lipsticks of every shade, brand and degree of wear. So very 80s. So very grown up. Which is why I've never bought them for myself.

These were the things not meant for little girls like me. But now, I am older, much older than when I was watching my mom get ready in her dressing room and I think I should be entitled to feel like a woman every once in a while, despite acting like a child high on sugar most of the time. And did I mention, I love my new red lipstick look? So just a few days ago, while out with Dad, I picked up another shade of lipstick in Rose Lustre to add my collection of 2 tubes.

Love notes

2009-01-17T02:14:00.002-05:00

I found this great little website.

And the first thing that came to my mind was:

I love you more than my Macbook.

Ha. Now how about you?

Golden Globe Gowns

2009-01-13T13:25:00.003-05:00

I'm pleased that Slumdog Millionaire won, it was well-deserved but the Golden Globes are more than just movies and television. The gowns this year were fabulous. Neutral palettes in cream & white and flowing silhouettes, bare necks and one-shoulder gowns. Bringing back Hollywood Glamour, here are some of my picks, Eva Mendes being my #1 favourite of the evening:

The french do it better

2009-01-10T14:53:00.006-05:00

illustrations by Garance Dore

I've always been fascinated by the French. Marie Antoinette, French food, Parisian Macarons, Fauchon's Madelines, La Tartine Gourmande and now Garance Dore. I love Paris and long to go back, there is so much of France I've yet to explore.

I came across this fabulous Parisian blog, Garance Dore and read a great Q&A on how to dress like a French Woman. The French have always been known to be alluring in their sense of style and are always nonchalant, mysterious, sophisticated and subtly sexy. It can be summed up with the following:

stripes - lots of them
layering, lots of layering - the more unconscious it looks, the better.
sexy details
the less effort it looks to put together, the more French it is
long hair
scarves, lots & lots of scarves
heels
the smokey eye look
confidence

These are my sentiments about our current weather conditions in Vancouver

2009-01-04T16:53:00.005-05:00

Courtesy of Natalie Dee.com

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T23:50:00.001-05:00

Welcome to 2009. It's a New Year and I've been inspired by several blogs to recall the year that has past. Like all years that have gone by, there were highlights and lowlights.

Great times, good times & not-so-ok times.

It's been filled with lots of travel thanks to obliging family & a globetrotting significant other.

There have been hot, hot summers and very cold, snowy winters.

I've also had 3 glorious months of enjoying the company of my better half being in the same city.

There were sleepless nights, restless nights and long summer nights.

There was road trips, weekend getaways and spring breaks.

I've graduated from my post-graduate program with far better grades than I'd ever received in undergrad and understood that the power of passion makes doing what you love so much easier.

I've also learnt the importance of love, family and spending quality time.

That good friends are hard to find and I appreciate all the wonderful ones I've made in my new home of New York.

I've toasted the town, stumbled into bed and woken up next to the man who hasn't tired of me after 2 years and loves me for who I am.

I am grateful for 2008 and I look forward to a better, brighter 2009.

Happy New Year Everyone! I wish you all Love, Life & Laughter (as quoted by my dear cousin's tri-colored ring)

On the eve of 09

2008-12-31T18:43:00.003-05:00

335/365 Knitting: not just for nerds anymore
Originally uploaded by spring_peeper

I'm passing my time this New Year's Eve doing the most grandma thing ever: Knitting a cowl neckwarmer. Because I was inspired by the folks @ Etsy.com

I'm ringing in 2009 with Popiah & lotsa booze & champagne with the family. What about you?

Must Watch:

2008-12-26T20:11:00.008-05:00

The cousins, my brother & his girlfriend & I braved the opening night crowds at Famous Players and it was well worth it. Brad Pitt despite his drooling good looks is really a good actor and Cate Blanchett is devastating beautiful in this movie. Their chemistry is sizzling and the story is a truly wonderful one about the process of aging. A must-watch this holiday season & make sure you bring tissues.

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!

2008-12-25T00:12:00.003-05:00

Here's wishing everyone a blessed Christmas and a wonderful time with family & friends. Lots of turkey, ham & pressies to one & all!

Oh the weather outside is frightful..

2008-12-21T02:18:00.006-05:00

so at the mall today with my brother & his girlfriend, I snapped up a fabulous furry vest! I've been toying with the idea and then spotted my Columbian classmate of mine sporting a fabulous one in class. And that was when I decided I'd get one for myself, BUT only at the right price, right look & faux fur please. And today at the mall, I found it at Le Chateau, amidst the crazy last minute shoppers, for a VERY good price that didn't put another dent in my already depleted bank account.

Along with that, I picked up some other great pieces:

a fab Foley + Corinna inspired black tote
a black & emerald houndstooth cardi
turquoise reflective aviators inspired by Top Gun which was on tv last night!

Bonus - nothing I bought was at regular price. Whoopeee!!!

Need a chick flick to rent?

2008-12-21T01:42:00.004-05:00

I just watched an entertaining movie with the women in my family and thought I'd put it out to all of you. The Women is a modern remake of the 1939 version has a star-studded cast: Annette Benning, Debra Messing, Candice Bergen, Meg Ryan, Jada Pinkett-Smith, Bette Midler & Eva Mendes. It's kind of a knock-off Sex in the City & Lipstick Jungle & Cashmere Mafia all tied into one which makes the whole women-independence theme a little overplayed but it was pretty funny and entertaining. Narciso's collection in the movie was very chic!

Home for the Holidays

2008-12-19T14:42:00.002-05:00

Touchdown in YVR amidst the holiday rush. JFK was a nightmare at 5am - a snowstorm was bound for NY this morning and everyone was scrambling to get onto earlier flights to leave the city. Thankfully, I made it on-time with luggage in tow and arrived in Vancouver safe and sound.

I'm greeted by a whole lotta snow, 3 of my favourite uncles, much of my extended family, the 2 doggies and hot, piping bowl of homemade laksa for lunch. Ah, what a treat! It was followed by my annual trip to the dentist and then tea time @ Timmy's. It looks like this holiday season is going to be full of eating since I've got a houseful of great cooks. Yum!

Now I have a mountain of presents to wrap and Christmas cards to write.

Happy Holidays Everyone!

Rockin' Rocks!

2008-12-16T20:48:00.005-05:00

Shopping update amidst finals week: Scored 2 Rocks & Republic's for less than $200! Sa-Weet! No more jeans shopping for 2009. Hahaha!

Marked down Madness

2008-12-14T21:04:00.004-05:00

Tis the season to be shopping! This weekend was fruitfully spent in retail therapy. And much to our delight, the sales in stores are simply too good to be true! Here are some awesome deals that J, his sister, Eloise & I took advantage while they visited NY this weekend:

One of J's favourite stores in SoHo is having a closing down sale because they lost their lease, so all Energie stuff is 70% off. I scored Diesel jeans for $99 and an awesome leather jacket for $40. Tons of designer jeans were marked down more than 50%, designer sunglasses were 50% off too. Licia Atelier jewelry is available there too & if you pay cash, you might get an extra discount. J also got a pair of Blackstones for 85% off and I got Chooka rainboots for $20. We walked out happy campers, so for all you Manhattanites, go check out Lounge in Soho on 593 Broadway before all the good stuff is gone.
Prada is having a sale too - select men's and ladies' product is 50% off. I nearly died when I saw the bag & clutch I drooled over earlier this year on sale for 50% off. ARGHHH!!! My empty pocket said no.
Over in the West Village, the Marc Jacobs store had a crazy line-up, clearly there was some awesome deal we were missing but the long line in the cold made us give it a pass. Perhaps on a weekday morning?
Olive & Bette's store is 50% off - Autumn Cashmere included! Gorgeous cardigans...Sigh.
Club Monaco - take an additional 30% off
Bloomingdales - J scored a great Zegna item on sale for 30% off.
Ben Sherman - 50% off all suits
If you're looking to experiment with makeup or cosmetics, now's the time because Sephora has awesome deals on gift sets where you get everything packaged beautifully & for a fraction of the original cost.
Kenneth Cole - there was an awesome 1 day event which was 40-50% the entire store.
J & I scored shoes in the West Village for a steal - another poor store was having a closing down sale. I got Vans for $20 and he got Onizuka Tiger shoes for $40. Clearly the boy & I share a mutual love for footwear :D

Ahhh, so many sales, so little money...Happy Shopping everyone, just 10 more days till Christmas!

Get ready for mushy couple photos

2008-12-12T02:53:00.005-05:00

2 years seemed to have flown right by and every day that goes by, I'm always grateful that you have never once let me feel alone. Can't wait till next fall babe. Love you.

Burning the midnight oil with Kettlecorn

2008-12-11T00:43:00.006-05:00

OMG. Its the last 2 weeks of school and we're all working hard for the final push of the semester and for many of my friends & myself, the final push of our post graduate program. Projects are due, presentations need to be prepped & final exams need to be studied for. And to keep me company on my lonely long nights? The best kettlecorn I've bought from a store! Ike & Sam's Kettlecorn is AMAZING.

I'm no popcorn fan mind you. I don't usually purchase popcorn at the movies but this yummy, crunchy bag of goodness was first introduced to me by a girlfriend who shares my love for munchie snacks. While perusing Whole Foods one night after class, she pulled out this bag of kettlecorn goodness! Both salty & sweet, Ike & Sam's has the cutest mascots and yummy flavour variations. My faves being: The Original and most recently, a bag I picked up tonight in Kickin' Cayenne! Mmm..Nyum Yummmmy. So friggin good. Did I mention they are all natural with no preservatives, no trans fats and no cholesterol! And its manufactured right here in Brooklyn, NY. Go find a bag in a grocery store near you. Happy healthy munching!

Christmas in a Cup

2008-12-06T23:52:00.005-05:00

I'm no paid advocate for Starbucks but a classmate of mine recommended I'd try the Peppermint Mocha offered during the Christmas season in their signature red cups. And boy was it yummy!! Like After Eight in a cup, it's the holiday season embodied in a chocolatety minty cuppa joe. Mmm...perfect for rainy Vancouver and blistery New York winters! The holiday season has also gotten me into the mood of shopping & picking up gifts to check off my Christmas list.Other great holiday items I picked up as Christmas edges closer include:

MAC Cosmetics Holiday 2008 Passions of Red Fascinating Eyes Palette
A festive burgundy winter puffer coat
Red suede knee high boots from Chinese Laundry
A fab red lipstick which I've test driven at school & got awesome responses! :D

Christmas is less than 3 weeks away...Better get cracking on those Christmas lists & send out those Christmas cards! Happy shopping!

Rrrred...

2008-11-27T20:30:00.005-05:00

Oh, I love this photo of Liv Tyler!

I might be several seasons of even years behind in the whole makeup scene, but recently, I've been toying with the idea of investing in a red lipstick. I've always found lipstick to be an adult thing: lip liner, lip brush, blot, reapply what a whole lotta hassle! I've always been a lipgloss/lipbalm kinda gal, with its easy application and sheet tints (Particularly, CO Bigelow's Mentha Lip Tints) but after perusing beauty blogs & magazines I'm keen to give the strong red lip look a try. It's universally flattering & makes your teeth look whiter, so off to the drugstore I go! Or if I'm feeling more generous, MAC for their famous Russian Red lipstick & channel my inner Dita Von Tesse or Gwen Stefani.

Every bird should get to fly

2008-11-26T00:42:00.003-05:00

on travel

2008-11-17T17:43:00.009-05:00

After countless flights to and from YVR & JFK as well as the occasional flight to a near or far-off place, I consider myself to be a fairly seasoned traveller. My passport holds many stamps which I feel fortunate to have as a result of generous parents & the love for exploring new places. I'm sitting in YVR as I type this, waiting to board my flight back to JFK only to realise I'm returning for US Thanksgiving in less than a week from now. Ah, the joy of Aeroplan miles!

From my frequent travels between JFK & YVR, I've come to note some small subtleties:

Cathay Pacific has awesome deals to & from JFK & YVR ($400+ return). Be warned though, its a red-eye and because it originates from HKG its usually full of loud China FOBs and crying China FOB babies - so it isn't for the faint hearted, unless you're like me and can sleep through an earthquake.
China FOBs generally have a crap load of luggage - it seems they carry the entire contents of their home and then some to travel with them. I've seen families arriving at JFK with body bag sized luggage. Probably wares for Canal Street.
Cathay Pacific is probably one of the best airlines to fly transcontinentally: personal tv sets in Economy class, relatively decent plane food (yummy salads included) which you don't have to pay for & decent size seats with enough leg room (note: bias opinion, as I'm only 5'2" and asian)
Air Canada has made recent upgrades to their planes which allow for plug-ins for your laptop & personal tv sets but no free food and yes, their flight attendants are more mature than CX's.
People are more than happy to switch seats with you if you possess prime seats ie. windows or aisle (personally, I'm a window seater)
If you don't like the plane food on CX - you can always ask for cup noodles and if you've got an extra nice & obliging flight attendant, you can ask for a cup of warm Ovaltine from Business Class!
Flying transcontinental is an excellent way to catch up on movies you really wanted to see but missed out on. I saw Sex and the City, Ironman, Mama Mia, Prince Caspian and WALL-E all onboard CX flights - saved some money from DVD rentals or going to the movies! Economic times call for economic measures!

Don't get me wrong, I've nothing against China FOBs - I simply wished they had a little more manners and no, I'm not paid by Cathay Pacific - I simply love flying with them, but I won't turn down a free ticket from Aeroplan miles. Beggars can't be choosers no? Happy flying!

In lieu of Jamaica

2008-11-13T01:40:00.018-05:00

To explain the long absence, its been a crazy several weeks and J had planned a trip to Negril, Jamaica during the dull, cold month of November. But as luck would have it, what started as Tropical Storm Paloma became a Category 4 Hurricane which swept the Caribbean nixing our much anticipated Jamaican getaway. In the most heroic nature, J rearranged the plans, was on the phone with Expedia all night and sent us packing to Cancun, Mexico - booked & ready to go in literally less than 10 hours before our departing AA flight. My boyfriend is amazing.

We arrive in Cancun with rain, but it would be the only day the rain came down and the rest of our mini vacation was spent soaking as much sun as we could before heading back to the Northeastern cold. Highlights of the trip included:

Chichen Itza - Yucatan, Mexico

A very well-read tour guide educated us on the Mayan history and explained the different ruins, including the largest ball court in the Americas, an observatory tower which many modern-day towers are modelled after, a sacrificial sinkhole and of course, the magnificent Chichen Itza temple itself, which has been named as one of the new seven wonders of the world!

Of course, lotsa sun, sand & sea!

Jordan jumping into a fresh water cenote! I didn't have the guts to jump from such a height, so I merely splashed into the cool water from a safe distance :D

At this point, we went snorkelling & no digi cams were allowed. Underwater pics to follow, IF they turn out ok.

Just me, my boy, my Nikon & my wayfarers.

Our all inclusive resort, with attached infinity pool & as many pina coladas and guacamole you can eat satiated us plenty & we surely rolled out 5lbs heavier. Although for future references, I'd prefer a much more secluded location with more beach and less people. Mayan Riveria? Cabos San Lucas? Note to self for next time :)

It was a wonderful, much-needed vacation. It wouldn't have been pulled off if not for J's awesome planning. Thanks for a wonderful trip babe, I can't wait for our next one! And yes, one day we'll make it back to Jamaica!

ewwww!

2008-10-25T15:19:00.004-04:00

I rolled out of bed at 12:30pm after a nightlong catchup marathon of previous Gossip Girl episodes. After my morning mug of Milo and much procrastinating, I finally make lunch and get down to doing some homework. I've got the TV on and I've seen this commercial many times and it always gets me smiling. Especially when they go: "Ewwwwwwwww..." Hahahaha!

JUMP!!!

2008-10-24T22:09:00.001-04:00

Acadia National Park - Summit Mountain

These shots alone paid off the Manfrotto tripod :D Good call babe.

Maine Highlights

2008-10-23T14:33:00.010-04:00

Last weekend, we had decided last minute to set out to Bar Harbor, ME and join a bunch of Sloanies for a long weekend and Fall foliage viewing. An estate consisting of 5 mini houses was booked which slept 20 people and my, what an estate it was! Imagine a set out of a Hollywood haunted manison: included in the houses are moose heads, native indian bronze statues, gargoyle guarded gates, odds books, eclectic furniture & decorations. There was a pool, a high tower with roof deck, a dining hall and an excellent view. Our time was spent BBQing, playing games, exploring Acadia National Park, taking a million photos and eating lots of lobster. Lots.

One of the 5 houses on the Estate

Maine Seafood

Summit Mountain at Acadia National Park

Jordan by Jordan's Pond

Scaling the cliffs by the beach at Acadia

By the Sand Beach

Frolicking in the 4 acre estate

A Perfect Fall Colours roadtrip.

mymomisafob

2008-10-22T11:36:00.004-04:00

i got kicks reading this website - go check it out!

it made me smile today.

and ps: happy birthday blong if you're reading this! :D

Relief at last...

2008-10-21T21:49:00.003-04:00

So if you've been wondering where I've been, I've been at the computer lab at school because for some reason I decided to drink milk and spill it all over my Macbook. Yes, that's right. Milk. So for the last few weeks, I've been laptopless, utilizing only my school labs for when I needed to do homework and check emails etc. Running around trying to find someone who will fix your computer because Apple will charge $750 is quite a task. Nevertheless I found a little joint in Greenwich who did the job just right and well below $750 (which I could have clearly gotten nearly half of the new aluminium Macbook) and today, I finally got my milky white baby back.

The past few weeks have been stressful and eventful at the same time. I went on a road trip to Maine, spent some quality time with J in a fantastically creepy estate which spans 4 acres and includes a carriage house, a high tower, a dining hall; gargoyles and moose heads and deer. We visited the Acadia National Park and took a bazillion photos over a span of 4 days frolicking in the Fall foliage. Conversely, I've also received some personal bad news and now face midterms. Its been a roller coaster ride of emotions but I'm hanging in there so far. I'm glad I'm not alone and I'm thankful for every day that's given to me.

Now, I'm just doing the much needed admin stuff which is associated with spending insane amounts of time in front of my Macbook, which brings supreme satisfaction to me. Ah, its been a long time...and its so good to have you back again. Maine photos to follow.