tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34931070546052953642024-03-14T03:08:59.836+08:00♥ ♥ I Heart... by Xen ♥ ♥Xen ♥http://www.blogger.com/profile/01834077748138424030noreply@blogger.comBlogger300125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3493107054605295364.post-19924027892587562052016-06-08T14:55:00.000+08:002016-06-08T14:55:28.360+08:00I have moved!!!<div style="text-align: center;">
Thank you for visiting! </div>
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I have ceased to write here, you can find my new space at...</div>
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<a href="http://mementovivere-x.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><b>mementovivere-x.blogspot.com</b></span></a></div>
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Xen ♥http://www.blogger.com/profile/01834077748138424030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3493107054605295364.post-78390612500477703802015-01-15T22:30:00.000+08:002016-06-11T12:26:40.748+08:00Japan 2014: Day 2- Nara Deer Park, Todaiji Temple & Kiyomizudera Temple, KyotoContinuing with Day 2 of the Japan 2014 posts, if you haven't read, here's part 1:<br />
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<a href="http://iheartxen.blogspot.com/2015/01/japan-2014-day-1-osaka.html">Day 1: Osaka, Osaka Castle, Shinsaibashi, Dotonbori, Universal Studios, Shinsaibashi & Osaka Takoyaki Museum</a><br />
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Woke up bright and early for breakfast buffet at Hotel Keihan Universal Tower. It was a good spread, I had <i>tamago</i> (egg) whenever I spotted the dish at breakfast. It's quite funny how fried food in Japan isn't oily or greasy. So yums! Also we noticed every Japanese couple with a kid would be feeding the child <i>natto</i> (fermented soybeans) which is very nutritious at breakfast.<br />
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After that, we travelled East towards Nara to visit the <a href="http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e4103.html">Nara Deer Park</a> and <a href="http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e4100.html">Todaiji Temple.</a> The deer were really cute and tame, there were even a few curious ones who kept sniffing our bags for food. We decided against buying crackers (sold at the park) as we saw a few people getting ambushed whilst trying to feed them.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Todaiji Temple<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vfVyc5MH8Tk/VLY-RbLT5UI/AAAAAAAAEPE/TgP3fchD4Q0/s1600/IMG_1369.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vfVyc5MH8Tk/VLY-RbLT5UI/AAAAAAAAEPE/TgP3fchD4Q0/s1600/IMG_1369.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #a64d79;">Trivia: Todaiji's main hall, the Daibutsuden (Big Buddha Hall) is the world's largest wooden building, despite the fact that the present reconstruction of 1692 is only two thirds of the original temple hall's size. The massive building houses one of Japan's largest bronze statues of Buddha.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the rest stop outside Nara Deer Park</td></tr>
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We then adjourned to <a href="http://www.kiyomizudera.or.jp/lang/01.html">Kiyomizudera Temple</a> (Pure Water Temple) which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and also the temple of the Goddess of Mercy. There were so many people, tourists and locals alike at this attraction.<br />
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<span style="color: #a64d79;">Trivia: The Kiyomizu Stage was built using a special method; huge 12-meter high keyaki (Japanese Zelkova) pillars were assembled without using a single nail and the floor was installed using more than 410 cypress boards. </span><br />
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It never ceases to amaze me how such majestic structures and buildings were constructed those many years ago (all around the world!!), without using the technology we have access to today.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Picking our <i>omamori </i>(Japanese amulets)</td></tr>
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The trees were still barren when we visited but it was still a very picturesque and beautiful place, I would imagine it to be even more so in spring when the steps would be littered with cherry blossoms. On our walk down, we saw a number of genuine maikos and tourists alike in kimonos. How we could tell them apart was by the language they spoke as well as how big the steps they took. For a fee you can actually dress up in a kimono for a few hours and walk around.<br />
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I particularly like the style of the buildings in Kyoto, they look "traditional" but somehow clean and modern at the same time. Maybe it's the minimalistic lines? I'm no architecture student so you'll have to bear with my descriptions :D<br />
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Lunch was sushi and udon, the sushi was fresh and delicious but not amazing. I did however have the best sushi on the last day of this trip at Tsukiji market (more on that later).</div>
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<a href="http://www.nishijin.or.jp/eng/brochure/">Nishijin Textile Center </a>was also on the agenda for the day but I didn't take any pictures there. Probably too busy shopping and touching the different types of kimonos.</div>
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Our hotel for the night was somewhere in Toyohashi (we were slowly making our trip up to the area surrounding Mt Fuji). That night I had my first taste of an authentic <i><a href="http://food.japan-talk.com/food/new/kaiseki">kaiseki</a></i>. Everything was in bite sized pieces but I was absolutely stuffed by the end of it.</div>
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There is an order as to how a <i>kaiseki </i>is to be enjoyed (I only found out at the end of the meal). Read <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaiseki">here </a>if you're interested. There are 10 dishes on the tray and I actually ate almost all of it. It was so delicious and I really didn't want to waste a single grain.<br />
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Bought a super cute bottle of Orange and Pineapple flavoured tea (amongst many other snacks), love how cute everything is in Japan. Buy them all!!!</div>
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Coming up next would be our visit to Owakudani Valley, Hakone and Mt Fuji (5th station).</div>
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<u>Japan 2014:</u><br />
<a href="http://iheartxen.blogspot.com/2015/01/japan-2014-day-1-osaka.html">Day 1- Osaka Castle, Universal Studios Japan, Shinsaibashi & Osaka Takoyaki Museum</a><br />
Day 2- Nara Deer Park, Todaiji Temple & Kiyomizudera Temple, Kyoto<br />
<br />Xen ♥http://www.blogger.com/profile/01834077748138424030noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3493107054605295364.post-81151649867503039972015-01-12T15:25:00.001+08:002015-01-16T10:50:21.657+08:00Japan 2014: Day 1- Osaka Castle, Universal Studios Japan, Shinsaibashi...Japan was everything that I imagined it to be, and even more! 2014 marked my first trip to the country and I will most definitely be back to explore again.<br />
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We visited in late January and it was still quite cold, I enjoyed every bit of the holiday- amazing food, scenery, beautiful architecture, and the hospitality, not to mention Japan is the land of all things cute and pretty. We went with a tour group so everything was arranged and planned, all we had to do was just show up. There were so many pictures taken with my iPhone 5 and Canon Powershot S95, I'll let them do most of the talking..<br />
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<b><span style="color: #674ea7;">Day 1: Osaka- Kansai International Airport, Osaka Castle, Universal Studios Japan, Shinsaibashi & Osaka Takoyaki Museum</span></b><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outside Osaka Castle</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Main tower of Osaka Castle, now a museum</td></tr>
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Our first stop was at Osaka Castle, more on its history <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Osaka_Castle">here</a> and you can find directions <a href="http://www.osakacastle.net/english/access/index.html">here</a>. After that, we headed to Universal Studios to spend our afternoon. We decided to eat at one of the many surrounding restaurants along Universal City Walk before entering and settled on <a href="http://bairi.blog74.fc2.com/blog-entry-619.html">Fujin-Raijin Ramen</a>. Hot broth and springy noodles is most welcome on a cold day. The menu was in full Japanese, with katakana and hiragana written above kanji characters which made reading easier for basic Japanese language readers like myself. I think I did an okay job of translating simple words throughout the trip. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mama and younger sis outside a random restaurant</td></tr>
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Universal Studios Japan (USJ) struck a balance between adult and children rides (to me), my sister and I were surprised my father was game to queue up for the rides with us. The lines moved fairly fast, and we didn't feel like we were wasting time waiting in the queue. There were many teenagers in uniforms and the rides were mostly in Japanese; though we couldn't understand most of the storyline, we did enjoy the animatronics, special effects and decor. Our favourite ride was the Spiderman Ride, unanimously. I am quite keen to re-visit now that the Harry Potter section is open.<br />
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We checked in to our hotel which was a short walk from USJ, <a href="http://www.hotelkeihan.co.jp.e.gm.hp.transer.com/tower/">Hotel Keihan Universal Tower.</a> The room was basic and comfortable, and the amenities provided were rather cute. Each room was also given 2 magnetic jigsaw puzzles to take home.<br />
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Dinner was a tempura set at a local eatery, I had my first taste of Japanese rice and it is true- Japanese grains are glossier, somewhat lustrous like pearls? They also taste different from the rice I usually have at Japanese restaurants outside of Japan. So so yummy!</div>
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We headed to Shinsaibashi-suji afterwards and got carried away with shopping that there wasn't enough time to see the iconic Glico Man at Dotonbori. Will make time for it the next time I visit!</div>
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It was a rather eventful day and we ended it by visiting the <a href="http://www.osaka-info.jp/en/gourmet/takoyaki_okonomiyaki/post_33.html">Osaka Takoyaki Museum</a> which was just a short walk from our hotel. The place was less of a museum and more of a shopping and eating floor, there were lots of takoyaki (octopus filled flour balls) stalls as well as tako merchandise and flavoured snacks. </div>
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Everything in Japan is packaged so well, can you see the octopus face on the food wrapper above? We also made sure to check out the Lawson (convenience store) nearby, browsing local marts are one of my favourite things to do in a foreign country.<br />
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That's all for Day 1! Coming Up: Day 2- Nara Deer Park, Todaiji Temple, Kiyomizudera Temple in Nara and Kyoto.<br />
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<br />Xen ♥http://www.blogger.com/profile/01834077748138424030noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3493107054605295364.post-85429280982518943382015-01-07T14:03:00.002+08:002015-01-07T14:03:28.688+08:00Empties: November & December 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
My first post in 2015 and also my final post on "Empties"! Wrapping up the remaining items finished in November and December last year. My regime is pretty much solid at the moment, with very few new additions. </div>
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I'm still a beauty addict at heart, but these days I don't get as excited with new launches. After trying so many brands, I've found that I prefer Korean, French and Australian skincare. I always thought Japanese skincare would suit my skintype and climate best but I was wrong, I still very much love their cosmetics though!</div>
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This Empties exercise actually made me learn and acknowledge what works and what doesn't (for me) and also if I have been consistent with using the things I buy instead of just stockpiling. I am happy to report that my skin hasn't looked this good in many years, which I feel is partly due to noting down what I've been using each month and sticking to what works. Contemplating putting up my skin at its worst (acne, uneven skin tone and bumps, redness) and how it currently is. My skin has cleared up so much without the help of facials nor any pills.. but I'll save that for another post.</div>
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So, here we go, the last Empties installation:</div>
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<br />Products which I will/have already repurchased:<br />
<span style="color: #a64d79;">1. sukin Facial Foaming Cleanser</span><br />
<span style="color: #a64d79;">2. Clarins Tonic Bath & Shower Concentrate</span><br />
<span style="color: #a64d79;">3. Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb Shower Gel</span>- Would have to wait till I visit Melbourne again<br />
<span style="color: #a64d79;">4. Clarins Gentle Refiner</span>- The scent brings back many memories, I've used this on/off since I was a teen<br />
<span style="color: #a64d79;">5. Clarins Total Cleansing Oil</span><br />
<span style="color: #a64d79;">6. Clarins Shaping Facial Lift Wrap</span>- This is so so good for alleviating water retention in the face!<br />
<span style="color: #a64d79;">7. Clarins Defining Eye Lift</span><br />
<span style="color: #a64d79;">8. Nivea Delicious Drop Peach & Vanilla Lip Balm</span>- Got this last year during my visit to Japan, it was cold and this prevented my lips from chapping. The scent is delicious too! Did not give me a scratchy throat/little itchy bumps on the top of my lips either. Would repurchase when I revisit.<br />
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Full/travel sizes: 14</div>
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Samples: 1</div>
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<span style="color: #45818e;">Total January - December: 139</span></div>
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<span style="color: #a64d79;">xxx</span></div>
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<span style="color: #45818e; font-size: large;"><b>Wishing everyone a Happy New Year 2015!!</b></span></div>
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<br />Xen ♥http://www.blogger.com/profile/01834077748138424030noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3493107054605295364.post-90686649522813816862014-12-17T11:30:00.000+08:002014-12-17T11:30:01.421+08:00Honoring your emotions...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Xen ♥http://www.blogger.com/profile/01834077748138424030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3493107054605295364.post-1473942419405273202014-12-12T17:35:00.002+08:002014-12-12T17:35:56.759+08:00Empties: October 20142 months late! Keeping it short and just highlighting my repurchases at the bottom:<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iYdkYXoMTFI/VGN_Gp6Pp2I/AAAAAAAAEAQ/3Fa4pBfiOJY/s1600/IMG_3871.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iYdkYXoMTFI/VGN_Gp6Pp2I/AAAAAAAAEAQ/3Fa4pBfiOJY/s640/IMG_3871.JPG" width="640" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gHZjLCPIeCg/VGN_Df2J1EI/AAAAAAAAD_4/IHTT3xBJCrQ/s1600/IMG_3868.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gHZjLCPIeCg/VGN_Df2J1EI/AAAAAAAAD_4/IHTT3xBJCrQ/s640/IMG_3868.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #674ea7;">Products repurchased</span>: Clarins Extra-Comfort Toning Lotion, Multi-Active Day Cream-Gel Moisturizer, Instant Smooth Line Correcting Concentrate, Body Lift Cellulite Control and Schwarzkopf Extra Care Q10 Recharge Hair Mask.<br /><br />Full/travel sizes: 22<br />
Sachets: 17<br />
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<span style="color: #45818e;">Total January - October: 125</span><br />
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<br />Xen ♥http://www.blogger.com/profile/01834077748138424030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3493107054605295364.post-4569950748189851572014-11-15T11:31:00.000+08:002014-11-15T11:31:35.832+08:00Skincare: La MerA La Mer kinda weekend...<br />
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The Treatment Lotion</div>
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The Regenrating Serum</div>
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The Radiant Serum</div>
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The Eye Concentrate</div>
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The Moisturizing Lotion</div>
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The Moisturizing Gel Cream</div>
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Creme de La Mer</div>
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Still in the process of clearing out travel/sample sizes. I usually introduce products into my regime one by one, that way I can pinpoint any specific product which might cause skin irritation. </div>
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However, La Mer's skincare was developed to treat burn marks, so I reasoned it should be okay for sensitive skin even if used all together. </div>
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Will report back if my skin experiences drastic improvement. </div>
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Xen ♥http://www.blogger.com/profile/01834077748138424030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3493107054605295364.post-45544255906398584132014-11-12T14:55:00.001+08:002014-11-13T13:45:00.877+08:00ListenA Disney classic but so so good, truly enchanted by her voice here...<br />
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<span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>Lane Del Rey- Once Upon A Dream</b></span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='620' height='466' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/TZ44x0GnKh4?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<i><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b><br /></b></span></i>
<i><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>"I know you, </b></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>I walked with you once upon a dream</b></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>I know you, </b></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>that look in your eyes is so familiar a gleam</b></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>And I know it's true,</b></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>that visions are seldom all they seem..</b></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>But if I know you, I know what you'll do</b></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>You'll love me at once, </b></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>the way you did once upon a dream..."</b></span></i></div>
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I love movies which tell the other side of a classic story, it is no surprise that I enjoyed Maleficent and Wicked.</div>
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Shows a different perspective from what we've come to know and understand.</div>
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Xen ♥http://www.blogger.com/profile/01834077748138424030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3493107054605295364.post-82425670929991474442014-10-31T14:02:00.001+08:002014-10-31T14:02:41.107+08:00Baby Hillary's fullmoon celebration!One of my dearest friends recently gave birth, and just last weekend there was a party to celebrate the new addition to their family.<br />
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<img height="480" src="https://scontent-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/15278_10154734351445282_4118315245805145208_n.jpg?oh=c744100bd46befcccac210cebad11c46&oe=54AFE631" width="640" /><br />
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Congratulations to the new parents, especially to the beautiful mama who looks positively radiant! Not many words to share here, but it was an afternoon filled with laughter, photo ops and plenty of sweet treats spread on a sparkly, unicorn-themed decor.<br />
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Dearest Baby Hillary, </div>
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May you grow up healthy, happy and always surrounded with love and joy!</div>
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xoxox</div>
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Xen ♥http://www.blogger.com/profile/01834077748138424030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3493107054605295364.post-82535881709662555492014-10-30T18:11:00.000+08:002014-10-31T14:01:40.502+08:00Empties: September 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
My empties posts are have been a little repetitive in the past months, as I have been sticking to a range of products which work for my skin type. I will probably cease writing them in 2015, instead focusing more on new additions to my beauty line-up. </div>
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My beauty stash is considerably smaller compared to a few years back, and I've also learnt to read labels and be more conscious of the products I purchase as well. No more hoarding body lotions and buying 101 eye shadows or cleansers. I'm glad that I challenged myself to take on this monthly project as it really forced me to reassess what I needed and actually used.</div>
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I read somewhere that clay masks are all the same, the expensives ones do not differ much from drugstore brands, and after trying a number I think I am ready to agree. <span style="color: #a64d79;">REN Invisible Pores Detox Mask</span> worked the same for me as the other clay masks I've used. The only difference is, you are encouraged to gently rub off the mask (once dry) to exfoliate the skin. The <span style="color: #a64d79;">CLARINS Extra-Comfort Cleansing Cream</span> is one which I reach for when my skin is irritated, it soothes my skin while removing my makeup well. I only use this once in a few months which is why it lasted for so long (there's a new formula & packaging out already). </div>
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The <span style="color: #a64d79;">sukin Foaming Facial Cleanser</span> which has been review many times. I always make sure to have at least 1 bottle backed-up. My final bottle of the <span style="color: #a64d79;">Melvita Eau florale de Rose</span>, and the <span style="color: #a64d79;">CHANEL Le Blanc Serum</span> which I used on my arms (too scented to go on my face, not ready to risk another round of breakouts). It has a nice scent and absorbs well, but brightening isn't one of my skin concerns. The <span style="color: #a64d79;">La Mer Eye Balm Intense </span>is a light eye cream, I do enjoy the La Mer signature scent and though this was nice and light, I have found similarly performing eye creams at a fraction of the price. The <span style="color: #a64d79;">Lucas Papaw Ointment</span> is a multi-purpose paste, I used it as a lip mask, as well as on dry elbows.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fsPWnSwTKXk/VDQGIk0CzBI/AAAAAAAAD6M/rwjqI33LqV4/s1600/IMG_3842.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fsPWnSwTKXk/VDQGIk0CzBI/AAAAAAAAD6M/rwjqI33LqV4/s1600/IMG_3842.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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I've used the <span style="color: #a64d79;">L'Occitane Volumizing Shampoo & Conditioner </span>before and though I do like the scent, I've found a replacement for them which is less pricey and performs just as well. A staple in my bathroom is the <span style="color: #a64d79;">CLARINS Tonic Bath & Shower Concentrate</span>, I am going through all my travel sizes but I do have full-sizes backed-up. I just love the scent!<br />
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The <span style="color: #a64d79;">Sephora Caramel shower gel</span> was a nice warm scent, but I still much prefer the Laura Mercier Creme Brulee Bath Creme. I am also a hair mask addict, I usually use them in replacement of a conditioner. The <span style="color: #a64d79;">Schwarzkopf Hydro Collagen Intensive Mask</span> is a very light gel-ish mask which didn't weigh my hair down. It was okay, nothing special, the one with Liquid Keratin is much better.<br />
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My body lotion for the month was <span style="color: #a64d79;">Sophie Monk x Little Twin Stars</span>, which has a green apple scent. Absorbs fast but wasn't particularly moisturizing. Lastly, is the <span style="color: #a64d79;">Smoothing Body Scrub</span> which is from a redemption, I'm not too fussed with body scrubs as long as they don't hurt. It comes out in a pink paste and has the classic Clarins scent.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #45818e;">Total January - September: 103</span></b><br />
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<br />Xen ♥http://www.blogger.com/profile/01834077748138424030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3493107054605295364.post-50397920015369836312014-10-29T14:21:00.000+08:002014-10-29T14:21:31.809+08:00SHISEIDO: Ultimune Power Infusing Concentrate<div style="text-align: justify;">
Been so long since I've used anything from Shiseido! The last time was when I was still a teen and I remember persuading (hounding relentlessly more like it) my mother to get me the 3-piece kit from their Pureness range (probably lured in by the box set which none of the other brands had).</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rpYwDMx2R8o/VFCDyJss-FI/AAAAAAAAD6w/I8dAISyLzeU/s1600/IMG_9906.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rpYwDMx2R8o/VFCDyJss-FI/AAAAAAAAD6w/I8dAISyLzeU/s1600/IMG_9906.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, that is I floating in the reflection LOL</td></tr>
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Almost every Asian skincare brand has a "pre-serum", here's an excerpt of what the Shiseido Ultimune Power Infusing Concentrate is:</div>
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<i>"The ultimate concentrate for enhancing skin's inherent multi-defensive power against signs of aging, environmental factors and daily stress. </i></div>
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<i>Day by day, your skin becomes smoother and more resilient making wrinkles less noticeable and your complexion appears to glow with more radiance than ever. </i></div>
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<i>Ultimune Power Infusing Concentrate is for all women of all ages. It works with your skincare to boost the benefits of your regimen, no matter your concerns.</i></div>
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<i>Shiseido's exclusive Ultimune Complex helps boost defensive functions that have declined in Langerhans Cells, the cells that hold the key to promoting skin's multi-defensive power. </i></div>
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<i>In one week, skin appears to glow more than ever.</i></div>
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<i>In 4 weeks: firmness and resilience are improved, making wrinkles less visible.</i></div>
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<i>Apply morning and night after cleansing and softening the face. </i></div>
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<i>When using other serums, apply Ultimune first to enhance the benefits of the following treatments."</i></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="452" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u9UwRhS4kuY/U-GJNERM-gI/AAAAAAAADHk/OhIeQiSI3nQ/s640/ultimune5.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>image source: <a href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CAYQjhw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fangelicbb.blogspot.com%2F2014%2F08%2Fshiseido-ultimune-power-infusing.html&ei=PYVQVKjtFuG8ygOey4JA&psig=AFQjCNHhWBTrL2C5S9YEly1UTrgKcH6oCg&ust=1414649533473082">Angelic Betrayal</a></i></td></tr>
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<br />The ingredient list doesn't look very promising for sensitive skin users (alcohol is second on the list!) but I was assured it would be okay. Tested it out for a week, applied 3 pumps religiously day and night. It absorbs fairly well and my face was left smooth but not in a silicone-y way. The floral scent is detectable but in no way overwhelming.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="425" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-62nbr2CN5jc/VEN_3YVW6kI/AAAAAAAAJS4/5GFTjj4Y85k/s640/shiseido_ultimune03.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>image source: <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CAUQjhw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ashley-yeen.com%2F2014%2F10%2Ftried-and-tested-shiseidos-ultimune.html&ei=lIZQVOq_N8rZPaqrgcAH&bvm=bv.78597519,d.bGQ&psig=AFQjCNG_V_4j-vdDZ8fubW19AqmQ5CuF4w&ust=1414649727440821">Ashley Yeen</a></i></td></tr>
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<br />Mighty claims and though it didn't break me out or encourage oiliness, my skin didn't look quite changed. Somehow it was plump-ed up but my BB cream didn't look as smooth on. I did not experience any irritation with this product. The glass packaging is lovely on the counter but butter-fingers should beware. It has slipped my toner-wet-fingers at least once in the past week.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #a64d79;">A summary of the "pre-serum"s that I've used:</span></u></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #674ea7;">SK-II Facial treatment Lotion:</span></b> My face started breaking out on the second bottle, and the scent took a while to get used to.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #674ea7;">Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum:</span></b> My favourite of the lot, has a herbal scent but I like it, also absorbs very well. My skin liked this the best!<br />
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<b><span style="color: #674ea7;">Clarins Daily Energizer Wake-Up Booster:</span></b> Discontinued in Asia but I still have a bottle left. The scent is refreshing (orange?) and very light as well. It says to use before toner but I use it after.<br />
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Next on the list are: La Mer Treatment Lotion as well as the Estee Lauder Micro Essence.<br />
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If you've tried the above but haven't found a suitable pre-serum, this could be the product for you.<br />
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<b>Shiseido Ultimune Power Infusing Concentrate is priced at RM255//30ml and RM355//50ml.</b><br />
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<br />Xen ♥http://www.blogger.com/profile/01834077748138424030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3493107054605295364.post-3398181631518075622014-10-27T14:35:00.002+08:002014-11-15T16:12:54.260+08:00Nike Women's Dunk Sky Hi<div style="text-align: justify;">
LOVE!!!!! These Nike Women's Dunk Sky Hi are the perfect walking/travelling shoes.. great for all the travels I will be going on next year! </div>
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<img src="http://img1.theiconic.com.au/tmd-xD6LedlrVHs-7nbZlaRlfmM=/fit-in/1000xorig/filters:quality(95)/http%3A%2F%2Fstatic.theiconic.com.au%2Fp%2Fnike-5338-767361-3.jpg" height="400" width="320" /><img src="http://dynstatic02.zalora.com/mDTcKti-rBASEXUZ_azMJnB5vsM=/fit-in/236x345/filters:quality(90):fill(ffffff)/http://static04-my.zalora.com/p/nike-9608-360732-1.jpg" height="400" width="272" /></div>
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<a href="http://i1288.photobucket.com/albums/b494/coolman0088/Nike%20Dunk%20Sky/fashionblogger_sneakersconzeppaoutfit_zpsc2515440.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i1288.photobucket.com/albums/b494/coolman0088/Nike%20Dunk%20Sky/fashionblogger_sneakersconzeppaoutfit_zpsc2515440.jpg" height="640" width="425" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://i1288.photobucket.com/albums/b494/coolman0088/Nike%20Dunk%20Sky/48852-sky-high_zps3f74607f.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>image source: <a href="http://babyshoes1.mex.tl/blog_47887_Nike-WMNS-Dunk-Sky-High-Town-Pack.html">Baby Shoes 1</a></i></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1288.photobucket.com/albums/b494/coolman0088/Nike%20Dunk%20Sky/tumblr_mgqlmlovTW1qamnojo1_500_zpsa8f6867b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://i1288.photobucket.com/albums/b494/coolman0088/Nike%20Dunk%20Sky/tumblr_mgqlmlovTW1qamnojo1_500_zpsa8f6867b.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>image source: <a href="http://babyshoes1.mex.tl/blog_48329_Now-Offered-Liberty-x-Nike-WMNS-Dunk-Sky-High-Pink-Drive.html">Baby Shoes 1</a></i></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Nike Dunk Sky Hi Black mesh high wedge sneakers canidce swanepoel all black fashion blogger inspo inspiration sporty sportsluxe" src="http://www.redreidinghood.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Nike-Dunk-Sky-Hi-Black.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>image source: <a href="http://www.redreidinghood.com/2013/06/inspo-black-sky-h/">Red Reiding Hood</a></i></td></tr>
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Got the Black ones from Zalora, when I paid all sizes were available however when I checked today, they seem to be out of a few sizes already!! I am still contemplating the Grey ones.. not sure if I would get much wear out of them though. I did buy half a size bigger as recommended by most of the users online (always research the item you're buying!).</div>
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<span style="color: #a64d79;">Quick links to purchase:</span> <a href="http://www.zalora.com.my/Womens-Dunk-Sky-Hi-237064.html">Black</a> or <a href="http://www.zalora.com.my/Womens-Dunk-Sky-Hi-237063.html">Grey</a>, which looks more like a light washed-out Blue to me.</div>
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<span style="color: #a64d79;">Use code:</span> <b><span style="color: #45818e;">ZBAPT19</span></b> for 15% off your order (only applicable for new users!)</div>
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Their customer service I dare say is one of the best, last year they managed to add on a note to my surprise present which had already shipped. They could have easily said "Sorry, your item has already shipped." but no, the team really put in an effort to materialize my request. So happy that they could accomodate else the recipient would have no idea what it was for. </div>
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Returns are also very easy, and you usually get the store credit reflected within a day or two. I do most of my shopping online these days and Zalora is one of the sites I bookmark for their wide range of beauty and fashion items.</div>
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Like I mentioned, stocks are running out fast so if you like em act fast!</div>
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Xen ♥http://www.blogger.com/profile/01834077748138424030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3493107054605295364.post-68742135660398101162014-09-24T11:57:00.003+08:002014-09-24T11:57:24.144+08:00Empties: August 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Getting on track with my empties posts! Lotsa travel and sample sizes last month..</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TyGlZP8Z2Ek/VB7qZg5ag3I/AAAAAAAAD30/4WcIlb714Fk/s1600/IMG_3827.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TyGlZP8Z2Ek/VB7qZg5ag3I/AAAAAAAAD30/4WcIlb714Fk/s1600/IMG_3827.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Lately I've been going through all my travel sizes and the <span style="color: #a64d79;">CLARINS One-Step Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser</span> is one of them. It's a 2-in-1, with little grains that are gentle enough for daily use. I used it at night after my oil cleanser. It has a nice orange scent but I still prefer using a separate scrub, The <span style="color: #a64d79;">Melvita Rose Floral Water</span> is a nice face mist as well, reviewed previously. One of my favourite cleansing oils is the <span style="color: #a64d79;">CLARINS Total Cleansing Oil</span>, I've gone through a few bottles as well. I'm always on the look for cleansing oils to try. Any suggestions?</div>
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<span style="color: #a64d79;">CLARINS Body Shaping Cream </span>is something I'm trying to use regularly, the texture is light and I like the scent but I'm not too sure if it really works. For body care, I went through the <span style="color: #a64d79;">CLARINS Moisturizing Body Lotion </span>which was a bit light for my liking, as well as the <span style="color: #a64d79;">Tonic Bath & Shower Concentrate</span> (of which I have made a permanent feature in my bathroom). Love the scent!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s7pLye7JZG4/VB7qdT1_MSI/AAAAAAAAD4U/SN455_QYKZc/s1600/IMG_3837.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s7pLye7JZG4/VB7qdT1_MSI/AAAAAAAAD4U/SN455_QYKZc/s1600/IMG_3837.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a><br />
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The <span style="color: #a64d79;">CHANEL CC Cream</span> has quite a good coverage and dries quickly, but the colour didn't quite match my skintone and looked too matte for my liking. I much prefer their BB cream, the colour and texture suits me better. Samples of the <span style="color: #a64d79;">CLARINS Multi-Active Day and Night</span> creams which I am using full-sizes. I wouldn't recommend the <span style="color: #a64d79;">La Mer Moisturizing cream</span> to those with easily congested skin, this formula was rather thick so I used it on my hands instead. There is also a cream-gel available which might suit my skintype better.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eB2frO_bCRE/VB7qeHrdYqI/AAAAAAAAD4c/DFVKjqFu7xQ/s1600/IMG_3838.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eB2frO_bCRE/VB7qeHrdYqI/AAAAAAAAD4c/DFVKjqFu7xQ/s1600/IMG_3838.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Sachets! Got round to using the <span style="color: #a64d79;">Sophie Monk x Little Twin Stars masks</span> I bought last year (no, not expired yet). They come in a 2 pack to be used 2 days in a row, each mask comes with a serum sachet to be applied after. The first is a hydrating mask (blue) and the next day you follow up with the brightening mask (pink). Unfortunately my face broke out in itchy red little bumps on the 3rd day, I can't be 100% sure that this mask triggered it but I would be wary of trying "cute" masks in the future (I never seem to learn my lesson!). </div>
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Had these <span style="color: #a64d79;">Aesop Sage Scalp Cleansing Shampoo</span> and <span style="color: #a64d79;">Rose Hair & Scalp Moisturizing Masque</span> sachets, both were nice and I've purchased the Mask before (a wee bit on the pricey end) but these days I am more thrifty with hair products. </div>
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<span style="color: #a64d79;">Guerlain L'Or Radiance Concentrate</span>, loved it but not so much anymore. A luxury, not a necessity in my stash. <span style="color: #a64d79;">Bobbi Brown Shimmer Wash Eye Shadow in Beige,</span> the only pot of eye shadow I've ever finished! I use this as a base mostly and have already repurchased a second.<br />
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<span style="color: #a64d79;">Avon Colour Trend Twinkle Twinkle Cream Eye Colour in Moonbeam</span>, I bought this many many years ago to highlight the inner corners of my eyes, haven't touched it in years so it goes in the bin. Another makeup product which has hit the pan is the <span style="color: #a64d79;">Yves Saint Laurent Blush Radiance</span>, will continue to use this until its crumbly but I had to take a photo while the colours were still visible.<br />
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<span style="color: #45818e;"><b>Total January - August: 89</b></span><br />
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Xen ♥http://www.blogger.com/profile/01834077748138424030noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3493107054605295364.post-79547274808853977642014-09-21T21:25:00.001+08:002014-09-21T21:25:16.594+08:00ListenLoved it from the first time I heard it on Donnie Darko...<br />
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<b><span style="color: #674ea7;">Gary Jules & Michael Andrews- Mad World</span></b></div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='620' height='466' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/0Az2BvTcshg?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br />
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<i><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>"I find it hard to tell you,</b></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>I find it hard to take</b></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>When people run in circles it's a very, very</b></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>Mad world, mad world... "</b></span></i></div>
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Somewhat sad but more in a comforting rather than depressing way.<br />
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Xen ♥http://www.blogger.com/profile/01834077748138424030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3493107054605295364.post-21842358450983297292014-09-08T10:21:00.000+08:002014-09-08T10:21:21.200+08:00Empties: July 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zk0U1XdKBCA/U_iN0Nq7I1I/AAAAAAAAD1A/wDqvnNszFxU/s1600/IMG_3785.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zk0U1XdKBCA/U_iN0Nq7I1I/AAAAAAAAD1A/wDqvnNszFxU/s1600/IMG_3785.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">So late with Empties posts, but I will find the time to publish them all! Finished up another bottle of </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #a64d79; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">Clarins Lotus Face Oil,</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"> I had 2 bottles accidentally open which is why this product appeared last month as well. One bottle lasts me around 2-3 months.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">The </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"><span style="color: #a64d79;">Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil</span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"> is a new oil cleanser I picked up, I've tried most of the cleansing oils in the market and not all are the same. This has their signature herbal scent which I quite enjoy, and even when used on my eye area, it did not sting or irritate them. I really like this and might consider repurchasing it!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">The </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"><span style="color: #a64d79;">Clarins Multi-Active Serum</span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"> has been my staple serum for quite some time now, I am very keen to try the Double Serum (despite it containing mineral oil, ALL my friends and family have had good results with it). However my skin has been very clear and I'm quite hesitant to throw it into breakout mode again. Maybe I will after an upcoming major event (bridesmaid duties!).</span><br />
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I would definitely recommend the <span style="color: #a64d79;">REN Clear Calm 3 Replenishing Gel Cream</span><span style="color: #444444;"> to those who suffer from combination and sensitive acne skin. It is very gentle and soothing to use and I use it under the Chanel La Nuit at night. If I am not mistaken this has replaced the Clear Calm 3 Serum.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, Trebuchet, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"><span style="color: #444444;">Always a fan of rose face mists, the </span><span style="color: #a64d79;">Aesop Immediate Moisture Facial Hydrosol </span><span style="color: #444444;">is pricey and nice on the skin but I still prefer the sukin face mist, which is a third of the price and performs just as well. Might clean out the bottle and reuse it as the size is travel-friendly.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, Trebuchet, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"><span style="color: #444444;">My second bottle of </span><span style="color: #a64d79;">Melvita Facial Scrub</span><span style="color: #444444;">, I have a thing for lightly herb-scented products.. I find them very relaxing to use. This scrub is one which leaves my skin smooth and soft but isn't harsh at all. You can feel the little bits but it doesn't hurt the skin. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, Trebuchet, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"><span style="color: #444444;">This </span><span style="color: #a64d79;">diptyque L'Ombre Sans L'Eau Shower Gel </span><span style="color: #444444;">smells just like the perfume however, the formula isn't hydrating at all. I find it leaves my body a little taut and the scent doesn't last very long either.</span></span></span><br />
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The <span style="color: #a64d79;">Lavshuca lip gloss </span>was a gift, it's a pretty colour and I like the heart tip. Throwing it out as it has been open for way too long. The <span style="color: #a64d79;">My Melody lip balm </span>was a gift from Japan, and is a colourless but strawberry scented wax formula. Coincidentally both the lip products were gifts from the same friend.<br />
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<span style="color: #45818e;"><b>Total January - July: 72</b></span><br />
<br />Xen ♥http://www.blogger.com/profile/01834077748138424030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3493107054605295364.post-8258908578108966992014-08-05T10:01:00.001+08:002014-08-06T11:12:50.654+08:00Chanel Polish: Rouge Allure Gloss Collection<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Was shown these swatch sticks over the weekend, but even the SA had no idea which collection it will be from.</div>
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They haven't had their training done so she wasn't able to share any details, only that this collection will be launched after the Fall Collection États Poétiques. These Chanel nail polishes kinda remind me of previous ones- Cinema, Accessoire and a basic Beige-y tone.</div>
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<span style="color: #a64d79;"><b>635 Expression</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #a64d79;"><b>639 Exception </b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #a64d79;"><b>633 Intention </b></span></div>
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They don't look unique from the swatches, might just pass on the whole collection. <strike>Anyone has any ideas which collection they may fall under?</strike><br />
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<b style="color: #45818e; text-align: justify;">edit: These polishes fall under the Rouge Allure Gloss Collection and will be launched in October. Thank you, <a href="http://www.colormeloud.com/">Sara</a> for tracking down the info!</b><br />
<br />Xen ♥http://www.blogger.com/profile/01834077748138424030noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3493107054605295364.post-20478129083745154702014-07-29T23:44:00.000+08:002014-08-04T23:45:49.106+08:00Empties: June 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PUsHsrGUW7Y/U9-i3npq_CI/AAAAAAAADyE/85q2qGY3Vrw/s1600/IMG_3763.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PUsHsrGUW7Y/U9-i3npq_CI/AAAAAAAADyE/85q2qGY3Vrw/s1600/IMG_3763.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Finished up another bottle of <span style="color: #a64d79;">Clarins Lotus Face Oil,</span> I really love this face oil! I've gone through so many bottles that I've actually lost count. This is one of the best products I have ever used on my (then) acne-prone, congested and sensitive skin. Love love love!<br />
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When I was younger I had really bad acne and tried the whole Proactiv range for about a year (saw it on late night tv and signed up after watching all the amazing results and testimonials lol). It was one of the worst things I did for my skin honestly, the formula was too drying for my face. It did clear up the small little yellowheads but it dried my skin out so bad and I was left with a tight face, and cystic acne instead. I received the <span style="color: #a64d79;">Proactiv Deep Cleansing Wash</span> as a gift and was a little apprehensive at first (I vowed not to use Proactiv ever again) but I'm glad I tried this! I started slow, once a week, then a few days and finally when my night cleanser (REN Clay Cleanser) ran out, I used it nightly. My skin is relatively clear, so I can't tell if it does help with acne, but they have definitely improved the formula as there is no tight feeling and my skin does feel smoother and clean.<br />
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I have been using the <span style="color: #a64d79;">Clarins Total Cleansing Oil </span>for quite some time now and I quite like it so I will continue to repurchase. It takes off my makeup very well and doesn't clog or irritate my skin.<br />
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The <span style="color: #a64d79;">Melvita Organic Cornflower Floral Water </span>came in handy for mornings when I get too lazy to properly tone with a cotton pad. It is supposed to be soothing and can be used on the eye area. Nice, but I prefer the Rose Water.<br />
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Lastly, is a <span style="color: #a64d79;">Sohum Sugar Musk & Grenadine Body Cream</span> which I was very reluctant to finish. There was a period when my room used to be scented the same as I was always burning a candle from the range. Brings back so many sweet memories. Aside from that, the formula is also lovely, like whipped butter but not at all greasy and leaves the skin so soft and supple. Might repurchase when I visit Melbourne!<br />
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And that's all for the month of June~<br />
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<span style="color: #134f5c;"><b>Total January - June: 63</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #134f5c;"><br /></span>Xen ♥http://www.blogger.com/profile/01834077748138424030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3493107054605295364.post-52380878028892375012014-07-23T11:29:00.000+08:002015-01-16T10:56:58.829+08:00Travels: Singapore 2014Was in Singapore a few months back, it was a short trip and we mostly ate, strolled along Orchard and spent a day at Universal Studios.<br />
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Every restaurant and cafe we ate at was excellent, would love to visit again just to have the same dishes.<br />
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KL's street food and local delicacies wins my vote but for cafe style food and breakfasts, Singapore takes the cake.<br />
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My 3rd visit to<span style="color: #a64d79;"> Universal Studios</span>, this time with my sister and Mama...</div>
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<span style="color: #a64d79;">Ippudo ramen</span> for dinner, the broth is so so yummy! And so was the seasonal beef thing we ordered below. So tender and juicy it just melted in our mouths.</div>
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Oriole Cafe and Bar, loved all the dishes we ordered.. there was also a Squid (not pictured) which was sooooo delicious!!</div>
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My trip would not be complete without visiting Laduree, my favourite flavours are Salted Caramel, Marie Antoinette and Rose..</div>
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Muji snacks... </div>
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For our last meal in Singapore we visited Wild Honey, the food and service were both excellent, I *must* visit again!<br />
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A short but good weekend away!<br />
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I will be travelling again at the end of the week to Bali, so excited for the trip!<br />
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Xen ♥http://www.blogger.com/profile/01834077748138424030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3493107054605295364.post-85637037897162377502014-07-10T00:26:00.000+08:002014-07-10T00:26:59.832+08:00LUXE//LESS: Gel EyelinersHaving tried quite a number of luxury and drugstore beauty products, I have come across products which are similar in function but cost much less. I know there's a saying "you get what you pay for" but sometimes a higher price tag doesn't equate to a better product (to me at least).<br />
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Was flipping through the magazine today and saw this feature:<br />
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Been meaning to write about these 2 products but kept putting it off! I used to be a big fan of <span style="color: #a64d79;">Bobbi Brown Gel Liners</span> (my go-to liner for 10 years!) but with their increasing prices over the years, I set out to find a replacement. Not to sound like a broken record, but I have sensitive eyes which tear easily and oily lids- meaning the formula has to be budge proof, pigmented, easy to apply AND gentle. </div>
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Bobbi Brown ticks all the boxes for me however removing it can be tough without my trusty eye makeup remover. <i>Currently using Clarins Instant Eye Makeup Remover and it removes even the most budge proof eye-makeup easily. </i></div>
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One little tub lasts a long time, and I've never had it dry up on me though I've had friends who complain of this. You have to buy a separate brush and if I'm not mistaken it costs just as much as the liner.</div>
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The <span style="color: #a64d79;">Maybelline Gel Liner </span>was a random grab from the drugstore; I never expected it to perform so well! The black is a solid black, glides smoothly and does everything Bobbi Brown does, at a lower price. It even comes with a good quality brush which I have been using for months, even after multiple washes it is still soft yet firm.</div>
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I can't vouch for the "36-hour" claim, but it does stay put throughout the day and doesn't irritate my eyes.</div>
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<span style="color: #674ea7;">My thoughts:</span> I love them both as they are very similar- in terms of formula and packaging, but if I had to choose one.. I'd go with the <span style="color: #674ea7;">Maybelline Lasting Drama Gel Liner.</span> It comes with a brush, is a true black and is so affordable!</div>
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Hope you found my first LUXE//LESS post informative and I look forward to sharing more products under this tag.</div>
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Xen ♥http://www.blogger.com/profile/01834077748138424030noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3493107054605295364.post-89842100234217485262014-06-27T15:44:00.000+08:002014-06-27T15:44:09.942+08:00Eating Out: Miam Miam @1 Utama<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Good food, good service.. been twice and can't wait to go again!</div>
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Everything we tried was yummy; </div>
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<span style="color: #a64d79;">Souffle de Nuage</span>- an airy, fluffy cloud of egg and light cheese atop fresh tomato sauteed rice</div>
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<span style="color: #674ea7;">Riz Noir</span>- a squid-ink rice with seafood and omu egg</div>
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<span style="color: #a64d79;">Lobster Bisque Pasta</span>- a soupy pasta served with tiger prawns</div>
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<span style="color: #674ea7;">Iced Matcha Latte with Matcha Softee</span></div>
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<span style="color: #a64d79;">Riz au Curry</span>- baked rice with Japanese curry and sausages, broccoli and egg</div>
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<span style="color: #674ea7;">French Toast</span>- fluffy squares served with a delicious ball of cream and syrup, not too sweet </div>
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Gonna be trying out another new place tomorrow, haven't been excited over Japanese cuisine for a while now!<br />
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Have a good weekend everyone, xoxox.<br />
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<br />Xen ♥http://www.blogger.com/profile/01834077748138424030noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3493107054605295364.post-2850731538215104432014-06-20T22:00:00.000+08:002014-06-21T03:02:05.359+08:00Empties: May 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
It's already the middle of the year! Every time I start on a Empties post, it always feels like I just posted last month's not too long ago.</div>
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The <span style="color: #741b47;">sukin Foaming Facial Cleanser </span>is a staple in my cleansing regime. I have gone through many bottles of this, gentle enough for day frequent use and I love the scent. Bonus points that it is sulphate and paraben free. Another product making a regular appearance is the <span style="color: #741b47;">Clarins Multi-Active Skin Renewal Serum</span>; one tube usually lasts me 2 months (once in the morning) but recently I've been using it at night as well. Love the scent, absorbs well and doesn't clog my pores. The <span style="color: #741b47;">Clarins HydraQuench Cream-Gel </span>[travel size] is a hydration moisturizer for normal to combination skin (there is a Cream-Melt for drier skins), it has a nice scent and a light, fresh texture. Very pleasant to use.<br />
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I almost always have at least 2 different scents of body wash in my bathroom- and invigorating/fresh scent and another more indulgent/creamy scent. The <span style="color: #741b47;">Clarins Tonic Bath & Shower Concentrate </span>[travel size] is a firm favourite, infact I have the whole line- Tonic Body Scrub, Body Oil and the Body Balm. The tonic scent is sooooo good, I love it! The <span style="color: #741b47;">Rodial Life & Style Bathing Balm</span> was my creamy scent for the past 6 months (at least). A little bit goes a long way and the bathroom smells lovely, like almond milk even hours after. I liked it, but not enough to repurchase. The <span style="color: #741b47;">Clarins High Definition Body Lift </span>[Deluxe size] is my last bottle of the old formula, and I am currently using the new one. <span style="color: #741b47;">De Lorenzo rejuven8 the ends </span>was my favourite hair leave-in-treatment whilst living in Melbourne. It really left my damaged ends so soft and smooth, plus the scent was really nice too. Brought a bottle back to humid Kuala Lumpur and it didn't seem to have the same effect, instead making my hair a little greasy and heavy. Highly recommend if you're living in colder/drier climates.<br />
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Loose powders take foreverrrrrr to finish! Which could be a good or bad thing LOL with the <span style="color: #741b47;">Chanel Natural Finish Loose Powder,</span> it was definitely a good thing. The powder is really fine, never cakey nor matte, which is what I like. One tub lasts a long long time, I think mine was around for a year? Would repurchase. This b<span style="color: #741b47;">enefit 10</span> bronzing and highlighting duo has been with me for 8 years! Okay that's way past the recommended use by, but to be fair I only really started going at it in the past year. This was a gift from my sister, and a heart-warming story accompanies it (: Perfect for people who want to contour AND highlight but don't want to spend much time doing their face. I liked the bronzer half but the highlighter was a wee bit sparkly for me. The product comes with a decent brush applicator as well.<br />
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<span style="color: #134f5c;"><b>Total January - May: 58</b></span><br />
<br />Xen ♥http://www.blogger.com/profile/01834077748138424030noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3493107054605295364.post-24249170849847380262014-06-16T10:42:00.000+08:002014-06-16T10:42:45.092+08:00Paper Nano: Ancient Walk Kyoto<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: justify;">Took me an extra week but I completed it! Some bits are a bit wonky and need to be glued down again.. but overall, I'm happy with it.</span></div>
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These kits come in quite <a href="http://iheartxen.blogspot.com/2014/04/weekend-project.html">a few designs</a> and if you enjoy paper crafts, this comes highly recommended.</div>
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xoxox</div>
Xen ♥http://www.blogger.com/profile/01834077748138424030noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3493107054605295364.post-27577222266730720642014-05-29T23:30:00.000+08:002014-05-30T00:54:57.739+08:00Cleaning Silver Jewellery<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Last weekend I set about to clean my most worn silver jewellery. I try to do this every few months but I think the last time I polished them was 6 months ago?</div>
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Most of them are in okay condition, the 2 most affected pieces were the Tiffany heart and the Thomas Sabo charms. I usually clean silver with a silver polish and then buffed with a soft cloth.</div>
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The silver polish I have used was bought from Tiffany & Co, it isn't expensive and because you only need a few sprays each cleaning session, the huge bottle really does last a long time. However, this product isn't available in all countries. Mine was picked up in Melbourne, Australia but when I asked the store in Kuala Lumpur recently, they didn't carry it.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A handful of tarnished, yellowing silver jewellery</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before... (how gross is that heart pendant lol)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After!</td></tr>
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As good as new after the polish session! So shiny and clean now. If you have heaps of silver jewellery and don't mind cleaning them yourself, this polish is worth picking up.</div>
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Aside from doing this I also made Chicken rice, baked a banana cake (both were successful!!! yay) and spent 2 hours building the 2nd floor of the DIY project. It was a productive weekend!</div>
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Will share the recipes soon, have a good weekend ahead (: </div>
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<br />Xen ♥http://www.blogger.com/profile/01834077748138424030noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3493107054605295364.post-32917048926023916282014-05-25T23:52:00.000+08:002014-05-25T23:53:03.704+08:00Empties: April 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Running late on the empties post- April was a productive month, I managed to finish up some oldies which were just sitting around and threw out a few as well.</div>
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I've gone through 3 tubes of this <span style="color: #a64d79;">REN ClearCalm 3 Clay Cleanser </span>150ml and it does soothe blemish prone skin but now that my skin is much better, I would not be repurchasing. I've been without it for a few weeks, and so far so good. The <span style="color: #a64d79;">Aesop B Triple C Facial Balancing Gel</span> (what a long name!) is the most I've spent on a moisturizer (MYR359//USD115) and is meant for normal-combination skin. Infused with vitamins, the texture is a little odd- honey like but it's a oil-free gel and absorbs well. The scent is herbal-y but I like it and used it over the REN ClearCalm Serum at night. I did see better results the second time using it (I stopped halfway previously) but I'm not sure if I am willing to spend that much on a moisturizer yet.</div>
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Travel sized toner which I finished; <span style="color: #a64d79;">Clarins White Plus Aqua Lotion</span>, <span style="color: #a64d79;">Extra-Comfort Toning Lotion</span>, <span style="color: #a64d79;">Chanel Hydra Beauty Lotion</span> and <span style="color: #a64d79;">Melvita Rose Floral Water</span>. My favourite is still the Extra-Comfort. No alcohol, hydrates my sensitive skin and doesn't aggravate blemishes. The <span style="color: #a64d79;">Rose Extraordinary Water</span> and <span style="color: #a64d79;">Narcissus Extraordinary Water</span> are both thicker in texture, I soaked cotton pads with them and used those as masks. They were hydrating and didn't irritate at all. The <span style="color: #a64d79;">Chanel La Nuit</span> is a product which I have already repurchased (before finishing this haha), used at night it does make my skin smoother and more hydrated the next morning. Without it, my face definitely feels a difference. Though it contains alcohol, this is one of the rare Chanel products which doesn't irritate my skin. </div>
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I have been using the same <span style="color: #a64d79;">Clarins Multi-Active</span> anti-ageing serum for months, I find their iconic Double Serum still too rich for me so I am sticking to this for now. So far so good, I guess it works since I haven't noticed any new wrinkles or creases. The <span style="color: #a64d79;">Aveda Intensive Hydrating Mask</span> is also really good, it is unscented and my skin does look more supple even the morning after. Am going to try out one other brand of gel mask before committing to either. </div>
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One of the last <span style="color: #a64d79;">High Definition Body Lift</span>s I have, a new formula is already out. This stuff does work! My butt and thighs are definitely firmer and toned but to see results you have to be consistent. The <span style="color: #a64d79;">Aesop Geranium Leaf Body Cleanser</span> is a gentle low-foaming body wash, I quite liked the scent and I know many people enjoy a more sudsy shower but I've come to prefer less foam (unless it's in a bathtub hehe). The <span style="color: #a64d79;">Clairol Herbal Essences shampoo and conditioner</span> were travel sizes from a magazine, which I used up during a recent trip. I am always filled with nostalgia when I catch a whiff of the scent. The formula has definitely improved as my hair was smooth and quite full-looking; whereas previously it left my mane dry and coarse. </div>
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<span style="color: #a64d79;">Peter Thomas Roth Mega-Rich Body Wash</span> is a product which I definitely want to pick up, I like everything about it- the scent, texture, little beads which dissolves. I seem to like products with beads in them. The <span style="color: #a64d79;">Clarins Hand & Nail Treatment Cream</span> is one of the better hand creams I've used, it absorbs quick and doesn't leave residue on the things I touch which is a big deal for me. Can't be leaving fingerprints all over documents or the car haha.</div>
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I've so many Clarins products.. most of which were given by my mother. She's a long time user of the brand. The <span style="color: #a64d79;">Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch Base</span> is a good cover for <b>pores and lines</b>, you only need a tiny bit each time, but I prefer the <span style="color: #a64d79;">Line Correcting Pen</span> which actually <b>smoothens and helps the wrinkle plump up</b> over time. I have repurchased as it did indeed help soften my laugh line! The <span style="color: #a64d79;">Dolly Wink eyeliner</span> didn't work so well for me, and the <span style="color: #a64d79;">Chloe Roses perfume vial</span> was from the gift set I shared previously. </div>
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Threw out this <span style="color: #a64d79;">Clinique palette </span>as it has been sitting around for too long. The blush is a flattering colour but doesn't last, and the rest of the rectangles (2 lipglosses, 2 eyeshadows) weren't flattering on me.<br />
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If you got to the end of the post, you are truly a beauty junkie! Thank you for reading :D</div>
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<span style="color: #45818e;"><b>Total January - April: 49</b></span></div>
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Xen ♥http://www.blogger.com/profile/01834077748138424030noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3493107054605295364.post-157676394611150762014-05-22T10:41:00.004+08:002014-05-22T10:41:58.406+08:00Kitchen: Easy Comfort Food<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Simple comfort food which hits the spot every time. </div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">Plain rice porridge (or congee, they're the same I think) with sides:</span></div>
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I only have this at home and our little spread usually includes pickled cabbage, fried Spam, canned black bean fish, salted eggs and the green stuff in the jar is actually shredded olive. Super delicious.</div>
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A dish which I have discovered recently and really like is the <a href="http://lisalovescoco.blogspot.com/2014/04/in-kitchen-baked-sushi-rice.html">Baked Sushi Rice</a> from Cocobella Ballerina:</div>
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<a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-76vSg-mZJXY/U3xs1vUBDFI/AAAAAAAADmk/6P-6bX6jgkA/s640/blogger-image--1023447326.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-76vSg-mZJXY/U3xs1vUBDFI/AAAAAAAADmk/6P-6bX6jgkA/s640/blogger-image--1023447326.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Very easy to put together, I forgot the spring onion but it was still delicious. Not heavy at all and so so addictive! Everyone in the family loved it. Success!</div>
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Another recipe which I came across (also on Cocobella Ballerina) was the <a href="http://lisalovescoco.blogspot.com/2014/03/in-kitchen-shepards-pie.html">Shepard's Pie</a> which I modified a little..</div>
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The mince was made with a recipe I always use for sloppy joes or bolognaise, but the mash was made as per the link above. I've never had cauliflower in my mash before and now I don't think I will make it without ever again. It was really good and I liked the different textures in my mash, a mix of smooth potato and bits of crunchy cauliflower. Yums! Plus, more cauliflower = less carbs as well, WIN! :D Thank you for sharing your recipes, <a href="http://www.lisalovescoco.blogspot.com/">Lisa</a>!</div>
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I'm a sucker for one-pot-wonders and I have a folder of recipes (cut-outs from magazines as well as saved from blogs/websites online) which I have yet to attempt. Minimal prepping, easy to make, everything goes into one pot/dish, less cleaning up.. what's not to like?</div>
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Hoping to have some time this weekend to make another recipe I've been eye-ing.. Chicken Rice! The recipe I've saved has instructions for everything, from the chicken to the rice and even the tangy, pungent, chilli sauce. Mmmmmm. Getting hungry thinking bout it.</div>
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On a side note, I only have one more week to complete the <a href="http://iheartxen.blogspot.com/2014/04/weekend-project.html">Kyoto Ancient Walk paper structure</a>! Eeeps!!</div>
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Xen ♥http://www.blogger.com/profile/01834077748138424030noreply@blogger.com5